Two-dimensional barcodes, including QR codes and DataMatrix, are used not only for inventory control and traceability, but also in a large number of publicity tools such as catalogs and digital signage. Furthermore, they have recently been applied in a wide range of fields such as cashless payment and transportation tickets. The widespread use of smartphones has made it easy for anyone to read QR codes and access their information.
On the other hand, these two-dimensional codes are expressed in a black-and-white checkerboard pattern to ensure readability, which has the disadvantage of being too conspicuous for use in catalogs and the like. In addition, because of the need to display codes in a solid pattern, the media on which 2D codes could be displayed were limited to paper, electronic paper, and other media that provide high contrast.
In this project, we are researching "Porous Code," a new 2D code representation method, in collaboration with Professor Doseki of the Department of Electronics and Information Engineering. We are also developing "NR Code," a highly secure 2D code technology, in collaboration with Nozaki Printing and Paper Co. Through these research and development efforts, we aim to overcome the above shortcomings and enable the application of 2D codes in a wider range of fields.