Patent Publication Number: US-11023794-B2

Title: Encoded geometry fabrication operation

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to information handling systems. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to an encoded geometry fabrication operation. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     As the value and use of information continues to increase, individuals and businesses seek additional ways to process and store information. One option available to users is information handling systems. An information handling system generally processes, compiles, stores, and/or communicates information or data for business, personal, or other purposes thereby allowing users to take advantage of the value of the information. Because technology and information handling needs and requirements vary between different users or applications, information handling systems may also vary regarding what information is handled, how the information is handled, how much information is processed, stored, or communicated, and how quickly and efficiently the information may be processed, stored, or communicated. The variations in information handling systems allow for information handling systems to be general or configured for a specific user or specific use such as financial transaction processing, airline reservations, enterprise data storage, or global communications. In addition, information handling systems may include a variety of hardware and software components that may be configured to process, store, and communicate information and may include one or more computer systems, data storage systems, and networking systems. 
     It is known to use information handling systems and related IT systems within information technology (IT) environments such as data centers. In such IT environments it is often desirable to be able to identify individual information handling systems and related IT systems. A known method of identifying these systems is associating a unique identifier such as a bar code or a quick response (QR) code with the system. This unique identifier is often visibly attached to the system so that the unique identifier may be accessed by an IT technician using a scanner. However, unique identifiers such as bar codes and QR codes are not aesthetically pleasing, don&#39;t blend in with the system, can be scratched off or damaged, and involve extra processes to label objects. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A system, method, and computer-readable medium for performing an encoded geometry fabrication operation. 
     In one embodiment, the invention relates to a method for fabricating an encoded geometry, comprising: identifying data to be encoded within the encoded geometry, the data to be encoded within the encoded geometry comprising a unique code to be associated with the encoded geometry; converting the data to be encoded to the encoded geometry; fabricating a part with the encoded geometry, the encoded geometry passively representing the unique code with a physical code; and, performing a computer vision operation to read the physical code of the encoded geometry, the computer vision operation confirming the unique code of the encoded geometry corresponds to the physical code of the encoded geometry. 
     In another embodiment, the invention relates to a system comprising: a processor; a data bus coupled to the processor; and a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium embodying computer program code, the non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium being coupled to the data bus, the computer program code interacting with a plurality of computer operations and comprising instructions executable by the processor and configured for: identifying data to be encoded within the encoded geometry, the data to be encoded within the encoded geometry comprising a unique code to be associated with the encoded geometry; converting the data to be encoded to the encoded geometry; fabricating a part with the encoded geometry, the encoded geometry passively representing the unique code with a physical code; and, performing a computer vision operation to read the physical code of the encoded geometry, the computer vision operation confirming the unique code of the encoded geometry corresponds to the physical code of the encoded geometry. 
     In another embodiment, the invention relates to a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium embodying computer program code, the computer program code comprising computer executable instructions configured for: identifying data to be encoded within the encoded geometry, the data to be encoded within the encoded geometry comprising a unique code to be associated with the encoded geometry; converting the data to be encoded to the encoded geometry; fabricating a part with the encoded geometry, the encoded geometry passively representing the unique code with a physical code; and, performing a computer vision operation to read the physical code of the encoded geometry, the computer vision operation confirming the unique code of the encoded geometry corresponds to the physical code of the encoded geometry. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention may be better understood, and its numerous objects, features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference number throughout the several figures designates a like or similar element. 
         FIG. 1  shows a general illustration of components of an information handling system as implemented in the system and method of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows a block diagram of a physical part identification environment. 
         FIG. 3  shows a high level flow chart of a physical part identification generation operation. 
         FIG. 4  shows a high level flow chart of a physical part detection operation. 
         FIG. 5  shows a front view of an example encoded geometry. 
         FIG. 6  shows a flow chart of a multi-dimensional encoded geometry generation operation. 
         FIG. 7  shows line drawing views of example encoded geometries. 
         FIG. 8A  shows a line drawing showing an example of how a glyph may be encoded. 
         FIG. 8B  shows an example of a physical glyph corresponding to the glyph encoded according to the line drawing of  FIG. 8A . 
         FIG. 9  shows a front view of a plurality of example encoded geometries. 
         FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries. 
         FIG. 11  shows a depth scanning representation from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries. 
         FIG. 12  shows a cloud point data representation from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries. 
         FIG. 13  shows an overlay representation of information obtained from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries. 
         FIGS. 14A and 14B , generally referred to as  FIG. 14 , show diagrammatic representations of a passively represented information environment. 
         FIG. 15  shows a flow chart of an encoded geometry association operation. 
         FIG. 16  shows a flow chart of physical part detection operation. 
         FIG. 17  shows a diagrammatic representation of an encoded geometry fabrication process. 
         FIG. 18  shows a flow chart of an encoded geometry fabrication operation. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various aspects of the present disclosure include an appreciation that programming chips to correspond parts having an encoded geometry can require a user to input a correct identifier for each unique part. Such a process can add cost, complexity and a risk of error to the fabrication process. 
