Design and validation of a multi-dimensional embedded quick response code system for compressed and encrypted electronic medical record integration

A BSTRACT Objectives: To develop and validate a multi-dimensional embedding (MDE)-based quick response (QR) system that enhances storage capacity, ensures mathematical reversibility, and provides structural data concealment without altering standard QR specifications. Materials and Methods: A four-dimensional embedding function with multi-axis projection was designed to merge multiple binary QR layers into a single grayscale QR structure. Eight simulated electronic medical record (EMR) datasets were encoded into version 10 (57 × 57 modules), error correction code level H QR codes, and merged via the MDE algorithm. Inverse decoding was performed to reconstruct each layer. Evaluation included capacity improvement, decoding accuracy, readability testing using standard scanners, and mobile application validation. Results: Eight QR layers were successfully integrated into one grayscale QR, achieving an eightfold theoretical capacity increase with linear scalability. Reconstruction accuracy reached 100%, with restored matrices identical to original data. Standard scanners failed to decode the merged QR (100% failure rate), demonstrating structural concealment. Conclusion: The MDE-based QR framework overcomes traditional capacity limitations while maintaining complete reversibility and structural security. It enables multilayer EMR integration within a single carrier and supports secure, offline healthcare data access, providing a scalable extension of conventional QR technology for intelligent medical information management.