Indicia Reader Executable Symbology Data Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current indicia reading devices face limitations in efficiently reading and decoding large amounts of data from one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcodes, particularly in terms of data density and versatility, especially when dealing with executable software encoded in symbologies.
Innovation Solution
The development of an improved indicia reader system that incorporates advanced scanning and decoding technologies, including laser scanning and optical imaging, with features like structured append and animated GIF formats, enables efficient reading and execution of executable software encoded in barcodes, allowing for higher data density and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If 1D stacked bar code symbologies are used to encode larger amounts of data, then data capacity increases, but scanning resolution requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 1D stacked bar codes to 2D matrix symbologies, adding a second spatial dimension for data encoding. This allows data to be arranged in both horizontal and vertical directions, dramatically increasing data capacity without proportionally increasing scanning resolution requirements in any single dimension.
2Quantity of substance
If 2D matrix symbologies are used to increase data density, then data capacity increases, but reading and decoding complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 2D matrix code into multiple 1D stacked bar code rows. Each row can be independently scanned and decoded by conventional 1D readers, then the results are assembled to reconstruct the complete data message. This segmentation allows complex 2D data to be processed using simpler 1D decoding algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that receives data from multiple 1D scans, assembles the segmented information, and reconstructs the complete data message. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of 2D-to-1D translation, shielding the scanning devices from direct exposure to 2D decoding complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If executable software is embedded in bar code symbols, then versatility increases, but reliability of execution decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary validation of the executable code during the scanning and decoding phase. The system verifies the integrity and authenticity of the embedded software before execution, checking for proper formatting, digital signatures, or other validation mechanisms. This preliminary action prevents unreliable or malicious code from executing, thereby maintaining system reliability while preserving versatility.
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 system effectively reads and decodes multiple barcodes, reconstructing larger data messages and executing applications, enhancing data capacity and user convenience across various devices.
Implementation Method 1
Indicia reading devices typically transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/ or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Implementation Method 2
Indicia reading devices typically transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/ or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Implementation Method 3
Laser indicia reading devices typically utilize transmitted laser light
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments include an apparatus comprising: a processor and a memory, the memory having computer-coded instructions therein, the computer-coded instructions configured to, when executed on the processor, cause the apparatus to: cause a first information bearing indicia to be read, wherein the first information bearing indicia is representative of a selected executable received from a provider, and wherein the first information bearing indicia comprises encoded instructions that contain configuration settings for the indicia reader; cause the encoded instructions to be stored in the memory; and execute the encoded instructions on the indicia reader, wherein the encoded instructions cause the configuration settings to be set on the apparatus.