Method for the integration of real-time digital traceability, marking, and blockchain-indexed unambiguous origin identification

The integrated traceability method with inert nanomarkers and blockchain ensures robust, real-time monitoring and compliance verification of raw materials and products, addressing the limitations of current traceability systems by maintaining authenticity and legality throughout the lifecycle.

WO2026039881A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-02-26FRANÇA FILHO ANTONIO REBOUÇAS DE +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/BR2024/050370
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-08-19
Publication Date
2026-02-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current traceability methods lack robust integration of physical and digital markers, especially inert nanomarkers, that can withstand transformation processes and are linked to digital systems like blockchain, ERP, and tax documents, leading to insufficient unit authenticity and compliance verification.

Method used

An integrated traceability method using inert nanomarkers with unique spectral profiles, linked to two-dimensional codes and blockchain, ensuring immutable information flow through geolocation and integration with ERP and tax documents, enabling real-time monitoring and authentication.

Benefits of technology

Guarantees the authenticity and legality of raw materials and products throughout their lifecycle, enhancing compliance and sustainability by providing robust, real-time traceability and auditability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The traceability method comprises the integration of traceability software, blockchain, and physical marking at origin using inert nanomarkers that are visible only when excited by a laser of a specific frequency. This integration ensures immutable and robust information in the process of tracing products and raw materials, as well as their production processes, since the nanomarker is not destroyed. In dielectric products / raw materials, integrity analysis equipment is used which, through readings of the reflection of the electromagnetic waves resulting from the interaction thereof with the material, determines its characteristic and unique dielectric profile - since each product has a dielectric constant for each wave frequency - resulting in a reflection-versus-frequency graph that is characteristic of the material. This profile is linked, by the user owner, in the traceability method, to the code corresponding to that product. The method is capable of managing the geolocation of each action on a product or raw material, generating unique and random two-dimensional alphanumeric codes, recording each action in the chain via smartphones or two-dimensional optical readers, linking these codes to tax documents and nanomarkers, as well as generating reports for decision-making.
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Description

[0001] METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF ORIGIN INDEXED TO THE BLOCKCHAIN

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003]

[0001] Traceability method for raw materials, inputs of animal, vegetable, mineral, industrial origin, and final products, such as polymers and similar products, fuels, food, medicines, beverages, chemicals, metals, etc., for strategic and socio-environmental management of the entire chain, from the origin of the raw material, through integrity monitoring via comparison with standards, to its final use or recycling.

[0004] INTRODUCTION

[0005]

[0002] The guarantee of real-time information and the irrefutable verification of the authenticity of raw materials and finished products are increasingly demanded by the international community and regulatory bodies to ensure sustainability and legality throughout the logistics chain, thus respecting the consumer and natural resources. The use of digital traceability technologies, indelible nanotechnology markings that serve as a "DNA" of each origin, and the use of equipment to authenticate their intrinsic characteristics are means to meet current control requirements. The physical and digital traceability of this patent acts as a shield against counterfeiting and illegality, generating a robust information flow and unequivocal recognition of origin.

[0006]

[0003] This invention patent relates to an integrated method of unit traceability, guaranteeing origin and recording the flow of information on raw materials and finished products. The integration of digital traceability with customized physical nanomarkers, using technological means of comparison to identify whether the product maintains the origin standard, is the central focus of this invention.

[0007]

[0004] Indexing unit codes to the tax system, using blockchain as an additional tool, also increases security and enables real-time monitoring of each stage of the chain of custody, for continuous monitoring from the origin, including raw materials, to the reverse logistics of products.

[0008]

[0005] In parallel, the digital system has a web and mobile environment, integrated with the nanomarker codes and indexed with the fiscal / ERP (Enterprise Resources Planning) system, the Blockchain through an API. The systemic and physical integration accompanies the entire production process, from the origin, at the moment of marking, identification and authentication, to the end of its useful life, passing through the primary process and the processing of raw materials, beneficiation, commercialization until disposal or recycling. Each unit of product (liter, kg, etc.) - whether of animal, vegetable or mineral origin, fuels, food, beverages, metals, medicines, chemical products, polymers and the like, etc.- It will be uniquely and unequivocally identified using two-dimensional alphanumeric codes (which may be physical or intrinsic, printed on labels, and / or digital), unique nanomarkers for each origin, with verification by electronic means (electromagnetism, lasers and other optical means), and the establishment of integration with tax documents via software (API), and indexing to blockchain technology, to validate, record and ensure that the information at each stage of the supply chain process is immutable. The two-dimensional codes can be read by smartphones / optical readers of the logistics system and will contain public and private information compartmentalized according to the level of access.

