Optically variable device mastering system, method of authenticating articles employing the same, and resultant article

Abstract

A method is provided for mastering optically variable devices (OVDs) used to authenticate optical discs. The method generally includes the steps of providing a laser beam recorder (LBR), introducing a substrate to the LBR, and exposing a portion of the substrate to the LBR. The mastering system thus includes the LBR, which has a laser that emits a beam, a processor or computer for programming or otherwise controlling the beam in order to expose the substrate and create the desired optical effect. Depending on the material used for the substrate, the exposure is then developed, if necessary, and processed to generate a master for the OVD. The OVD can then be replicated in order to provide authentic resultant products or articles, such as optical discs.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the priority of Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 763,427, filed Jan. 30, 2006, entitled “OPTICALLY VARIABLE DEVICE MASTERING SYSTEM, METHOD OF AUTHENTICATING ARTICLES EMPLOYING THE SAME, AND RESULTANT ARTICLE.”BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates generally to optically variable devices and, more particularly, to a system and method for mastering optically variable devices utilizing a laser beam recorder. The invention further relates to the authentication of articles, such as, for example, optical discs, by employing such a system and method, and to resultant articles.[0004]2. Background Information[0005]An optically variable device (OVD) is a device which creates a change or shift in appearance, such as, for example and without limitation, a change in color or shape, when observed from different angles. The evolution of the OVD stems largely from the search for a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0020]It is yet another object of the invention to provide an optical image that can animate (i.e., move), or morph or transform into another, different optical image when viewed from a predetermined angle.

Problems solved by technology

Complexity of design, difficulty in creating the ‘master’ OVD, and difficulty in altering the original design have evolved to make OVDs a successful tool for authenticating the article or a product from a counterfeit or “pass off.”

One product which has become increasingly popular and, therefore, increasingly susceptible to counterfeiting by thieves, is the optical disc, such as, for example, compact discs (CDs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs), which are used to store data including, for example, computer software, video data such as movies, and music.

Images