     A system, method, and computer-readable medium are disclosed for performing a physical part detection operation. In certain embodiments, the physical part detection operation includes decoding an encoded geometry, comprising: scanning an encoded geometry, the scanning comprising scanning a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols of the encoded geometry; identifying each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols; decoding each identifier multi-dimensional symbol to provide encoded geometry information; accessing an encoded geometry repository; and, retrieving data associated with the encoded geometry information. 
     A system, method, and computer-readable medium are disclosed for performing a physical part identification generation operation. The physical part identification generation operation generates parts with an encoded geometry that passively represents information. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry of the physical part uniquely identifies the part. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry comprises a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols (referred to as glyphs) which are combined to provide a unique multi-dimensional identifier. In certain embodiments, each multi-dimensional symbol is a three dimensional symbol and the encoded geometry is a three dimensional part comprising a plurality of the three dimensional symbols. In certain embodiments, the unique multi-dimensional identifier is a passive part which is synthesized during production. In certain embodiments, the passive part that is attached to a component being identified such as an information handling system. In certain embodiments, the passive part includes a bezel of the information handling system. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, an information handling system may include any instrumentality or aggregate of instrumentalities operable to compute, classify, process, transmit, receive, retrieve, originate, switch, store, display, manifest, detect, record, reproduce, handle, or utilize any form of information, intelligence, or data for business, scientific, control, or other purposes. For example, an information handling system may be a personal computer, a network storage device, or any other suitable device and may vary in size, shape, performance, functionality, and price. The information handling system may include random access memory (RAM), one or more processing resources such as a central processing unit (CPU) or hardware or software control logic, ROM, and/or other types of nonvolatile memory. Additional components of the information handling system may include one or more disk drives, one or more network ports for communicating with external devices as well as various input and output (I/O) devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, and a video display. The information handling system may also include one or more buses operable to transmit communications between the various hardware components. 
       FIG. 1  is a generalized illustration of an information handling system  100  that can be used to implement the system and method of the present invention. The information handling system  100  includes a processor (e.g., central processor unit or “CPU”)  102 , input/output (I/O) devices  104 , such as a display, a keyboard, a mouse, and associated controllers, a hard drive or disk storage  106 , and various other subsystems  108 . In various embodiments, the information handling system  100  also includes network port  110  operable to connect to a network  140 , which is likewise accessible by a service provider server  142 . The information handling system  100  likewise includes system memory  112 , which is interconnected to the foregoing via one or more buses  114 . System memory  112  further comprises operating system (OS)  116  and in various embodiments may also comprise at least one of a physical part identification generation module  118  and a physical part detection module  120 . 
     The physical part identification generation module  118  performs a physical part identification generation operation. The physical part identification generation operation generates physical parts with an encoded geometry that passively represents information. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry of the physical part uniquely identifies the physical part. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry comprises a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols (referred to as glyphs) which are combined to provide a unique multi-dimensional identifier. In certain embodiments, each multi-dimensional symbol is a three dimensional symbol and the encoded geometry is a three dimensional part comprising a plurality of the three dimensional symbols. In certain embodiments, the unique multi-dimensional identifier is a passive part which is synthesized during production. In certain embodiments, the passive part that is attached to a component being identified such as an information handling system. In certain embodiments, the passive part includes a bezel of the information handling system. 
     The physical part detection module  120  performs a physical part detection operation. The physical part detection operation detects information encoded within an encoded geometry. In certain embodiments, the physical part detection operation includes decoding an encoded geometry, comprising: scanning an encoded geometry, the scanning comprising scanning a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols of the encoded geometry; identifying each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols; decoding each identifier multi-dimensional symbol to provide encoded geometry information; accessing an encoded geometry repository; and, retrieving data associated with the encoded geometry information. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a physical part identification environment  200  implemented in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The physical part identification environment  200  includes at least one of a physical part identification generation system  118  as well as a physical part detection system  120 . 
     In various embodiments, a user  202  generates a request to generate a unique encoded geometry. The request is received by the physical part identification generation system  118 . In various embodiments, a physical part identification generation system  118  executes on a hardware processor of an information handling system  100 . In these and other embodiments, the user  202  may use a user device  204  to interact with at least one of the physical part identification generation system  118  and the physical part detection system  120 . 
     As used herein, a user device  204  refers to an information handling system such as a personal computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, a mobile telephone, or other device that is capable of communicating and processing data. In various embodiments, the user device is configured to present a product query analysis user interface  240 . In various embodiments, the product query analysis user interface  240  presents a ranked list of products  242  automatically generated in response to a user query. In various embodiments, the user device  204  is used to exchange information between the user  202  and the product query analysis system  118  through the use of a network  140 . In certain embodiments, the network  140  may be a public network, such as the Internet, a physical private network, a wireless network, a virtual private network (VPN), or any combination thereof. Skilled practitioners of the art will recognize that many such embodiments are possible and the foregoing is not intended to limit the spirit, scope or intent of the invention. 
