Authentication device

Abstract

The invention relates to an authentication device (1) for an information carrier (2) configured to encapsulate at least one datum relating to a product or a person, wherein the authentication device (1) comprises a zone, referred to as the authentication zone (4), wherein the authentication zone (4) comprises at least one layer (7) provided with the information carrier (2) and an optically variable element (6) that displays a variation between a first appearance and a second appearance such that, in a first state, the authentication zone (4) and / or the information carrier (2) displays the first appearance and, in a second state, the authentication zone (4) and / or the information carrier (2) displays the second appearance, wherein the transition between the first appearance and the second appearance is caused by a variation in the viewing angle, or the lighting, or a physico-chemical stimulus.

Description

Description Title: AUTHENTICATION DEVICE Prior art

[0001] Nowadays, more and more information is exchanged via information vehicles, through a multitude of channels and media, much of which is not or only slightly secure. For example, we can cite QR codes, which are matrix symbols that can encapsulate data. This can be a simple access to a URL that redirects the user to a web page. However, it is also possible that the data embedded in the QR code is more sensitive, such as biometric data. It is therefore essential to be able to ensure the security of this information.

[0002] It has also become essential to prove one's identity during digital exchanges between citizens, administrations, and businesses, even as identity theft is constantly on the rise. However, the processes known to date have security flaws that need to be corrected.

[0003] The present invention aims to provide an authentication device and method which make it possible to improve the reliability of information vehicles, such as QR codes. Summary This disclosure improves the situation.

[0004] There is proposed an authentication device for an information vehicle configured to encapsulate at least one piece of data relating to a product or a person, the authentication device comprising a zone, called an authentication zone, provided with said information vehicle and an optically variable element which has a variation between a first appearance and a second appearance so that, in a first state, the authentication zone and / or the information vehicle has the first appearance and that, in a second state, the authentication zone and / or the information vehicle has the second appearance, a switch between the first appearance and the second appearance being carried out by a variation according to the viewing angle, lighting or a physicochemical stimulus.

[0005] Preferably, there is provided an authentication device for an information vehicle configured to encapsulate at least one piece of data relating to a product or a person, the authentication device comprising an area, called an authentication area, provided with said information vehicle and an optically variable element, said authentication area having a variation between a first appearance and a second appearance such that, in a first state, the authentication area has the first appearance and, in a second state, the authentication area has the second appearance, a switch between the first appearance and the second appearance being effected by a variation according to the viewing angle or a physicochemical stimulus. The physicochemical stimulus may be chosen from lighting, temperature, pressure or a mixture thereof.

[0006] Also provided is a method of authenticating an information vehicle of an authentication device as described above, the method comprising the following steps: - applying a variation in the viewing angle, lighting or a physicochemical stimulus to the authentication device so as to switch the information vehicle from the first state to the second state, - reading said at least one piece of information encapsulated by the information vehicle, - comparison of said at least one piece of information read with a piece of reference information.

[0007] Thus, the device and method according to the present invention ensure strong authentication, whether remotely (using a mobile phone, a webcam, a tablet, etc.) or in person via a reading device or not.

[0008] More broadly, the device and method according to the present invention allow strong phygital authentication of a secure personalized element integrating data, authorizing a transfer of data.

[0009] The invention allows for the combination of physical, digital, or even physical, digital, and biometric authentication. Once this authentication is guaranteed, data can be transferred securely.

[0010] Furthermore, it is noted that the method according to the present invention can be compliant with the GDPR, the data not being stored remotely but encapsulated.

[0011] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for authenticating an information vehicle configured to encapsulate at least one piece of data relating to a product or a person, the authentication device comprising a support comprising a zone, called the authentication zone, the authentication zone comprising at least one layer provided with said information vehicle and an optically variable element having a color change between a first color and a second color so that, in a first state, the information vehicle has the first color and, in a second state, the information vehicle has the second color, a color switch between the first color and the second color being carried out by physicochemical stimulus.

[0012] In another aspect, the optically variable element comprises one or more fluorescent compound(s) of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene family and / or of the difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks) family.

