Method and product for product tracking and authentication using conductive ink

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to methods and products for product tracking and authentication using conductive inks. An example embodiment of a product authentication method can include triggering a first authentication process in response to sensing a conductive ink proximate to a computing device having a sensor set and performing a second authentication process. The first authentication process can include launching an application on the computing device when the sensor set senses the conductive ink. And the second authentication process can be performed by the application on the computing device and can include sending a code to a remote server and receiving a validity determination from the remote server.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 201580072677.9, entitled "Method and Product for Product Tracking and Identification Using Conductive Ink", filed on November 5, 2015, under the PCT International Application No. PCT / US2015 / 059235, which entered the national phase in the People's Republic of China on June 6, 2017. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to methods and products for product tracking and identification using conductive ink. Background Technology

[0003] This section provides background information on this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] The development of the commercial economy has led to the production of numerous counterfeit and imitation brand-name products in various fields, resulting in serious economic losses and social problems, and prompting a widespread demand for anti-counterfeiting technologies.

[0005] In some cases, a company manufactures products that are sold separately and are part of a product line. In such cases, products are sometimes transferred from legitimate customers to illegal counterfeit products bearing the company's patents and trademarks through an "open market." Summary of the Invention

[0006] This section provides a general overview of this disclosure and does not fully disclose its entire scope or all its features.

[0007] It is necessary to separate and distinguish products sold and / or shipped to legitimate distributors from counterfeit products.

[0008] An exemplary embodiment of the product authentication method may include triggering a first authentication process and performing a second authentication process in response to sensing conductive ink near a computing device having a sensor array. The first authentication process may include launching an application on the computing device when the sensor array senses the conductive ink. The second authentication process may be performed by the application on the computing device and may include sending code to a remote server and receiving a validity determination from the remote server.

[0009] The first identification process may include determining the orientation of the conductive ink corresponding to the sensor group, and initializing the Internet browsing application when the conductive ink corresponds to the orientation of the sensor group.

[0010] The second authentication process can be performed after determining the orientation of the conductive ink corresponding to the sensor group, and includes sending a packaging code to a remote server. As another part of the second authentication process, the computing device can be configured to receive a determination of whether the packaging code is valid, and to terminate the internet browsing application when the packaging code is invalid. As yet another part of the second authentication process, the computing device can be configured to receive a determination of whether the packaging code is unused, and to terminate the internet browsing application when the packaging is not unused.

[0011] When both authentication processes are successfully completed, the computing device can be configured to receive product packaging history information from a remote server and receive access to product packaging supplier information.

[0012] Another exemplary embodiment may include a computing device having a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to trigger a first authentication process in response to sensing conductive ink near a computer having a sensor array. When the sensor array senses the conductive ink, an application on the computing device is launched to perform a second authentication process, which is executed by the application on the computing device and includes sending code to a remote server and receiving a validity determination from the remote server.

[0013] Furthermore, in yet another exemplary embodiment, the processor can determine the orientation of the conductive ink corresponding to the sensor group. When the conductive ink corresponds to the orientation of the sensor group, the processor initializes an internet browsing application. After determining that the conductive ink corresponds to the orientation of the sensor group, the processor performs a second authentication, sends the packaging code to a remote server, receives a determination of whether the packaging code is valid, terminates the internet browsing application when the packaging code is invalid, receives a determination of whether the packaging code is unused, terminates the internet browsing application when the packaging code is not unused, receives product packaging history information from the remote server, and receives access to product packaging supplier information.

[0014] An exemplary authentication process may include receiving confirmation from a computing device that a first code has triggered activation of an application running on the computing device, receiving a second code from the computing device, consulting a non-transitory computer-readable medium to determine whether the second code exists in the non-transitory computer-readable medium, and, when the second code exists in the non-transitory computer-readable medium, providing the computing device with access to the software stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0015] An exemplary product authentication process may further include determining whether the second code is valid, sending an error message to the computing device when the second code is invalid, receiving the location of the computing device when the second code is invalid, and storing the location in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Similarly, an exemplary authentication process may further include determining whether the second code is unused, sending an error message to the computing device when the second code is unused, receiving the location of the computing device when the second code is not unused, and storing the location in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0016] An exemplary product authentication process may also include sending product packaging history information to a computing device when both authentication processes are successfully completed and when the second code is not unused, as well as providing the computing device with access to product packaging supplier information.

