Barcode Decoding Using Predictive Location Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional barcode decoding methods are slow when dealing with images containing multiple barcodes, as they search extensively for all possible barcode locations and decoding parameters, leading to inefficiencies in locating and decoding.
Innovation Solution
The method involves decoding a subset of barcodes initially to determine their location information, using this information to predict the arrangement of the remaining barcodes, and then decoding them in specific vicinities using optimized algorithms prioritized for speed or read rate, thereby reducing the time required to locate and decode multiple barcodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a barcode decoder searches throughout the image for all possible barcode locations and tries multiple decoding parameters at each location, then the decoding is thorough and accurate, but the decoding speed becomes slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first decoding a subset of barcodes to determine their locations, then using this information to predict the arrangement and locations of remaining barcodes before attempting full decoding. This preliminary location prediction eliminates the need to search all possible locations, thereby improving decoding speed while maintaining accuracy through subsequent verification decoding.
2Productivity
If the decoder attempts to decode all barcodes using exhaustive search methods, then all barcodes can be decoded accurately, but the time required increases to tens of seconds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the barcode decoding process into multiple phases: first decoding a subset of barcodes to establish location patterns, then using these patterns to predict and guide decoding of remaining barcodes. This segmentation transforms a single exhaustive search into a multi-stage process that reduces overall decoding time from tens of seconds to under a second while maintaining high productivity in decoding all barcodes.
3Reliability
If the decoder uses a comprehensive set of decoding parameters for all barcodes, then decoding accuracy is maximized, but processing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adapting the decoding approach based on local characteristics discovered from the first subset of decoded barcodes. Instead of uniformly applying exhaustive decoding parameters to all barcodes, the system uses location information from initial decodes to predict specific arrangements and applies targeted decoding strategies to different regions, reducing overall complexity while maintaining high read rates.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to locate and decode an arranged plurality of barcodes in an image are disclosed. An example method includes obtaining image data representing an image of an environment appearing within a FOV of an imaging device that includes the image sensor, wherein an arranged plurality of barcodes appear in the image. A first subset of the plurality of barcodes is decoded from the image data. One or more parameters representing a predicted arrangement of the plurality of barcodes in the image is determined based upon location information associated with each of the decoded first subset of the plurality of barcodes. Possible locations for respective ones of a second subset of the plurality of barcodes are determined based upon the one or more parameters, and the second subset of the plurality of barcodes are attempted to be decoded from the image data in vicinities of the respective possible locations.