[0013] According to another aspect, the compound(s) of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene family are chosen from those of formula I: in which, R 1 is C1-C6 alkyl, C5-C6 cycloalkyl, C5-C6 heteroalkyl, phenyl, said phenyl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups chosen from C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, COO- and halogen; R 2 and R 2 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl; R 3 and R 3 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl; R 4 and R 4' are independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, alkenyl, said aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl and alkenyl being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from C1 to C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy and ferrocene, said aryl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from aryl, C1 to C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, nitro, said aryl being optionally substituted by a C1 to C2 alkyl group; R 5 is C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl.

[0014] According to another aspect, the compound(s) of the difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks) family are chosen from those of formula II: in which, L 1 is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, L 2 is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, R 1is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, R 2 is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, and R 3 is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group.

[0015] In another aspect, the information vehicle is a bar code, for example one-dimensional or two-dimensional, called a QR code, or an identifier of a bank account, or an identifier of a manufactured or food product, or a photograph.

[0016] In another aspect, the physicochemical stimulus is light irradiation, a change in temperature or pressure, or a change in an observation condition such as an observation angle of incidence of the authentication device.

[0017] According to another aspect, the method comprises a step of exchanging information subsequent to the steps of application, reading and comparison if the outcomes of these steps are in accordance with an expectation.

[0018] The invention also relates to a use of the method as described above to authorize authentication on social networks and more generally on the internet, and / or to carry out a financial transaction.

[0019] The invention also relates to a use of the method as described previously to authorize a transfer of digital data.

[0020] According to another aspect, the use according to the present invention, for example of the user journey type, comprises a step of presenting a device as described above in front of an automated or human-assisted reading device, a step of recognizing a change in appearance of the area, a step of reading the information vehicle, and a step of comparing said at least one piece of data encapsulated in the information vehicle. This is, for example, biometric data or data relating to a product. Thus, there is validation of the entire chain. Brief description of the drawings

[0021] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig. 1

[0022] [Fig. 1] shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a first alternative embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2

[0023] [Fig. 2] shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a second variant of the present invention. Fig. 3

[0024] [Fig. 3] shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a third variant of the present invention.

[0025] [Fig. 4] shows a flowchart of an authentication method using an authentication device of Figure 1. Description of the embodiments

[0026] Reference is now made to Figure 1. As shown in this figure, a device, referenced 1, makes it possible to authenticate an information vehicle 2.

[0027] By information vehicle, we mean a set of a physical medium and digital data. By way of non-limiting examples, we can cite: a one-dimensional barcode, for example for identifying a manufactured or food product, a two-dimensional barcode of the QR code type, for "Quick Response" in English, or, rapid response code, for its translation into French, an alphanumeric code for identifying a bank account or a manufactured or food product, a photograph.

[0028] Preferably, the information vehicle may be a visible electronic seal (VES) capable of integrating biometric data, a VES being a device encapsulating key data, accompanied by their electronic signature in a two-dimensional code. The electronic signature is advantageously by a server of an issuer, which distinguishes it from a personal electronic signature. The benefit of the presence of this electronic seal is to very strongly authenticate the issuer of the document, as well as the data that has been signed.

[0029] Preferably, but not limited to, the digital data of the information vehicle are product data and / or civil status data and / or biometric data and / or photograph and / or fingerprints.

[0030] As can be seen in the figures, the authentication device 1 comprises a zone 4, called the authentication zone, in which the information vehicle 2 and an optically variable element 6 are located.

[0031] An optically variable element is any element, including an image, whose appearance (color and / or pattern and / or shape) varies depending on the viewing angle or lighting. Examples include elements including high-resolution diffractive structures (DOVID — optically variable diffractive image), holograms, color-changing inks (e.g., inks with optically variable properties) or other diffractive or reflective materials. It exhibits a variation between a first appearance and a second appearance depending on a physicochemical stimulus, and will be detailed later.

[0032] The physicochemical stimulus, also called stimulation, can be light irradiation (called illumination), a change in temperature or pressure or even a modification of an observation condition (such as the angle of incidence of the observation of the element).

[0033] The first state is the configuration of the authentication device 1 in which the authentication zone 4 has the first appearance and the second state is the configuration of the authentication device 1 in which the authentication zone 4 has the second appearance.