[0017] Another exemplary embodiment is an authentication server having a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to receive from a computing device confirmation that first code has triggered the activation of an application running on the computing device, receive second code from the computing device, consult the non-transitory computer-readable medium to determine whether the second code exists in the non-transitory computer-readable medium, and, when the second code exists in the non-transitory computer-readable medium, provide the computing device with access to the software stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0018] The authentication server processor can also determine whether the second code is valid, and if the second code is invalid, send an error message to the computing device, receive the location of the computing device, and store the location of the computing device in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Similarly, the authentication server processor can determine whether the second code is unused, and if the second code is unused, send an error message to the computing device; if the second code is not unused, receive the location of the computing device and store the location in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0019] Once both the first and second authentication processes are successfully completed, the authentication server can send product packaging history information to the computing device and provide the computing device with access to product packaging supplier information.

[0020] An exemplary embodiment of the product packaging includes a substrate and ink on the surface of the substrate. The ink is conductive and configured to trigger a first identification process in the computing device when the ink comes into contact with the computing device. The ink may be a color outside the visible spectrum.

[0021] Other applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples of this invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, representing selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 1 The illustration shows an authentication system including product packaging, a computing device, and an authentication server according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0024] Figure 2 The diagram shows Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the product packaging shown;

[0025] Figure 3 The diagram shows Figure 1 Exemplary embodiments of computing devices;

[0026] Figure 4a The diagram shows Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of the capacitive pad of a computing device;

[0027] Figure 4b The diagram shows Figure 3 Another exemplary embodiment of the capacitive pad of the computing device;

[0028] Figure 5 The diagram shows Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of the authentication server of the authentication system;

[0029] Figure 6 The diagram shows Figure 1 Exemplary interactions between product packaging and computing devices;

[0030] Figure 7 The illustration shows a flowchart illustrating an identification initialization process according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Figure 8 The illustration shows a flowchart illustrating a first identification process according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0032] Figure 9 The illustration shows a flowchart illustrating a second identification process according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] In several views of the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Various exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, some of which illustrate exemplary embodiments.

[0035] Detailed illustrative embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments only. Exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0036] While exemplary embodiments can have various variations and alternatives, embodiments are shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, the exemplary embodiments cover all variations, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of this disclosure. In the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0037] Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0038] When an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intermediate elements. Other terms used to describe the relationship between elements (e.g., "between" and "directly between," "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to") should be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0039] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms (“a”, “an”, and “the”) are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” and / or “comprising” as used herein refer to the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, element, and / or item, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, items, and / or combinations thereof.

[0040] It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the recorded functions / actions may not occur in the order shown in the diagrams. For example, depending on the functions / actions involved, two diagrams shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or sometimes in reverse order.

[0041] Specific details are provided in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, a system may be illustrated as a block diagram to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments with unnecessary details. In other instances, well-known processes, structures, and techniques may be shown without the need for unnecessary details to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments.

[0042] In the following description, illustrative embodiments will be described with reference to the actions and symbolic representations of operations (e.g., in the form of flowcharts, flowcharts, data flow diagrams, structural diagrams, block diagrams, etc.). These actions and symbolic representations can be implemented as program modules or functional processes (including routines, programs, objects, items, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types) and can be implemented using existing hardware, such as in existing small wireless cells, base stations, NodeBs, and operator equipment including multi-mode OE (operator equipment). Such existing hardware may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), system-on-a-chip (SoC) devices, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, etc.

[0043] While flowcharts can describe operations as a sequential process, many operations can be executed in parallel, simultaneously, or synchronously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process may terminate when its operations are completed, but it may also have additional steps not included in the diagram. A process can correspond to a method, function, program, subroutine, subroutines, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to the function returning to the calling function or the main function.

