Barcode Identification Using Blank Area Boundary Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for identifying one-dimensional barcodes in images are inefficient due to the time-consuming process of pattern matching at both ends and center of the barcode area, increasing processing time.
Innovation Solution
An image analyzing apparatus that identifies a barcode by determining a bar candidate area, searching for blank areas on either side to determine the barcode's end positions, and using these positions to define the barcode area, thereby reducing the need for extensive pattern matching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pattern matching of guard bar and center bar is executed at both ends and center of tentative barcode area, then barcode identification accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes the blank area (white space) surrounding the barcode as a key feature for identification. Instead of performing pattern matching on the complex bar patterns themselves, the system extracts the simpler blank area characteristics and uses these to determine barcode boundaries, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by not directly matching bar patterns to identify barcodes, but rather by identifying the blank areas surrounding the barcode and using their boundaries to define the barcode region. This indirect approach simplifies the matching process and reduces computational complexity
2Measurement precision
If extensive pattern matching is performed to identify barcode boundaries, then identification accuracy is improved, but processing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being matched from complex bar width patterns to simpler blank area extent parameters. By measuring the distance from the tentative barcode area to the blank area boundaries, the system achieves accurate boundary identification with less computational effort, improving processing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pattern matching process with a measurement-based approach. Instead of comparing complex bar patterns against reference patterns, the system measures the spatial relationship between the tentative barcode area and surrounding blank areas, substituting a simpler measurement mechanism for the complex matching mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
In an image analyzing apparatus, identifying a barcode image includes: determining a bar candidate area representing a candidate for a bar having a first width in a target image, the bar candidate area containing a feature-matching area that matches a feature concerning two or more different widths of bars in a one-dimensional barcode; searching for first and second blank areas having lengths longer than or equal to a threshold value at first and second sides of the bar candidate area in a specific direction; when the first or second blank area is found, determining, as a first or second end position of the one-dimensional barcode, a boundary between the first or second blank area and a non-background area; and by using the first and second end positions, identifying an area containing the bar candidate area as the barcode image.