[0034] Authentication zone means the zone provided with an information vehicle and an optically variable element. The information vehicle may be at least partially superimposed on the optically variable element in a direction perpendicular to the authentication zone so as to form a stack.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the information vehicle and the optically variable element are each arranged in two different layers superimposed on each other. Alternatively, the information vehicle and the optically variable element can be arranged in the same layer of the authentication device.

[0036] The authentication zone 4 can occupy the entire surface of the device 1 or simply a part of it.

[0037] The optically variable element 6 may be in the form of an ink or marked raw material (example: laser engraving, embossing) or a personalized micro-structured element (example: patches / bands / holographic films) or any form of combination between these elements.

[0038] In the case of an ink, the information vehicle can be printed on layer 7 by any technology known to those skilled in the art, such as offset, screen printing, or inkjet. It is also possible to carry out personalization, for example by laser engraving (shades of gray and / or colors). More generally, the information vehicle is suitable for any appropriate technology known to those skilled in the art.

[0039] We now detail three non-limiting variants of the authentication device 1 in which, by way of example, the information vehicle 2 is presented in the form of a QR code.

[0040] According to the variant of Figure 1, the device 1 comprises three superimposed, laminated layers. A layer 7 comprises the QR code 2. An intermediate layer, 8, is formed from secure raw material, that is to say it comprises the optically variable element 6. A third layer 9 forms a support for the device 1. The layers 7 and 9 are arranged on either side of the intermediate layer 8. The authentication zone 4 is the part of the device 1 which comprises the part of the first layer 7 comprising the QR code and the part of the second layer 8 opposite the QR code.

[0041] According to the variant of Figure 2, the device 1 comprises three superimposed, laminated layers. A layer 7 comprises the information vehicle 2 (in the form of a QR code). An intermediate layer, 8, comprises a marking 10 comprising the optically variable element 6 in the form of an ink. A third layer 9 forms a support for the device 1. The layers 7 and 9 are arranged on either side of the intermediate layer 8. The authentication zone 4 is the part of the device 1 which comprises the part of the first layer 7 comprising the QR code and the part of the second layer 8 opposite the QR code.

[0042] According to the variant of Figure 3, the device 1 comprises two superimposed, laminated layers. A layer 7 comprises the information vehicle 2 (in the form of a QR code) which comprises the optically variable element 6. For example, the QR code is printed in the form of ink optically variable. A layer 9 forms a support for the device 1. The authentication zone 4 is the part of the first layer 7 comprising the QR code.

[0043] In the embodiments which will be detailed, the optically variable element comprises a given concentration of an active substance comprising one or more fluorescent compound(s), particularly from the family of 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacenes or from the family of difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks), detailed later.

[0044] However, the invention is not limited to this type of optically variable element.

[0045] For example, it can also be a -chrome, a liquid crystal ink or even an optically variable ink of the type also known as color-changing inks.

[0046] Preferably, the layer comprising the optically variable element 6 also comprises a polymer in which the compound(s) are incorporated into a polymer, and in particular a polymer matrix constituting the support of the device 1.

[0047] For the remainder of the description, the terms “4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene(s) compound(s)”, “difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks)”, and “fluorescent dye(s)” will be used interchangeably.

[0048] It is noted that the active substance can be mixed with one or more types of inks.

[0049] The compounds 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene are fluorescent dyes whose first synthesis was published in 1968 (A. Treibs et al, Justus Liebigs Ann. Chem. 1968, 718, 208). Since then, several other syntheses have been published (e.g., Chem. Eur. J., 2009, 15, 5823; J. Phys. Chem. C, 2009, 113, 11844; Chem. Eur. J., 2011, 17, 3069; J. Phys. Chem. C, 2013, 117, 5373) and many 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene compounds are commercially available, e.g., from ThermoFisher Scientific (Waltham, MA USA).

[0050] They possess remarkable absorption and emission properties and in particular have relatively narrow fluorescent excitation and emission bands with high cp quantum yields between 0.5 and 1, which makes them highly fluorescent.

[0051] In addition, these compounds exhibit good photostability as well as significant thermal stability. Indeed, the fluorescent dyes according to the invention are generally stable up to 300°C. Thanks to this significant thermal stability, these fluorescent dyes can easily be incorporated into polymer matrices in the molten state and, against all expectations, the fluorescence absorption and emission performances are not altered by incorporation into a polymer matrix. This good stability allows the compound(s) to be incorporated into a relevant ink, which ensures high stability with respect to photobleaching, unlike prior art technologies.