[0044] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" can refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" can include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and a variety of other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0045] Furthermore, exemplary embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented as software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, program code or code segments for performing necessary tasks may be stored in a machine or computer-readable medium (such as a computer-readable storage medium). When implemented as software, the processor will perform the necessary tasks.

[0046] A code segment can represent any combination of procedures, functions, subroutines, programs, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by passing and / or receiving information, data, parameters, arguments, or memory contents. Information, parameters, arguments, data, etc., can be passed, forwarded, or transmitted using any suitable means, including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0047] As discussed herein, the term "operator equipment" or "OE" can be considered synonymous with operator, customer, customer equipment, mobile unit, mobile radio, mobile operator, mobile device, user, remote station, access terminal, receiver, etc., and may sometimes be referred to as operator, customer, customer equipment, mobile unit, mobile radio, mobile operator, mobile device, user, remote station, access terminal, receiver, etc., as well as a remote operator describing radio resources in a wireless communication network (e.g., a 3GPP LTE network). The OE discussed here can be a multi-mode OE capable of communicating via at least LTE and WiFi.

[0048] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “below,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation besides those shown in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element described as “below,” “under,” or “below” the other element or feature would be oriented “above” the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly. Furthermore, when an element is referred to as being “between” two elements, the element may be the only element between the two elements, or there may be one or more other intermediate elements.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. Terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and / or in the present disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0050] The unit and / or device according to one or more exemplary embodiments may be implemented using hardware, software, and / or a combination thereof. For example, the hardware device may be implemented using processing circuitry such as, but not limited to, a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, or any other device capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0051] Software can include computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof, used independently or collectively to instruct or configure hardware devices to operate as needed. Computer programs and / or program code can include programs or computer-readable instructions, software items, software modules, data files, data structures, etc., which can be implemented by one or more hardware devices (such as one or more of the aforementioned hardware devices). Examples of program code include both machine code generated by a compiler and higher-level program code executed using an interpreter.

[0052] For example, when the hardware device is a computer processing device (e.g., a processor, central processing unit (CPU), controller, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), digital signal processor, microcomputer, microprocessor, etc.), the computer processing device can be configured to execute program code by performing arithmetic operations, logical operations, and input / output operations according to program code. Once the program code is loaded into the computer processing device, the computer processing device can be programmed to execute the program code, thereby transforming the computer processing device into a dedicated computer processing device. In a more specific example, when the program code is loaded into the processor, the processor is programmed to execute the program code and its corresponding operations, thereby transforming the processor into a dedicated processor.

[0053] Software and / or data can be permanently or temporarily implemented in any type of machine, project, physical or virtual device, or computer storage medium or device capable of providing instructions or data to or being interpreted by hardware devices. Software can also be distributed via a network coupled to a computer system, enabling the software to be stored and executed in a distributed manner. Specifically, for example, software and data can be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media, including tangible or non-transitory computer-readable storage media discussed herein.

[0054] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, a computer processing device may be described as including various functional units that perform various operations and / or functions to increase clarity of description. However, the computer processing device is not intended to be limited to these functional units. For example, in one or more exemplary embodiments, the various operations and / or functions of the functional units may be performed by other functional units. Furthermore, the computer processing device may perform the operations and / or functions of various functional units without needing to subdivide the operations and / or functions of the computer processing unit into these various functional units.

[0055] The unit and / or device according to one or more exemplary embodiments may also include one or more storage devices. One or more storage devices may be tangible or non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), permanent mass storage devices (such as disk drives), solid-state (e.g., NAND flash memory) devices, and / or any other similar data storage mechanism capable of storing and recording data. One or more storage devices may be configured to store computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof for one or more operating systems and / or for implementing the exemplary embodiments described herein. Computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof may also be loaded from a separate computer-readable storage medium into one or more storage devices and / or one or more computer processing devices using a drive mechanism. Such a separate computer-readable storage medium may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive, Memory Stick, Blu-ray / DVD / CD-ROM drive, memory card, and / or other similar computer-readable storage media. Computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof may be loaded from a remote data storage device into one or more storage devices and / or one or more computer processing devices via a network interface rather than via a local computer-readable storage medium. Additionally, computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof can be loaded from a remote computing system onto one or more storage devices and / or one or more processors, the remote computing system being configured to transmit and / or distribute the computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof over a network. The remote computing system can transmit and / or distribute the computer programs, program code, instructions, or some combination thereof via a wired interface, an air interface, and / or any other similar medium.

