Embedded Textile Barcode Patterns for Readable Fashion Fabrics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional barcodes on textile products are small, hidden, and lack aesthetic value, failing to integrate functionality with fashion, and existing methods struggle to mass-produce unique, functional, and decorative code patterns that can be read by electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A method of producing textile products with embedded or printed functional code patterns that adhere to standard barcode formatting rules, using calculated conversion factors and mathematical ratios to control bar width, spacing, and color, allowing for mass production of unique or identical code patterns across varying yarn diameters, and enabling the incorporation of code patterns into textile fabrics through knitting, weaving, or digital printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional barcodes are attached to textile products as separate labels, then product identification functionality is achieved, but aesthetic value and integration with the textile product deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the barcode function with the textile fabric itself by incorporating code patterns directly into the fabric structure during manufacturing. The code pattern is formed by varying yarn colors, positions, or types within the fabric weave, eliminating the need for separate attached labels and achieving both identification functionality and aesthetic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The textile fabric serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary textile function (clothing/coverage), contains the code pattern for product identification, and maintains aesthetic value through visible design elements. The code pattern can be made visible or invisible depending on design requirements, allowing the fabric to adapt to different aesthetic needs while maintaining identification capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If barcodes are made visible and decorative on textile products, then aesthetic value improves, but manufacturing complexity and adherence to standard barcode formatting deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting yarn characteristics (color, position, type) during fabric manufacturing to create code patterns that meet standard barcode formatting requirements. Conversion factors and mathematical ratios are calculated to translate standard barcode dimensions into textile-specific parameters, allowing visible decorative codes to be manufactured with automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual barcode attachment processes with automated textile manufacturing processes. The code pattern is generated through programmed control of knitting or weaving machines, which automatically adjust yarn selection and placement based on calculated conversion factors, eliminating manual intervention and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Measurement precision
If unique code patterns are incorporated into each textile product, then product identification accuracy improves, but manufacturing time and production efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by calculating all necessary conversion factors, mathematical ratios, and programming parameters before manufacturing begins. The textile process machine is pre-programmed with the specific code pattern requirements, allowing unique identification codes to be automatically generated during mass production without stopping or manual intervention, maintaining both uniqueness and production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing system performs self-service through automated programming and control. The textile process machine automatically adjusts its operations based on pre-calculated parameters to generate unique code patterns for each product or batch, eliminating the need for manual code assignment and maintaining high production speeds while ensuring accurate product identification.
4Adaptability or versatility
If code patterns are enlarged for better visibility and aesthetics, then aesthetic value and readability improve, but adherence to standard barcode formatting rules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by calculating mathematical ratios that scale standard barcode dimensions to enlarged sizes while maintaining the proportional relationships required by barcode formatting standards. The conversion factors adjust yarn count and spacing to reflect the enlarged scale, ensuring that even large visible code patterns remain readable by standard barcode scanning devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of producing a textile product wherein a functional code pattern is structurally embedded within a textile product as the textile yarns are interlaced to become a textile product is provided. The functional code pattern is embedded within the textile product by programming a textile process machine with conversion factors and mathematical ratios, producing an enlarged code pattern that adheres to the customary rules of public or proprietary barcode formatting. Alternatively, the functional code pattern can be digitally printed onto the textile. The resulting textile product includes a functional and decorative code pattern that is readable by a standard electronic code reading device. Depending upon the type of textile yarn materials used, the code pattern created in or printed on the textile fabric may or may not be visible to the human eye.