[0052] The compounds 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene all have an absorption band in the visible and the color perceived by the naked eye corresponds to the complementary color of the absorbed color. For example, a compound absorbing around 480-490 nm, which corresponds to a green / blue color, will appear to the naked eye in orange / red tones.

[0053] Concerning the fluorescence properties, the compounds of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene family according to the invention all have excitation bands in the Ultraviolet (UV) and emission bands in the visible. They can therefore be excited, in particular by means of a UV lamp emitting between 100 nm and 400 nm and the fluorescence can be detected with the naked eye.

[0054] Finally, the emission wavelength can be determined using a low-resolution spectrofluorometer or fluorimeter with a single grating (detection by photodiode or photomultiplier tube).

[0055] The 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene compound(s) used in the present invention may be chosen from those of formula I below: in which, R 1 is C1-C6 alkyl, C5-C6 cycloalkyl, C5-C6 heteroalkyl, phenyl, said phenyl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups chosen from C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, R 5 COO _ and halogen; R 2 and R 2 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl; R 3 and R 3 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl; R 4 and R 4' are independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, alkenyl, said aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl and alkenyl being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from C1 to C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy and ferrocene, said aryl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from aryl, C1 to C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, nitro, said aryl being optionally substituted by a C1 to C2 alkyl group; R 5 is C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl.

[0056] Preferred compounds of formula I are those wherein one or more of R1, R2, R2', R3, R3', R4, R4' and R5 are defined as follows: R 1is a phenyl substituted by one or more groups chosen from methyl, fluoro, hydroxy, acetyl and methacrylate, preferably from methyl, fluoro, hydroxy and acetyl and more preferably from methyl or fluoro; R 2 and R 2 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and methyl; R 3 and R 3 ' are independently selected from hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl and preferably ethyl; R 4 and R 4 ' are independently selected from methyl, vinyl, aryl, heteroaryl, adamantyl, said vinyl and aryl being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from phenyl, C1 to C2 alkyl, said phenyl being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from C1 to C2 alkyl, hydroxy, bromo, nitro, dimethylamine, preferably R 4 and R 4' are independently selected from methyl, vinyl, phenyl, phenanthracenyl, naphthalenyl, pyrenyl, thiphenyl, benzofuranyl, said vinyl, aryl and naphthalenyl being optionally substituted by one or more methyl, hydrocy, bromo, nitro and dimethylamino; R 5 is methyl or ethenyl.

[0057] Particularly preferred compounds of formula I are those in the table below:

[0058] For the description of the compounds used in the present invention, the terms and expressions used must, unless otherwise indicated, be interpreted according to the definitions below.

[0059] The term "halogen" means fluoro, chloro, bromo or iodo. Preferred halogen groups are fluoro and bromo, with fluoro being particularly preferred.

[0060] The term "alkyl" denotes a hydrocarbon radical of formula CnH2n+1, linear or branched, in which n is an integer greater than or equal to 1. The preferred alkyl groups are C1 to C6 alkyl groups, linear or branched.

[0061] The term "alkenyl" means an unsaturated, linear or branched alkyl group comprising one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Suitable alkenyl groups comprise from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 2 to 4 carbon atoms and more preferably 2 or 3 carbon atoms. Non-limiting examples of alkenyl groups are ethenyl (vinyl), 2-propenyl (allyl), 2-butenyl and 3-butenyl, with ethenyl and 2-propenyl being preferred.

[0062] The term "cycloalkyl", alone or as part of another group, means a saturated mono-, di- or tricyclic hydrocarbon radical having 3 to 12 carbon atoms, especially 5 to 10 carbon atoms, more especially 6 to 10 carbon atoms. Suitable cycloalkyl radicals include, but are not limited to, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, norbornyl, adamantyl, especially cyclohexyl and adamantyl. Preferred cycloalkyl groups include cyclohexyl, adamant-1-yl and adamant-2-yl.

