Single camera vision system for logistics applications

This invention provides a single-camera vision system, typically for use in logistics applications, that allows for adjustment of the camera viewing angle to accommodate a wide range of object heights and associated widths moving relative to an imaged scene with constant magnification. The camera assembly employs an image sensor that is more particularly suited to such applications, with an aspect (height-to-width) ratio of approximately 1:4 to 1:8. The camera assembly includes a distance sensor to determine the distance to the top of each object. The camera assembly employs a zoom lens that can change at relatively high speed (e.g.