Authentication device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an authentication device (1) for an information medium (2) configured to encapsulate at least one item of data related to a product or person, wherein the authentication device (1) includes an area called an authentication area (4), and the authentication area (4) includes at least one layer (7) that represents a change between a first appearance and a second appearance by having an information medium (2) and an optical variable element (6), wherein in a first state, the authentication area (4) and / or the information medium (2) represent a first appearance, and in a second state, the authentication area (4) and / or the information medium (2) represent a second appearance, and the switch between the first appearance and the second appearance is caused by a change in viewing angle, a change in lighting, or a physicochemical stimulus.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Nowadays, an increasing amount of information is being exchanged through various channels and media via carriers, much of which provides little to no security. QR codes are one example. They are matrix barcodes capable of encapsulating data. They can simply provide access to URLs that guide users to web pages. However, it is possible for more sensitive data, such as biometric data, to be encapsulated within QR codes. Therefore, it is essential to be able to guarantee the security of this information.

[0002] In particular, as identity theft continues to rise, verifying identities during digital exchanges between citizens, government agencies, and businesses has become essential. However, currently known processes suffer from security vulnerabilities that need to be modified.

[0003] The present invention aims to provide an authentication device and method that improve the reliability of an information medium, such as a QR code.

[0004] The present disclosure improves the situation.

[0005] An authentication device for an information medium is proposed, configured to encapsulate at least one item of data related to a product or person, wherein the authentication device is called an authentication area and includes an area that represents a change between a first appearance and a second appearance by having an information medium and an optical variable element, wherein in a first state, the authentication area and / or the information medium represents the first appearance, and in a second state, the authentication area and / or the information medium represents the second appearance, and the switch between the first appearance and the second appearance is caused by a change in viewing angle, a change in illumination, or a physicochemical stimulus.

[0006] Preferably, an authentication device for an information medium is proposed, configured to encapsulate at least one item of data related to a product or person, wherein the authentication device is called an authentication area and comprises an area having an information medium and an optical variable element, wherein the authentication area represents a change between a first appearance and a second appearance, wherein in a first state, the authentication area represents the first appearance, and in a second state, the authentication area represents the second appearance, and the switch between the first appearance and the second appearance is caused by a change in viewing angle or a physicochemical stimulus. The physicochemical stimulus may be selected from illumination, temperature, pressure, or a combination thereof.

[0007] In addition, a method for authenticating an information medium of the aforementioned authentication device is proposed, and this method is:

[0008] - A step of switching an information medium from a first state to a second state by applying a change in viewing angle, a change in lighting, or a physicochemical stimulus to an authentication device,

[0009] - A step of reading at least one item of information encapsulated by an information medium,

[0010] - Includes a step of comparing at least one item among the read information with reference information.

[0011] Accordingly, the device and method according to the present invention ensure strong authentication regardless of whether it is remote (using a mobile phone, webcam, tablet, etc.) or face-to-face, and regardless of the presence or absence of a reading device.

[0012] More broadly, the device and method according to the present invention allow data transmission by enabling strong "phygital" authentication of a secure, personalized element containing data.

[0013] The present invention enables physical and digital authentication, or even a combination of physical, digital, and biometric authentication. When such authentication is guaranteed, data transmission can be carried out in a secure manner.

[0014] In addition, it will be noted that because the data is encapsulated rather than stored remotely, the method according to the present invention can comply with the GDPR.

[0015] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an authentication device for an information medium configured to encapsulate at least one item of data related to a product or person, wherein the authentication device comprises a substrate having an area called an authentication area, and the authentication area comprises at least one layer having an information medium and an optical variable element, such that the color change between a first color and a second color is shown, in a first state, the information medium shows the first color, and in a second state, the information medium shows the second color, and the color switch between the first color and the second color is caused by a physicochemical stimulus.

[0016] According to another aspect, the optically variable element comprises one or more fluorescent compound(s) from the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene series and / or the difluoroborone β-diketonate (BF2bdks) series.

[0017] According to another aspect, compound(s) from the series of 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene are selected from those having chemical formula I:

[0018] (I)

[0019] Here:

[0020] R 1 is a C1-C6 alkyl, C5-C6 cycloalkyl, C5-C6 heteroalkyl, or phenyl, and the phenyl group is a C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, COO - It can be substituted with one or more groups selected from , and halogens;

[0021] R 2 and R 2' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl;

[0022] R 3 and R 3' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 to C3 alkyls;

[0023] R 4 and R 4' is independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl, wherein the aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl may be substituted with one or more groups selected from C1-C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy, and ferrocene, wherein the aryl group may be substituted with one or more groups selected from aryl, C1-C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, and nitro, and wherein the aryl may be substituted with a C1-C2 alkyl group;

[0024] R 5 is a C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl.

