Encoding and decoding method of cutting tool information based on data matrix symbol

The key for real-time collection of cutting tool information and its process tracking is to realize the encoding means and automatic identification of tool information. Therefore, the authors propose to encode tool information in Data Matrix symbol and directly mark the symbol on tool surface. The tool information encoding scheme, the symbol image processing method and its error correction decoding algorithm, and the achievements' application in the cutting tool tracking process are all provided in this paper. The test results undertaken from a workshop environment show that the method can support the real-time information collection of cutting tool working process tracking, and greatly improve the management efficiency throughout the cutting tool life cycle.