Dynamic Barcode Display Security via Optical Trigger
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Barcodes lack sufficient security, as they can be easily reproduced, leading to issues when higher security is needed, such as with coupons that require unique usage, as existing systems to track usage are often expensive or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A method where a 'dummy' barcode is displayed initially, and only switches to a 'real' barcode when detected by a camera as being read with a specific wavelength of light above a threshold intensity, hiding the real barcode from view and preventing casual copying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a barcode is displayed continuously on a screen, then it is easily readable and accessible, but it can be easily copied and reproduced by unauthorized users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the barcode display dynamic rather than static. The barcode only appears on the screen when detected by a barcode scanner, and disappears when not being scanned. This dynamic display behavior prevents unauthorized copying while maintaining ease of reading during legitimate scanning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical detection (light-based sensing) to trigger the display of the barcode. A camera or optical sensor detects the presence of a barcode scanner's light beam, and this optical signal controls the display state, analogous to using a physical stimulus to control system state.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a barcode is hidden most of the time to prevent copying, then security is improved, but it becomes difficult to read when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the optical sensor detecting the scanner's light beam to control the display state. When the sensor detects the characteristic light pattern of a barcode scanner, it triggers the display of the barcode. This feedback mechanism ensures the barcode is accessible exactly when needed (during legitimate scanning) while remaining hidden otherwise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the barcode for display in advance, but only activates it when the preliminary condition (detection of scanner light) is met. This allows the system to be ready to display the barcode instantly when a legitimate scanner approaches, maintaining both security and accessibility.
3Reliability
If a backend system is implemented to track barcode usage, then security and usage tracking are improved, but cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The barcode display system performs its own security function by using its built-in camera/optical sensor to detect when it is being scanned. The system self-regulates its display state based on detected light patterns, eliminating the need for external backend systems to control display behavior. Usage tracking is inherent in the display control mechanism itself.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances security by ensuring the real barcode is only visible during reading, preventing unauthorized copying and allowing for secure, efficient tracking of unique usage without the need for expensive backend systems.
Implementation Method 1
The camera detects a specific wavelength of light above a threshold of intensity. The threshold of intensity is always more than ambient light received at the particular wavelength
Implementation Method 2
They come in many forms, some of which are standardized by the International Standards Organization (e.g. code 39 and ISO 15420). Two-dimensional codes are also used
Data Source
AI summary
A code is displayed on a screen with a first set of indicia, the code designed to be read only by a computer system. A second code is displayed only when it is determined that the code is being read. This determination is made by an optical sensor, such as a camera, detecting a particular wavelength of light above a threshold, the wavelength associated with an expected reader device. While the particular wavelength is detected the second code is displayed. Once the light is no longer detected, the display reverts back to the first code. In this manner, the second code, such as a barcode to be read is only displayed while the barcode is actually being read, but is otherwise hidden from view. The entire process can take place in under a second or in a fraction of a second, such as 1/10th of a second or less.