A bar code reader missing link detection system for detection of missing, defective
or misaligned chain links in assembled or in-process chains includes a light source
for illuminating one or more chain links of a chain, a light sensitive diode array
for detecting an image of a fixed scan line, produced by the light source, and
a lens system for focusing incoming light produced by the light source onto the
diode array, wherein the system is arranged such that the bar code reader reflects
light from one or more of the chain links onto the diode array, and the diode array
is continuously scanned, digitized, and the data obtained thereby interpreted to
detect missing chain links.