[0056] One or more hardware devices, one or more storage devices and / or computer programs, program code, instructions or some combination thereof may be specially designed and constructed for the purposes of exemplary embodiments, or they may be known means that have been altered and / or modified for the purposes of exemplary embodiments.

[0057] Hardware devices such as computer processing devices can run an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the OS. The computer processing device can also access, store, manipulate, process, and create data in response to the execution of the software. For simplicity, one or more exemplary embodiments may be illustrated as a single computer processing device; however, those skilled in the art will understand that the hardware device may include multiple processing elements and various types of processing elements. For example, the hardware device may include multiple processors or may include a processor and a controller. Furthermore, other processing configurations are possible, such as parallel processors.

[0058] This document describes exemplary embodiments with reference to cross-sectional views of schematic diagrams of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, variations in the shapes of the diagrams due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are expected. Therefore, exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the areas shown herein, but rather include shape deviations, for example, resulting from manufacturing processes. Thus, the areas shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shapes of areas of the device, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0059] See Figure 1 The identification system 100 for identifying product packaging 102 includes a computing device 104 and an identification server 106.

[0060] Computing device 104 and authentication server 106 can be directly coupled to each other via connection 108, which will be discussed below. Figure 5 Let's discuss this in more detail. Alternatively, computing device 104 and authentication server 106 can be coupled to network 112 via connections 110a and 110b.

[0061] Figure 2 The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of product packaging 102. Figure 2 As shown, product packaging 102 may include substrate 114, which relates to Figure 6 To describe in detail. Product packaging 102 may also include conductive ink 116, which is also related to... Figure 6 To describe in detail. An exemplary embodiment of the product packaging 102 includes a second code 126 printed on a substrate 114 of the product packaging 102 (i.e., below regarding...). Figure 6 (Detailed description of the packaging code). For example, the second code 126 can be an alphanumeric code, a symbol code, i.e., #-%-#-*-&, or a combination of alphanumeric-symbol codes. See the following regarding... Figure 6 In more detail, the second code 126 on substrate 114 is different from the code on other product packaging.

[0062] Figure 3An exemplary embodiment of a computing device 104 is illustrated. The computing device 104 may include a display 115, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 117, and a processor 119 and / or a microprocessor or controller. The processor 119 may control a capacitive pad 118 and receive data from the capacitive pad 118, such as data sensed by sensors 124a-124aj of the capacitive pad. Furthermore, the processor 119 may execute instructions stored on the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 117 to perform the functions described below, and operate as a dedicated computing device. Additionally, the processor 119 may output data to an external device via an input / output (I / O) port 121. The computing device 104 may be connected to an external device / peripheral device via the I / O port 121. For example, the I / O port 121 may be a wireless connection, a Bluetooth connection, a USB connection, etc.

[0063] Exemplary embodiments of computing device 104 may include a tablet computer, smartphone, personal computer, laptop computer, or any device with data processing capabilities. Computing device 104 may include a capacitive pad 118, which will be discussed below. Figure 4a and Figure 4b Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0064] The computing device 104 can be a small personal device, small enough to fit in a trouser pocket or coat pocket, for example Or other smart devices. Alternatively, in this exemplary embodiment, the computing device 104 may be a desktop device, such as a PC or Computer. The capacitive pad 118 may be integrated with the computing device 104. For example, the capacitive pad 118 may be an input interface that is part of the housing of the computing device 104. In some exemplary embodiments, the capacitive pad 118 may be external to the computing device 104.

