Method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier (1), wherein a first code pattern (2), which contains readable primary information, is applied to the information carrier (1) and at least one second code pattern (3), which differs from the first code pattern in terms of coding type and is formed from a plurality of grid points (4), is applied to the information carrier (1), wherein secondary information is stored in at least one section (5) of the second code pattern by manipulating the arrangement and / or the contour of the grid points (4).

Description

[0001] Method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier

[0002] The invention relates to a method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding information carrier and a method for authenticating such an information carrier. The invention also relates to a system and a computer program product for such a system.

[0003] The number of counterfeit products has increased significantly in recent decades, posing a growing problem for businesses. Counterfeit products often lead to a decline in sales. Furthermore, they are frequently of lower quality than the original product, which can damage a company's reputation. Therefore, there is a growing need for information carriers that can be attached to products to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits.

[0004] Information carriers that include a two-dimensional code, such as a barcode or a QR code, are already known from the prior art. However, such information carriers can be easily counterfeited by copying them using common copiers. Therefore, these known information carriers are only of limited use in distinguishing between genuine products and counterfeit products.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier that is difficult to forge.

[0006] The problem is solved by a method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier, wherein a first code pattern containing readable primary information is applied to the information carrier and at least a second code pattern, which differs from the first code pattern in a coding method and is formed from a plurality of grid points, is applied to the information carrier, wherein secondary information is stored in at least one section of the second code pattern by manipulating the arrangement and / or the contour of the grid points.

[0007] An information carrier produced using this method has the advantage of being more difficult to copy than known information carriers that only have a single code pattern, such as a QR code or a barcode. The information carriers according to the invention cannot be copied using conventional copiers. This is because, during a copying process, the manipulated section in the second code pattern is not recognized by the copier and therefore not copied. Consequently, the copy of the information carrier does not have a manipulated section in the second code pattern, so that, as a result, a product associated with the copied information carrier can easily be identified as a counterfeit.

[0008] A further advantage of the invention is that the second code pattern is applied to the same information carrier as the first code pattern. This offers the advantage that two information carriers are not assigned to the product. In particular, it eliminates the need to attach two information carriers to the product, which is often undesirable and wastes space. The provision of the second code pattern means that two different reading methods are required to read the information carrier, thus increasing the effort required for a counterfeiter to copy the information carrier.

[0009] Furthermore, the invention has the advantage that the second code pattern enables product-specific information to be stored and retrieved in a tamper-proof manner, as explained in more detail below. In particular, by using the second code pattern, a tamper-proof digital copy of the original product to which the information carrier is assigned can be created.

[0010] An information carrier is a physical object, such as a piece of paper, a label, packaging, or the like, that can be associated with a product. The information carrier can be associated with the product directly or indirectly. For example, the information carrier can be directly associated with the product by being attached to it. Indirect association can occur when the information carrier is attached to its packaging and / or a container in which the product is housed. The information carrier can be connected to the product directly or indirectly by a form-fit, force-fit, and / or material-fit connection.

[0011] For the purposes of this invention, the term "product" refers to the object whose authenticity is to be determined by means of the information carrier. This means that after the authenticity test, it is known whether the information carrier is counterfeit and, consequently, whether the product associated with the information carrier is a counterfeit.

[0012] The primary information can include product data. Furthermore, the primary information can contain a version number for the first and / or second code pattern and / or an identity number. Knowing the version of the second code pattern allows for easy decoding of the manipulated sections, as explained in more detail below. The primary information can also include other information, such as a website address. The identity number can be embedded in the website address. This ensures that product-specific information is displayed when the website is accessed.

[0013] The primary information stored in the first code pattern can be read by a reading device, in particular a camera, preferably a mobile phone camera. Accordingly, the website with the product-specific information can be easily accessed using common electrical devices.

[0014] The second code pattern can contain secondary information. This secondary information can be an identification number used to determine the authenticity of the information carrier bearing the two-dimensional code. This is explained in detail below. The first and second code patterns differ in their encoding method. This means that different reading methods must be used to read the first and second code patterns. The second code pattern has at least one manipulated section. The manipulation occurs when the grid points in this at least one section are arranged differently and / or have a different contour than the grid points of the second code pattern that are not located in that section. Such manipulation can result in the manipulated section having a different orientation than the rest of the code pattern.The reading process also includes a decoding process, by means of which the stored primary information and / or secondary information is determined.

