Method and apparatus for encoding and reading optical machine-readable data codes

摘要

A method and apparatus for data encoding and optical recognition of encoded data includes generating symbols that represent data using angles (rather than linear dimensions as used for conventional bar codes). One embodiment uses spirals isocurves. Another uses parabolas isocurves. Methods for visually depicting such symbols, including symbols having gray values are disclosed. Methods for machine-based detection and decoding of such symbols regardless of their orientation relative to the machine is also disclosed.

主权项

1. A method for conveying data in a machine-readable encoded form, the method comprising:
inputting said data; using a symbol mapping that maps predetermined alphanumeric data to individual symbols belonging to an alphabet of machine-readable symbols to encode said data into a set of the machine-readable symbols of the alphabet, wherein each machine-readable symbol of the alphabet is represented by a plurality of isocurves, and wherein differentiation amongst at least two machine-readable symbols of the alphabet is dictated by at least one characteristic defined by bending of the isocurves of the at least two machine-readable symbols of the alphabet; and generating a visual depiction of the set of machine readable symbols.