[0063] The term "aryl" means a polyunsaturated, aromatic, monocyclic (e.g., phenyl) or polycyclic (e.g., naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenantracenyl, pyrenyl) hydrocarbon radical. Preferred aryl groups include phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenantracenyl, pyrenyl.

[0064] The term "heteroaryl" means an aromatic ring having 5 to 12 carbon atoms in which at least one carbon atom is replaced by an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom or by -NH, which nitrogen and sulfur atoms may optionally be oxidized and which nitrogen atom may optionally be quaternized, or a ring system containing 2 to 3 fused rings each typically containing 5 or 6 atoms and of which at least one ring is aromatic, at least one carbon atom of the at least one aromatic ring being replaced by an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom or by -NH, which nitrogen and sulfur atoms may optionally be oxidized and which nitrogen atom may optionally be quaternized. Examples of heteroaryl groups include furanyl, thiophenyl, pyrrolyl, pyridinyl and benzofuranyl.

[0065] The compounds used in the present invention can be synthesized according to methods known to those skilled in the art. In particular, reference may be made to the publication by A. Loudet et al. (Chem. Rev. 2007, 107, 4891-4932).

[0066] According to another embodiment, the optically variable element comprises a fluorescent composition comprising a polymer matrix incorporating a compound of the P-diketonate difluoroborane (BF2bdk) family chosen from the compounds of formula II below:

[0067] in which, L 1 is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, L 2 is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, R 1 is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, R 2is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, and R 3 is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group.

[0068] Preferred difluoroborane P-diketonate family compounds of formula I are those wherein one or more of L1, L2, R1, R2, and R3 are defined as follows: L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain, preferably C2 to C8 or non-existent, L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain, preferably C2 to C8 or non-existent, Ri is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group, preferably an aryl group unsubstituted or substituted by at least one electron-donating or electron-withdrawing group, R2 is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group, preferably an aryl group unsubstituted or substituted by at least one electron-donating or electron-withdrawing group, and R3 is chosen from hydrogen and a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group.

[0069] Preferred difluoroborane P-diketonate family compounds of formula I are those wherein one or more of L1, L2, R1, R2, and R3 are defined as follows: L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 to C4 or non-existent, L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 to C4 or non-existent, Ri is an aryl group unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group chosen from hydroxy, alkoxy, alkyl, aryl, dialkylamino, thioalkoxy, halogen, R2 is an aryl group which is unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group chosen from hydroxy, alkoxy, alkyl, aryl, dialkylamino, thioalkoxy, halogen, and R3 is selected from hydrogen and an unsubstituted aryl group.

[0070] Preferred difluoroborane P-diketonate family compounds of formula I are those wherein one or more of L1, L2, R1, R2, and R3 are defined as follows: L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 to C4 or non-existent, L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 to C4 or non-existent, Ri is an aryl group unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group chosen from hydroxy, C1 to C4 alkoxy, C1 to C8 alkyl, aryl, C1 to C4 dialkylamino, C1 to C4 thioalkoxy, halogen, preferably fluorine, R2 is an aryl group unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group selected from hydroxy, C1-C4 alkoxy, C1-C8 alkyl, aryl, C1-C4 dialkylamino, C1-C4 thioalkoxy, halogen, preferably fluorine, and R3 is a hydrogen atom.

[0071] Preferred difluoroborane P-diketonate family compounds of formula I are those wherein one or more of L1, L2, R1, R2, and R3 are defined as follows: L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 or non-existent, L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain in C2 or non-existent, Ri is an aryl group, preferably phenyl, biphenyl or naphthyl, unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group chosen from hydroxy, C1 to C4 alkoxy, preferably methoxy, C1 to C8 alkyl, preferably tert / o-butyl, aryl, C1 to C4 alkylamino, preferably dimethylamino, R2 is an aryl group, preferably phenyl, biphenyl or naphthyl, unsubstituted or substituted by at least one group chosen from hydroxy, C1 to C4 alkoxy, preferably methoxy, C1 to C8 alkyl, preferably tert / o-butyl, aryl, C1 to C4 alkylamino, preferably dimethylamino, and R3 is a hydrogen atom.

[0072] Preferred compounds of the difluoroborane P-diketonate family are those of formula I2 below: In which R 1 , R 2 and R 3 are as defined in formula I.