[0009] PRACTICAL PERSUASION

[0010]

[0006] The traceability described here for raw materials, inputs and products, whether in the agribusiness, food and beverage, polymer, paint, graphic arts, mineral, oil and gas, and related sectors, is necessary due to the occurrence of illegal exploitation of areas, invasion of indigenous lands, exploitation without proper treatment of waste, irregular deforestation involving socio-environmental factors, non-compliant processes, as well as harm to human health and the environment.

[0011]

[0007] The international supply of various products has suffered trade restrictions due to the impossibility of guaranteeing legal origin and the sustainability of the process, i.e., that it does not originate from areas of illegal deforestation or lands not authorized for exploitation.

[0008] For this reason, companies need to modernize and use solutions that guarantee legal origin, correct production processes, respect for the environment and the consumer, and thus deliver inputs and products in a more transparent way to consumers, society and government agencies, meeting compliance and sustainability standards (ESG / SDGs).

[0012]

[0009] The physical and digital traceability method makes it possible to guarantee the origin and legality of raw materials and their products, mainly with physical and indelible marking that lasts throughout the entire production process, along with pattern analysis using equipment that verifies the integrity of each raw material and product, linking information from all items and operations through unique two-dimensional codes (which are both physical and digital) as well as tax documents, resulting in unequivocal control of each item, in addition to real-time knowledge of the entire path it has traveled, with geolocation of each stage of the logistics process, ensuring the authenticity of the origin.

[0013]

[0010] In food safety, in the event of a poisoning problem or the need for a recall, the traceability method allows, through traceability using physical and digital elements, to quickly identify which ingredient caused the problem and its origin. It also enables the sector to guarantee the origin of its products, and can also attest that environmental preservation guidelines are met, resulting in brand protection and enhancement.

[0014]

[0011] The guarantee of real-time information and indelible marking are essential requirements to ensure the veracity of the information in the traceability method, and to guarantee compliance with legal, regulatory, SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) requirements.

[0015]

[0012] The integrated traceability of the patent in question is a safeguard against counterfeiting, cargo theft, burglary, piracy, and smuggling. This integration provides breadth and robustness to traceability and, consequently, increases tax revenue and the competitiveness of the legally established industry.

[0016]

[0013] The integration of digital components, such as software, with physical elements (nanomarkers), and also electronic equipment such as lasers and integrity authentication equipment, increases the robustness of the information in the current traceability process, guaranteeing not only the origin but, in many cases, the quality of the product. It allows consumers and public bodies to access information about raw materials and the product consumed and verify whether they meet compliance standards.

[0017] STATE OF THE ART

[0018]

[0014] Currently, the industry uses labels with barcodes, serialized numbering for batch identification, and graphic printing technologies, including radio frequency identification, for product or batch identification in various sectors. However, these technologies are proving insufficient to mitigate illegal activity, which causes harm to the environment, people, society, companies, and the government.

[0019]

[0015] Raw material production is controlled in batches, but lacks unit traceability indexed to permanent and unmistakable physical markings. It also rarely uses origin markers, and when it does, they are not indexed to the digital unit control method that generates the flow of logistics information. This does not confer unit authenticity to each piece / product, as it is not linked to its origin in an integrated way.

[0020]

[0016] It is clearly necessary to have a marking that can withstand the transformation of the raw material, especially in casting and purification procedures, for example, that is permanent and indelible.

[0021]

[0017] The current state of the art does not include markers that can withstand the transformation process of raw materials, let alone their integration with the digital environment. An indelible marker is a kind of DNA that resists all processing of the raw material, and the digital system is the traceability software capable of linking it to tax documents or others, for example, Blockchain.

[0022]

[0018] Current traceability methods do not utilize integration, constituting a chain of links with tax documents, geolocation, nanomarkers, and verification through comparison equipment with the standard product. Such links, which are not established during the traceability process for each stage of the logistics chain – in the current state of the art – hinder auditing, identification of product fraud, tax fraud, and guarantee of origin.

