ENGINEERING 2D BAR CODE SYMBOLOGIES FOR MANUFACTURING INFORMATION SYSTEM MANAGEMENT

Two-dimensional (2D) bar codes literally add another dimension to engineering information management systems when compared to the common linear bar code symbol. The power of the 2D symbol is in its' design and application use. First, a 2D bar code symbology allows a single, complete information record (up to millions of characters) to move with the product, process, or shipment. The second significant attribute involving 2D symbologies is the use of error correction. Simply put, the ability of a bar code symbology to use error correction allows the symbology in question to be partially destroyed or damaged and still be completely readable by an input device. This paper will address three of the most commonly used 2D bar code symbologies based on usage, standards, public access, and application use. The three 2D bar code symbologies that will be discussed include PDF417, DataMatrix, and MaxiCode. Mathematical descriptions and applications as they related to manufacturing environments will be the focus.