[0073] Preferred compounds of the difluoroborane P-diketonate family are those of formula I3 below: In which L 1 , R 1 , R 2 and R 3 are as defined in formula I.

[0074] Preferred compounds of the difluoroborane P-diketonate family are those of formula I4 below: In which L 2 , R 1 , R 2 and R 3 are as defined in formula I.

[0075] Particularly preferred compounds of the difluoroborane P-diketonate family of formula I are those below: Compound 1 Compound 2 Compound 11 Compound 12

[0076] The term "alkyl" denotes a hydrocarbon radical of formula CnH2n+1, linear or branched, in which n is an integer greater than or equal to 1. The preferred alkyl groups are C1 to C6 alkyl groups, linear or branched.

[0077] The term "alkenyl" means an unsaturated, linear or branched alkyl group comprising one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Suitable alkenyl groups comprise from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 2 to 4 carbon atoms and more preferably still 2 or 3 carbon atoms. Non-limiting examples of groups alkenyls are ethenyl (vinyl), 2-propenyl (allyl), 2-butenyl and 3-butenyl, with ethenyl and 2-propenyl being preferred.

[0078] The term "cycloalkyl", alone or as part of another group, means a saturated mono-, di- or tricyclic hydrocarbon radical having 3 to 12 carbon atoms, especially 5 to 10 carbon atoms, more especially 6 to 10 carbon atoms. Suitable cycloalkyl radicals include, but are not limited to, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, norbornyl, adamantyl, especially cyclohexyl and adamantyl. Preferred cycloalkyl groups include cyclohexyl, adamant-1-yl and adamant-2-yl.

[0079] The term "aryl" means a polyunsaturated, aromatic, monocyclic (e.g., phenyl) or polycyclic (e.g., naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenantracenyl, c) hydrocarbon radical. Preferred aryl groups include phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenantracenyl, pyrenyl.

[0080] The term "heteroaryl" means an aromatic ring having 5 to 12 carbon atoms in which at least one carbon atom is replaced by an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom or by -NH, which nitrogen and sulfur atoms may optionally be oxidized and which nitrogen atom may optionally be quaternized, or a ring system containing 2 to 3 fused rings each typically containing 5 or 6 atoms and of which at least one ring is aromatic, at least one carbon atom of the at least one aromatic ring being replaced by an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom or by -NH, which nitrogen and sulfur atoms may optionally be oxidized and which nitrogen atom may optionally be quaternized. Examples of heteroaryl groups include furanyl, thiophenyl, pyrrolyl, pyridinyl and benzofuranyl.

[0081] The term "halogen" means fluoro, chloro, bromo or iodo. Preferred halogen groups are fluoro and bromo, with fluoro being particularly preferred.

[0082] Thus, when the layer comprising the optically variable element 6 is deposited on a light background, the intrinsic color is observed (i.e. the complementary color of the color absorbed by the fluorescent compound(s).

[0083] On the other hand, on a dark background, we observe the fluorescence color due to the fluorescent compound(s).

[0084] The physicochemical stimulus can consist of placing device 1 on a light then dark background, or conversely on a dark then light background.

[0085] When the optically variable element is an ink, the incorporation into the layer can be done in any type of polymer such as for example polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, poly(vinyl chloride), polyamides, polyaramides, vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), cyanoacrylate, rosin resins, pine resins, photopolymerizable resins or their mixtures. Preferably, the incorporation can be done in a polymer chosen from polycarbonate, polyurethane thermoplastic and photopolymerizable resins, preferably from polycarbonate and thermoplastic polyurethane, more preferably the polymer is polycarbonate.

[0086] The amount of fluorescent dye to be incorporated is that necessary for the detection of the absorbance and fluorescence properties. The fluorescent dyes according to the invention have the advantage of allowing detection of the properties even when they are incorporated within the polymer in very small quantities.

[0087] Indeed, quantities of fluorescent dyes ranging from 0.0001% to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the polymer are sufficient for detection, preferably quantities ranging from 0.001% to 2% by weight relative to the total weight of the polymer and even more preferably, quantities ranging from 0.01% to 1%, by weight relative to the total weight of the polymer.

