US 7,744,130 B2 · Secure product authentication tags

Abstract

A tag with features to enable its authenticity to be determined includes a hidden code intermixed with a visible pattern such that the hidden code is not readily detectable under ambient light condition, without the use of a specially designed reader. In one embodiment the tag is formed with a first layer containing a hidden code, formed of reflective elements, which overlies a second layer which is designed to absorb light having a predetermined wavelength (e.g., IR light). The hidden code can be detected by projecting a light source having the predetermined wavelength (e.g., an IR source) at a predetermined angle on the tag and using a sensor to sense the reflection from the tag.

Claims19

Dependent claims

An instrument with features for enabling its authenticity to be determined, comprising:

a top surface area;
a first optical pattern and a second coded optical pattern formed within a single layer underlying said top surface, said first and second patterns being formed such that:
(a) under ambient light conditions incident on said top surface the light reflected from the underlying first and second patterns produces a reflected image which is dominated by the first pattern while the image reflected from the second optical pattern is generally unrecognizable to a reader;
and (b) when the top surface is illuminated by a controlled linear light source, the image reflected through the top surface from said second coded optical pattern is recognizable and decodable while the image reflected from the first pattern is unrecognizable and unreadable.

1 more element

A system for increasing the security of instruments comprising:

forming an instrument which includes a first visible optical pattern with which there is intermixed a second coded optical pattern formed within a designated area of the instrument, said second coded optical pattern not readily discernible under ambient light conditions, the instrument being formed such that:
(a) in response to ambient light incident on the instrument a pattern corresponding to the visible optical pattern is discernible while the coded optical pattern is not discernible;
and (b) in response to a controlled linear light source incident on the instrument the second coded optical pattern can be read;
and
means for projecting a controlled linear light source onto said instrument at a specified angle;
and
means for sensing and decoding the coded optical pattern present in the instrument.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Secure product authentication tags

Life of this patent

Secure product authentication tags

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19