[0025] According to another aspect, the compound(s) of the difluoroboron β-diketonate (BF2bdks) series are selected from those having Chemical Formula II:

[0026] (II)

[0027] Here:

[0028] L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0029] L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0030] R 1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and

[0031] R 2 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and

[0032] R 3 The is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group.

[0033] According to another aspect, the information medium is a barcode, for example, a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (called a QR code), a bank account identifier, an identifier for a manufactured or food product, or a photograph.

[0034] According to another aspect, physicochemical stimuli are light irradiation, changes in temperature or pressure, or changes in observation conditions such as the angle of incidence seen by the authentication device.

[0035] According to another aspect, the method includes a step of exchanging information after the steps of application, reading, and comparison, if the results of these steps meet expected criteria.

[0036] The present invention also relates to the use of the above-described method for authorizing authentication on social networks, more generally on the Internet, and / or for performing financial transactions.

[0037] The present invention also relates to the use of the above-described method for approving the transmission of digital data.

[0038] According to another aspect, an application according to the present invention comprises, for example, in a user experience map, presenting the above-described device to an automated or human-assisted reader, recognizing a change in the appearance of an area, reading an information medium, and comparing at least one item of data encapsulated within the information medium. The data may be, for example, biometric data or product-related data. Thus, there is verification of the entire chain. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0039] Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the attached drawings: FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a first variant of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a second modified example of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows an exploded perspective view and a front view of an authentication device according to a third variant of the present invention. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of an authentication method using the authentication device of Figure 1. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0040] Refer to FIG. 1 below. As can be seen in this figure, the device indicated by reference numeral 1 enables the authentication of an information medium (2).

[0041] The term "information medium" is understood to mean a combination of physical media and digital data. Non-limiting examples include: one-dimensional barcodes identifying manufactured or food products, for example; two-dimensional barcodes such as QR codes ("Quick Response" codes); alphanumeric codes identifying bank accounts or manufactured or food products; or photographs.

[0042] Preferably, the information medium may be a visible digital seal (VDS) capable of introducing biometric data; the VDS is a device that encapsulates key data, along with an electronic signature, within a two-dimensional code. The electronic signature is advantageously generated by the issuer's server; this is distinguished from a personal electronic signature. The advantage of this digital seal is that it provides strong authentication of the signed data as well as the document issuer.

[0043] Preferably, but not limited to, digital data of an information medium includes product data, citizenship status data, biometric data, photographs, and / or fingerprints.

[0044] As can be seen in the drawing, the authentication device (1) includes an area (4) called the authentication area, where the information medium (2) and the optical variable element (6) are located.

[0045] The term "optically variable element" is understood to mean any element, particularly an image, whose appearance (color, design, and / or shape) changes depending on illumination or viewing angle. Examples include high-resolution diffraction structures (DOVID - diffraction optically variable imaging device), holograms, color-changing inks (e.g., inks having optically variable properties), or elements incorporating other diffractive or reflective materials. This represents a change between a first appearance and a second appearance in response to physicochemical stimuli, which will be described in detail below.

[0046] Physicochemical stimuli, also called stimuli, can be light irradiation (also called illumination), changes in temperature or pressure, or changes in observation conditions (e.g., the angle of incidence at which the element is seen).

[0047] The configuration of the authentication device (1) in which the authentication area (4) displays a first appearance is called the first state, and the configuration of the authentication device (1) in which the authentication area (4) displays a second appearance is called the second state.

[0048] The "authentication area" is understood to mean an area equipped with an information medium and an optical variable element. The information medium may overlap at least partially with the optical variable element in a direction perpendicular to the authentication area to form a stack.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the information medium and the optical variable element are arranged in two different, overlapping layers. Alternatively, the information medium and the optical variable element may be arranged within the same layer of the authentication device.

[0050] The authentication area (4) may occupy the entire surface area of ​​the device (1) or only a part thereof.

[0051] The optical variable element (6) may take the form of ink, a marked base material (e.g., laser engraving, embossing), a custom micro-structured element (e.g., a holographic patch, strip, or film), or any combination thereof.

