{"id":2953,"date":"2017-08-31T11:06:24","date_gmt":"2017-08-31T09:06:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/?p=2953"},"modified":"2017-10-23T13:17:45","modified_gmt":"2017-10-23T11:17:45","slug":"the-invisible-barcode-potential-uses-and-challenges","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/the-invisible-barcode-potential-uses-and-challenges\/","title":{"rendered":"THE \u201cINVISIBLE\u201d BARCODE \u2013 POTENTIAL USES AND CHALLENGES"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Barcodes have become an essential part of modern society, especially in the FMCG\/CPG area. Prices are almost never manually entered into store POS systems anymore. Barcodes, governed by the GS1 standard in Germany, control processes both in front of and behind the counter. Barcodes are scanned whenever users need to save time and record data efficiently \u2013 from production to logistics to the point of sale.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A barcode<\/strong> is a script or symbol consisting of multiple parallel bars and gaps of different widths that can be read or scanned using an opto-electronic device. The term code indicates a way to deliver data using binary symbols. Data in a barcode is mechanically read in using optical readers such as barcode scanners or cameras, then processed electronically.<\/p>\n<p>Barcodes are essential wherever item numbers need to be automatically recorded and processed \u2013 such as at cash registers, in the warehouse, or for incoming goods.<br \/>\nThey are applied to both consumer and retail units. An EAN barcode can be used to encrypt an 8 or 13-digit global article number (GTIN). Since 2009, the EAN number has been called the GTIN \u2013 Global Trade Item Number. However, the term \u201cEAN\u201d still persists.<sup>1<\/sup><\/p>\n<p>Barcodes are standardized under international standard ISO\/IEC 15420. Their content is defined in the GS1* General Specifications through user group specification (retail) \u2013 two of the most well-known applications, for instance:<\/p>\n<p>EAN-8 has 8 digits, one of which is a check digit.<br \/>\nEAN-13 has 13 digits, one of which is a check digit.<\/p>\n<p>GS1 stipulates the standard for barcodes. Today, EAN-13 barcodes on items are just one of many different applications and types of code. Whether they&#8217;re the GS1-128, which serves as the key to track shipments, the GS1 DataBar for goods with variable weights like fruit, or the GS1 DataMatrix \u2013 GS1 barcodes are available today for a wide variety of applications, and they&#8217;re not just useful for speeding up check-out.<\/p>\n<p><strong>CREATE BARCODES SECURELY AND EFFICIENTLY<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Barcodes are often so-called 2D codes. These two-dimensional codes typically code information in the surface, meaning that information is included not only in the form of bars, but also in (white and black) dots. We differentiate between stacked barcodes, matrix codes, point codes, and several other special types.<\/p>\n<p>DAS STUDIO will create your delivered barcode quickly and efficiently using the Automation Engine by Esko. In addition, each barcode is checked in DTP with the REA MLV-2D Barcode scanner to check its readability. This code report also includes other information like the code content, code type, bar thickness, and a quality rating.<\/p>\n<p>Global Vision allows all barcodes to be compared in a PDF with reference entries from the Automation Engine, then reviewed by our quality management department. Then the barcodes are printed as a contract proof on one of our standardized and ISO certified large-format printers, such as the Epson Stylus Pro 9900, to check quality.<br \/>\nAlthough these barcodes are highly important, they can also often be annoying as they take up space that could be used for graphics or product information. Small packages with multiple languages, especially, can often become overcrowded or may require additional artwork since there\u2019s no space for all the information. \u201cInvisible\u201d barcodes are an obvious solution, and are used in applications like providing copy protection to secure goods on original packaging.<\/p>\n<p><strong>SAMPLE \u201cINVISIBLE\u201d BARCODE IN COLORED AREAS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>There are a variety of methods for this. UV-based barcodes have been printed for quite some time to prevent counterfeiting. UV (ultraviolet) and IR (infrared) are common processes used to develop \u201ccounterfeit-proof\u201d packaging. The codes are printed with a UV varnish or ink that is invisible to the naked eye and can only be read using specialized scanners or UV black light. This is one option to prevent counterfeiting, but not for using the EAN code. Solutions like one offered by the company Digimarc are good in this application \u2013 a variation that can be read by a specialized app as well as by many leading cash register systems, and is not recognizable as a barcode. This method uses a process similar to a water mark. The code is hidden into colored surfaces, for instance, as a barely recognizable pattern and can only be read by the specialized app or a cash register system.<\/p>\n<p>The advantage of this process is that invisible barcodes can be applied as many times as desired to the packaging, allowing the scanner to recognize them no matter the position of the item. Since the code is essentially unrecognizable without the right reader and is hidden at numerous places, this system is almost impossible to counterfeit.<\/p>\n<p>The Digimarc code can be used with all commonly available printing processes. GS1, which works closely with Digimarc, and others have confirmed the operational capabilities of the process. Many retailers are interested in improved readability at the point of sale without applying multiple visible barcodes.<br \/>\nContact us with questions about this topic \u2013 we&#8217;d be happy to partner with you to implement your own solution.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Your contact partner:<\/strong> Bj\u00f6rn Hegner, <a href=\"mailto:b-hegner@das-studio.de\">b-hegner@das-studio.de<\/a><\/p>\n<p><sup>1<\/sup>source: <a href=\"https:\/\/de.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Strichcode#cite_note-6\">https:\/\/de.