Base-30 Alphanumeric Code Generation for Product Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-memory identification codes for magnetic tape cartridges are often restricted to 8-digit alphanumeric codes, which are insufficient for reliable product identification, leading to challenges in ensuring the uniqueness and reliability of product identification.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for generating a printing identification code by converting coded identification information and production date into a base-N alphanumeric code, specifically using a base-30 notation system, to create a 10-digit alphanumeric character string that enhances identifiability, while avoiding confusion with similar characters in image recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an 8-digit alphanumeric code is used for in-memory identification, then the memory storage requirement is minimized, but the product identification reliability and uniqueness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of the identification code from a fixed 8-digit alphanumeric format to a variable-length base-30 coded format. This allows the same information capacity to be achieved with fewer digits by utilizing a larger character set (30 possible characters instead of 36), thereby improving identification reliability while reducing the effective digit count required for unique product identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal coding system that can handle both the in-memory identification (8-digit alphanumeric) and the printed identification (base-30 code) through a conversion relationship. This multi-functional approach allows the system to maintain compatibility with existing memory constraints while providing enhanced identification capabilities through the printed code, serving both storage efficiency and identification reliability requirements.
2Reliability
If a longer identification code is generated to ensure product uniqueness, then identification reliability improves, but the code may contain confusing characters that reduce image recognition accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively choosing characters for the base-30 code based on their suitability for optical recognition. Instead of using all possible alphanumeric characters, the system restricts the character set to those that are least likely to be confused by image recognition devices (such as avoiding ambiguous characters like O, Q, I, L, 1, 0). This localized optimization of character selection ensures high identifiability while minimizing recognition errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of character confusion into a benefit by deliberately selecting a restricted character set that avoids ambiguous characters. What could be seen as a limitation (fewer character options) is actually transformed into an advantage by eliminating recognition errors, thereby improving the overall reliability of the identification system.
3Quantity of substance
If the identification code is converted to base-30 notation, then the number of digits is reduced while maintaining information capacity, but the conversion complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the base-30 character set and conversion rules before the actual coding process. The system establishes a standardized mapping between the 8-digit alphanumeric code and its base-30 equivalent, along with predetermined guidelines for character selection to avoid confusion. This preliminary preparation simplifies the conversion process by providing clear, pre-established procedures rather than requiring complex real-time calculations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of and a system for generating a printing ID code representing product ID information to be printed on products based on an identification information of a specific one of the products which is stored in a memory accompanying the specific product. The printing ID generation is performed by converting the identification information read in by an information reading section into an alphanumeric ID code by a notation system of base N so as to have a number of digits less than an encode ID information, converting a part of a numeric code representing a production date of the product into an alphanumeric date code by the notation system of base N and combining the alphanumeric ID code and the alphanumeric date code as a printing identification code.