Hybrid 2D Barcode Encoding for Secure Private Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-dimensional barcodes lack the ability to securely encode non-public data that can only be decoded by a compatible decoder, while maintaining compatibility with standard decoders and ensuring data integrity.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid two-dimensional barcode system that includes a first data set encoded using a constellation encoder and encryption, allowing it to be decoded only by a compatible decoder, while retaining the ability for standard decoders to read a second data set, using error correction and formatting techniques that deviate from standard encoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If encryption is used to encode non-public data in the barcode, then data security is improved, but the barcode size increases and decoding complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the barcode data into multiple segments: public data that can be decoded by any scanner and private data that requires authentication. This segmentation allows standard decoders to function normally while authenticated decoders can access additional encrypted information without increasing overall decoding complexity for all users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism using device identifiers and cryptographic keys. Instead of directly encrypting all data, the system uses an intermediary layer where the decoder proves its identity and receives decryption keys dynamically, reducing the inherent complexity of decryption while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If encryption and constellation encoding are applied to the first data set, then data security is improved, but the barcode area required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds encrypted private data within the structure of public data by nesting the first data set (private) inside the second data set (public) framework. The private data is concealed within portions of the barcode that also contain public information, allowing both data types to coexist in the same spatial footprint without requiring additional barcode area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the encoding parameters of the barcode by using alternative error correction codes and data placement strategies that accommodate encrypted data more efficiently. By adjusting these parameters, the system maintains compact barcode size while securing sensitive information through cryptographic transformation.
3Reliability
If non-standard encoding formats are used for the first data set, then data security is improved, but compatibility with standard decoders deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different encoding qualities to different parts of the barcode: public data uses standard, widely-compatible formats while private data uses non-standard encrypted formats. This local differentiation ensures that standard decoders can read the public portions without issue, while authenticated decoders can access the encrypted private portions, thus maintaining overall compatibility while securing sensitive information.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1E
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A two-dimensional barcode encoder generates the hybrid two-dimensional barcode image that has control features corresponding to control features of a first formatting standard. The barcode encoder encodes a first data set in a data portion of the two-dimensional barcode in a second format that is different from a data encoding format of the first formatting standard. The encoder may also encode a second data set in the data portion of the two-dimensional barcode in the data encoding format of the first formatting standard. The encoder may also constellation encode the first data set.