Configurable Barcode Processing System with Prioritized Algorithm Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode processing systems are inefficient when deployed across multiple retail verticals, as they require examining a large number of barcode types, even if only a few are used, leading to cumbersome operations and increased processing time.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows retailers to configure and prioritize barcode processing algorithms, adding or removing custom algorithms based on specific needs, with a database table managing software objects for different barcode types, optimizing scanning response time and reducing unnecessary algorithm testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of barcode types are examined in existing barcode processing systems, then comprehensive barcode type support is achieved, but processing time increases and system efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration by storing a prioritized sequence of software objects in a database table before barcode processing begins. This pre-established ordering allows the system to test barcode types in an optimized sequence without performing time-consuming operations during actual barcode processing, thus reducing processing time while maintaining comprehensive support for multiple barcode types.
Solution Approach 2:
The barcode processing system is segmented into multiple software objects, each handling a specific barcode type. The database table stores paths to these segmented software objects in a prioritized sequence, allowing the system to divide the comprehensive barcode processing task into smaller, manageable segments that can be tested efficiently in order of likelihood.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple barcode processing algorithms are implemented to support various retail verticals, then system versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The database table structure serves as a universal configuration mechanism that can accommodate any number of software objects for different retail verticals and barcode types. By storing paths to diverse software objects in a standardized prioritized sequence format, the system achieves multi-functionality across various retail sectors without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same database structure handles all variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to different retail verticals by allowing the prioritized sequence of software objects to be configured and modified based on specific retail needs. This dynamic configuration capability enables the system to adjust its complexity level for different deployments, implementing only the necessary barcode processing algorithms for each retail vertical rather than hardcoding all possible algorithms.
3Speed
If a prioritized sequence of software objects is stored in a database table, then scanning response time is optimized, but initial system configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service configuration by allowing users to directly manipulate the database table to add, remove, or reorder software objects based on their specific retail needs. This self-service approach to configuration reduces the need for complex setup procedures or expert intervention, as users can independently optimize the prioritized sequence for their scanning response time requirements by simply modifying the database table contents.
Data Source
AI summary
A barcode processing system receives barcode data obtained by scanning a barcode. The system then determines a path of a software object, processes the barcode data with the software object, and determines whether the barcode is of a barcode type that is implemented by the software object. When the barcode is not of the barcode type that is implemented by the software object, the system repeats the determining of the path, the processing of the barcode data, and the determining of whether the barcode is of the barcode type implemented by the software object.