[0065] like Figure 4a and 4b As shown, the capacitive pad 118 includes multiple sensors 124a-aj. A conductive material generates a voltage drop at a specific sensor on the capacitive pad 118. For example, refer to... Figure 4b Nine sensors on capacitive pad 118, namely 124a, 124c, 124e, 124h, 124o, 124p, 124t, 124aa, and 124ac, can be triggered simultaneously, while the remaining capacitive pads remain idle. This will be discussed below regarding... Figure 8 and Figure 9 Let's discuss in more detail the configuration and excitation of the multiple sensors 124a-124aj of the capacitive pad 118.

[0066] Figure 5An exemplary embodiment of authentication server 106 is illustrated. Authentication server 106 may include non-transitory computer-readable medium 120. For example, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 120 may be an internal hard disk drive, an external hard disk drive, a cloud server, or any other data storage device. Non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 120 may be configured to include a database 129. Authentication server 106 may also include a processor 122.

[0067] Processor 122 can control the functions of the authentication server, such as communication with computing device 104. Furthermore, processor 122 can execute instructions stored on non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 120 to perform the functions described below, and operate as a dedicated computing device. Additionally, processor 122 can output data to external devices via wireless input / output (I / O) port 128a. Computing device 104 can connect to external devices / peripheral devices via wireless I / O port 128a. Alternatively, the processor can receive data from or output data to external devices via a direct physical connection 128b. The direct physical connection 128b can be, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection.

[0068] The authentication server 106 may be located in a location known to the manufacturer of the product packaging 102. The authentication server 106 may be coupled to multiple computing devices (e.g., computing device 104). For example, the authentication server 106 may host the manufacturer's webpage and provide access to multiple computing devices via network 112 through connection 110b. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, any one of the multiple computing devices is coupled to the authentication server 106 via wireless connection port 128a and connection 110a through network 112. Alternatively, the computing devices may be locally connected via direct physical connection 128b.

[0069] Figure 6 The illustration shows an exemplary relationship between computing device 104 and product packaging 102. Specifically, Figure 6 This is an exemplary relationship between the capacitive pad 118 of the computing device 104 and the conductive ink 116 of the product packaging 102. The following will discuss... Figure 8 The interaction between the capacitive pad 118 and the computing device 104 is discussed in more detail.

[0070] Product packaging 102 can be any of various packaging types. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the product packaging can be packaging for an electronic vaping device. Product packaging 102 in an exemplary embodiment can be any configuration such as a linear box, a clamshell container, a disc-shaped container, and any other configuration (not shown) for containing an electronic vaping device. Alternatively, each electronic vaping device within product packaging 102 can be manufactured to include its own second code 126. The second code 126 can be located anywhere on the outer surface of the packaging.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment of the electronic cigarette device product packaging, the second code 126 is not required to be located on the outer surface of the packaging. For example, in a clamshell case, the second code 126 may be located on the inner surface of the case. Therefore, the second code 126 is more difficult to obtain without purchasing the product packaging. The second code 126 may also be placed on a hidden surface of the electronic cigarette device, such as at the connector of the electronic cigarette device.

[0072] System 100 is not limited to electronic cigarette devices. For example, other industries can use System 100, typically including the electronics industry, construction, and food processing. Each manufacturer can have a unique conductive ink configuration for that manufacturer.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, each second code 126 is generated randomly to reduce the predictability of the second code to be printed on the product packaging. For example, a manufacturer producing 10,000 identical product packages can attach a second code to each package. In this way, the manufacturer can randomly create 10,000 codes, i.e., one corresponding code for each product package.

[0074] Further reference Figure 6 Conductive ink 116 is an ink that may include conductive materials (such as iron, carbon, or silver). The conductive material may be in the form of metal shavings or metal fragments contained in the ink.

[0075] The conductive ink 116 can be located anywhere on the product packaging 102. For example, the conductive ink can be located on the substrate 114, such as... Figure 1 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, substrate 114 is a flat front surface of product packaging 102. In other exemplary embodiments, conductive ink 116 may be applied to the side regions, end regions, or edge regions of product packaging 102.