[0052] In the case of ink, the information medium may be printed on the layer (7) using any technique known to a skilled person in the art, such as offset printing, screen printing, or inkjet printing. Personalization may also be performed, for example, by laser engraving (black and white and / or color). More generally, the information medium is adapted to any suitable technique known to a skilled person in the art.

[0053] Three non-limiting variations of the authentication device (1) are described below in detail, wherein the information medium (2) is in the form of a QR code, merely as an example.

[0054] According to a variation of FIG. 1, the device (1) comprises three overlapping, stacked layers. One layer (7) comprises a QR code (2). An intermediate layer (8) is formed of a security base material, which means including an optical variable element (6). A third layer (9) forms the substrate of the device (1). Layers (7) and (9) are arranged one on each side of the intermediate layer (8). An authentication area (4) is a part of the device (1) comprising a portion of the first layer (7) containing the QR code and a portion of the second layer (8) facing the QR code.

[0055] According to a variation of FIG. 2, the device (1) comprises three overlapping, stacked layers. One layer (7) comprises an information medium (2) (in the form of a QR code). An intermediate layer (8) comprises a marking (10) comprising an optical variable element (6) in the form of ink. A third layer (9) forms the substrate of the device (1). Layers (7) and (9) are arranged one on each side of the intermediate layer (8). An authentication area (4) is a part of the device (1) comprising a portion of the first layer (7) containing a QR code and a portion of the second layer (8) facing the QR code.

[0056] According to a variation of FIG. 3, the device (1) comprises two overlapping, stacked layers. One layer (7) comprises an information medium (2) (in the form of a QR code) comprising an optically variable element (6). For example, the QR code is printed using optically variable ink. One layer (9) forms the substrate of the device (1). An authentication area (4) is part of the first layer (7) containing the QR code.

[0057] In the embodiments to be described, the optical variable element comprises a specific concentration of an active substance comprising one or more fluorescent compounds from the series of 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene or the series of difluoroborone β-diketonate (BF2bdks), particularly described in detail below.

[0058] However, the present invention is not limited to this type of optical variable element.

[0059] For example, it may be a type of optically variable ink also known as chrome, liquid crystal ink, or color-changing ink.

[0060] Preferably, the layer containing the optical variable element (6) also contains a polymer, wherein compound(s) are introduced into the polymer, particularly the polymer matrix constituting the substrate of the device (1).

[0061] In the remainder of the description, the terms "4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene compound(s)", "difluoroborane β-diketonate (BF2bdks)", and "fluorescent dye(s)" will be used interchangeably.

[0062] It should be noted that the active substance can be mixed with one or more types of ink.

[0063] 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacen compounds are fluorescent dyes, the first synthesis of which was reported in 1968 (A. Treibs et al., Justus Liebigs Ann. Chem. 1968, 718, 208). Since then, several other syntheses have been reported (e.g., Chem. Eur. J., 2009, 15, 5823; J. Phys. Chem. 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-indacen compounds are commercially available, for example, from ThermoFisher Scientific (Waltham, MA, USA).

[0064] These have remarkable absorption and emission characteristics, and in particular, exhibit relatively narrow fluorescence excitation and emission bands with high quantum yields (φ) between 0.5 and 1, making them highly fluorescent.

[0065] In addition, these compounds exhibit not only excellent photostability but also significant thermal stability. In fact, the fluorescent dyes according to the present invention are generally stable up to 300°C. Due to this high thermal stability, these fluorescent dyes can be easily introduced into a molten polymer matrix; unexpectedly, their light absorption and fluorescence emission performance are not degraded by introduction into the polymer matrix. This excellent stability allows the compound(s) to be introduced into a suitable ink, ensuring high resistance to photofading, unlike conventional technology.

[0066] All 4,4-difluoro-4-violet-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene compounds have absorption bands in the visible light range, and the color perceived by the naked eye corresponds to the complementary color of the absorbed color. For example, a compound that absorbs light around 480-490 nm, corresponding to green / blue, will appear orange / red to the naked eye.

[0067] Regarding their fluorescence properties, all compounds of the 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene series according to the present invention have an excitation band in the ultraviolet (UV) range and an emission band in the visible light range. Therefore, they can be excited by a UV lamp that emits light particularly between 100 nm and 400 nm, and the fluorescence can be detected visually.

[0068] Finally, the emission wavelength can be determined using a low-resolution, single-grid spectrofluorometer or fluorometer (detection by a photodiode or photomultiplier tube).