[0088] The quantities of fluorescent dye(s) will be adapted by those skilled in the art depending on the shaping of the polymer and the desired visual effect.

[0089] Each layer 8 comprising an optically variable element is advantageously prepared by techniques known to those skilled in the art such as, for example, lamination, extrusion, calendering, or extrusion calendering. These techniques will be chosen according to the polymer used. For example, if the polymer is a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polyurethane, the principle of extrusion calendering will be preferred. A set of layers within the meaning of the present invention may, for example, be obtained by lamination of two or more layers of polymer incorporating one or more fluorescent dyes.

[0090] Advantageously, the layer 8 has in particular a thickness ranging from 10 pm to 800 pm, preferably a thickness ranging from 50 pm to 600 pm, for polycarbonate, 10 pm up to 600 pm, and, preferably, 30 pm to 150 pm for polypropylene and from 5 pm to 500 pm, preferably 10 pm for PET, to which is added an ink thickness of 0.1 pm up to 200 pm, preferably from 1 pm to 100 pm. The invention also relates to a method 100 for authenticating the information vehicle of the authentication device 1.The method 100 comprises the following steps: application (101 - APPL) of a physicochemical stimulus to the authentication device 1, in the authentication zone 4, so as to switch the information vehicle 2 from the first state to the second state, reading (102 - LECT) of said at least one piece of information encapsulated by the information vehicle 2, comparison (103 - COMP) of said at least one piece of information read with a piece of reference information.

[0091] As already indicated, the physicochemical stimulus is a light irradiation, a change in temperature or pressure or a modification of an observation condition such as an angle of incidence of observation of the authentication device.

[0092] Note that step 101 may be later or earlier than steps 102, 103.

[0093] The step 101 of applying the physicochemical stimulus ensures physical authentication of the device 1. The steps of reading 102 and comparison 103 ensure digital authentication of the device 1.

[0094] The application step 101 is advantageously carried out by changing the observation angle of the authentication zone 4, or using a small device (smartphone, visible, UV, infrared lamp) or a dedicated device (specific reading terminal) to activate the change of color from the first state to the second state.

[0095] The reading step 102 is advantageously carried out by a communication terminal, such as a mobile phone (“smartphone” in English) or a tablet.

[0096] The comparison step 103 is advantageously carried out by a document authentication application.

[0097] Once the double authentication is successful, the method advantageously comprises a step 104 (TRANSF) of activating an exchange, such as a data transfer, for example a financial transaction, authentication to access the consultation of internet sites, social networks, online betting, online video games, etc.

[0098] It should be noted that the 100 method can be adapted to the three security levels imposed by the European elDAS regulation of July 23, 2014. This text provides three security levels: low, substantial, and high. The low level corresponds to a presumption of identity for which a username and password are sufficient. The substantial level requires verifying the person's identity. And the high level requires the use of biometric data to unlock the identification portal.

[0099] Depending on the type of data encapsulated in the information vehicle 2, the security level can be chosen.

[0100] It is also possible to provide a staggered path in which the authentication of step 101 allows a specific action, while the authentication at the end of steps 102 and 103 allows another specific action. This may involve, for example, accessing a site, or data, or transferring more or less sensitive data if physical authentication is performed, then accessing another site, or other data, or transferring other data if digital authentication is performed. There may be a gradation in the level of sensitivity allowed depending on whether a single authentication, or both authentications, have been performed. In other words, the level of security is advantageously correlated to the level(s) of authentication performed.

[0101] The invention will now be described in a non-limiting embodiment of the authentication device 1 according to the third variant and of the authentication method 100.

[0102] The information vehicle is a QR code whose embedded data is biometric data, such as a photograph and / or at least one civil status data, fingerprints, as already mentioned.

[0103] Thus, in the first state, the device 1 is in the form of a card on which the QR code is printed in black ink with a fluorescent compound, forming the optically variable element 6. In this example, black corresponds to the first color, which corresponds to the first state, and the color under irradiation is green, which corresponds to the second state.

[0104] During step 101, a human and / or a communication terminal triggers the stimulus, such as a movement causing a change in the angle of observation by the terminal and / or a flash of light irradiation, which causes the change of state of the optically variable element from the first state to the second state. A user can then authenticate, preferably remotely, that the flashed security zone is in the expected state. In the example taken here, the QR code, in the authentication zone 4, changes from black to green. At the end of step 103, the physical authenticity of the device 1 has been verified.

