Barcode Image Annotation for Device Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing devices lack a practical method for annotating images with device-readable information, such as device identity and processing date, which is essential for tracking and accountability, as text annotation is not suitable for device readability.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that generate and embed barcodes in images with coded information including device details, processing date, and copy number, enabling the barcode to be placed near the image during processing, utilizing existing devices like printers and scanners with added barcode annotation capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If text annotation is used to annotate images, then annotation capability is provided, but device readability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the annotation format from human-readable text to machine-readable barcode by changing the data representation parameters. The barcode encodes the same annotation information (device ID, date, copy number) in a format that image processing devices can automatically scan and read, thereby improving device readability while maintaining annotation functionality.
2Measurement precision
If barcode annotation is implemented, then device readability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing barcode generation capability already present in many image processing devices and combines it with annotation functionality. By making the barcode feature universal and integrating it with existing annotation capabilities, the system avoids adding significant complexity while achieving machine-readable annotations.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual tracking methods are used, then implementation is simple, but tracking accuracy and reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service tracking by automatically generating barcodes that encode device ID, processing date, and copy number information. The system automatically captures and stores this data through barcode scanning, eliminating manual tracking efforts and significantly improving reliability and accuracy of image processing records.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus that annotates an image with a barcode is disclosed. The method may include receiving one or more image parameters from a user, determining information concerning a device to be used for processing, determining a date on which image processing occurs, determining a number of copies of the image to be processed, generating a barcode that contains at least coded information concerning the device to be used for processing, the date on which the image is processed, the number of copies of the image to be processed, and at least one of the one or more image parameters received from the user, and sending the generated barcode to the device to be used for processing to enable the barcode to be placed near the image when processed.