2D Barcode with Visible Pattern for Anti-Counterfeiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 2D barcodes lack built-in security against copying, making them vulnerable to counterfeiting, and existing authentication methods are cumbersome, requiring specialized equipment and complex algorithms, which hinders convenient authentication using mobile devices.
Innovation Solution
Embedding secondary information as a visible pattern separate from primary information within the barcode, using a fingerprint-like structure with a signature and secret components, allowing for local and remote authentication without compromising readability or requiring additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If 2D barcodes are used for product identification and tracking, then data storage capacity and readability are improved, but security against copying and counterfeiting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barcode is segmented into two distinct parts: primary information that is readable by standard 2D barcode readers, and secondary information embedded as a visible pattern that is difficult to reproduce without alteration. This segmentation allows the barcode to maintain both high data storage capacity and enhanced security against counterfeiting.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary information is nested within the barcode structure as a visible pattern embedded in specific areas. This nested structure contains a signature and secret components that enable authentication while maintaining the overall barcode functionality for data storage and retrieval.
2Reliability
If authentication methods are enhanced to prevent counterfeiting, then security is improved, but device complexity and operational convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The barcode contains self-contained authentication elements (signature and secret in the visible pattern) that enable verification without requiring external authentication equipment. Mobile devices with standard cameras can perform authentication by capturing and analyzing the visible pattern, eliminating the need for specialized hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The visible pattern serves multiple functions: it acts as both the secondary information carrier and the authentication element. The same pattern that stores additional data also provides the signature and secret needed for verification, allowing a single structure to fulfill multiple security and informational roles.
3Reliability
If visible patterns are embedded for authentication, then security against reproduction is improved, but barcode structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visible pattern is placed in specific local areas of the barcode where it does not interfere with the primary information structure. By confining the authentication elements to designated zones, the overall barcode structure remains relatively simple while still providing enhanced security through the embedded signature and secret.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for creating a 2D barcode. In an embodiment, the method includes: embedding primary information that can be read by a 2D-barcode-reader in a primary information pattern, and embedding secondary information that is made difficult to reproduce without alteration in a visible pattern. In an embodiment, the visible pattern is embedded within the barcode in at least one area that does not contain any primary information.