MaxiCode

MaxiCode is UPS's fixed-size matrix symbology built around a distinctive bullseye pattern, designed for high-speed, orientation-independent scanning of shipping labels on conveyor lines.

MaxiCode is a fixed-size matrix-style symbology made up of offset rows of hexagonal modules arranged around a unique bullseye finder pattern; the overall dimensions of the symbol are approximately 1.11 x 1.054 inches. Each element measures 0.035 x 0.041 inches. Each MaxiCode symbol has 884 hexagonal modules arranged in 33 rows, with each row containing up to 30 modules.

The symbol is composed of a central bullseye locator and offset rows of hexagonal elements. The design of the MaxiCode symbology was chosen because it is well suited to high-speed, orientation-independent scanning. Although the capacity of a MaxiCode symbol is not as high as that of other matrix-style bar code symbologies, it was primarily designed to encode address data, which rarely requires more than about 80 characters.

MaxiCode symbols actually encode two separate messages: a Primary message and a Secondary message.

The Primary message normally encodes a postal code, a 3-digit country code, and a 3-digit class-of-service number.

The Secondary message normally encodes address data and any other required information.

Created by United Parcel Service in 1992, the MaxiCode symbol was designed for quick, automated scanning of packages on high-speed conveyor lines (special cameras can read a MaxiCode on a carton traveling at up to 500 feet per minute). A 2D scanner is required; MaxiCode cannot be read using an ordinary linear barcode scanner.

An important use of MaxiCode is for marking packages, pallets, etc. In this application, MaxiCode can serve as a portable data file that travels with the package. It provides for the availability of critical information at any point where the shipment is handled.

MaxiCode was designed to be incorporated into existing manifest shipping systems. Its compact size (about 1 inch square) means that using MaxiCode on labels may require little or no label redesign. Ultimately, MaxiCode could be used to replace lower-density symbols such as bar codes. This would reduce the amount of label stock needed, or provide space for additional information to be placed on the label.

One of MaxiCode's key features is that it can be located and read at high speeds within a large field of view. This means that MaxiCode should be considered for integration into automated materials-handling systems.

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Legacy links (no longer active) (3)

• United Parcel Service
• www.maxicode.com
• http://www.ent.ohiou.edu/~amable/autoid/maxicode.html