     In various embodiments, the physical part identification generation system  118  includes a physical part identification generation module  210  which performs a physical part identification generation operation. In various embodiments, the physical part detection system  120  includes a physical part detection module  212  which performs a physical part detection operation. In various embodiments, the physical part identification environment  200  includes a storage repository  220 . The storage repository may be local to the system executing the product query analysis system  118  or may be executed remotely. In various embodiments, the storage repository includes one or more of an encoded geometry repository  222  and a unique identifier repository  224 . 
     In various embodiments, the physical part identification generation system  118  interacts with a product configuration system  250  which may be executing on a separate information handling system  100 . In various embodiments, one or both of the physical part identification generation system  118  and the product configuration system  250  interact with a custom product fabrication system  252 . In various embodiments, the custom product fabrication system  252  fabricates products to include components configured using the physical part identification generation system  118 . 
     By digitally manufacturing the bezel, the physical part identification generation operation provides flexibility to dynamically change the form of the bezel. When produced in a way that can be scanned similar to a barcode, the bezel provides an aesthetic and structural multi-dimensional part that can also be used to store information like a service tag. The bezel becomes a storage device. This doesn&#39;t require any machine learning or processes such as applying an intrusive barcode. The part itself is the code and because it is multi-dimensional, the part has the potential to store even more useful information than traditional barcodes. A user can now approach a device having such a bezel and read the part to retrieve useful information. In certain embodiments, the part is read with the aid of an Augmented Reality device (e.g., an apparatus with the right sensors and computational power). Useful information may now be gathered by observing the part. This useful information can include configuration information of the information handling system, when the information handling system was produced, who ordered the information handling system, the service tag of the information handling system, what faults are associated with the information system, etc. In certain embodiments, the observation may be via scanning which uses cloud point data (such as three dimensional cloud point data) which allows dynamic movement while scanning and can also be scanned in complete darkness. 
     In certain embodiments, the physical part identification generation operation generates a number (x) of aesthetic assemblies using a predefined multi-dimensional design language (i.e., a glyph language). In certain embodiments, the physical part identification generation operation provides a plurality of variations of the aesthetic assemblies through a machine learning operation. In certain embodiments, the machine learning operation can then generate new variations of aesthetic assemblies based off of the patterns created to provide the new variations with an inherited aesthetic. 
     In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols represents a respective numeric symbol. In certain embodiments, the numeric symbol is represented as a series of binary bits (e.g., as three binary bits). In certain embodiments, the multi-dimensional symbols are arranged to represent a unique number set. In certain embodiments, the unique number set is associated with a serial number. In certain embodiments, the arrangement of multi-dimensional symbols represents information such as the product service tag, SKU, manufacturer, date of production, etc. 
     In certain embodiments, the physical part identification generation operation, the multi-dimensional symbols are physically synthesized into a geometry of an object via a generative computer aided design (CAD) application. In certain embodiments, the object is manufactured using digital manufacturing (such as 3D printing, CNC machining, etc.). Digital manufacturing provides flexibility in producing parts in a series much like bar codes. By producing parts this way, passive objects are generated which are computer legible without the need for additional identification information such as bar codes, QR codes, machine learning, etc. In certain embodiments, individual multi-dimensional symbols are produced using traditional molding or machining and then assembled in a specific order to represent a unique identifier. In certain embodiments, the multi-dimensional symbols are synthesized into structural and ornamental parts thus providing aesthetically pleasing, uniquely encoded parts. It will be appreciated that an object having a plurality of the multi-dimensional symbols can symbolize more data than identifiers such as bar codes or QR codes. 
     Such a physical part identification generation operation provides parts which require no power to maintain or transmit data. Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, parts are digitally encoded as they are produced such that the parts do not require additional labeling processes. Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, the encoded parts can be fabricated having the same color and material as the main body of the item with which the part is associated, blending the encoded part into item. Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, the encoded parts provide detectable contrast from the multi-dimensional form rather than contrast from tint and shade as with identifiers such as bar codes or QR codes. Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, the encoded parts are more durable than a label. Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, the encoded parts are structural and aesthetic parts that serve an additional function as a storage device (e.g., by providing information encoded into the part). Additionally, with such a physical part identification generation operation, the encoded parts are computer legible. 
       FIG. 3  shows a high level flow chart of a physical part identification generation operation  300 . More specifically, the physical part identification generation operation begins at step  310  by defining design parameters. In certain embodiments, the design parameters include one or both of aesthetic parameters and geometry parameters. Additionally, at step  320 , data to be encoded within the physical part are identified. In certain embodiments, the data to be encoded can include one or more of a serial number, a service tag, a manufacturer identifier, a part identifier, etc. In certain embodiments, the data to be encoded is sequentially serialized for respective sequential encoded parts at step  324 . Next at step  330 , the data to be encoded is converted to an encoded geometry. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry includes a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols. In certain embodiments, the data to be encoded and the associated encoded geometry are stored within an encoded geometry repository (such as repository  222 ) at step  336 . 
