Automated Image File Naming via Barcode Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bar code readers lack automation in naming digital image files captured, relying on manual processes or simple time/date stamps, which is inefficient for managing large volumes of product images in inventory or transit systems.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an image capture module with a decode module, a photo module, and a photo file renaming module that uses a coded image trigger to generate an ASCII character string for renaming image files, allowing for auto-incrementing suffixes or user-defined prefixes/suffixes to ensure uniqueness, thereby automating the file naming process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual file naming processes are used for captured images, then file names can be created with human judgment and context, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient for large volumes of images
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing the coded image data (barcode/QR code) at the time of image capture. The decode module extracts and stores the encoded data string before the file naming step occurs, so that when files need to be named or renamed, the naming information is already prepared and available, eliminating the need for manual entry or interpretation at that later stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves itself by using the coded image data embedded in or associated with the target object to automatically generate file names. The decode module and file renaming module work together to create meaningful file names without human intervention, allowing the system to handle its own file management tasks efficiently at scale.
2Extent of automation
If simple time/date stamps are used for file naming, then the naming process is automated, but the file names lack descriptive information about the captured object
Solution Approach 1:
The coded image data serves multiple functions: it identifies the target object, provides naming information, and can include additional attributes like location or batch information. By decoding this universal data source, the system generates file names that are both automated and rich in descriptive information, eliminating the need for separate manual description steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The decode module acts as an intermediary between the coded image data and the file renaming process. It extracts meaningful information from the encoded data string and transforms it into a usable file name format, bridging the gap between the raw coded data and the final descriptive file name that preserves information about the captured object.
3Productivity
If automated file naming using coded image data is implemented, then file naming efficiency and descriptiveness are improved, but the system complexity increases with additional modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the file naming functionality into the existing image capture and decoding workflow. The decode module that already exists for reading barcodes/QR codes is extended to also provide data for file naming, and the file renaming module integrates with the existing file storage system. This consolidation avoids creating entirely separate systems and reduces overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coded image data and decode module serve multiple purposes: they identify objects for image capture purposes and simultaneously provide the naming information for file management. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated naming systems, reducing complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for naming an image file includes an image capture module; a processor; a memory unit; an interface; a coded image trigger mechanism for initiating capture of a coded image; and a photo trigger mechanism for initiating capture of one or more photo image(s). The image capture module including a decode module, a photo module, a photo file renaming module. The decode module decodes the captured image from the coded image trigger and generates an encoded ASCII character data string. The photo module stores the captured photo image(s) as file(s) with an auto root name on the system device memory. The photo file renaming module renames the image file(s) created by the photo trigger to a new root name which is defined by a trailing use of the code trigger or manual keypad entry.