[0015] In accordance with the invention, different colors of the halftone dots are not considered a manipulation of the halftone dots. This means that no manipulated sections are created simply because the halftone dots have different colors.

[0016] The first code pattern is designed in such a way that it is perceptible to the human eye. In contrast, the second code pattern can be designed in such a way that it is not perceptible to the human eye.

[0017] Another advantage of the two-dimensional code is its large code space. Specifically, the length of the secondary information stored in the second code pattern, particularly the identification number, remains constant. The code space is large because the first code pattern, being larger than the second, can store a significant amount of data.

[0018] In a specific implementation, the position of at least one second code pattern can be stored within the two-dimensional code, particularly within the first code pattern. This position can be defined during the creation of the second code pattern. Alternatively, the position can be derived from the version number of the second code pattern stored within the first code pattern. Or, additionally, the position of the at least one second code pattern can be determined based on the first code pattern. Specifically, the position of the second code pattern can be determined based on the structure of the first code pattern. Finally, the position of the second code pattern within the two-dimensional code can be retrieved from a stored lookup table that is part of the primary information.The position of the second code pattern can thus be taken from the table after reading the first code pattern has shown that the two-dimensional code also has a second code pattern.

[0019] Storing the position in the first code pattern and / or determining the position based on the first code pattern offers the advantage that the data carrier initially only needs to be read and decoded using a reading method suitable for the first code pattern. If, during the reading process, it is determined that a second code pattern is present, the data carrier can then be read and decoded using a reading method suitable for the second code pattern.

[0020] When the second code pattern is read, secondary information is extracted from it. This secondary information can include an identification number, which is the result of decoding the second code pattern during the reading process.

[0021] The identification number can correspond to a calculated checksum. The checksum can be determined by a hash algorithm, although other algorithms can also be used to calculate the checksum. Alternatively, the identification number may not be the result of a calculation procedure, but rather composed of predefined numbers, in particular digits, letters, and / or special characters. The identification number is merely determined during the reading process. The selection of whether the identification number is composed of predefined numbers or is the result of a calculation procedure is made during the production of the information carrier, specifically before the second code pattern is printed onto the information carrier.

[0022] Each manipulated section of the second code pattern can be assigned to a position in the identification number. The assignment of the manipulated section to a position in the identification number can be stored in the version number contained in the primary information and / or assigned to a version number. The identification number can be a binary number, but is not limited to this. The identification number can be generated before and / or during the creation of the information carrier. Furthermore, the identification number can have one or more digits. The sequence of the numbers can be derived from the version number.

[0023] The secondary information extracted during the reading process can correspond to a data stream and contain additional data besides the identification number. This additional data can be used for checksum verification and / or redundancy checks. The data stream can consist of binary numbers, but is not limited to this encoding method. Analyzing and / or processing this additional data can be used to verify whether the second code pattern was read correctly. Ultimately, user data can be extracted from the extracted secondary information, particularly the data stream, when decoding the second code pattern.

[0024] The second code pattern can have at least two, and in particular at least three, color channels, wherein the halftone dots are manipulated in at least one of the multiple color channels. This means that in one or more channels the arrangement of the halftone dots and / or the outline of the halftone dots is manipulated. This allows a second code pattern that is difficult to forge to be easily generated.

[0025] In a specific implementation, the first code pattern can have at least one information section containing at least one property of the first code pattern, and a remaining section containing the primary information. This information section can contain a version number of the first code pattern, a data format, and / or an orientation of the first code pattern as properties. The information section enables and / or simplifies the decoding of the first code pattern. The first code pattern, particularly the primary information, can indicate that the two-dimensional code has a second code pattern. This can be done, for example, by storing the version number of the second code pattern.

[0026] The position of the second code pattern on the information carrier can be determined before printing. The second code pattern can be positioned adjacent to the first. In this case, the first and second code patterns do not overlap but are offset from each other. This means that there are no sections of the two-dimensional code where pixels of the first code pattern and pixels of the second code pattern are located.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the second code pattern can be arranged in at least one section of the two-dimensional code, containing at least a portion of the second code pattern and at least a portion of the first code pattern. This means that the section of the two-dimensional code contains both grid points of the first code pattern and grid points of the second code pattern. Such a two-dimensional code offers the advantage of being space-saving because no separate space on the information carrier needs to be reserved for the second code pattern. The second code pattern can be arranged in at least one area of ​​the information section and / or in at least one area of ​​the remaining section. Therefore, the second code pattern can be integrated into the first code pattern arbitrarily without altering the information content of the first code pattern.