[0105] During step 102, area 4 of device 1 is presented in front of a human-machine interface, such as a screen, of the communication terminal. The QR code is read by the communication terminal.

[0106] During step 103, the biometric data from the QR code is compared to expected data, for example via a security application.

[0107] At the end of steps 101 and 102, the digital authenticity of device 1 has been verified.

[0108] Double authentication then authorizes the possible exchange of data from the information vehicle.

[0109] The present invention has a multitude of applications. The following non-exhaustive list can be cited: - authentication of a customer using the internet via an access provider (such as on behalf of companies like Free ®, Orange ®, SFR ®...) or mobile operator; - authentication of a customer using a secure access medium, such as a television and / or streaming channel (such as Netflix ®, Amazon Prime ®, etc.) with a secure profile and reading via smartphone and / or webcam; - age verification and / or authentication of an individual remotely, particularly for adult sites (pornographic, online sports betting portals, etc.), paid sites (online video games, merchant sites), administrative procedures - biometric phygital collectible card with unique NFT signature (for “Non Fungible Token” in English) and / or with blockchain (chain of blocks in French); - financial transaction card with or without chip with possible recognition at the counter or remotely via a camera or smartphone and possible reading of the QR code and the biometric data encapsulated therein.

Claims

Claims

1. Device for authenticating an information vehicle configured to encapsulate at least one piece of data relating to a product or a person, the authentication device comprising a zone, called an authentication zone, provided with said information vehicle and an optically variable element, which has a variation between a first appearance and a second appearance so that, in a first state, the authentication zone and / or the information vehicle has the first appearance and that, in a second state, the authentication zone and / or the information vehicle has the second appearance, a switch between the first appearance and the second appearance being carried out by a variation according to the viewing angle, lighting or a physicochemical stimulus.

2. Authentication device according to claim 1, wherein the optically variable element comprises one or more fluorescent compound(s) of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene family and / or of the difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks) family.

3. Device according to the preceding claim, in which the compound(s) of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene family are chosen from those of the formula in which, R 1 is C1-C6 alkyl, C5-C6 cycloalkyl, C5-C6 heteroalkyl, phenyl, said phenyl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups chosen from C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, COO- and halogen; R 2 and R 2 ' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl; R 3 and R 3' are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl; R 4 and R 4 ' are independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, alkenyl, said aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl and alkenyl being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from C1 to C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy and ferrocene, said aryl group being optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from aryl, C1 to C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, nitro, said aryl being optionally substituted by a C1 to C2 alkyl group; R 5 is C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl.

4. Device according to one of claims 2 or 3, in which the compound(s) of the difluoroborane P-diketonate (BF2bdks) family are chosen from those of formula II: in which, L 1is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, L 2 is an unsaturated or non-existent aliphatic chain, R 1 is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, R 2 is an unsubstituted or substituted aryl group or an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl group, and R 3 is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group.

5. Authentication device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the information vehicle is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional bar code, called a QR code, or an identifier of a bank account, or an identifier of a manufactured or food product, or a photograph.

6. A method of authenticating an information vehicle of an authentication device according to one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: - application of a physicochemical stimulus to the authentication device so as to switch the information vehicle from the first state to the second state, - reading of at least one piece of information encapsulated by the information vehicle, - comparison of said at least one piece of information read with a piece of reference information,

7. An authentication method according to the preceding claim, wherein the physicochemical stimulus is light irradiation, a change in temperature or pressure or a change in an observation condition such as an observation angle of incidence of the authentication device.

8. Authentication method according to one of claims 6 or 7, comprising a step of exchanging information subsequent to the steps of application, reading and comparison if the outcomes of these steps are in accordance with an expectation.

9. Use of the method according to one of claims 6 to 8 to authorize a transfer of digital data.

10. Use, for example of the user journey type, comprising a step of presenting a device according to one of claims 1 to 5 in front of an automated or human-assisted reading device, a step of recognizing a change in appearance of the area, a step of reading the information vehicle, and a step of comparing said at least one piece of data encapsulated in the information vehicle.

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