スクリーンコード　─見えないコードは必要か？─

抄録

The barcode system was invented as a method for obtaining information from printed materials and for article management. The logistics management system has been drastically improved with the development of this technology. Subsequently, the QR code system was developed by DENSO WAVE with the aim of increasing the capacity of barcodes and hastening the scanning process. This system is used not only for logistics management, but also for scanning via mobile phones. Since the QR code system is being used as an open source system, it is utilized for obtaining information from various avenues. In light of these existing codes, we have developed a new code, called the “Screen Code”, in which an invisible code can be embedded onto any product/ printed material without disrupting the printed material. In the initial stage of development, it was read using a dedicated reader. However, since 2016, we have been developing a smartphone application to scan the code. Is there a QR code that can be widely read using mobile phones? Are invisible codes necessary? If so, what sort of field would require these? Herein, we will focus on the technical explanation of screen code, its comparison with the QR code system, its traceability by variable codes, and the possibility of SDGs.