     Next, at step  340  a generative computer aided design operation is performed using the design parameters and the encoded geometry. The generative computer aided design operation provides a CAD object file  345  which includes the encoded geometry. The CAD object file  345  is then used to digitally fabricate a multi-dimensional part corresponding to the design parameters and encoded geometry at step  350 . In certain embodiments, the multi-dimensional part is used when manufacturing a device such as an information handling system. In certain embodiments, the multi-dimensional part comprises a bezel of the information handling system. 
       FIG. 4  shows a high level flow chart of a physical part detection operation  400 . The physical part detection operation  400  begins at step  410  by scanning a part having an encoded geometry. Next, each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols is identified at step  420 . Next at step  430 , the physical part detection operation  400  accesses the encoded geometry repository  222  to retrieve data that was associated with the encoded geometry. Next at step  440 , the physical part detection operation provides the data that was associated with the encoded geometry. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a front view of an example encoded geometry  500  is shown. In the example encoded geometry corresponds to a bezel of an information handling system. More specifically, the encoded geometry includes a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  510  (i.e., glyphs). As used herein, a glyph may be defined as an elemental symbol within an agreed set of symbols intended to represent a readable character for the purpose of encoding and retrieving information. Also as used herein, a plurality of glyphs may be combined to collectively contribute to encoding and retrieving specific unique information. 
     Some of the multi-dimensional symbols represent a plurality of constrained values. In certain embodiments, the plurality of constrained values for each glyph includes a two-dimensional value. In certain embodiments, the two-dimensional value is represented by a polygon. In certain embodiments, the polygon comprises a hexagon. 
     In certain embodiments, plurality of constrained values for each glyph also includes third-dimensional values. In certain embodiments, the third-dimensional values include a depth. In certain embodiments, the third-dimensional values include a slope associated with the depth. 
     In certain embodiments, at least one of the multi-dimensional symbols includes a fiducial marker symbol  530 . In certain embodiments the fiducial marker system  530  includes a two-dimensional value. In certain embodiments, the two-dimensional value is represented by a polygon. In certain embodiments, the polygon comprises a hexagon. In certain embodiments, the two-dimensional value of the fiducial marker symbol  530  defines a regular hexagon (i.e., a hexagon that is both equilateral and equiangular). In certain embodiments, the fiducial marker includes third-dimensional values. In certain embodiments, the third-dimensional values include a depth. In certain embodiments, the third-dimensional values include a slope associated with the depth. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , a flow chart of a multi-dimensional encoded geometry generation operation  600  is shown. More specifically, the multi-dimensional generation operation starts at step  610  by identifying locked sides. Next at step  615 , the multi-dimensional generation operation identifies locked vertices. Next, at step  620 , at least one vertex of one of the polygons within the encoded geometry is selected. Next, at step  630 , the location of the selected vertex is adjusted causing the polygon to change shape producing a warped polygon. Next, at step  640 , by changing the shape of the polygon associated with the vertex, the shapes of contiguous polygons are also changed producing a plurality of warped polygons. Next, at step  650 , the multi-dimensional generation operation  600  determines whether to select another vertex for adjustment. If so, then the multi-dimensional generation operation  600  returns to step  620 . If not, then the multi-dimensional generation operation completes. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , line drawing views of example encoded geometries  700 ,  702 ,  704  are shown. More specifically, the example encoded geometry  700  includes a plurality of regular hexagonally shaped glyphs  706 . The example encoded geometry  700  includes a plurality of locked sides  710 . For the purposes of this disclosure, a locked side may be defined as a side of a polygon which remains unchanged even when a location of a vertex within the encoded geometry is changed. The example encoded geometry  700  also includes a plurality of locked points  712 . For the purposes of this disclosure, a locked point may be defined as a point within the encoded geometry which remains unchanged even when a location of a vertex within the encoded geometry is changed. It will be appreciated that providing one or both of locked sides and locked points contribute to the aesthetic parameters and geometry parameters of the encoded geometry. In certain embodiments, at least some of the locked lines and locked points provide a fiducial marker symbol  720 . 
     The example encoded geometry  702  includes a plurality of hexagonally shaped glyphs  720  after the locations of certain vertexes  722  have been adjusted. Adjusting the location of a particular vertex  724  automatically adjusts the locations of the sides  726 ,  728  of the hexagon associated with that vertex  724 . Because these sides  726 ,  728  also form a part of two contiguous hexagons  730 ,  732 , the shape of these hexagons is also adjusted when the location of the particular vertex is adjusted. 
     The example encoded geometry  704  includes a plurality of hexagonally shaped glyphs  720  after the locations of certain vertexes  742  have been adjusted. Adjusting the location of a particular vertex  744  automatically adjusts the locations of the sides  746 ,  748  of the hexagon associated with that vertex  744 . Because these sides  746 ,  748  also form a part of two contiguous hexagons  750 ,  752 , the shape of these hexagons is also adjusted when the location of the particular vertex is adjusted. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8A , a line drawing showing an example of how a glyph  800  may be encoded is shown. More specifically, each vertex of the glyph  800  may be set to one of seven values. Six of the values represent a location to which the vertex may be adjusted while the seventh value represents an unadjusted location (i.e., the location of the vertex were the hexagon a regular hexagon). By adjusting the locations of the vertexes, a single glyph can represent six numbers, each having six possible locations. 
