3D Code Stacked Transparent QR Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D codes lack high information density and are complex to manufacture, with existing solutions either not increasing information density or being difficult to produce securely.
Innovation Solution
A 3D code comprising at least two stacked, transparent, colored QR codes on a flat carrier, where the fields of one QR code cover the fields of the other, allowing for increased information density and ease of manufacturing by using a transmissive or reflective configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple QR codes are stacked in 3D to increase information density, then the information capacity increases significantly, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D QR code stacking to 3D stacked QR code structure, utilizing the third dimension (vertical stacking) to dramatically increase information capacity. Multiple transparent QR codes are stacked with overlapping fields, where each field position across multiple layers encodes additional information bits through color combinations, achieving exponentially higher information density while maintaining a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple transparent QR code layers are stacked and overlaid, with each layer's fields positioned to overlap with corresponding fields in adjacent layers. This nesting approach allows information to be encoded across multiple hierarchical levels (layers and field positions), maximizing information capacity within a confined spatial envelope.
2Reliability
If 3D codes with multiple layers are created to prevent counterfeiting, then security against counterfeiting improves, but the manufacturing process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-coded transparent fields in stacked QR code layers, where each field can exhibit different colors (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, clear) to encode information. The color combinations across multiple layers create unique optical signatures that are difficult to replicate, providing inherent counterfeit protection while using standard transparent materials and printing techniques that remain manufacturable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite transparent materials with different optical properties (different colors and transparencies) for the QR code fields. These composite material properties create complex optical characteristics when stacked and viewed through multiple layers, providing security verification capabilities while using materials that can be produced with conventional manufacturing processes.
3Loss of information
If transparent colored fields are used in QR codes to increase information capacity, then information density increases, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates alignment markers and reference patterns in the QR code structure that are established during the design phase. These preliminary alignment features guide the stacking and positioning of transparent QR code layers, ensuring that corresponding fields align correctly across multiple layers. This pre-planned alignment system reduces the precision requirements during actual manufacturing and assembly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution achieves a significantly higher information density and simplifies the manufacturing process while providing a secure, counterfeit-proof encoding suitable for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a light beam directed at the first QR code can pass through the second QR code and the carrier
Implementation Method 2
The fields of the first QR code and the corresponding fields of the second QR code form stacks in the +Z direction... The fields of the first QR code and the corresponding fields of the second QR code are colored, transparent fields
Data Source
Figure 1a~3b

AI summary
The 3D code (100) is suitable for the visible wavelength range. The 3D code (100) comprises a carrier (3) and at least two overlapping QR codes (1, 2) lying one on the other. The fields (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first QR code (1) and the fields (21, 22, 23, 24) of the second QR code (2) are colored, transparent fields. The colors for the colored fields can be selected from at least two different colors. The first QR code (1) has n × m fields (11, 12, 13, 14). The second QR code (2) has n × m fields (21, 22, 23, 24), with n > 1 and m > 2.