Coding and marking are methods used to ensure quality control in production processes, prevent counterfeiting and facilitate product tracking. Throughout history, coding methods have been developed using different materials and techniques and have evolved into high-tech digital systems. In this article, we will examine the history of coding and marking and discuss the development from past to present.
Coding and Marking in Ancient Times
Coding and marking date back to the earliest periods of human history. In the early ages, producers used symbols, seals or stamps on the goods they produced to indicate their ownership and quality. For example:
- 3000 BC: Ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian and Chinese civilizations used stone tablets, seals and pottery stamps.
- Roman Period: Manufacturer information was engraved on bricks and ceramics.
- Middle Ages: Swordsmen and artisans created brand recognition by marking their products with distinctive marks.
Industrial Revolution and Coding Technologies
- century, the transition to mass production with the Industrial Revolution made the identification and tracking of products mandatory. In this period
- Metal Engravings: Codes engraved on various metal surfaces became common.
- Ink Stamping: Marking started by printing on materials such as wood and fabric.
- Paper Labels: Paper labels were used to indicate the ingredients and manufacturer of the products.
20th Century Coding and Branding Methods
- century has seen great innovations in coding and marking technologies. Especially with the development of the packaging industry, new methods emerged:
- 1930s: Automatic printing machines and offset printing techniques developed.
- 1950s: Barcode systems emerged and became widespread in the retail sector.
- 1970s: Laser marking technology was developed and coding on metal surfaces was introduced.
- 1980s: Inkjet coding machines are introduced on production lines.
Coding and Branding Technologies Today
With advances in technology, coding and marking systems have also undergone major changes. The most commonly used methods today are the following:
1. Laser Marking
Laser technology is capable of marking with high precision on many surfaces such as metal, plastic, glass and paper. Advantages of laser marking:
- No chemical consumption required.
- Creates permanent and abrasion-resistant codes.
- Environmentally friendly.
2. Inkjet Coding
Inkjet coding machines are used to print information such as dates, serial numbers and barcodes on fast production lines. Their advantages are as follows:
- It can print at high speed.
- Can be applied on different surfaces.
- Easy to use and economical.
3. Thermal Transfer Coding (TTO – Thermal Transfer Overprinting)
This technology is particularly preferred for flexible packaging and labeling processes. The benefits of thermal transfer:
- Creates clear and high quality prints.
- It offers color coding.
- It can print high resolution text and graphics.
4. RFID and QR Codes
With the spread of digitalization, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and QR codes are used to carry product information. These systems
- Facilitates product tracking.
- Provides immediate information to consumers.
- Optimizes stock management.
Future Coding and Branding Technologies
New technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT (Internet of Things) and blockchain are being integrated into coding and marking systems. In the coming years:
- Smart labels will enable real-time monitoring of products.
- Counterfeiting can be prevented with nanosensors.
- Blockchain-based systems will make it easier to verify the origin of products.
Conclusion
Coding and marking technologies play a critical role at every stage of production. From ancient times to the present day, many innovations have taken place in this process, from stamps to digital coding. Today, advanced methods such as inkjet, laser and RFID are used to maximize product safety and traceability. In the future, more advanced coding systems will enter our lives with smart technologies.