     Accordingly, a single hexagonal glyph can encode and passively represent 46656 different number combinations.  FIG. 8B  shows an example of the physical glyph  850  corresponding to the glyph encoded according to the line drawing of  FIG. 8A . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , a front view of a plurality of example encoded geometries is shown. In the example, encoded geometries correspond to bezels of information handling systems mounted within a rack. Each bezel is generated by the physical part identification generation operation. Each bezel has a different encoded geometry where at least one input value (e.g., at least one vertex of at least one glyph) of each encoded geometry is different. 
     The front view of the plurality of example encoded geometries also shows an aesthetic advantage to having locked lines and vertexes when generating the encoded geometry. More specifically, because the top lines  910  and bottom lines  912  of a particular encoded geometry are locked, when the information handling systems are mounted within a rack, the top lines  910  of one encoded geometry align with the bottom lines  912  of a next higher encoded geometry. Additionally, the bottom lines  912  of one encoded geometry align with the top lines  910  of a next lower encoded geometry, providing an aesthetically pleasing substantially continuous appearance across the mounted information handling systems. Additional, because the top vertexes  920  and bottom vertexes  922  of a particular encoded geometry are locked, when the information handling systems are mounted in a rack, the top vertexes  920  of one encoded geometry align with the bottom vertexes  922  of a next higher encoded geometry. Additionally, the bottom vertexes  922  of one encoded geometry align with the top vertexes  920  of a next lower encoded geometry, providing an aesthetically pleasing substantially continuous appearance across the mounted information handling systems. Additionally, a third vertex  924  on each side of the encoded geometry is located equidistant from the top vertex  920  and bottom vertex  922 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , a perspective view of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries is shown. More specifically, each respective portion  1010  of an encoded geometry includes a plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  1025 . In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols is a respective glyph. Also, in certain embodiments, each encoded geometry includes a respective fiducial multi-dimensional symbol  1030 . The fiducial multi-dimensional symbol  1030  provides a fixed basis of comparison when performing a physical part detection operation (such as the physical part detection operation  400 ). Such encoded geometries provide computer legibility of aesthetic or structural forms without the need for labeling or machine learning. In various embodiments, each encoded geometry is associated with a component. In certain embodiments, each encoded geometry is attached to a respective component. 
     It will be appreciated from the perspective view, that each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  1025  includes a plurality of variations. In various embodiments, the plurality of variations includes a front two-dimensional variation, a rear two-dimensional variation, and a slope variation (i.e., the slope from the front of the multi-dimensional system  1025  to the rear of the multi-dimensional symbol  1025 . It will be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the slope variation may be different for each side of the multi-dimensional symbol  1025 . In certain embodiments, the plurality of variations is detected by detecting information regarding the lines and vertices of each multi-dimensional symbol. In certain embodiments, detecting information regarding the vertices of the multi-dimensional symbol includes detection of the location of each vertex of the multi-dimensional symbol. In certain embodiments, detecting information regarding the lines of the multi-dimensional symbol includes detection of a length of each line of the multi-dimensional symbol. In certain embodiments, detecting information regarding the lines of the multi-dimensional symbol includes detection of an angle at a vertex defined by two lines of the multi-dimensional symbol. 
     It will also be appreciated from the perspective view, that the encoded geometry provides dynamic legibility. For the purposes of this disclosure, dynamical legibility may be defined as a detection of a three dimensional form (e.g., the encoded geometry) which can present different information depending on a perspective variable or a proximity variable when performing the detection. The proximity variable provides a certain resolution of the encoded geometry while the perspective variable shows a specific angle of the encoded geometry. Changing either of these variables provides a detection device with different inputs, which can provide different or additional decoded data. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , a depth scanning representation from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries is shown. In certain embodiments, the physical part detection operation decodes each multi-dimensional symbol into a legible character. In certain embodiments, when performing the physical part detection operation, a depth scanning operation is performed. In certain embodiments, the depth scanning operation is performed using a three dimensional scanning device. For the purposes of this disclosure, a three dimensional scanning device is a device that analyses the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  1025  of the encoded geometry and collects data on the shape of each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  1025  of the encoded geometry. In certain embodiments, the scanning device also collects data on the appearance of the encoded geometry including the color of each of the multi-dimensional symbols. In certain embodiments, the depth scanning device produces dot patterns for each of the plurality of multi-dimensional systems  1025 . In certain embodiments, the dot patterns may be produced based onto infrared (IR) dot patterns. 
     When performing the physical part detection operation, once the data on the shape of each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols is collected, this data can be used to retrieve data that was associated with the encoded geometry. Thus, the encoded geometry provides a passive storage device via which information associated with the encoded geometry may be retrieved. 