[0023]

[0019] Another resource available in the current state of the art is radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, but their implementation requires infrastructure with high deployment costs, in addition to not supporting the operations of a production process.

[0024]

[0020] Another feature of the current state of the art is the use of standard comparison equipment for quality purposes in dielectric products, but without any use for traceability purposes. This equipment uses electromagnetism to survey dielectric profiles of materials - since each material has unique characteristics when interacting with electromagnetic waves, also generating a unique reflection of these waves - and can be used without any link or integration with a traceability method.

[0025]

[0021] The current state of the art is exemplified in some documents dealing with traceability methods, which are shown below without any judgment of merit.

[0026]

[0022] Patent document BR 102019009406-0 A2 entitled “Object virtualization system for guaranteeing origin and authenticity, with validation process of the identifying element” uses unique and unequivocal identification by means of two-dimensional barcodes (QR-Code), but without links to tax documents or other documents. This patent also does not contemplate a link with inert physical marking, leaving only the digital part of the traceability, in addition to not integrating blockchain for immutability of information. The lack of integrated physical marking is easily lost in the transformation process, even if it is a two-dimensional code, and is difficult to read by smartphone, since the raw materials at the origin do not have communication technology and the integration of the physical with the digital that we have developed is crucial for traceability from the origin.

[0027]

[0023] Patent document BR 102017003022-9 A2, entitled “Device and system for guaranteeing the authenticity and origin of products or documents,” presents a mobile application for reading labels by image (two-dimensional code), wireless transmission of radio frequency (RFID - Radio Frequency Identification) labels, and by near-field communication (NFC - Near Field Communication). As with the patent cited above, these labels do not support production processes. Neither of the cited patents has links to tax documents. This patent uses encrypted keys but does not integrate blockchain into the solution.

[0028]

[0024] Patent document WO 2022063844 entitled “Process and platform for traceability of an attached document generated by a third party from an original document through a blockchain system” is limited to using blockchain for document traceability without integration with physical markers or two-dimensional codes, and does not cover or integrate the traceability of raw materials or products.

[0029]

[0025] Patent WO2019205980 entitled “Blockchain-based method and system for tracking quality throughout the life cycle of prefabricated components” uses blockchain for integrity traceability during the life cycle of prefabricated components, but only uses the digital part and tracks only product integrity, whereas the invention patent proposed here integrates the physical part with the digital part.

[0030]

[0026] Patents WO 2018108392 entitled “System and Method for Tracing a product item”, BR 112017001012-7 A2 entitled “System and method for tracing a product item in a production line” and BR 102013029648-1 A2 entitled “Process and system for identifying and tracking products in a production line”, deal with inventions of traceability methods in the production line, but the proposal requested here has the capacity for traceability from the origin of the raw material or product, through transformation without losing the physical marking, to the final customer and its disposal or recycling, unlike the others mentioned above which are limited to the production line and do not use blockchain.

[0031]

[0027] Patent WO 2015150246, entitled “Marking comprising a chiral liquid crystal polymer and luminescent substance,” uses chiral liquid crystal polymer (CLCP) to mark items and goods. This marker is a chirally doped LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) with a melting point of 350°C and a decomposition point of 400°C. For products or raw materials that undergo transformations using higher temperatures, these markers are destroyed. Monitoring is done using light-emitting equipment, which differs from the approach proposed in this patent, where the marker persists throughout the entire life cycle of the raw material and product, even at temperatures higher than that of the LCP, and monitoring throughout the cycle is done digitally with blockchain and ERP integration.

[0032]

[0028] The applicant for this invention patent is the holder of patent BR 112021001378-4 entitled “Process for preparing and using inorganic markers for identification / security marking on explosives, detonators and ammunition after detonation and on firearms and metallic projectiles, products obtained and process for inserting the markers into explosives, detonators and ammunition and into firearms and metallic projectiles”, which refers to the process of marking explosives, detonators, ammunition after detonation with inert nanomarkers, and its improvement additive (Process No.: BR 13 2022 023853 6) for marking pig iron. However, this process does not include an integration of the physical marker with the digital marker that refers to the traceability method, ERP and the blockchain supplement, unlike this patent application, which contemplates this integration.

[0033]

[0029] The applicant for this invention patent, after using inert nanomarkers in explosives, detonators and ammunition, carried out the marking of metals such as gold, aluminum and low-density polymers, obtaining positive results, since when exciting the marked piece with a laser of a specific frequency, the presence of a fluorescence in the characteristic color of the nanomarker is perceptible to the observer's eyes.

