Holographic labeling for automated identification

The optical reading of labels encoding data in the form of a one dimensional barcode is a well developed technology. This paper presents a novel approach to the optical retrieval of a high volume of data contained in a new type of label. The labelling method uses the techniques of computer generated holography to encode the required two dimensional label data in the form of a digitally synthesised wavefront. This wavefront is optimally encoded using models based on optical holography and the calculated structure mechanically plotted into a new polymer based reflective substrate to form the label. The label is laser illuminated and the reflected wavefront optically reconstructed and decoded to remove the desired information.