     In certain embodiments, the three dimensional scanning device includes a structured-light three dimensional scanning device. In operation, the structured-light three dimensional scanning device projects a band of light onto the encoded geometry to produce a line of illumination that appears distorted from other perspectives from that of the projected light. This distorted line of illumination can then be used to produce geometric information regarding the encoded geometry. This geometric information is then used to exact geometric reconstruction of the shape of the encoded geometry. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , a cloud point data representation from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries is shown. In certain embodiments, when performing the depth scanning operation, point cloud data is generated. For the purposes of this disclosure, point cloud data comprise a set of data points in a predefined multi-dimensional coordinate system. In certain embodiments, the predefined multi-dimensional coordinate system comprises a three-dimensional coordinate system where the set of data points are defined by X, Y and Z coordinates to represent the external surface of each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols. The set of data points can then be used to provide an associated three-dimensional rendering of each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols. The three-dimensional renderings may then be analyzed to identify information associated with the multi-dimensional symbol. In certain embodiments, the analysis is performed by the physical part detection module  212 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , an overlay representation of information obtained from scanning of portions of a plurality of encoded geometries is shown. When performing the physical part detection operation, once the data on the shape of each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols is collected, this data can be used to retrieve data that was associated with the encoded geometry. For example, each of the plurality of multi-dimensional symbols  1025  has an associated value. In certain embodiments, the associated value comprises a multi-bit representation. In certain embodiments, the multi-bit representation comprises a 6-bit binary representation. The combination of the plurality of multi-bit representations provides unique, passively encoded information. In certain embodiments, the unique passively encoded information is used to access information associated with the value from an encoded geometry repository. Thus, the encoded geometry provides a passive storage device via which information associated with the encoded geometry may be retrieved. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14A and 14B , diagrammatic representations of a passively represented information environment  1400  is shown. More specifically,  FIG. 14A  shows a vertical orientation of items within a three-dimensional environment and  FIG. 14B  shows a horizontal orientation of items within a three-dimensional space. The passively represented information environment  1400  also includes a sensing device  1410  (such as a camera) as well as a physical part detection system  1420  (such as physical part detection system  120 ). 
     In certain embodiments, the three-dimensional space corresponds to an information technology (IT) data center and the items correspond to information handling systems and information handling system components contained within the data center. At least some of the information handling systems and information handling system components include associated encoded geometry (such as encoded geometry  500 ). 
     By providing the information handling systems and information handling system components with associated encoded geometry, an automatic mapping of the information handling systems and information handling system components within the data center is enabled. Whereas, mapping of a data center could often be a meticulous process which involved users entering and/or scanning unique identification information such as service tags one by one, the mapping process may be performed efficiently via the physical part detection system  1430 . With previous mapping operations, once the unique identification information for each item in the data center was obtained, a three dimensional directory would need to be created which would then be used to build a three-dimensional representation of the data center, matching the unique identification information to a particular location within the data center. It will be appreciated that such a three-dimensional representation of a data center provides many advantages to managing the data center such as finding and managing broken systems in a large data center. It would be advantageous to be able to easily locate and identify information handling systems and information handling system components within the data center. 
     With the disclosed passively represented information environment, each of the items within the multi-dimensional space includes an associated encoded geometry. Using a sensing device  1400 , users can scan the items and easily recognize passively encoded information from afar. In certain embodiments, the sensing device can be included within an augmented reality device. The passively encoded information can be decoded to provide specific information regarding the associated item. In certain embodiments, the specific information can include unique identification information such as a service tag. Additionally, the physical part detection system  1430  can be used to map the locations of items within the three-dimensional space. In certain embodiments, the locations can also be used to automatically generate a three-dimensional representation of the items within the multi-dimensional space which can be archived for later use. Using the sensing device and the three-dimensional representation, a user, such as an IT technician, can be directed to a particular item within the three-dimensional space. In certain embodiments, when the user is positioned at the rack the bezels having a desired item, the physical part detection system  1430  can be used to identify and highlight the desired item. 
     Using the sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430 , the surfaces that are visible within the three-dimensional space vary depending on the sensing devices perspective. Knowing this, different information may be encoded and decoded from different perspectives. The sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430  can also determine the orientation and relative locations of items within the three-dimensional space based upon proximity and perspective determinations made by the sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430 . The orientation and relative location information can then be used to provide specific information regarding items within the three-dimensional space. 
     In various embodiments, the sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430  used to decipher these encoded geometries is also programmed to recognize the proximity and/or perspective of a plurality of encoded geometries and provide users either high level or more detailed information regarding items within the three-dimensional space. 
     For example, within a data center, an augmented reality portion of the physical part detection system  1430  can represent the overall health of a rack by augmenting items within the data center with a unique hue. For example, certain items might be augmented with a green hue to indicate the item is functioning properly whereas other items might be augmented with an amber hue to indicate the time needs service. Using the augmented reality portion of the physical part detection system  1430  such an augmented representation enables a user to assess the overall health of a portion of a multi-dimensional space (e.g., a rack within a data center) from a distance. In certain embodiments, when a user gets closer to an item needing attention, only that individual item would be highlighted. 