[0069] The 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene compound(s) used in the present invention may be selected from those having the following chemical formula I:

[0070] (I)

[0071] Here:

[0072] R 1 is a C1 to C6 alkyl, C5 to C6 cycloalkyl, C5 to C6 heteroalkyl, or phenyl, and the phenyl group is a C1 to C2 alkyl, hydroxy, R 5 COO - It can be substituted with one or more groups selected from halogens;

[0073] R 2 and R 2' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl;

[0074] R 3 and R 3' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 to C3 alkyls;

[0075] R 4 and R 4'is independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl, wherein the aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl may be substituted with one or more groups selected from C1-C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy, and ferrocene, wherein the aryl group may be substituted with one or more groups selected from aryl, C1-C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, and nitro, and wherein the aryl may be substituted with a C1-C2 alkyl group;

[0076] R 5 is a C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl.

[0077] The preferred compound of chemical formula I is R 1 , R 2 , R 2' , R 3 , R 3' , R 4 , R 4' and R 5 One or more of the following are defined as follows:

[0078] R 1 is a phenyl group substituted with one or more groups selected from methyl, fluoro, hydroxy, acetyl, and methacrylate, preferably from methyl, fluoro, hydroxy, and acetyl, more preferably from methyl or fluoro;

[0079] R 2 and R 2' is independently selected from hydrogen and methyl;

[0080] R 3 and R 3' is independently selected from hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, and n-propyl, preferably ethyl;

[0081] R 4 and R 4'is independently selected from methyl, vinyl, aryl, heteroaryl, and adamantyl, said vinyl and aryl groups may be substituted with one or more groups selected from phenyl and C1-C2 alkyl, and said phenyl group may be substituted with one or more groups selected from C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, bromo, nitro, and dimethylamine, and

[0082] Preferably R 4 and R 4' is independently selected from methyl, vinyl, phenyl, phenanthracenyl, naphthalenyl, pyrenyl, triphenyl, and benzofuranyl, wherein the vinyl, aryl, and naphthalenyl groups may be substituted with one or more methyl, hydroxy, bromo, nitro, and dimethylamino groups;

[0083] R 5 is methyl or ethenyl.

[0084] Particularly preferred compounds of Chemical Formula I are those in the table below:

[0085]

[0086]

[0087]

[0088]

[0089]

[0090]

[0091] Regarding the description of compounds used in the present invention, terms and expressions used shall be interpreted according to the following definitions unless otherwise specified.

[0092] The term "halogen" refers to fluoro, chloro, bromo, or iodo. Preferred halogen groups are fluoro and bromo, and fluoro is particularly preferred.

[0093] The term "alkyl" refers to a linear or branched hydrocarbon radical of the chemical formula CnH2n+1, where n is an integer of 1 or more. A preferred alkyl group is a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkyl group.

[0094] The term "alkenyl" refers to a linear or branched unsaturated alkyl group comprising one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Suitable alkenyl groups comprise 2 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 4 carbon atoms, 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.

[0095] The term "cycloalkyl" refers to a saturated mono-, di-, or tri-cyclic hydrocarbon radical having 3 to 12 carbon atoms, particularly 5 to 10 carbon atoms, particularly 6 to 10 carbon atoms, either alone or as part of another group. Suitable cycloalkyl radicals include, without limitation, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, norbornyl, and adamantyl, particularly cyclohexyl and adamantyl. Preferred cycloalkyl groups include cyclohexyl, adamant-1-yl, and adamant-2-yl.

[0096] The term "aryl" refers to a polyunsaturated aromatic hydrocarbon radical that is monocyclic (e.g., phenyl) or polycyclic (e.g., naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenanthracenyl, pyrenyl). Preferred aryl groups include phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenanthracenyl, and pyrenyl.

[0097] The term “heteroaryl” refers to an aromatic ring having 5 to 12 carbon atoms in which at least one carbon atom is substituted with an oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur atom or -NH, wherein the nitrogen and sulfur atoms may be optionally oxidized and the nitrogen atom may be optionally quaternized; or a ring system comprising 2 to 3 fused rings, each ring typically comprising 5 or 6 atoms, at least one of which is aromatic, and at least one carbon atom of the at least one aromatic ring is substituted with an oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur atom or -NH, wherein the nitrogen and sulfur atoms may be optionally oxidized and the nitrogen atom may be optionally quaternized. Examples of heteroaryl groups include furanyl, thiophenyl, pyrrolyl, pyridinyl, and benzofuranyl.

[0098] 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 paper by A. Loudet et al. (Chem. Rev. 2007, 107, 4891-4932).

