Visual Identifier Markers for Retail Product Readability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional computer-readable identifiers, such as barcodes and two-dimensional barcodes, face limitations in readability distance and space requirements, making them inefficient for use in retail environments where both human and machine readability are needed without obstructing product visibility.
Innovation Solution
A visual identifier system using a plurality of markers in a linear arrangement, optically readable by devices with optical sensors, which includes bounding, data, and timing markers, allowing for efficient representation of product information at various distances without requiring significant space, thus balancing readability and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional barcodes are used, then machine readability is achieved, but specialized readers are required and readability distance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional optical barcode reading mechanisms with a visual identifier system that uses high-contrast geometric patterns readable by standard optical sensors (cameras) found in smartphones and tablets, eliminating the need for specialized barcode readers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the identifier from traditional barcode patterns to high-contrast geometric shapes and patterns that can be detected by standard optical sensors, enabling readability with common devices rather than specialized equipment
2Ease of operation
If two-dimensional barcodes are used, then non-specialized machines can read them, but readability distance is quite limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional barcode patterns to a visual identifier system that leverages optical dimensionality and contrast patterns, enabling detection at greater distances through enhanced optical visibility and pattern recognition capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs high-contrast visual patterns and color variations in the geometric markers to enhance detectability at remote distances, using optical contrast principles to ensure clear recognition by standard cameras without requiring specialized equipment
3Ease of operation
If sign size is increased to improve readability, then human and machine readability improve, but product visibility is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identifier into discrete geometric markers and patterns that can be densely packed in a compact area, allowing high information density and readability without requiring large overall sign dimensions, thus preserving product visibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes optical dimensionality and pattern density to encode information efficiently, allowing the visual identifier to convey substantial product information within a compact footprint that does not obstruct product visibility while maintaining both human and machine readability
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
Enables readable product information at distances of several meters without increasing the sign's size, maintaining space for human-readable text and eliminating the need for specialized readers, enhancing both human and machine readability in retail settings.
Implementation Method 1
traditional barcodes are designed to be read via reflections of laser light
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, apparatuses and methods are provided herein useful to a price display system for a product. In some embodiments, a price display system for a product comprises a product display unit, a price sign comprising a substrate upon which markings are applied, wherein the markings include a price for a product and a visual identifier to identify the product, the visual identifier comprising a plurality of markers including a pair of markers, the pair of markers indicate boundaries of the visual identifier, data markers, wherein each of the data markers represents one of two states, wherein the data markers collectively represent an identification number corresponding to the product for sale in the retail environment, and timing markers, wherein each of the timing markers represent one of two states, wherein the timing markers collectively represent a timing value.