[0034]

[0030] The “QUALITY COMPARISON DEVICE” was developed from research conducted during 2021 in partnership with Meta-Labmax / IFSP (Campus Cubatão), and filed on 08 / 23 / 2022 under No. PCT / BR2022 / 050330, entitled “DEVICE FOR COMPARING DIELECTRIC MATERIAL STANDARDS FROM AN ANTIPODAL VIVALDI ANTENNA WITH EXPONENTIAL EDGE”. The invention consists of a vector network analyzer (VNA) connected to port 1 (50 Ohm SMA type) by a coaxial cable to a Palm Tree class Vivaldi antenna in front of which is positioned a 1.5-inch test tube or fuel pipe (for real-time readings on production line equipment) containing dielectric material (fluid under analysis), which is identified by its dielectric characteristics through the analysis of the reflection coefficient of ultra-wideband (UWB) signals from 1500 to 2500 MHz with a power of 1 dBm.

[0035]

[0031] This equipment uses electromagnetism to recognize dielectric materials, since each material has unique characteristics when interacting with electromagnetic waves, measuring the intensity of wave reflection. The portable equipment performs a reading on a standard sample, and from there, readings can be taken on other samples, comparing them with the reading obtained from the standard. These readings allow verification of whether the composition of the product under analysis corresponds to the standard or not. The continuous reading equipment performs cadenced readings in real time to monitor the conformity of the material in flow with the standard. The solution described above is one part of the verification performed by the integration, relating to this new claim, being one of the electronic means to be used for the proposed integration, since it currently does not have a management system and links with digital traceability, as requested in this patent.

[0036]

[0032] In light of these developments and the process proposed in this invention, the applicant for this patent found that, for more robust logistical and commercial traceability – including raw materials that are transformed during the production cycle and the products themselves – it is necessary to integrate the traceability method indexed to the ERP, nanomarkers with unique identities, integrity comparison devices, and blockchain indexing. This became evident when the applicant began physically marking cylinders with nanomarkers, linking them to the digital medium, and, throughout this process, the blockchain linking was also implemented in the gold marking process, thus achieving the integration proposed by this applicant.

[0037] OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0038]

[0033] The objective of this patent is an integrated traceability method that controls the smallest product unit from the raw material.

[0034] The objective of this patent is an integrated traceability method with indelible marking of raw materials and products.

[0039]

[0035] The objective of this patent is a traceability method with indelible physical marking, using inert nanomarkers in raw materials that are transformed, for example: metals / polymers / similar materials such as gold, lithium, copper, aluminum, pig iron and any other.

[0040]

[0036] The objective of this patent is a traceability method using inert nanomarkers that are invisible, but which, when excited by a laser of appropriate frequency, become visible to the human eye in a specific color.

[0037] The objective of this patent is a traceability method using inert nanomarkers with a spectrometric profile and X-ray diffractogram unique to each raw material / product.

[0041]

[0038] The objective of this patent is a traceability method using digital and physical information links (nanomarker) to ensure adequate robustness to the traceability process and guarantee of origin.

[0042]

[0039] The objective of this patent is a traceability method with supplementary integration to blockchain to guarantee immutable information.

[0043]

[0040] The objective of this patent is a traceability method integrated into the ERP to guarantee links between codes and tax documents, as well as traceability information for logistics control.

[0044]

[0041] The objective of this patent is a traceability method capable of randomly generating the cryptography of unique and two-dimensional codes, to guarantee unitary identification.

[0045]

[0042] The objective of this patent is a traceability method capable of linking codes and tax documents to achieve an adequate level of robustness and auditability.

[0046]

[0043] The objective of this patent is a traceability method capable of reading two-dimensional codes using smartphones and readers, facilitating access and recording of information in a compartmentalized manner according to the level of access.

[0044] The objective of this patent is a traceability method that integrates physical marking using nanomarkers with digital application and blockchain, to guarantee traceability, authenticity and recognition information of raw materials during their transformation process.

[0047]

[0045] The objective of this patent is a traceability method integrated with physical marking using nanomarkers, digital application and blockchain, to guarantee traceability information throughout the entire process from the origin of the raw material, through transformation to its disposal or recycling.