[0099] According to another embodiment, the optical variable element comprises a fluorescent composition comprising a polymer matrix incorporating a compound from the family of difluoroboron β-diketonate (BF2bdk), selected from compounds having the following chemical formula II:

[0100] (I)

[0101] Here:

[0102] L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0103] L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0104] R 1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and

[0105] R 2 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and

[0106] R 3 The is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group.

[0107] Some preferred compounds of the series of difluoroboron β-diketonates having chemical formula I are L 1 , L 2 , R 1 , R 2 , and R 3 One or more of the following are defined as follows:

[0108] L 1 It is preferably a C2 to C8 unsaturated aliphatic chain, or is absent,

[0109] L 2 is preferably a C2 to C8 unsaturated aliphatic chain, or is absent,

[0110] R 1 The is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, preferably a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group with at least one electron-donating or electron-withdrawing group, and

[0111] R 2 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, preferably a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group with at least one electron-donating or electron-receiving group, and

[0112] R 3 It is selected from hydrogen and substituted or unsubstituted aryl groups.

[0113] Some preferred compounds of the series of difluoroboron β-diketonates having chemical formula I are L 1 , L 2 , R 1 , R 2 , and R 3 One or more of the following are defined as follows:

[0114] L1 is a C2 to C4 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0115] L 2 is a C2 to C4 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0116] R 1 is an aryl group substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, alkoxy, alkyl, aryl, dialkylamino, thioalkoxy, and halogen, and

[0117] R 2 is an aryl group substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, alkoxy, alkyl, aryl, dialkylamino, thioalkoxy, and halogen, and

[0118] R 3 It is selected from hydrogen and unsubstituted aryl groups.

[0119] Some preferred compounds of the series of difluoroboron β-diketonates having chemical formula I are L 1 , L 2 , R 1 , R 2 , and R 3 One or more of the following are defined as follows:

[0120] L 1 is a C2 to C4 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0121] L 2 is a C2 to C4 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0122] R 1 It is an aryl group substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, C1-C4 alkoxy, C1-C8 alkyl, aryl, C1-C4 dialkylamino, C1-C4 thioalkoxy, halogen, preferably fluorine, and

[0123] R 2is an aryl group substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, C1 to C4 alkoxy, C1 to C8 alkyl, aryl, C1 to C4 dialkylamino, C1 to C4 thioalkoxy, halogen, preferably fluorine, and

[0124] R 3 It is a hydrogen atom.

[0125] Some preferred compounds of the series of difluoroboron β-diketonates having chemical formula I are L 1 , L 2 , R 1 , R 2 , and R 3 One or more of the following are defined as follows:

[0126] L 1 is a C2 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0127] L 2 is a C2 unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent,

[0128] R 1 The aryl group is substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, C1-C4 alkoxy (preferably methoxy), C1-C8 alkyl (preferably tert-butyl), aryl, and C1-C4 alkylamino (preferably dimethylamino), preferably phenyl, biphenyl, or naphthyl, and

[0129] R 2 is an aryl group substituted or unsubstituted with at least one group selected from hydroxy, C1 to C4 alkoxy, preferably methoxy, C1 to C8 alkyl, preferably tert-butyl, aryl, and C1 to C4 alkylamino, preferably dimethylamino, preferably phenyl, biphenyl, or naphthyl, and

[0130] R 3 It is a hydrogen atom.

[0131] Some preferred compounds of the difluoroboron β-diketonate series have the following chemical formula I2:

[0132] (I2)

[0133] Here, R 1 , R 2 and R 3 It is as defined in Chemical Formula I.

[0134] Some preferred compounds of the difluoroboron β-diketonate series have the following chemical formula I3:

[0135] (I3)

[0136] Here, L 1 , R 1 , R 2 and R 3 It is as defined in Chemical Formula I.

[0137] Some preferred compounds of the difluoroboron β-diketonate series have the following chemical formula I4:

[0138] (I4)

[0139] Here, L 2 , R 1 , R 2 and R 3 It is as defined in Chemical Formula I.

[0140] Particularly preferred compounds of the series of difluoroboron β-diketonates having the chemical formula I are as follows:

[0141] Compound 1 Compound 2

[0142]

[0143] Compound 3 Compound 4

[0144]

[0145] Compound 5 Compound 6

[0146]

[0147] Compound 7 Compound 8

[0148]

[0149] Compound 9 Compound 10

[0150]

[0151] Compound 11 Compound 12

[0152]

[0153] Compound 13 Compound 14

[0154]

[0155] The term "alkyl" refers to a linear or branched hydrocarbon radical of the chemical formula CnH2n+1, where n is an integer of 1 or more. A preferred alkyl group is a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkyl group.

