QR Code. History and Purpose.

QR code is an abbreviation for a quick response code. It is a type of 2-D barcode (also known as matrix barcode). Unlike a 1-d barcode, QR codes can encode a wide variety of data types, including numeric, alphabets, special characters, and binary data as well.

In modern applications, QR codes often have data for a locator, identifier, or tracker that points to a website or application and can be easily accessed with smartphones. This article gives a detailed overview of QR codes, tracing its history to its modern usage.

1. QR Code History
2. Design of QR Codes
3. Types of QR Codes
4. Purpose of QR Codes
5. Usage

QR Code History

QR code was invented in 1994 by a Japanese automotive company named, Denso Wave. Denso Wave is a subsidiary of Toyota Motors.

It was registered to the ITS standard of the AIMI in 1997. While, in 2000, the QR codes became internationally standardized by ISO/IEC standards.

By 2002, the technology began to be widely used in Japan, with companies using QR codes to allow users to scan using their mobile phones. Also, the Micro QR code was standardized as JIS-X-0510 in 2004.

Design of QR Codes

QR code consists of a set of square dots arranged in a square grid pattern with a white background. The square dots are randomly arranged in order to encode information.

QR codes have several unique features such as those listed below:

• A timing pattern where the provision of alternate black and white modules are vital to determine the coordinate.
• Arrangement of error-correcting code where a mask is applied to the code to prevent the identical pattern with the position detection pattern from appearing.
• Format information: It contains the error correction rate and mask pattern of the code. The format information is read first when the system decodes.
• The position detection patterns placed at three corners of the QR codes. Note that Micro QR has one. Scanning the position of QR code with features allows for high speed and efficiency.
• The alignment pattern is used for position detection when there is a displacement of modules due to distortion.

Types of QR codes

The original QR codes are QR Code Model 1 and Model 2, with the largest version capable of holding up to 7,089 numerals. But while usage has spread all over the world, new versions have sprung up to support sophisticated uses.

The standard version has 21 x 21 modules. An addition of four modules needs to be on each side as the version increases.

Model 1 is the prototype of Model 2 and Micro QR. 1 to 14 versions are registered to the AIMI standard. The maximum data capacity is 707 characters.

The micro QR Code is a type of QR Code that standardized in Japan in 2004. It only needs one orientation of pattern detection, is small enough to be printed on a very small space.

Notably, the size of the QR code is determined by the version and the size of a module. Micro QR has only one point detection pattern to decrease the size, enabling printing on minute components such as printed circuit boards. The most limited numbers of modules are 11 x 11. Micro QR codes extend a space-saving option to linear barcodes for applications where 35 characters or less are adequate.

The IQR Code was released in 2008 and can be in a square or rectangular modules. The IQR Code was followed by the SQRC which implements QR reading restrictions. It can be useful when you need to store private details. The “FrameQR” surfaced in 2014 and has a “canvas area” that offers flexibility in code designing. You can use FrameQR to include photos in the code.

Purpose of QR Codes

The purpose of the QR code was to develop such an encoding/ decoding system that allows quick and reliable scanning of fast-moving automotive equipment. In workshops, automotive parts are moved quickly from one place to another and are adjusted together. It is difficult to read such type of moving information with simpler barcodes; hence QR Code was developed to cater to those needs.

Today, QR codes are applied in designs that allow for their usage in websites, payments, Wi-Fi and in many other ways.

Usage

• Used for document management, tracking products and time, inventory management, item identification, and marketing purposes.
• Widely used in automotive companies in Japan.
• Business cards often contain QR codes inscribed on them which may contain related information to the websites or the links to the resume of a person.
• QR code enabled scavenger hunt was introduced by Starbucks for promotion purposes which contained information regarding the hints encoded in the QR code.
• Darling National Wildlife Refuge in Florida (USA) uses QR codes in trails which contain links to the detailed information regarding the animals.
• QR codes are used in some augmented reality systems to determine the positions of objects in 3-dimensional space and also used to deliver Augmented Reality experiences.
• QR codes are useful in redirecting smartphone users to URLs for instant access to maps, websites, and other sources of information.
• QR Codes applications are possible in the field of construction. For instance, in India, QR codes are used in the Safety Vertical of Construction industry, aiding in the usage of resources, allocation of time, and critical information usage.
• QR codes are essential in establishing virtual stores. The customers scan the QR codes, and the products are delivered to their homes. These stores are currently expanding globally but found in South Korea and Argentina.
• QR code payments are a prevalent and convenient method of making payments, especially in China.
• QR codes can be placed on delivery packages and used to drive customers feedback, increase ratings and reviews.
• QR codes can be linked to discount coupons that encourage customers to continue shopping.
• QR codes can be used to drive website traffic and increase brand awareness. For example, Amazon has a customised version of QR codes called Smile Codes have their signature smile logo embedded within the code.

Funny Fact: In Seattle, QR codes are inscribed on graves which contain a link to the detailed information about the deceased person.

Interesting Fact: The QR codes technology is free of any license, so you don’t have to worry about terms of use either for printing your business card or for developing new software to read QR codes.

Read the second part HERE.

   

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