2D Bar Code Wristband for Readability and Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bar coded wristbands face challenges such as difficulty in printing linear bar codes due to width limitations, susceptibility to damage and distortion, and the risk of misidentification due to code duplication, leading to readability issues and increased resource waste in hospital settings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a bar code reader connected to a digital link and a host computer with a database, using 2D bar codes on a bendable substrate wristband that can be read from any direction, reducing the need for manual manipulation and enhancing durability and uniqueness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If linear bar codes are printed on narrow wristbands with lines parallel to the limb, then the bar code can extend along the wristband, but the bar code rolls around the wristband causing depth field focus problems and readability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear bar codes to two-dimensional bar code symbols arranged in a matrix pattern on the wristband. This dimensional change allows the bar code information to be encoded in both horizontal and vertical directions, eliminating the wrapping problem while maintaining adequate code length and improving readability from multiple angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the bar code into multiple separate 2D bar code symbols arranged in a matrix rather than using a single continuous linear bar code. This segmentation allows each symbol to be independently readable and positioned optimally on the curved wristband surface, preventing the wrapping issue.
2Ease of operation
If linear bar codes are printed with lines perpendicular to the limb, then the entire code is exposed, but the bar code must be printed very small requiring close placement and rotation of the wristband
Solution Approach 1:
By using 2D bar code symbols instead of 1D linear codes, the patent achieves compact encoding that fits on narrow wristbands without requiring extremely small print sizes. The matrix arrangement of multiple 2D symbols provides sufficient information density while maintaining readable dimensions.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple bar code symbols are used on the wristband, then the information can be encoded more efficiently, but the complexity of printing and reading increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 2D bar code symbols arranged in a matrix pattern, which provides high information density in a compact area. Modern bar code readers with image capture capabilities can automatically detect and read these 2D symbols without complex mechanical movements, balancing information density with system simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A bar coded patient wristband identifies a patient wearing the wristband. The system comprises a bar code reader to read the bar coded wristband. A host computer is connected to the digital link to receive the segment of data from the bar code reader. A database correlates the segment of data to a patient to identify the patient. The patient wristband comprises a plurality of bar code symbols. A computer then retrieves a patient record from the database to identify the patient wearing the wristband. In one embodiment, a patient wristband for identifying a patient accepts a plurality of markings of 2 D bar codes distributed along the strip. In another embodiment, the wristband comprises a plurality of linear bar code lines and spaces distributed along the strip. The lines and spaces form a 1 D bar code.