Tracking system for distributable objects which are marked in single laser shot events with dynamically variable images

Abstract

A supply chain monitoring system having a laser-based image system usable within an object processing facility to form images in objects, a reader operable to read the images on the objects, and an object tracking system coupled to the reader over a data network. The laser-based image system includes an image forming device operable to form an array of laser-treated regions in the objects in single shot events, where the arrays of laser-treated regions are associated with images.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM [0001] This application is a non-provisional of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 681,396, filed May 17, 2005 and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 683,271, filed May 20, 2005, the entire contents and disclosures of which are incorporated herein. CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0002] This application is related to the following commonly-owned co-pending patent applications: “LASER-BASED IMAGE FORMER OPERABLE TO FORM DYNAMICALLY VARIABLE IMAGES IN OBJECTS IN SINGLE SHOT EVENTS,” Ser. No. ______, Attorney Docket No. 116968-004; “OBJECT PROCESSING ASSEMBLY OPERABLE TO FORM DYNAMICALLY VARIABLE IMAGES IN OBJECTS IN SINGLE SHOT EVENTS”, Ser. No. ______, Attorney Docket No. 116968-007; and “IMAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM OPERABLE TO FORM DYNAMICALLY VARIABLE IMAGES IN OBJECTS IN SINGLE SHOT EVENTS”, Ser. No. ______, Attorney Docket No. 116968-008.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The counterfeiting of products poses a signif...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The system effectively deters counterfeiting by enabling rapid and secure coding of products, enhancing supply chain security and safety by allowing for real-time authentication and detection of counterfeit items.

Problems solved by technology

The counterfeiting of products poses a significant threat to the safety and integrity of supply chains.

Counterfeiting also jeopardizes the good will in well-established product brand names.

Despite these efforts, many counterfeiters have introduced counterfeits of these products into the supply chain through the use of commercially available printers and other machinery, and in many cases, the counterfeits have reached the end-user without being detected.

Images