[0048]

[0046] The objective of this patent is a traceability method integrated with material integrity analysis equipment, digital application and blockchain, to guarantee traceability information throughout the entire process from the origin of the product / raw material to its final consumption.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050]

[0047] The METHOD OF INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF INDEXED ORIGIN ON BLOCKCHAIN ​​shows a method that uses traceability software integrated with ERP and tax documents, physical marking with inert nanomarkers visible when excited by laser of appropriate frequency, supplemented by blockchain. This integration ensures immutable information with geolocation management of each stage of the product, generation of unique and random two-dimensional alphanumeric codes, records of each stage of the chain through smartphones or two-dimensional optical readers, links tax documents and nanomarkers, and generates reports for decision-making using Business Intelligence - BI - and Artificial Intelligence - AI resources.

[0051]

[0048] Inert nanomarkers that do not modify the characteristics of the raw material and withstand high temperatures are a marking method that resists the transformation and processing process, unlike other types of marking that are lost in these processes. Given the global challenge of ensuring traceability information for the origin of raw materials and products that are transformed during their cycle, the integration of digital (software and blockchain) and physical (markers) elements is ideal for traceability applications from the origin of products or raw materials. Thus, all information linked throughout the production cycle will irrefutably guarantee the origin, thanks to this physical and logical security.

[0052]

[0049] The information resulting from this integration guarantees the origin of raw materials and products, that is, that they are within legal and regulatory compliance, in addition to facilitating auditing and recalls. The invention in this field has the potential to generate credibility for the brand that operates with this method of physical and digital traceability.

[0053] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0054]

[0050] To aid understanding, the following figures are attached to the patent application:

[0055]

[0051] Fig. 1: Flowchart showing the steps of the method and their reference signs used in the detailed description.

[0056]

[0052] Fig. 2: Illustration of the integration flow in the communication between the markers, integrity analysis device, digital traceability method, ERP and blockchain.

[0057]

[0053] Fig. 3: Illustration of the complete integration - proposed.

[0058]

[0054] Fig. 4: Flowchart of the complete integration.

[0059]

[0055] Fig. 5: Marker insertion process in gold smelting. The marker was added directly to the crucible (vat), demonstrating that marker insertion does not modify the production process.

[0060]

[0056] Fig. 6: Process of inserting a marker into the pure gold crucible. The marker was added directly to the crucible by mixing it with the small stones, demonstrating that the insertion of the marker causes practically no modification to the production process.

[0061]

[0057] Fig. 7: Marked gold samples. After marking different gold foundries, the gold samples were tested to confirm the presence of a marker.

[0062]

[0058] Fig. 8: Tests to verify marking on the gold sample at a ratio of 1 part marker to 20,000 or up to 1,325,750 parts by mass of metal. This test was performed using a laser pen, where the color Green was observed, which is characteristic of the marker used in the tests, this one called Mark 1;

[0059] Fig. 9: Tests to verify marking on the gold sample at a ratio of 1 part marker to 20,000 or up to 1,325,750 parts by mass of metal. This test was performed using a laser pen, where the color Blue was observed, which is characteristic of the marker used in the tests, this one called Mark 2;

[0063]

[0060] Fig. 10: Sample purity measurement using equipment that resulted in 99.99% as shown in the figure, and the presence of the nanomarker used was also verified.

[0064]

[0061] Fig. 11: Traceability flow in the marking of 300 g gold in proof of concept.

[0062] Fig. 12: Flow of the traceability method integrated with software, blockchain and inert nanomarkers applied to raw material with guaranteed origin and identification throughout the alloy cycle.

[0065]

[0063] Fig. 13: Tests to verify the marking on the high-voltage aluminum wire sample at a ratio of 1 part marker to 20,000 or up to 1,325,750 parts per mass of aluminum. This test was performed using a laser pen, where the color Green was observed, which is characteristic of the marker used in the tests, this one called Mark 1;

[0066]

[0064] Fig. 14: Spectrometry of the labeled aluminum alloy to verify that there was no alteration in the required international standards, confirming that the nanomarker is inert and does not alter the characteristics of the alloy.

[0067]

[0065] Fig. 15: Direct insertion of the nanomarker into the channel of the pig iron batch process, requiring no modifications to the production process.

