Tactile Data Matrix Codes on Packaging for Visually Impaired Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Visually impaired individuals face challenges in accessing and understanding information on product packaging due to the lack of accessible identification codes, with existing technologies not specifically designed for their needs, and existing methods like Braille and voice reading functions being inadequate for non-digitized information.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a 2D code, such as a data matrix code, into product packaging, preferably with a size of at least 10 mm and accompanied by tactile markers like convex points or a concave area, allowing visually impaired individuals to scan and understand product information using their smartphones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If identification codes are added to printed matter to enable recognition by reading assistance devices, then accessibility for visually impaired persons is improved, but the cost of production increases due to additional processing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the identification code with the existing printed matter in a single imaging step. The identification code is superimposed on the printed content without requiring separate printing processes, thereby integrating multiple functions (information delivery + accessibility) into one manufacturing operation, which reduces additional costs while maintaining accessibility benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it prints both the identification code and the main printed matter in one operation. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate processing steps for code generation and printing, reducing overall production complexity and cost while enabling accessibility features
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate processing steps are used to add identification codes to printed matter, then accessibility is improved, but the complexity of the manufacturing process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the identification code generation and printing operations into a single integrated process. The imaging device generates and prints the code simultaneously with the main content in one imaging operation, eliminating the need for separate processing steps and reducing manufacturing process complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed to perform multiple functions: it creates both the identification code and the printed matter content in a single operation. This universal capability reduces the number of devices and processes needed, simplifying the overall manufacturing system while maintaining accessibility functionality
3Loss of information
If identification codes are added to printed matter, then recognition by reading assistance devices is enabled, but the time required for production increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device prepares and generates the identification code in advance during the same imaging operation that creates the main printed matter. By performing the code generation as a preliminary action within the existing printing workflow rather than as a subsequent step, the system avoids adding extra production time while ensuring the code is ready for recognition by reading assistance devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines code generation and content printing into one simultaneous imaging operation. This merging eliminates sequential processing delays, maintaining production speed while ensuring the identification code is properly created and integrated with the printed matter for subsequent recognition
Data Source
Figure 1(1)~1(2)
Figure 2A(a)~2A(b)
Figure 2B(c)~2B(e)
AI summary
Technical Problem: The present invention provides an identification code for visually impaired people on printed matter to enable people with visual impairments to understand the information printed on the packaging or the contained product's information. Solution to Problem: In terms of printed matter with this identification code for visually impaired people, the identification code for visually impaired people is readable by a mobile device that has a camera and a specified code reading function, is displayed on the surface of the printed material, has Braille-like convex points projecting outward at multiple points around the identification code for visually impaired people, and has a predetermined distance from center to center of each convex point that is greater than the distance from center to center in the most laterally separated raised dots in adjacent Braille cells. Furthermore, the identification code for visually impaired people is a data matrix 2D code, and ideally the convex points are positioned at the four corners around the identification code for visually impaired people.