[0028] In a special implementation, the second code pattern can have at least two code pattern components. One code pattern component can enclose the first code pattern. This component can completely enclose the first code pattern circumferentially. The other code pattern component can, analogous to the other implementations described above, be located within the first code pattern. This means that the other code pattern component is located within an area enclosed by the first code pattern, and the first and second code patterns do not overlap. Alternatively, the other code pattern component can be located within an area enclosed by the first code pattern, and the first and second code patterns overlap. Providing the code pattern component that encloses the first code pattern has the advantage that the two-dimensional code can be better integrated into existing designs.This eliminates the need for a safety area around the two-dimensional code, and the code can be embedded in other backgrounds without a white outline.

[0029] The two-dimensional code, in particular the first and / or second code pattern, can be applied to the information carrier using a printing process.

[0030] Once the information carrier has been produced, it can be assigned to a product. Assigning the information carrier to the product can involve storing product-specific data, particularly in the first code pattern, which is explained in more detail below. After assigning the information carrier to the product, it is possible to verify its authenticity. If the information carrier is found to be authentic, it can be assumed that the product assigned to it is not a counterfeit and is therefore genuine.

[0031] The method for authenticating an information carrier according to the invention can include reading the two-dimensional code, in particular the first code pattern and / or the second code pattern. A decision regarding the authenticity of the information carrier can depend on the reading result of the first and / or second code pattern. The method for authenticating the information carrier can be a computer-implemented method executed on a data processing device, in particular a data processing device of a reading device.

[0032] During the two-dimensional code reading process, the identity number and / or the address of a website containing the identity number can be extracted. The identity number can be determined when the first primary code is read. The address can be determined when the first and / or second code pattern is read. The identity number and the web address can be part of the received primary information. The reading device can access a website stored at that address. A further data processing device hosting the website can receive information from the reading device. This further data processing device, in particular a server, can receive the time of the reading process and / or the location data of the reading device. Furthermore, the further data processing device can receive the identity number stored in the primary information.The received data makes it easy to determine authenticity. For example, the subsequent data processing device can determine that the information carrier is not authentic if two read operations are performed in quick succession from widely separated locations.

[0033] As a result, simply accessing the website offers the possibility of recording the data collection and location, and of making a preliminary assessment of the information carrier's authenticity based on the time and positional data collected. A machine learning algorithm can then determine user behavior based on this data and make an authenticity decision based on location and time tracing. Additionally, the website can describe the benefits for the end customer of conducting a more in-depth authenticity check.

[0034] This allows the user who applies the information carriers to their products to decide which information and process parts they want to offer their end customers with reduced authenticity verification and which process steps only with in-depth authenticity verification as described below.

[0035] This also allows the end customer to decide whether to retrieve only the less verified information about reading the first code pattern, especially the QR code, or whether to carry out a further authentication check.

[0036] The additional data processing device can determine the number of read operations of the two-dimensional code, in particular the first code pattern and / or the second code pattern. Specifically, the additional data processing device can determine the number of read operations for the received identity number. Furthermore, the additional data processing device can receive the value of the read operations from an electronic memory. The authentication decision can depend on the number of read operations. The additional data processing device can increment the value of the read operations by a predetermined value after each read operation and store it in the electronic memory. Alternatively or additionally, the additional data processing device can use other properties of the information carrier for authentication purposes.The subsequent data processing unit can then use the timeline and location of the information carrier for authenticity verification. For example, it can be concluded that the product is counterfeit if the data readouts are carried out on different continents within a short period of time.

[0037] The data processing device can determine that forgery cannot be ruled out if the number of read operations exceeds a predefined threshold. This allows for a simple verification of whether the information carrier is authentic or not. If the data carrier is determined to be inauthentic, the data processing device can recommend further examination. Alternatively, further examination can also be carried out if the data processing device has determined that the information carrier is authentic.