[0068]

[0066] Fig. 16: Tests to verify the marking on the pig iron sample at a ratio of 1 part marker to 1,325,750 parts by mass of pig iron. This test used a laser pen of a specific frequency, where the color Green was observed, which is characteristic of the marker used in the tests, this one called Mark 1.

[0069]

[0067] Fig. 17: Spectrogram of the marker. Graph of the fluorescence spectrum using a benchtop laser in the 450 to 600 nm range, obtained from one of the labeled pig iron samples, compared to the spectrum of pure Mark 1. As observed in the figure, the emission profiles are practically the same, which proves the presence of the marker in the pig iron sample.

[0068] Fig. 18: Low-density polymer manufactured by the injection molding process with an inert nanomarker, in a ratio of 1 g of marker mass to 1 kg of low-density polymer mass.

[0070]

[0069] Fig. 19: Application of the inert nanomarker on graphic stamps.

[0071]

[0070] Fig. 20: Application of the inert nanomarker in industrial and medical gas cylinders together with the two-dimensional code of the traceability method, integrated into the ERP.

[0072]

[0071] Fig. 21: Illustration of digital integration with physical.

[0073] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0074]

[0072] The “METHOD FOR REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY INTEGRATION, MARKING AND UNAFFIRMATIVE IDENTIFICATION OF ORIGIN INDEXED TO BLOCKCHAIN” shows a method, divided into six operational steps (E1), (E2), (E3), (E4), (E5), (E6), one of which is a recurring step (E6), which covers each record in the traceability method, and which focuses on steps 1 (E1), step 3 (E3) in the case of dielectric products, and step 4 (E4). Each step of the method is described below:

[0075]

[0073] Step 1 (E1), of marker registration in the method: The type of nanomarker is associated with a QR-Code - in this case being a type of two-dimensional alphanumeric code - as well as its spectrometric curve. In this step, by reading the QR-Code, the marker is linked to the company that purchased the marker, making this marker - which has a unique spectral profile - exclusive to the purchasing company. It is then recorded in the method that this company owns the marker and that, according to the proportion of use in the product - the amount of marker per product / raw material - it has the capacity to mark a certain quantity. With this, the method performs quantitative control of the supply. Each record made in this step (E1) additionally has geolocation information of where this action was performed.

[0074] Stage 2 (E2), marking: Marking is done manually or automatically, depending on the production process of the product or raw material to be marked, but follows the same proportion criterion of the product or raw material, being applied directly or indirectly during the process.

[0075] Stage 3 (E3), in the case of dielectric products or raw materials: In this stage (E3), the equipment for measuring the integrity of dielectric products or raw materials performs readings of the dielectric profile of the product or raw material in real time. These are recorded in the method and compared with the previously registered standard. If it is out of conformity, an alarm is activated via the system of the company that owns the equipment. This standard is the dielectric profile of the product with composition and characteristics established as compliant. Otherwise, if the standard is compliant, the registration is then carried out.It is worth noting that this step is only included in the integration process for cases where the product is dielectric; that is, metallic products or raw materials are not, and therefore do not go through this step.

[0076]

[0076] Step 4 (E4), linking the code to the marked products or raw materials: The method generates random alphanumeric codes that are then read and linked to the marked product or raw material via smartphone or optical readers. This step integrates the physical medium, via marker, with the digital medium, via QR-Code, within the method. The products are then registered, and from this point, the method can link tax documents to the marked products and their activated codes, as well as register custody transfers to other companies and clients. All of this is recorded in the method and can be monitored by the method's users and the end customer, who only has access to public information authorized by the user. All information can be configured for compartmentalization, according to the user's policy. Each record made in this step also includes geolocation information showing where the action was performed.

[0077]

[0077] ERP Step 5 (E5): In transactions related to commercial and accounting operations, for the traceability method to link the generated tax documents with the codes from step 4 (E4), an API, or Application Programming Interface, exchanges information with the ERP, or Enterprise Resources Planning – which provides the tax documents – about which codes will be linked to which tax document. For this, the API is assigned resources that enable two elements, in this case the traceability method and the ERP, and in the recurring step with the blockchain, to communicate using a set of definitions and protocols.

