2D Barcode Authentication via Controlled Bit Errors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current authentication methods for 2D barcodes are vulnerable to counterfeiting, as counterfeiters can generate new labels that appear valid using similar technology, and existing solutions fail to differentiate between authentic and counterfeit codes without compromising readability by standard scanners.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that modify standard 2D barcode codewords and introduce microfeatures, using a secret salted hash to create unique, slightly non-standard symbols that can still be read by existing scanners, with optional microfeatures like chamfers and fillets, to verify authenticity through error comparison and visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard 2D barcode generation algorithms are used, then the barcodes can be read by all existing standard scanners, but the barcodes can be easily replicated by counterfeiters using the same public algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies specific parameters of the 2D barcode codewords by intentionally introducing controlled bit errors into selected codeword positions. These parameter changes create subtle deviations from standard barcodes that are imperceptible to standard scanners but serve as authentication markers. The modification process changes the binary state of specific bits in codewords while maintaining the overall barcode structure and readability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification system that acts as a bridge between standard scanners and authenticity verification. The modified barcodes are first read by standard scanners using conventional algorithms, then the detected bit errors are compared against expected error patterns derived from a secret key. This intermediary comparison process enables authentication without requiring modification of standard scanning equipment.
2Reliability
If bit errors are introduced into codewords to create authentication markers, then authenticity can be verified, but the barcodes may become unreadable by standard scanners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by introducing bit errors only in specific, selected codeword positions rather than throughout the entire barcode. The error introduction is controlled and limited to certain codewords based on the secret key, ensuring that enough valid codewords remain for standard scanners to successfully decode the barcode while still providing sufficient modified codewords for authentication verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs error correction coding as a cushioning mechanism to compensate for the intentional bit errors introduced into codewords. The barcode structure includes redundant error correction codewords that can tolerate a certain number of bit errors without preventing successful decoding. This beforehand cushioning ensures that even with modified codewords containing intentional errors, the barcode remains readable by standard scanners equipped with error correction capabilities.
3Reliability
If a secret key is used to determine which codeword bits to modify, then counterfeiters cannot replicate the barcodes, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the authentication system to verify its own integrity without requiring external reference materials or additional hardware. The secret key embedded in the system allows it to independently determine which codeword positions should contain bit errors and to verify detected errors against expected patterns. This self-contained verification process eliminates the need for separate authentication infrastructure while maintaining strong anti-counterfeiting capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for creating 2D barcodes that are watermarked in a digital fashion. The system and method include changing specific elements within the code words as well as modifying the physical representation within elements of the codewords.