[0038] The reading device can be an electrical device, such as a camera, mobile phone, laptop, tablet, or the like, which has an optical device for optically capturing the information carrier. The reading device serves to read and decode the two-dimensional code of the information carrier.

[0039] During the reading process, the data processing device of the readout device can determine that the two-dimensional code has a second code pattern. In particular, when reading the first code pattern, especially based on the primary information, the data processing device can determine that the two-dimensional code contains a second code pattern. During the reading process, the data processing device can extract the identification number from the secondary information. The authentication decision can depend on the identification number determined from the second code pattern and the primary information stored in the first code pattern. In particular, the authentication decision can depend on a comparison of the identification number with the primary information or a control value derived from the primary information.

[0040] The primary information can be the identification number. The checksum can correspond to the verification value, which is determined using the primary information, in particular the identification number.

[0041] The data processing unit of the reading device compares the identification number or control value stored in the first code pattern, in particular the checksum, with the identification number determined from the second code pattern and makes an authenticity decision regarding the information carrier based on the comparison result. Thus, it can be determined that the information carrier is authentic if the numbers match. As a result, the authenticity of the information carrier can be determined in a simple manner.

[0042] Furthermore, the reading process can determine whether a manipulation of the grid points performed in at least one section of the second code pattern corresponds to a predefined manipulation of the grid points, with the authenticity decision depending on the result of this determination. It can be determined that the information carrier is authentic if the manipulation performed in the section corresponds to the stored manipulation. The information relating to the predefined manipulation of the second code pattern can be stored in the reading device, particularly in a memory of the reading device. The predefined manipulation can depend on the version number of the second code pattern. Since the version number of the second code pattern is stored in the two-dimensional code of the information carrier, a check to see if the sections of the second code pattern have been manipulated correctly can be carried out easily.The test can also be performed even if the reading device is not connected to a network, especially the Internet.

[0043] Furthermore, the data processing device can perform a checksum check based on the received secondary information. The authenticity decision can also depend on the checksum check.

[0044] A system with an information carrier according to the invention and a reading device for reading the two-dimensional code applied to the information carrier is particularly advantageous, wherein the reading device has a data processing device which has means for carrying out a method according to the invention.

[0045] Furthermore, the system may include an additional data processing device configured to transmit information related to the data carrier to the data processing device of the reading device. This information may be product information. As a result, a digital copy of the product associated with the data carrier may be stored on the additional data processing device. Moreover, the information is only transmitted from the additional data processing device to the reading device if the data carrier is determined to be authentic. Since the information can only be accessed if the aforementioned authenticity checks confirm the data carrier's authenticity, the product information is well protected against counterfeiting.

[0046] In a special version, the additional data processing device can generate the identity number and identification number that are stored in the first code pattern and in the second code pattern.

[0047] A computer program product comprising commands that cause the system according to the invention to execute the process steps according to the invention is also particularly advantageous.

[0048] The figures schematically depict the invention, with identical or equivalent components generally being designated with the same reference numerals. This shows:

[0049] Fig 1 shows a representation of an information carrier according to the invention in a first embodiment with a first code pattern and a second code pattern.

[0050] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of the second code pattern.

[0051] Fig. 3 shows a representation of an information carrier according to a second embodiment of the invention, with a first code pattern and a second code pattern.

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a representation of an information carrier according to a third embodiment of the invention, with a first code pattern and a second code pattern.

[0053] Fig. 5 shows a representation of an information carrier according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, with a first code pattern and a second code pattern.

[0054] Fig. 6 shows a method for authenticating an information carrier according to a first embodiment.

[0055] Fig. 7 shows a method for authenticating an information carrier according to a second embodiment.

[0056] Fig. 8 shows a method for producing an information carrier according to the first or second embodiment.

[0057] Fig. 9 shows a representation of a system with an information carrier according to the first or second design.

[0058] An information carrier 1, shown in Figure 1, has a two-dimensional code comprising a first code pattern 2 and a second code pattern 3. The two-dimensional code, specifically the first code pattern 2 and the second code pattern 3, is applied to the information carrier 1. The first and second code patterns 2, 3 differ in their encoding method. This means that different reading methods must be used to read and decode the information stored in the first and second code patterns. The first code pattern 2 is a QR code, although the first code pattern 2 is not limited to QR codes. The first code pattern 2 contains primary information that can be read and decoded during the reading process. The second code pattern 3 contains secondary information that can be read using a different reading method.The reading process can be carried out using an application installed on the reading device, and the further reading process can be carried out using another application installed on the reading device.