[0078] Step 6 (E6), which is recurring, of the blockchain: This step (E6) follows steps 1 (E1), step 3 (E3) for dielectric products, and step 4 (E4). Each marker record made in step 1 (E1), assignment of codes to marked products or raw materials made in step 4 (E4), integrity comparison reference readings in dielectric products made in step 3 (E3), and transactions and links of tax documents in the method and tax information recorded and shared with the traceability system via ERP integration made in step 5 (E5), are recorded via API to the blockchain. The information flows in both directions, both being received and transaction confirmations are transmitted to the blockchain via API.In this way, the blockchain ensures that the transaction is unique; that is, when reading the activation or custody transfer of a code linked to the marked product or raw material, it generates a unique and inviolable hash, guaranteeing that the transaction is unique and cannot be repeated. In case of repetition, the record is treated as suspicious and reported to the user via the method, which provides robustness to the traceability method.

[0079] The first part of the invention for integrating the traceability method is the application of the nanomarker, performed in step 2 (E2), which is unique to each source material, with unique spectrometry, to be applied in a determined quantity directly to the raw material. Verification of the presence of the inert nanomarker can be performed using a portable laser pen, of appropriate frequency, at any stage of the traceability process, post-marking. This laser excitation of the marker results in fluorescence at a determined frequency, visible to the observer.

[0078]

[0080] The place of origin, where the raw material is produced and marked with nanotechnology, is where the code linked to the marker will be registered, and subsequently to the tax document to which each marked unit is linked. To do this, the tax document must be attached using the software, and then the code(s) must be read via smartphone or optical reader, followed by choosing the attachment status of the tax invoice, selecting the tax document that corresponds to the raw material to be linked, and finally confirming the link.

[0079]

[0081] The generated codes used in steps 1 (E1) and 4 (E4) can be printed directly on the product or via labels or packaging, and are made available to the user and are unique, being exclusively associated with each product. In this step, after the physical marking that takes place at the origin using nanomarkers, it is necessary to activate the code in step 1 (E1), and register the link between the code and the marker and the raw material or primary product in step 4 (E4). Initially, the user must read the code via smartphone or reader or type the two-dimensional alphanumeric code number, along with the information that must be entered, which can be configured according to the raw material or primary product to be tracked.

[0080]

[0082] The method is capable of managing the traceability of any product, whether from the agribusiness, mineral, petroleum, graphic arts, mining, food and beverage, or any other sector. The mobile application via smartphone allows for recording the stages of the raw material cycle and its transformations. For each step in the life cycle of a given raw material, the following information is stored, among others: the name or login of the person who performed the action on the product, the date and time the action was performed, which marker was used, and the geolocation where the action was performed. Thus, by searching for a code in the method, it is possible to identify each step of the product and know who, when, and where each action occurred.

[0081]

[0083] The traceability method generates random, encrypted codes in steps 1 (E1) and 4 (E4), with a range of quadrillions of alphanumeric combinations. These codes are generated by a digital traceability system.

[0082]

[0084] The method has a mobile and web application capable of generating and linking unique, two-dimensional codes. These codes link user-configurable information related to a specific product via the method, with the user defining the access level to each piece of linked information. This means determining which information will be public, which requires higher access levels (allowing interaction with the consumer), and which will remain private for the information owner. The information is held by the user responsible for the raw material, the processor, the marketer, and others involved in each stage of the supply chain – compartmentalized for each user at each stage of the traceability process. The method provides reports that aid in certifications and audits, as well as data for the consumer of the product.

[0083]

[0085] The method encompasses the entire life cycle of the raw material, from the beginning of processing to the final product, covering each step, up to disposal or recycling.

[0084]

[0086] The two-dimensional alphanumeric codes generated by the traceability method, which can be in digital format or printed directly or on labels, are linked to the originating units of a given raw material and connected to tax documents and their specific nanomarker, strengthening the auditable link to the origin and recording the history of events that occurred throughout its life, also enabling the tracing of the origin of the raw material, the product and even where it is being used. For example, in the case of a given raw material marked with a nanomarker and traced from its origin, it can be identified in which product it was used, even by the end customer.

[0085]

[0087] The method has the ability to verify, through the reading of the two-dimensional code with smartphones or optical readers used in the logistics operation, the geolocation of each product event and which custodians – raw materials, industry, retailer, sales sectors, consumer, recycling and return – had possession of the product during its useful life, disposal or recycling. This information, integrated into the blockchain, is validated by the actors involved within the blockchain, and its updates in the ledger are immutable, with date and time information encrypted for serial recording, as the blockchain operates in a robust and decentralized manner.