     As another example, if an encoded geometry is the object that is encoded with the passive information, then the encoded geometry may be physically locked onto the item with which the encoded geometry is associated. Once the item is located using the physical part detection system  1430 , a user could unlock and access a non-visible portion of the encoded geometry. The encoded geometry is provided with more information which is included as part of a non-visible portion of the encoded geometry. In various embodiments, this information can include information regarding custom hardware configurations for the information handling system, such as CPU type/model. In various embodiments, this information can include customer sensitive data such as who owns the information handling system, who purchased the information handling system, when the information handling system was purchased, etc. In various embodiments, this information can include any sensitive data that is relevant to the system being observed and the customer who order it. Using this locking feature, the encoded geometry provides a physical level of encryption for an item associated with encoded geometry. 
     As another example, if the sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430  determines that a user is standing in front of a rack full of servers and that the user is reaching above their head to pull out a system, the sensing device  1410  and the physical part detection system  1430  can determine that the server being removed is above the user and can generate a warning to be careful when removing the system. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , a flow chart of an encoded geometry association operation  1500  is shown. More specifically, the encoded geometry association operation  1500  begins by indicating a number of items to be identified at step  1510 . In certain embodiments, the number of items to be identified may be defined when the passively represented information environment is originally configured. In certain embodiments, the number of items to be identified may be defined when items are added to the passively represented information environment. Next, at step  1520 , an encoded geometry is associated with a particular item. Next, at step  1530 , encoded geometry information and the particular item with which the encoded geometry is associated are stored within a three-dimensional space encoded geometry repository. Next, at step  1540  the encoded geometry association operation  1500  determines whether there are any remaining items to be associated. If so, then the operation returns to step  1520  to associate another item. If not, then the operation ends. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , a flow chart of physical part detection operation  1600  within passively represented information environment is shown. More specifically, the operation begins at step  1610  by observing a portion of the multi-dimensional space (such as multi-dimensional space  1420 ). Next, at step  1620 , the physical part detection operation  1600  identifies parts within the physical space. In certain embodiments, the parts are identified via a physical part detection operation  400 . Next, at step  1630 , the physical part detection operation  1600  identifies relative locations of parts within the multi-dimensional space. In certain embodiments, the physical part detection operation  1600  uses proximity information and perspective information to identify relative locations of parts within the multi-dimensional space. The proximity information includes information regarding the physical nearness of physical parts. The perspective information includes information regarding height, width, depth and relative position (e.g., is a part above another part, below another part, to one side of another part, or to another side of another part) of physical parts. 
     Next, at step  1640 , stores information for each item within the three-dimensional space encoded geometry repository. Next, at step  1650 , the physical part detection operation  1600  automatically generates a three-dimensional representation of the items within the multi-dimensional space. Next, at step  1660 , the physical part detection operation  1600  provides information regarding items associated with the physical parts. In certain embodiments, the information regarding items associated with the encoded geometry can include augmented reality information. 
       FIG. 17  shows a diagrammatic representation of an encoded geometry fabrication process. More specifically, the encoded geometry fabrication process starts with the fabrication of an encoded geometry  1710 . In various embodiments, the fabrication may be performed using a three dimensional (3D) printing operation. As used herein, a 3D printing operation builds a three-dimensional object under computer control from an encoded geometry model such as a computer-aided design (CAD) model. 
     In certain embodiments, the three-dimensional object is built by successively adding or removing material layer by layer as compared to conventional machining casting or forging processes. In various embodiments, each unique encoded geometry has an associated unique encoded geometry model. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry model is created using a generative algorithm programmed so the encoded geometry models don&#39;t repeat the same geometry. In certain embodiments, the unique encoded geometry models are randomly generated. In certain embodiments, some or all of the glyphs of the unique encoded geometry  1710  are randomly generated. 
     Next, the encoded geometry is assembled into a bezel structure  1720 . In certain embodiments, the bezel structure  1720  includes the encoded geometry  1710  and a bezel frame  1722 . In certain embodiments, the bezel structure  1720  includes a programmable device  1724  such as a programmable integrated circuit. 
     Using a computer vision operation  1730 , the unique code contained within the encoded geometry is read from the unique encoded geometry  1710  to provide a digital code corresponding to the physical code encoded in the encoded geometry. As used herein, a computer vision operation refers to the process of acquiring, processing and analyzing a digital image corresponding to the encoded geometry and extracting data from the encoded geometry to product numerical information. In certain embodiments, the computer vision operation uses artificial intelligence techniques when processing and analyzing the digital image. As used herein, the physical code encoded in the encoded geometry corresponds to the combination of elemental symbols contained within the unique encoded geometry  1710 . The digital code is then affixed to the bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the digital code may be affixed by imprinting the digital code onto the bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the digital code may be affixed to the bezel structure by programming the programmable device  1724  with the digital code. In various embodiments, the computer vision operation  1730  is performed using a plurality of different camera angles and under a plurality of lighting conditions. 