[0059] The second code pattern 2, as can be seen in Figure 2, is formed from a multitude of raster points 4. This second code pattern 2 has several manipulated sections 5 of raster points 4. For example, the arrangement of the raster points 4 in sections 5 of the second code pattern 3 can be manipulated. This means that at least some of the raster points in section 5 are arranged in a different pattern and can thus be distinguished from the remaining raster points 4. Alternatively or additionally, the contour of at least one raster point 4 in section 5 can be manipulated. This means that the contour of the at least one raster point 4 differs from the contour of other raster points 4. By manipulating the at least one section 5, secondary information can be stored within it.This means that secondary information is stored in at least one manipulated section 5 of the second code pattern 3.

[0060] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the first and second code patterns 2, 3 are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0061] The first and second code patterns 2, 3 can be applied to the information carrier 1, which can be paper, by means of a printing process. This means that the halftone dots of the second code pattern 3, in particular a section containing the halftone dots of the second code pattern 3, are arranged offset from the halftone dots of the first code pattern 2. In Figure 1, the section containing the halftone dots of the second code pattern is shown as a rectangle. In the illustrated embodiment, the second code pattern 3 is located in the center of the two-dimensional code 1.

[0062] The first code pattern 2 is a QR code and has an information section 6. This section contains at least one property of the first code pattern 2. This property can be a version number of the first code pattern 2, a data format, and / or an orientation of the first code pattern. Furthermore, the first code pattern 2 has a remaining section 7, in which the primary information is stored. The primary information can be entered by the user, whereas the property stored in information section 6 cannot be changed by the user. The primary information can include product data.

[0063] Furthermore, the primary information can include an identification number and / or a version number for the first and / or second code pattern. Additionally, the primary information can include other information, such as a website address, specifically an IP address or URL. The website address containing the identification number allows product-specific information to be displayed via a web browser.

[0064] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of the second code pattern 2. The second code pattern 2 has several sections 5. In each of the sections 5, the contour of the grid points 4 is manipulated. Thus, the contour of the grid points 4 located in the sections 5 differs from the contour of the grid points arranged outside the sections 5. Furthermore, the arrangement of the grid points 4 within the sections 5 is manipulated. The sections 5 are manipulated differently, so that the arrangement of the grid points 4 within the sections 5 differs from that within the sections 5. Additionally, the arrangement of the grid points 4 within the sections 5 differs from the arrangement of the grid points 4 outside the sections 5.

[0065] Fig. 3 shows a representation of an information carrier 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention, with the first code pattern 2 and a second code pattern 3. The information carrier 1 differs from the information carrier 1 shown in Figure 1 in the arrangement of the second code pattern 3 relative to the first code pattern 2. The first code pattern 1 and the second code pattern 2 are placed in the same section of the two-dimensional code. The grid points 4 of the second code pattern 2 can be arranged adjacent to the grid points 12 of the first code pattern 2 or overlap with them at least partially. For clarity, no grid points 12 of the first code pattern 4 are shown in Figure 3 in the overlap area between the first and second code patterns 2, 3.

[0066] Fig. 4 shows a representation of an information carrier 1 according to a third embodiment of the invention, with a first code pattern 2 and a second code pattern 3. In contrast to the information carrier 1 shown in Fig. 1, the information carrier 1 has two code pattern components 3a, 3b, namely a first code pattern component 3a and a second code pattern component 3b. The first code pattern component 3a is arranged analogously to the second code pattern from Fig. 1. The second code pattern component 3b is a section that extends around the first code pattern 2. In particular, the second code pattern component 3b completely encloses the first code pattern 2 in the circumferential direction. Both the first code pattern component 3a and the second code pattern component 3b have manipulated sections 5.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a representation of an information carrier 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, with a first code pattern 2 and a second code pattern 3. In contrast to the information carrier 1 shown in Fig. 3, the information carrier 1 has two code pattern components 3a, 3b, namely a first code pattern component 3a and a second code pattern component 3b. The first code pattern component 3a is arranged analogously to the second code pattern from Fig. 3. The second code pattern component 3b is a section that extends around a section of the first code pattern 2. In particular, the second code pattern component 3b completely encloses the section of the first code pattern 2 in the circumferential direction. Both the first code pattern component 3a and the second code pattern component 3b have manipulated sections 5. Fig. 6 shows a method for authenticating an information carrier 1 according to a first embodiment. The one shown in Fig.The methods shown in Figure 6 and those shown below in Figures 7 and 8 can be applied to all information carriers 1 shown in Figures 1-3.