[0076] As mentioned above, Figure 6 An exemplary relationship between the capacitive pad 118 and the conductive ink 116 is illustrated. For example, the conductive ink 116 can have any number of configurations. Figure 6In the exemplary embodiment shown, the conductive ink 116 has a configuration similar to Morse code. Alternatively, the conductive ink can be configured as a circuit. For example, the conductive ink 116 can have a Quick Response Code (QR Code) design. Alternatively, the conductive ink 116 can have a barcode design. The bars of the barcode design can be configured in any orientation (i.e., vertical, horizontal, diagonal, skewed, etc.). The conductive ink 116 can be disposed on the substrate 114 in various ways (i.e., coating, sputtering deposition, etching, laser printing, etc.).

[0077] The conductive ink 116 may have a color outside the visible range of the spectrum. Having a color outside the visible range of the spectrum (e.g., infrared or ultraviolet) helps to deter counterfeiting attempts. Alternatively, the conductive ink 116 may have a visible color, i.e., a color within the visible range of the spectrum.

[0078] The operation of this exemplary embodiment will now be described.

[0079] Figure 7 The illustration depicts an exemplary method for identifying product packaging. For example... Figure 7 As shown, at step S700, sensors 124a-124aj sense the presence of product packaging 102 with conductive ink 116. The first process 710 can occur entirely within the computing device 104. For example, at step S710, the computing device 104 performs a first identification process, which will determine the presence of the product packaging 102 with conductive ink 116. Figure 8 Let's discuss this in detail. In step S720, computing device 104 and server 106 perform a second authentication process, which will... Figure 9 Let's discuss this in detail.

[0080] Figure 8 The diagram shows Figure 7 The first identification process S720. As shown, process S720 begins when the sensors 124a-124aj of the capacitive pad 118 sense the product packaging 102. For example, sensors 124a-124aj can operate in response to contact with or very close to (i.e., within two to three millimeters) any object that can retain charge (e.g., conductive material, human skin, etc.). When a conductive material (e.g., conductive ink 116) approaches sensors 124a-124aj, a small amount of charge is transferred to the conductive ink 116 to complete the circuit. Therefore, a voltage drop is generated at the sensors 124a-124aj of the capacitive pad 118. The processor 119 of the computing device 104 reads the location of this voltage drop and is configured to act in response to it.

[0081] At step S802, the processor 119 of the computing device 104 determines whether the product with conductive ink is nearby. For example, the processor 119 determines whether any of the sensors 124a-124aj outputs data / signals corresponding to the capacitive ink 116. Step S802 provides an activation step for the processor 119. Alternatively, step S802 can be an optional step. The processor 119 can completely bypass step S802. For example, the processor 119 can be configured to react only when a suitable sensor among all sensors 124a-124aj senses the conductive ink. Accordingly, the process can begin from step S804 below.

[0082] If step S802 is used and processor 119 determines that the packaging contains conductive ink, the process proceeds to step S804. However, if any of the sensors 124a-124aj does not detect ink, processor 119 takes no action.

[0083] In step S804, the processor 119 determines whether the conductive ink 116 is in a shape configured to trigger a suitable sensor, for example... Figure 4b The 124a, 124c, 124e, 124h, 124o, 124p, 124t, 124aa, and 124ac shown can be suitable sensors. Figure 2 The conductive ink 116 shown can be configured to correspond only to sensors 124a, 124c, 124e, 124h, 124o, 124p, 124t, 124aa, and 124ac. If, in addition to... Figure 4b If any other sensor other than the nine sensors shown (124a, 124c, 124e, 124h, 124o, 124p, 124t, 124aa, and 124ac) is triggered, the processor 119 can be configured to take no action.

[0084] If, at step S804, the processor 119 determines that the conductive ink is configured to trigger... Figure 4b If the nine sensors shown (suitable sensors) are used, the process proceeds to step S806. In step S806, the processor 119 opens Internet browsing on the computing device 104.

