Miniature barcode scanner

Code Corp., a global leader in barcode scanning and data capture technologies, recognizes and applauds imZERT for developing what is being billed as the world’s smallest barcodes. Rel8, a specialist in track and trace, is announcing its North American launch of imZERT direct part marking (DPM) technology that creates barcodes as small as 1mm2. imZERT barcodes enhance traceability for end products reliant upon small, outsourced components, such as automobiles and electronics.

Ready for mainstream use, imZERT barcodes are scanned and decoded via smartphones equipped with commercially available barcode scanning development kits (SDKs), such as Code’s CortextDecoder SDK.

How Rel8 shrunk the barcode
imZERT technology arranges nanostructures into barcodes using standard lithographic methods, then engraves them into the molds for elastomer and plastic components. More compact and crisp than those created by traditional laser engraving, imZERT DPM barcodes help manufacturers, suppliers, and sub-suppliers identify the source of faulty parts or tainted ingredients for product recalls. imZERT’s industrial track and trace method also benefits sectors where counterfeits can endanger end users, such as pharmaceuticals and electronics, or erode brand value and impact profits, such as fashion.

“Historically, small plastic components have largely been left out of the tracking loop because marking them was either unfeasible or cost-prohibitive,” says Guggi Kofod, Rel8 CEO. “Our method addresses this hurdle by integrating nanostructures via small, standardized steel pins into an injection mold. The nanostructures are then accurately replicated on plastic parts for 2D barcodes that are optically scannable with a standard camera-equipped smartphone.”

imZERT was initially developed to prevent manufacturing errors when a device or component manufacturer switches from black to white polymers for minuscule — yet vital — components and minimize issues stemming from product updates. The DPM barcode’s high contrast structure is readable with SDK-equipped smartphones, eliminating additional machine vision systems (and associated costs). SDKs are readily available from barcode scanning specialists, such as Code Corporation. In testing, Rel8 favored Code’s Cortex Decoder SDK for its point-and-shoot simplicity when scanning barcodes as small as 2mm2 in diverse environments, including dimly lit production halls.

“CortexDecoder recognizes imZERT barcodes within one millisecond,” Kofod adds. “If the user adds an off-the-shelf macro lens to their smartphone, CortexDecoder will scan 1mm2 barcodes without fail.”

Nano barcodes, macro benefits
Automated manufacturing and assembly benefits from consistent and reliable barcodes with sharp edge definition that scan with little effort using off-the-shelf vision equipment. Beyond manufacturing, imZERT technology can benefit pharmaceutical and food production. Rel8’s internal testing verifies that imZERT technology poses zero contamination risk over 150,000+ usage cycles — imZERT barcodes can be used on packaging and inside containers of consumable liquids, such as medication. As such, imZERT usage could bolster end consumer safety in the event of a recall.

imZERT technology is ready to make inroads with European automotive suppliers and medical device manufacturers. And in the U.S., identification and traceability are growing in importance and creating additional the need for track and trace solutions, such as imZERT. For instance, the Food and Drug Administration’s New Era of Smarter Food Safety initiative has an open call for firms to deliver low- or no-cost traceability products for end users to identify contaminated foods. Similarly, robust track and trace programs are mandatory for medical device makers to maintain FDA compliance.