[0068] In a first step S1, the two-dimensional code of the information carrier 1 is read. This can be done using a reading device 10, as shown in Figure 8, in particular with an optical device of the reading device 10. In this first step S1, the first code pattern 2 is read. In particular, the primary information stored in the first code pattern 2 is read. The primary information can include a web address, in particular an IP address or URL, an identity number, and a version number of the second code pattern 3. The reading device 10 then transmits the read primary information to the further data processing device 11, in particular a server. The IP address of the further data processing device 11 is contained in the read primary information.

[0069] In response to the transmission of primary information, the readout device 10 receives data S2 in a second step. This data can then be displayed on a display device of the readout device. Specifically, a web browser is opened and displayed in the second step S2. The data may include product-specific information.

[0070] In a third step S3, the data processing device 1 1 determines a specific property of the information carrier. For example, one property of the information carrier 1 could be how many times the two-dimensional code has already been read. This information is transmitted to the read device and displayed. This information can be stored in an electrical memory. Furthermore, the data processing device 1 1 increments the value by 1 and stores it in the electrical memory. Alternatively or additionally, one property of the information carrier 1 could be the time of the read operation and / or the location of the information carrier 1 at the time of the read operation. The location of the information carrier is known after determining the latitude and longitude and / or a GPS position. In a fourth step S4, the data processing device 1 1 checks whether the number of read operations fulfills a predefined condition.In particular, the data processing device 11 checks whether the number of read operations exceeds a threshold. If this is not the case, the data processing device 11 transmits information to the read device 10 in a fifth step S5 indicating that the information carrier 1 is authentic. The user can then decide whether a further authentication check should be performed. This further authentication check is illustrated in Figure 5. If, in the fourth step S4, it is determined that the number of read operations exceeds the threshold, the information is transmitted to the read device in a sixth step S6 indicating that a further authentication check should be performed. In other words, if the number of read operations is too high, the information carrier 1 is assumed to be inauthentic.

[0071] Furthermore, the data processing device 1 1 can check whether the other properties meet a predefined condition. For example, the information carrier 1 is considered a forgery if the read operations are carried out at locations far apart from each other within a short period of time.

[0072] Fig. 7 shows a method for authenticating an information carrier 1 according to a second embodiment. This method can be carried out following, in particular following the sixth step S6, the authentication procedure shown in Figure 6. Alternatively, it can be carried out in parallel with the authentication procedure shown in Figure 6.

[0073] In the process, the two-dimensional code is read in a first step (A1). In a second step (A2), an identity number stored in the primary information of the first code pattern (2) and a version number of the second code pattern (3) are read. The primary information can be a website address, in particular an IP address or URL, that contains the identity number. This directs the user to a website containing product-specific information.

[0074] In a third step, A3 can be a data processing device of the

[0075] The readout device 10 uses the version number of the second code pattern determined in step A2 to determine the position of the second code pattern 2, in particular the position of the manipulated sections 5. Furthermore, the data processing device can determine how the sections 5 are manipulated based on the version number. This is possible because corresponding information is stored in an electrical memory of the readout device 10. As a result, for each version number, information is stored regarding the positions of the manipulated sections 5 and how the manipulated sections 5 are manipulated. The position and / or type of manipulation can differ depending on the version number.

[0076] Furthermore, in the third step A3, the orientation of the first code pattern 2, in particular the QR code, can be read. The orientation of the first code pattern 2 is part of the primary information read from the first code pattern 2. This information is helpful for reading the second code pattern 3.

[0077] In a fourth step, A4, a control value, specifically a checksum, is determined using the primary information. The checksum can be calculated using the determined identity number. However, it is also possible to calculate the checksum using the entire web address and / or other information contained in the primary information. The checksum can be calculated using a hash algorithm. Alternatively, other algorithms can be used.