[0085] In step S808, after opening internet browsing, processor 119 opens a webpage. This webpage may be a dedicated webpage belonging to the manufacturer of product packaging 102. Alternatively, the webpage may be any other webpage that the manufacturer of product packaging 102 might want to present to the holder of product packaging 102.

[0086] The webpage can be a private webpage, and the only way to access it, apart from being a webpage administrator, is via an internet browsing application activated by conductive ink 116 that stimulates a suitable sensor.

[0087] As described above, the first authentication process 710 can occur entirely within the computing device 104 and end after the computing device opens the manufacturer's webpage. The computing device 104's acquisition of access to the manufacturer's webpage can be considered confirmation of the successful completion of the first authentication process 710. For example, if the webpage fails to open after all the steps described in the first authentication process 710 have been performed, it may be because at least one step of the first authentication process 710 was performed incorrectly. The failure to open the webpage may be unrelated to whether the first authentication process 710 was performed correctly. For example, alternatively, the failure to open the webpage may be due to a defect in some aspect of the computing device 104.

[0088] After the webpage is opened in step S808, the process proceeds to the second identification process S720. Figure 9 The illustration shows an embodiment of the invention. Figure 7 The flowchart of the second authentication process S720 is shown. As shown in step S902, the authentication server 106 receives confirmation from the computing device 104 that the first authentication process S710 is valid. For example, if the manufacturer's webpage can only be opened when the conductive ink properly triggers the correct sensor on the capacitive pad, the authentication server 106 can interpret the step of the computing device 104 connecting to the product packaging manufacturer's webpage as confirmation that the first authentication process S710 has been successfully completed. Therefore, the authentication server 106 provides access to the manufacturer's webpage managed by the authentication server 106 as confirmation from the computing device 104 that the first authentication process S710 has been successfully completed.

[0089] At step S904, the authentication server 106 receives the second code 126 from the computing device 104. For example, after an internet browser is opened on the computing device 104, the computing device 104 requests the input of the second code 126, i.e., as shown below. Figure 2 The code shown is printed on substrate 114.

[0090] In step S906, the authentication server 106 determines whether the code is valid. For example, the authentication server 106 consults a database 129 that may be stored on an internal non-transitory computer-readable medium 120 (i.e., a hard disk drive) to determine whether the second code 126 is stored therein.

[0091] If the second code is not found, the process proceeds to step S906a, and a message indicating that product packaging 102 may be counterfeit is sent to computing device 104. Optionally, the process then proceeds to step S906b, where the location of computing device 104 is received and stored. Authentication server 106 can store the location of computing devices to establish possible counterfeit geographic trends. If the location information of computing device 104 is unavailable or inaccessible by authentication server 106, the process can proceed directly to step S906c, in which authentication server 106 interrupts the computing device's access to the webpage.

[0092] Returning to step S906, if the second code 126 is successfully found in database 129, the process proceeds to step S908 to determine whether the second code 126 is unused. For example, the authentication server 106 consults the second code database 129 to determine whether the second code 126 has already been used before the current attempt to input it. Each code may have an associated timestamp, which may also be stored in the database 129 on the non-transitory computer-readable medium 120. In this exemplary embodiment, the second code 126 may be used only once.

[0093] If the second code 126 has already been used, the process proceeds to step S908a, and a message indicating that the second code 126 has been used is sent to the computing device 104. The process then optionally proceeds to step S908b, and the location of the computing device 104 is received and stored. Although the code may be valid, it may have been recovered by counterfeiters and printed on counterfeit product packaging. The authentication server 106 can store the location of the computing device to establish possible counterfeit geographic trends. If the location information of the computing device 104 is unavailable or inaccessible by the authentication server, the process can proceed directly to step S908c, in which the authentication server 106 interrupts the computing device's access to the webpage.

[0094] If the second code 126 is determined to be valid (at step S906) and unused (at step S908), the process optionally proceeds to step S910. At step S910, the authentication server 106 sends product history to the computing device 104. For example, the authentication server 106 may provide manufacturing date, product pricing confirmation, serial number, etc.