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Strichcode#cite_note-6<\/a><br \/>\n*<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gs1-germany.de\/\">https:\/\/www.gs1-germany.de\/<\/a> \u2013 the organization which assigns manufacturer-specific basic barcode numbers<br \/>\nSource for sample barcodes:<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.logical-concepts.de\/blog\/barcode-typen\/\">http:\/\/www.logical-concepts.de\/blog\/barcode-typen\/<\/a><br \/>\nImage source: https:\/\/www.digimarc.com\/application\/retail, all rights are with Digimarc, Copyright Digimarc, 2017<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>Follow DAS STUDIO at:<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DASSTUDIOTORSTENHEGNER\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1087 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/facebook.svg\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"29\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.xing.com\/companies\/dasstudiotorstenhegnergmbh\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1091 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/xing.svg\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/dasstudiohegner\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-2744 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/DAS-STUDIO-social-instagram.svg\" alt=\"\" width=\"29\" height=\"30\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/6927857\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1089 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/linkedin.svg\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>DAS STUDIO \u201cTrusted Brand Production\u201d \u2013 consistent and efficient implementation of your brand architecture and communication through all touch points, both domestically and abroad, is our core competence.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">We\u2019ve been successfully focusing on innovation and providing the best, award-winning customer service since we launched back in 1969. Along the way, we\u2019ve always kept our core areas of expertise \u2013 image and color \u2013 in mind.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">We use our broad experience and outstanding commitment to produce visual content for <strong>packaging, PoSM, <\/strong> and <strong>marketing communications<\/strong> for small, sophisticated brands, trademarks, and global players, in both print and digital media.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Happy and successful customers are our mission.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Central Brand Management<\/strong> as <strong>central reproduction<\/strong> or design-to-print-agency.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">DAS STUDIO acts as a central brand management agency (central reproduction) to support trademark holders in efficiently and consistently adapting and implementing their whole range of packaging and PoSM across all printing processes and languages (design-to-print) \u2013 Your benefits as a branded company or retailer:<br \/>\n\u2022 efficient and consistent implementation (color, CI\/CD) of all packaging designs, promotions or PoSM across all materials and printing processes<br \/>\n\u2022 faster implementation of promotions and language adaptations<br \/>\n\u2022 faster, centralized access to the most recent data<br \/>\n\u2022 data controlling through to the printing plate<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">You might also be interested in:<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/the-invisible-barcode-potential-uses-and-challenges\/\">SAMPLE \u201cINVISIBLE\u201d BARCODE IN COLORED AREAS<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/millions-of-custom-packaging-solutions-digital-printing-makes-it-possible\/\">MILLIONS OF CUSTOM PACKAGING SOLUTIONS \u2013 DIGITAL PRINTING MAKES IT POSSIBLE!<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/measuring-time-with-sinn\/\">MEASURING TIME WITH SINN<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/filtered-not-stirred-a-new-logo-for-brita\/\">FILTERED, NOT STIRRED \u2013 A NEW LOGO FOR BRITA<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/das-studio-wins-hp-innovation-award\/\">DAS STUDIO WINS \u201cHP INNOVATION AWARD\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>DAS STUDIO Services<br \/>\n<\/strong>You can find all of our services here, all of which are also available individually. The broad range of services we offer makes us an optimal partner providing everyday support to marketing departments and agencies \u2013 including all the different tasks they perform everyday, no matter how tight the deadlines.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Creative Services<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2022 Photography<br \/>\n\u2022 Retouching\/Composing<br \/>\n\u2022 Design Adaptation (Sizes, Types, Languages)<br \/>\n\u2022 3D Modelling\/Pack Shots<br \/>\n\u2022 Dummy\/Mock-Up<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Prepress Services<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2022 Artwork\/Final Artwork<br \/>\n\u2022 Repro\/Litho<br \/>\n\u2022 Colour Management<br \/>\n\u2022 Proofing<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Print Services<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2022 Print Production Management<br \/>\n\u2022 Fingerprints<br \/>\n\u2022 Press Proof<br \/>\n\u2022 Print Approval\/Print Analysis<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Medien-IT<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2022 DS Workflow Management \u201eWebJobTasche\u201c<br \/>\n\u2022 DS Asset Management<br \/>\n\u2022 DS Design Automation<br \/>\n\u2022 DS Statistics<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><strong>Digital<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2022 App-Development<br \/>\n\u2022 Digital Signage<br \/>\n\u2022 Augmented Reality<br \/>\n\u2022 Virtual Reality<br \/>\n\u2022 CGI\/3D \u2013 Stile &amp; Animation<br \/>\n\u2022 Animation\/Film<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Barcodes have become an essential part of modern society, especially in the FMCG\/CPG area. Prices are almost never manually entered into store POS systems anymore. Barcodes, governed by the GS1 standard in Germany, control processes both in front of and behind the counter. Barcodes are scanned whenever users need to  [&#8230;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2887,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,24,26,22],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2953","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-creative-en","category-innovation-en","category-packaging-en","category-print-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2953","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2953"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2953\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2887"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2953"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2953"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.das-studio.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2953"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}