[0078] Steps A1 to A4 involve reading and / or processing the primary information stored in the first code pattern 2.

[0079] In a fifth step, A5, the secondary information stored in the second code pattern is read. This determines whether the sections have been manipulated as specified. Furthermore, an identification number stored in the second code pattern is determined.

[0080] The identification number is determined by assigning a value to each manipulated section.

[0081] 5 a number is determined. The number can be assigned to the manipulated section 5. The position of the determined number in the identification number depends on the determined version number. This means that the data processing device of the readout device 10, if it knows the version number of the second code pattern 2, can also determine the position of the determined number in the identification number.

[0082] In the fifth step A5, the data processing device can perform a preliminary check to determine whether the information carrier is authentic or not by determining whether the second code pattern 2 contains the manipulated sections and whether the manipulated sections have been manipulated as specified. In other words, the preliminary check verifies the correctness of the structure of the second code pattern 3. This information can then be displayed by the display device of the readout device 10 in a seventh step A7.

[0083] In a sixth step, A6, the data processing device compares whether the checksum determined in the fourth step, S4, using the primary information stored in the first code pattern 2, corresponds to the identification number determined in the fifth step, A5, which is stored in the second code pattern 3. Based on the comparison result, the data processing device determines whether the information carrier 1 is authentic or not. In other words, the fifth step checks whether the identification number read from the second code pattern corresponds to the checksum calculated using the primary information. If the identification number stored in the second code pattern corresponds to the checksum determined using the primary information, the information carrier is determined to be authentic. If the numbers differ, the information carrier is determined to be inauthentic.

[0084] Furthermore, in the sixth step A6, the result of the structure comparison from the fifth step A5 is taken into account for the authenticity decision. If it was determined in step A5 that the structure differs from the specified structure, the information carrier 1 is considered inauthentic. However, it is not excluded that further checks are carried out in the sixth step A6, which are used for the authenticity check.

[0085] The version number and the identity number can be taken into account in the sixth step A6 in such a way that they are part of the output result.

[0086] The result from the sixth step A6 is displayed in the seventh step A7 on the display device of the readout device 10.

[0087] The data processing device of the readout device 10 queries the further data processing device 11, which may, for example, be part of a server, for additional product information, which can also be displayed in step eight A8 by the display device of the readout device 10. The additional product information may relate to customer-specific content and / or services.

[0088] Fig. 8 shows a method for producing an information carrier 1 according to the first or second embodiment. In one step P1, the identity number is generated, which is to be stored in the first code pattern 2. The identity number generation can be carried out by the further data processing device 1 1.

[0089] In a second step P2, the electronic file of the second code pattern 3 is generated. In this second step P2, the checksum can be generated using the identity number generated in the first step P1. The electronic file thus contains the information on how to generate the second code pattern, so that when the second code pattern 2 is read, as described, for example, in Figure 7, the checksum is the result of the readout.

[0090] In a third step, P3, the electronic file of the first code pattern 2 is generated. This can occur after the first step, P1, and takes place when the identity number generated in the first step, P1, is to be stored in the first code pattern 2. In the third step, P3, the identity number can thus be stored in the primary information, specifically in the web address. In a fourth step, P4, the two-dimensional code, comprising the first code pattern 2 and the second code pattern 3, is combined into a single electronic file. In a fifth step, a print file is generated. The print file is used to print the information carrier using a printing process, which takes place in a sixth step, P6. The result is an information carrier 1, which contains the first code pattern.

[0091] 2 contains primary information, such as the identity number and version number. Furthermore, the information carrier 1 contains secondary information in a second code pattern 3, which corresponds to the identification number, in particular the checksum of the first code pattern.