[0086]

[0088] The traceability method is integrated into the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) management system via an API (Application Programming Interface) for exchanging information on tax documents and the traceability of raw materials and products. This links the codes to the tax document validates the exchange of information between the traceability method and the ERP.

[0087]

[0089] Integrating blockchain with traceability software via API establishes communication for updating information in its unique, encrypted key blocks, guaranteeing immutable information from code activation at the source to the end of the raw material transformation cycle.

Claims

CLAIMS 1) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF ORIGIN INDEXED TO BLOCKCHAIN, integrating a traceability system, inert nanomarkers and integrity analysis equipment, and blockchain for the traceability process of raw materials and products throughout the life cycle, characterized by the process being carried out in a set of steps, with step 1 (E1) in which a nanomarker is associated with a two-dimensional alphanumeric code, as well as its spectrometric curve, and by reading the two-dimensional code the marker is linked to the user who purchased the marker, and it is recorded that this user has possession of the marker and that, according to the proportion of use in the product, this user has the capacity to mark a certain quantity of product or raw material;a stage 2 (E2) involves marking the product or raw material manually or automatically, following a certain proportional criterion, and being applied directly or indirectly during the process; a stage 4 (E4) in which random alphanumeric codes are generated that are read and linked to the marked product or raw material via smartphone or optical readers, with the products then registered and the record used to link marked products and their codes to activated tax documents and custody transfers to other users, with these actions recorded and trackable by system users and end customers; a stage 5 (E5) in which, when commercial and accounting transactions or operations are carried out on products or raw materials, the generated tax documents are linked to the codes from stage 4 (E4), using an API that exchanges information with the ERP, to make the tax documents available;and a stage 6 (E6) in which each marker record made in stage 1 (E1), assignment of codes to marked products / raw materials made in stage 4 (E4), integrity comparison reference readings in dielectric products made in stage 3 (E3), and transactions and links of tax documents in the system and tax information recorded and shared with the traceability system via integration with ERP made in stage 5 (E5), are; Registered via API to the blockchain in a two-way manner, generating a unique and tamper-proof hash. 2) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN-INDEXED ORIGIN, according to claim 1, characterized by performing a step 3 (E3) on dielectric products or raw materials, using equipment for measuring the integrity of dielectric products or raw materials, performs readings of the dielectric profile of the product or raw material in real time, this profile being recorded in the system and compared with a previously registered standard, and if this profile is out of conformity an alarm is activated via the system of the company holding the equipment, and if this profile is in conformity then a code is assigned to the product or raw material. 3) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN-INDEXED ORIGIN, according to claim 1, characterized by, in step 2 (E2), applying the nanomarker, either at the time of fusion, or by means of simple physical mixing, or other form during the transformations inherent to the process; and with each product and raw material having specific proportions between marker and raw material or bulk products. 4) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF INDEXED ORIGIN INTO A BLOCKCHAIN, according to claim 1, characterized in that the random alphanumeric codes used in steps 1 (E1) and 4 (E4) are generated by means of a digital traceability system. 5) METHOD OF INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN-INDEXED ORIGIN, according to claim 1, characterized by the records made in step (E4) and the tax documents shown linked in step 5 (E5) being verified through the use of a smartphone or optical reader, with the tax documents made available via communication between API and ERP. 6) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY UNEQUIVOCAL MARKING AND IDENTIFICATION OF ORIGIN INDEXED TO BLOCKCHAIN, according to claim 1, characterized by, in the case of aggregation of two or more raw materials into a single product, in step (E4) two or more alphanumeric codes are registered in a record, by reading the codes via smartphone or optical reader, and linking to the single code of the product named by aggregation. 7) METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAMBIGUOUS IDENTIFICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN-INDEXED ORIGIN, according to claims 1 and 5, characterized by the registrations carried out in steps 1 (E1) and 4 (E4) performing an additional geolocation registration of the record, linking the codes to nanomarkers and tax documents, with this geolocation verifiable by reading the registered code. METHOD FOR INTEGRATING REAL-TIME DIGITAL TRACEABILITY, MARKING AND UNAFFIXED IDENTIFICATION OF INDEXED ORIGIN INTO BLOCKCHAIN, according to claim 1, characterized in that when registering via product or raw material code in step 4 (E4), the user who registered this code can delimit the level of access to each of the linked information between those that are public and those that require higher levels of access.

Citation Information

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