[0095] At step S912, the authentication server 106 authorizes access to product manufacturer information. For example, the manufacturer may want to offer coupons or rewards to product package holders in exchange for undergoing the authentication process. These coupons and rewards may only be available on the manufacturer's website.

[0096] The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. This is not exhaustive or limiting of the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Differences may also occur in many respects. These changes are not considered a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for identification, comprising: A conductive ink that senses proximity to a computing device, the computing device including a capacitive pad with multiple sensors, the conductive ink being disposed on a product surface; The plurality of sensors using the capacitive pad sense the pattern of the conductive ink; When the pattern of the conductive ink simultaneously triggers the appropriate sensor among the plurality of sensors of the capacitive pad, an internet browsing application running on the computing device is launched. Receive packaging code from computing device; Determine if the wrapper code exists in a non-transitory computer-readable medium; as well as If the packaged code exists in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, it provides the computing device with access to the information.

2. The identification method as described in claim 1, further comprising: Determine if the wrapper code is valid; as well as When the packaging code is invalid, an error message is sent to the computing device.

3. The identification method as described in claim 2, further comprising: When the packaging code is invalid, the location of the receiving computing device, and The location of the computing device is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

4. The identification method as described in claim 2, further comprising: If the wrapper code is valid, then determine whether the wrapper code is not used; as well as Send an error message to the computing device when the wrapper code is not unused.

5. The identification method as described in claim 4, further comprising: When the wrapper code is not unused, the location of the receiving computing device is determined. as well as The location of the computing device is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

6. The identification method as described in claim 4, further comprising: When the packaging code is unused, product packaging history information is sent to the computing device; as well as Provides computing devices with access to information about product packaging suppliers.

7. An authentication server having a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions, said instructions causing the processor, when executed by a processor, to: Receive confirmation from a computing device that the first authentication process is valid, the first authentication process including: A conductive ink is sensed near a computing device, the computing device including a capacitive pad with multiple sensors, the conductive ink being disposed on a product surface. The plurality of sensors using the capacitive pad sense the pattern of the conductive ink, and When the pattern of the conductive ink simultaneously triggers the appropriate sensor among the plurality of sensors of the capacitive pad, an internet browsing application running on the computing device is launched. Receive packaging code from computing device; Consult non-transitory computer-readable media to determine if the packaging code exists on non-transitory computer-readable media; as well as When the packaged code exists on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, it provides a computing device with access to the software stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

8. The authentication server as described in claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: Determine if the wrapper code is valid, and if the wrapper code is invalid, send an error message to the computing device.

9. The authentication server as described in claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: When the packaging code is invalid, the location of the receiving computing device, and The location of the computing device is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

10. The authentication server as described in claim 9, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: Determine if the wrapper code is unused, and send an error message to the computing device if the wrapper code is not unused.

11. The authentication server as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: When the wrapper code is not unused, the location of the receiving computing device, and The location of the computing device is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

12. The authentication server as described in claim 9, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: When the packaging code is unused, product packaging history information is sent to the computing device, and Provides computing devices with access to information about product packaging suppliers.

13. A product package, comprising: substrate; The ink on the surface of the substrate is conductive and includes a pattern, the pattern being configured to trigger a first identification process in the computing device when the pattern of the ink approaches a capacitive pad of the computing device having multiple sensors, and when the pattern of the ink simultaneously triggers the appropriate sensor among the multiple sensors of the capacitive pad. as well as Packaging codes on the surface of the substrate, which are configured to trigger a second authentication process. The second identification process includes Send the packaged code to the remote server. A product identification determination received from a remote server is valid if (i) the packaging code is located in the database of the remote server and (ii) the packaging code has not been used before the current attempt. In response to a product identification determination indicating that the packaging code is not in the database or that the packaging code has been used prior to the current attempt, the location of the computing device is determined, and The location of the computing device is sent to a remote server for storage.

14. The product packaging as described in claim 13, wherein, Inks include colors outside the visible light spectrum.

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