Embedded Optical Code Reading for Curved, Reflective Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optically readable codes embedded in the surfaces of objects, particularly plant and animal products, face challenges such as distortion, reflection, and low contrast, making them difficult to read accurately using consumer devices like smartphones.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that employs transformation parameters determined empirically to enhance contrast, reduce distortions, and minimize reflections in optically readable codes by applying image processing techniques to captured images of the object surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If optically readable codes are embedded into the surface of plant or animal products using a laser, then the code can be applied directly to the product surface, but the code has lower contrast compared to the surrounding tissue making it more difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images of the code from different angles and illuminations before decoding. Image processing algorithms are applied in advance to enhance contrast, correct distortions, and remove reflections, transforming the low-contrast embedded code into a readable format before the actual decoding step.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by adjusting illumination angles, using multiple light sources, and applying image processing transformations (contrast enhancement, distortion correction) to the captured images. These parameter changes convert the low-contrast embedded code into a high-contrast readable form.
2Ease of manufacture
If optically readable codes are applied to curved surfaces such as fruits and vegetables, then the code can be marked on the product surface, but the code becomes distorted making it difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures multiple images of the code from different angles and perspectives before decoding. Image processing algorithms are applied in advance to detect and correct distortions caused by curved surfaces, transforming the distorted code into a geometrically corrected readable form.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single 2D image view to multiple 2D images from different angles, effectively adding a third dimension (viewing angle) to capture the code. By combining information from multiple perspectives, the system can reconstruct and correct the distorted code shape.
3Ease of manufacture
If optically readable codes are applied to smooth surfaces, then the code can be marked on the product surface, but reflections from ambient light occur during reading making reading more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images under different illumination conditions before decoding. Image processing algorithms are applied in advance to detect and remove reflection artifacts, transforming the reflected code into a clean readable form.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic or sequential illumination from multiple light sources at different angles to capture the code. By alternating illumination directions and capturing images at different moments, the system can separate the code signal from reflection artifacts that appear only under specific lighting conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the surface of fruits and vegetables is non-uniform with specks, spots, bumps, and non-uniformities, then the product has natural surface characteristics, but these features make codes difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images from different angles and applying image processing algorithms in advance to distinguish code features from surface non-uniformities. The algorithms enhance code contrast while suppressing noise from specks, spots, and bumps before decoding.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality enhancement by focusing image processing on the code region specifically. Algorithms enhance contrast and sharpness locally within the code boundaries while filtering out surface irregularities in the surrounding areas, allowing the code to be read despite non-uniform surface characteristics.
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
The method improves the readability of optically readable codes by increasing contrast and reducing distortions and reflections, leading to fewer decoding errors and easier code recognition.
Implementation Method 1
a linear array detector is provided which is arranged to detect light from the optically readable code
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to the technical field of the marking of articles by means of optically readable codes and of reading out the codes. The invention relates to a method, a system and a computer program product for detecting and interpreting optically readable codes that are introduced into the surfaces of articles.