Text Encoding via Formatting Schemes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for encoding information in printed electronic documents, such as barcodes and QR Codes, require separate image spaces and are cumbersome to associate with specific text portions, leading to inefficiencies in space usage and clarity when printing.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for encoding information directly into text by selecting and formatting portions of text using various formatting schemes, allowing the encoded information to be visually represented without the need for separate image spaces, enabling efficient and clear representation of information like URLs, hyperlinks, and other data in printed documents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If barcodes and QR Codes are used to encode information in printed documents, then information can be encoded, but separate image spaces are required and association with specific text portions is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the information encoding function with the text display function by applying formatting schemes directly to text portions. Instead of using separate barcodes or QR codes that require additional space and association mechanisms, the encoding is integrated into the text itself through visual formatting such as color changes, bolding, underlining, or italicizing specific words or phrases. This eliminates the need for separate image spaces and simplifies the association between encoded information and text portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different formatting schemes to different portions of text based on the type of information to be encoded. Specific text portions are selected and formatted with appropriate visual styles that correspond to the encoded information type (e.g., URLs, email addresses, phone numbers). This local application of formatting qualities allows for efficient encoding while maintaining the natural flow and readability of the document text.
2Loss of information
If separate image spaces are used for encoding information, then information can be represented, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the information encoding function with the existing text display function, eliminating the need for separate image spaces. By using formatting schemes applied directly to text portions, the encoded information is represented within the same space already allocated for text display, thereby reducing overall space requirements in printed documents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the text display system multi-functional by enabling it to simultaneously display text and encode information through formatting schemes. The same text portions that convey semantic meaning also carry encoded information through their visual formatting, allowing one element (text) to serve multiple functions and eliminate the need for additional dedicated encoding spaces.
3Loss of information
If formatting schemes are applied to text portions, then encoded information is visually represented, but text selection and formatting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the text processing system to automatically perform the selection and formatting operations. The system identifies text portions that contain or reference encoded information and automatically applies the appropriate formatting schemes without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach reduces the operational complexity despite the increased visual representation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the visual parameters of text portions (such as color, weight, style) to encode information. By modifying these visual parameters, the system represents encoded information in a way that is both visually distinguishable and integrated with the text display, achieving effective information representation through parameter changes rather than complex structural modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed subject matter relates to computer implemented methods for encoding information into text for visual representation. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a body of text which includes one or more portions of text. The method further includes receiving a body of information to be encoded. The body of information includes one or more portions of information to be encoded. The method further includes selecting at least one of the portions of text. The method further includes formatting the selected portion(s) of text to generate a formatted body of text. Formatting the selected portion(s) of text includes applying one or more formatting schemes to the selected portion(s) of text. Formatting schemes correspond to one or more portions of the information to be encoded. The method further includes providing the formatted body of text for visual representation.