Multidimensional Barcode Service Label for Information Handling Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current information handling systems face challenges in providing adequate and efficient service information to end users, leading to increased manufacturer expenses and time consumption due to inadequate service labels and reliance on manual resources.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of multi-dimensional barcodes, such as QR codes, on service labels that embed service identifiers, allowing end users to capture and analyze images with smartphones to retrieve service information, including URLs for web pages with manuals, videos, and warranty details, thereby simplifying service actions and reducing the need for manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If traditional service labels are used on information handling systems, then the label provides basic service information, but the amount of space for printing is restricted and only limited service information can be presented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice information completenessVSAvoidlabel space
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional printed labels to three-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned and decoded to access extensive service information stored in external databases, effectively expanding the information capacity beyond physical label constraints

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces barcodes as an intermediary element that links the physical label to digital service information repositories, allowing the label to serve as a gateway to comprehensive service data rather than attempting to contain all information directly on the label

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If service information is provided through manual resources such as manufacturer representatives, then detailed service steps can be provided, but manufacturer expenses increase and considerable time is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice accessibilityVSAvoidservice time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables end users to independently access and utilize service information through barcode scanning and digital resource access, eliminating the need for manual assistance from manufacturer representatives while reducing service time and costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If self-help through Internet resources is used for service, then service efficiency improves, but the information technology professional must find and review the correct resource and input system information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice efficiencyVSAvoidservice process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-configures service information resources and organizes them in databases that can be automatically accessed through barcode scanning, eliminating the need for professionals to manually search and input system information while maintaining efficient self-service capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8833661B2Multidimensional barcodes for information handling system manufacture, assembly and service
Publication Date: 2014.09.16 DELL PROD LP
  • US8833661B2 patent drawing
  • US8833661B2 patent drawing
  • US8833661B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Multi-dimensional barcodes at a product include service identifiers for the product so that an end user with a portable information handling system captures an image of the multi-dimensional barcode and extracts the service identifiers to obtain service information from a service network location. For example, a service identifier embeds a URL that links to a video demonstrating how to assemble the product. As another example, a service identifier links to a service network location and includes a unique identifier so that an end user retrieves warranty or purchase information for the product.