Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/4601
Title: Design and application of a contact barcode reader, for use on low-visibility printed conductive patterns
Authors: Wood, Julian
Advisors: Harrison, DJ
Southee, D
Keywords: Hand-held electronic reader;Conductive patterns;Digital domain;Contact barcode reader;Low-visibility printed
Issue Date: 2010
Publisher: Brunel University School of Engineering and Design Theses
Abstract: This thesis presents the design and development of a hand-held electronic reader, designed to decode conductive patterns printed on a paper substrate. Data read from the patterns, by the reader, is used to trigger events in the digital domain. The reader and associated conductive patterns are devices for linking paper documents with the digital world. The patterns are formed by masking conductive-coated paper with a non-conductive, printed lacquer. The reader is a low cost and ergonomic device, capable of transmitting the embedded data from the conductive paper to the computer. The first reader designed and developed was tethered to a computer by data cable, using the USB communication protocol. The second design was developed further, with transmission of data achieved by replacing the cable with short-range Bluetooth wireless technology. Both devices were designed and developed using embedded systems and low cost electronic components. Additional work was undertaken to optimise the device's mechanical structure, ergonomics and integration of hardware. Alongside the development of the reader, test and development work was carried out to optimise the printed media, in materials and design. User trials demonstrated that the complete printed and reading system was functional, with varied rates of success among participants. Further work is required to improve the conductivity of the coated paper, and the accuracy of the decoding algorithm.
Description: This thesis was submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy and awarded by Brunel University.
URI: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/4601
Appears in Collections:Brunel University Theses
Design
Brunel Design School Theses

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