[0092] Fig. 8 shows a representation of a system 9 with an information carrier 1 according to the first or second embodiment. The information carrier 1 is attached to and associated with a product 13. The reading device 10 reads the two-dimensional code of the information carrier 1 and communicates with the data processing device 11 via a network 14. The reading device 10 can perform or initiate the authentication checks shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0093] Reference sign

[0094] 1 Information carrier

[0095] 2 first code pattern 3 second code pattern

[0096] 3a first code pattern component

[0097] 3b second code pattern component

[0098] 4 Grid point of the second code pattern

[0099] Section 5 of the second code pattern; Section 6 of the information section

[0100] 7 Remaining section

[0101] Section 8 of the first code pattern

[0102] 9 System

[0103] 10 Reading device 11 Data processing device

[0104] 12th grid point of the first code pattern

[0105] 13 products

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Method for generating a two-dimensional code on an information carrier (1), wherein a first code pattern (2) containing readable primary information is applied to the information carrier (1), and at least a second code pattern (3) which differs from the first code pattern in a coding method and is formed from a plurality of grid points (4) is applied to the information carrier (1), wherein the second code pattern (3, 3a, 3b) has at least one section (5) which is manipulated, wherein the manipulation is effected by the fact that the grid points (4) in the at least one section (5) are arranged differently and / or have a different contour than the grid points of the second code pattern (3, 3a, 3b) which are not arranged in the section (5) of the second code pattern (3, 3a, 3b).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the position of the at least one second code pattern (3) is stored in the two-dimensional code, in particular in the first code pattern (2), and / or that the position of the at least one second code pattern (3) is determined on the basis of the first code pattern (2).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that secondary information comprises an identification number, wherein each manipulated section (5) of the second code pattern (3) is assigned to a position of the identification number.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second code pattern (3) has at least two, in particular at least three, color channels, wherein the raster dots (4) are manipulated in at least one of the several color channels.

5. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first code pattern (2) contains at least one information section (6) in which at least one property of the first code pattern is stored, and has a remainder section (7) in which the primary information is stored.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first code pattern (2), in particular the primary information, specifies that the two-dimensional code has a second code pattern (3).

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the second code pattern (3) is arranged adjacent to the first code pattern (2).

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that at least a part of the second code pattern (3) and at least a part of the first code pattern (2) are arranged in at least one section of the two-dimensional code.

9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that the second code pattern (2) is arranged in at least one area of ​​the information section (6) and / or in at least one area of ​​the remaining section (7).

10. Method according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the two-dimensional code, in particular the second code pattern (3), is applied to the information carrier (1) by means of a printing process. 1 1. Method according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the second code pattern (3) has at least two code pattern components (3a, 3b), wherein one code pattern component encloses the first code pattern (2).

12. Information carrier (1) which is produced by a method according to one of claims 1 to 1 1.

13. Method for authenticating an information carrier (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the two-dimensional code, in particular the first code pattern (2) and / or the second code pattern (3), is read out and a The decision regarding the authenticity of the information carrier (1) depends on a selection result.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that information is received indicating that the two-dimensional code has a second code pattern (3).

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the number of readouts of the first code pattern (2) and / or the second code pattern (3) is determined and the authenticity decision depends on the number of readouts.

16. Method according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the identification number is extracted from the secondary information during the reading process, wherein the authenticity decision depends on the identification number and the primary information.

17. Method according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that, as part of the reading process, it is determined whether a manipulation of the grid points (4) carried out in the at least one section (5) of the second code pattern (3, 3a, 3b) corresponds to a predetermined manipulation of the grid points (4), wherein the authenticity decision depends on the result of the determination.

18. Method according to one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that the first code pattern (2) is read and an identity number stored in the first code pattern (2) is determined or a control value is determined using the primary information, in particular the identity number, stored in the first code pattern, and that the second code pattern (3) is read and the identification number stored in the second code pattern (3) is determined, wherein the identity number stored in the first code pattern (2) or the control value is compared with the identification number determined from the second code pattern (3) and the authenticity decision depends on the comparison result.

19. System (9) comprising an information carrier (1 ) and a reading device (10) for reading the two-dimensional code applied to the information carrier (1 ), wherein the reading device (10) comprises a data processing device which includes means for carrying out the method according to any one of claims 13 to 18.

20. System (9) according to claim 19, characterized in that the system (9) has a further data processing device (1 1 ) which is configured to transmit information belonging to the information carrier (1 ) to the data processing device of the readout device (10).

21. System (9) according to claim 20, characterized in that the further data processing device (10) generates the identity number and / or identification number which is stored in the first code pattern (2) and / or in the second code pattern (3, 3a, 3b).

22. Computer program product comprising instructions that cause the system (9) according to one of claims 19 to 21 to execute the method steps according to one of claims 13 to 18.

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