Visual Codes
by Hunter
I’ve been researching different visual codes as a way to embed data for physical experiences. Below are a few interesting references:
QR Code: Quick Reference codes, developed in Japan in 1994 are the standard for mobile devices today.
How a QR Code is read
Chromatic Alphabet: Developed by C.C. Elian, it uses 26 hues which correspond to the letters of the alphabet. Interesting, but unable to be read by digital devices at this point.
High Capacity Barcode: Developed by Microsoft, the High Capacity Color Barcode barcode format takes advantage of advanced computer imaging devices along with processing power to enable higher density storage of data on analog printed media. http://bit.ly/5PRlFS
ShotCodes:Developed at Cambridge University, “ShotCodes are designed to be read with a regular camera (including those found on mobile phones and webcams) without the need to purchase other specialised hardware. Because of the circular design, it is also possible for software to detect the angle from which the barcode is read. ShotCodes differ from matrix barcodes in that they do not store regular data – rather, they store a look up number consisting of 40 bits of data. This needs to link to a server that holds information regarding a mapped URL which the reading device can connect to in order to download said data.”
ZIME Code: I can’t find much information on how these work but they are wonderfully designed.
Five different ZIME code
Bokode: A new miniature barcode developed by MIT Media Lab.
