Dot-Matrix Code Layout for Hidden Product Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 2D barcodes are not suitable for direct application on products as they can be easily separated, lost, or tampered with, and their information representation methods make it difficult to hide and beautify the codes.
Innovation Solution
The development of a dot-matrix code system that constructs uniformly distributed dot-matrix codes with information hiding features, using an NxN matrix arrangement of information units and marker units, and employing error correction coding and encryption to ensure data integrity and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 2D barcodes are attached to outer packaging, then product identification is achieved, but the identifiers become separable from the product leading to replacement, loss or tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the barcode identifier with the product packaging design by integrating the code directly into the packaging structure rather than attaching it separately. This combining approach ensures the identifier remains with the product throughout its lifecycle, eliminating issues of separation, loss, or tampering while maintaining reliable product identification.
2Stability of the object's composition
If 2D codes are printed directly on the product, then identifier stability is improved, but the appearance of the product is affected and information is revealed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the barcode visible only in specific viewing conditions. The code is embedded in the packaging with selective visibility - it appears clearly only when viewed from certain angles or under specific lighting conditions, while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance from other angles. This allows the identifier to be stable and integrated while minimizing impact on overall product appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes color changes or optical property changes to achieve information hiding. The barcode is designed with special optical characteristics that allow it to blend with the packaging design under normal viewing conditions, revealing the code only when specific viewing conditions are met, thus maintaining both appearance quality and identifier stability.
3Productivity
If 2D codes use obvious markers for fast scanning, then recognition speed is improved, but information hiding capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the barcode's visibility dynamic rather than static. The code's appearance changes based on viewing conditions - it is hidden under normal conditions but becomes clearly visible when scanned by a reader or viewed from specific angles. This dynamic characteristic allows the code to maintain aesthetic appearance while enabling fast recognition when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visual markers to incorporating depth or angular dimensionality. Instead of using obvious flat markers, the barcode utilizes three-dimensional structural features or angular visibility properties, allowing fast scanning through spatial relationships while maintaining information hiding from direct frontal views.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a method for building a dot matrix code, a method for generating and reading a dot matrix code, a terminal, and a dot matrix code system. The method for building a dot matrix code comprises the following steps: building N x N information elements arranged in a matrix; configuring the information elements into information unit modules or flag unit modules; in the information unit modules, storing different values on the basis of the relative positions of information points in the information elements; and in the flag unit modules, identifying dot matrix code identification information on the basis of the arrangement manner of the information points in the information elements. By means of the method for building a dot matrix code, the method for generating and reading a dot matrix code, the terminal, and the dot matrix code system of the present invention, a dot matrix code which has an even distribution and an information hiding function can be provided, and requirements of actual application scenarios can be satisfied.