Weft-Knitted QR Code Mapping with Stitch-Shape Compensation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for implementing QR codes on knitted fabrics fail to ensure reliable reading by standard optical readers and mobile device applications due to the non-square shape of knit stitches, and they are not reproducible at an industrial level.
Innovation Solution
A method to map each square of a QR code onto a weft knitted base element composed of a specific number of stitches, compensating for the non-square shape of knit stitches, using a combination of base elements with defined numbers of courses and wales, enabling correct reading by standard optical readers and mobile applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a QR code is implemented on knitted fabric using conventional methods, then the QR code can be produced on fabric, but the reading reliability by standard optical readers and mobile devices is poor due to the non-square shape of knit stitches
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides each QR code module into multiple knit stitches arranged in a specific pattern. Instead of using a single stitch or a simple rectangular block, each module is segmented into a configuration of stitches that collectively form a square shape, compensating for the inherent non-square nature of individual knit stitches.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses an asymmetric arrangement of knit stitches within each module to compensate for the asymmetric distortion caused by the knitting process. By carefully positioning stitches with different numbers of courses and wales, the method creates a visually square appearance despite the underlying asymmetric stitch structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If a QR code is implemented on knitted fabric with standard methods, then production can be simplified, but the QR code cannot be reliably reproduced at an industrial level
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the parameters of the knit stitch configuration, specifically using a defined number of courses different from a defined number of wales in each base element. This parameter adjustment compensates for the natural distortion in knitting and enables reliable industrial reproduction of square-shaped QR code modules.
3Device complexity
If a QR code is implemented on knitted fabric without compensating for stitch shape, then the implementation process is simpler, but the QR code does not maintain a square appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-defining the specific stitch configurations needed to create square-shaped modules. The method establishes predetermined patterns of courses and wales that automatically compensate for distortion, eliminating the need for post-production adjustments while maintaining square appearance.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
It is disclosed a method for implementing a knitted QR code. The method comprises the steps of generating a sample QR code (1) comprising a plurality of modules having at least two different colours, comprises defining a base element (1-2.1a; 2-2.1a) of a weft knitted fabric, wherein each base element comprises a number of courses different from the number of wales, and comprises converting each module of the plurality of modules of the sample QR code into a respective base element of the weft knitted fabric, thereby generating the weft knitted QR code (10).