     In certain embodiments, the computer vision operation  1730  performs a quality control operation. In certain embodiments, the quality control operation checks the bezel assembly for legibility and cosmetic defects. In certain embodiments, the quality control operation checks the bezel assembly for quality and accuracy. In certain embodiments, checking for accuracy includes confirming that each vertex of each glyph is set to one of the seven vertex values (see e.g.,  FIG. 8A ). In certain embodiments, checking for quality confirms that no other encoded geometries have been produced having the same encoded geometry (i.e., the encoded geometry is not unique). In certain embodiments, encoded geometries that do not meet the quality control objectives are rejected  1740 . 
     In certain embodiments, before performing the computer vision operation, the bezel structure is attached to a bezel quality fixture  1750 . In certain embodiments, the bezel quality fixture holds the bezel in a particular predefined orientation. In certain embodiments, the bezel quality fixture communicates with a software utility executing on a computer  1752 . In certain embodiments, the software utility programs the programmable device  1724  with the digital code. In certain embodiments, the software utility stores the digital code and physical code in an encoded geometry repository (e.g., encoded geometry repository  222 ). In certain embodiments, a bezel structure  1720  is installed onto a respective information handling system which may then be mounted within a rack  1760  of information handling systems. The digital code is associated with the respective information handling system. When a device, such as a camera, reads the encoded geometry, the information handling system associated with the encoded geometry is identified. 
     When the digital code is associated with the respective information handling system, reading the physical code  1760  allows the respective information handling system to be passively identified. 
       FIG. 18  shows a flow chart of an encoded geometry fabrication operation  1800 . More specifically, the encoded geometry fabrication operation  1800  starts with the fabrication of an encoded geometry at step  1810 . In various embodiments, each unique encoded geometry has an associated unique encoded geometry model. In certain embodiments, the encoded geometry model is created using a generative algorithm programmed so the encoded geometry models don&#39;t repeat the same geometry. In certain embodiments, the unique encoded geometry models are randomly generated. In certain embodiments, some or all of the glyphs of the unique encoded geometry are randomly generated. 
     Next, at step  1820  the encoded geometry is assembled into a bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the bezel structure  1720  includes the encoded geometry and a bezel frame. In certain embodiments, the bezel structure includes a programmable device  1724  such as a programmable integrated circuit. 
     Next, at step  1840 , the physical code represented by the encoded geometry is read from the unique encoded geometry. In certain embodiments, a digital code corresponding to the physical code encoded in the encoded geometry is generated at step  1840 . Next at step  1850 , the digital code is then linked with the bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the digital code may be linked with the bezel structure by imprinting the digital code onto the bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the digital code may be linked to the bezel structure by programming a programmable device with the digital code. In various embodiments, reading the unique code includes reading the unique code using a plurality of different camera angles and under a plurality of lighting conditions. 
     Next, at step  1860 , a quality control operation is performed for the bezel structure. In certain embodiments, the quality control operation checks the bezel assembly for legibility and cosmetic defects. In certain embodiments, the quality control operation checks the bezel assembly for quality and accuracy. In certain embodiments, checking for accuracy includes confirming that each vertex of each glyph is set to one of the seven vertex values. In certain embodiments, checking for quality confirms that no other encoded geometries have been produced having the same encoded geometry (i.e., the encoded geometry is not unique). In certain embodiments, encoded geometries that do not meet the quality control objectives (i.e., nonconforming parts) are rejected at step  1870 . 
     In certain embodiments, before reading the encoded geometry, the bezel structure is attached to a bezel quality fixture  1750 . In certain embodiments, the bezel quality fixture  1750  holds the bezel in a particular predefined orientation. In certain embodiments, the bezel quality fixture  1750  communicates with a software utility executing on a computer. In certain embodiments, the software utility programs the programmable device with the digital code. In certain embodiments, the software utility stores one or more of the digital code, an associated bezel structure, an associated information handing system and a representation of the physical code in an encoded geometry repository (e.g., encoded geometry repository  222 ). 
     As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied as a method, system, or computer program product. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention may be implemented entirely in hardware, entirely in software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or in an embodiment combining software and hardware. These various embodiments may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-usable storage medium having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium. 
     Any suitable computer usable or computer readable medium may be utilized. The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, or a magnetic storage device. In the context of this document, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. 
     Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present invention may be written in an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like. However, the computer program code for carrying out operations of the present invention may also be written in conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user&#39;s computer, partly on the user&#39;s computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user&#39;s computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user&#39;s computer through a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). 
     Embodiments of the invention are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     The present invention is well adapted to attain the advantages mentioned as well as others inherent therein. While the present invention has been depicted, described, and is defined by reference to particular embodiments of the invention, such references do not imply a limitation on the invention, and no such limitation is to be inferred. The invention is capable of considerable modification, alteration, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to those ordinarily skilled in the pertinent arts. The depicted and described embodiments are examples only, and are not exhaustive of the scope of the invention. 
     Consequently, the invention is intended to be limited only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims, giving full cognizance to equivalents in all respects.