Multi-Resolution Visual Codes for Offline Information Browsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack an efficient method for users to browse and navigate information associated with physical objects in the real world, as they require internet access and manual input of URLs, making it inconvenient for those without access to computers or internet connections.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multi-resolution visual codes on tags placed near physical structures, allowing users to decode information using a device that presents details at varying levels of resolution without needing internet access, using a tag with multiple resolution levels to encode information and allowing navigation through an intuitive information hierarchy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hard copies of information are distributed for physical objects, then information accessibility is improved, but distribution cost and inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual codes as optical copies to represent and access information about physical objects. Instead of distributing physical hard copies, the system encodes information identifiers in visual codes that can be scanned and decoded to retrieve information, eliminating the need for physical duplication while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical distribution system (physical hard copies) with an optical/information-based system. Visual codes encode information identifiers that can be rapidly scanned and decoded by decoding devices, substituting the slow, costly physical distribution mechanism with a fast, efficient digital access method.
2Adaptability or versatility
If URL input method is used to access web pages, then information retrieval capability is improved, but user convenience deteriorates due to manual input requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service information access by encoding information identifiers directly in visual codes at physical locations. Users simply need to scan the visual code with their decoding device, and the system automatically retrieves and displays the corresponding information without requiring users to manually input URLs or search for information identifiers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-encoding information identifiers in visual codes at physical locations before users arrive. This eliminates the need for users to perform the action of finding and inputting URLs, as the information identifier is already prepared and embedded in the visual code at the location of interest.
3Adaptability or versatility
If computer system access is required for information retrieval, then information access capability is improved, but accessibility for users without computers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the information access system universal by enabling multiple types of devices to function as decoding devices. Not only computers, but also mobile phones, tablets, and other portable electronic devices with cameras can scan and decode visual codes, allowing users without traditional computer systems to access information about physical objects.
4Device complexity
If single-resolution codes are used, then code simplicity is improved, but information capacity and navigation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments information into hierarchical levels and encodes them in multi-resolution visual codes. Each resolution level contains information about a specific hierarchy level, allowing users to navigate from general to specific information. This segmentation enables rich information capacity while maintaining organized, navigable structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the resolution dimension to visual codes, creating multi-resolution codes that can represent multiple levels of information hierarchy. By varying the resolution level, the system can encode different amounts and types of information in the same visual code structure, greatly expanding information capacity without proportionally increasing code complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for navigating through information associated with physical objects or locations. During operation, the system detects a multi-resolution visual code placed on or in the vicinity of a physical object or location. The system then determines a level of resolution for the detected code, and decodes the code at the determined level of resolution to obtain the information. Subsequently, the system presents the infonnation to a user, thereby allowing the user to navigate through information associated with the physical object or location.