[0156] The term "alkenyl" refers to a linear or branched unsaturated alkyl group comprising one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Suitable alkenyl groups comprise 2 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 4 carbon atoms, 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.

[0157] The term "cycloalkyl" refers to a saturated mono-, di-, or tri-cyclic hydrocarbon radical having 3 to 12 carbon atoms, particularly 5 to 10 carbon atoms, particularly 6 to 10 carbon atoms, either alone or as part of another group. Suitable cycloalkyl radicals include, without limitation, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, norbornyl, and adamantyl, particularly cyclohexyl and adamantyl. Preferred cycloalkyl groups include cyclohexyl, adamant-1-yl, and adamant-2-yl.

[0158] The term "aryl" refers to a polyunsaturated aromatic hydrocarbon radical that is monocyclic (e.g., phenyl) or polycyclic (e.g., naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenanthracenyl, pyrenyl). Preferred aryl groups include phenyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl, phenanthracenyl, and pyrenyl.

[0159] The term “heteroaryl” refers to an aromatic ring having 5 to 12 carbon atoms in which at least one carbon atom is substituted with an oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur atom or -NH, wherein the nitrogen and sulfur atoms may be optionally oxidized and the nitrogen atom may be optionally quaternized; or a ring system comprising 2 to 3 fused rings, each ring typically comprising 5 or 6 atoms, at least one of which is aromatic, and at least one carbon atom of the at least one aromatic ring is substituted with an oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur atom or -NH, wherein the nitrogen and sulfur atoms may be optionally oxidized and the nitrogen atom may be optionally quaternized. Examples of heteroaryl groups include furanyl, thiophenyl, pyrrolyl, pyridinyl, and benzofuranyl.

[0160] The term "halogen" refers to fluoro, chloro, bromo, or iodo. Preferred halogen groups are fluoro and bromo, and fluoro is particularly preferred.

[0161] Therefore, when a layer containing optical variable elements (6) is placed on a bright background, a unique color is observed (i.e., a color complementary to the color absorbed by the fluorescent compound(s).

[0162] Conversely, against a dark background, the color of fluorescence caused by the fluorescent compound(s) is observed.

[0163] The physicochemical stimulation may consist of placing the device (1) against a bright background and then against a dark background, or conversely, placing it against a dark background and then against a bright background.

[0164] When the optically variable element is an ink, any type of polymer, for example, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, poly(vinyl chloride), polyamide, polyaramid, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), cyanoacrylate, rosin resin, rosin, photopolymerizable resin, or a mixture thereof, may be introduced into a layer. Preferably, the introduction may be performed on a polymer selected from polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane, and photopolymerizable resin; more preferably, on a polymer selected from polycarbonate and thermoplastic polyurethane; and even more preferably, the polymer is polycarbonate.

[0165] The amount of fluorescent dye to be introduced is the amount required for the detection of absorbance and fluorescence properties. The fluorescent dye according to the present invention provides the advantage of allowing the detection of these properties even when introduced into the polymer in a very small amount.

[0166] In fact, an amount of fluorescent dye between 0.0001 and 5 wt% relative to the total weight of the polymer; preferably between 0.001 and 2 wt% relative to the total weight of the polymer; more preferably between 0.01 and 1 wt% relative to the total weight of the polymer is sufficient for detection.

[0167] The amount of fluorescent dye(s) will be controlled by a technician in this field according to the polymer molding process and the desired visual effect.

[0168] Each layer (8) containing an optically variable element is advantageously manufactured using techniques known to those skilled in the art, such as lamination, extrusion, calendering, or extrusion-calendering. These techniques are selected depending on the polymer used. For example, if the polymer is polycarbonate or thermoplastic polyurethane, the extrusion-calendering method is preferred. In the sense of the invention, a set of layers can be obtained by laminating two or more polymer layers, for example, one or more fluorescent dyes.

[0169] Advantageously, the layer (8) has a thickness between 10 µm and 800 µm (preferably between 50 µm and 600 µm) for polycarbonate; between 10 µm and 600 µm (preferably between 30 µm and 150 µm) for polypropylene; and between 5 µm and 500 µm for PET, preferably 10 µm; to this, an ink thickness between 0.1 µm and 200 µm (preferably between 1 µm and 100 µm) is added. The present invention also relates to a method (100) for authenticating an information medium of an authentication device (1). This method (100) comprises the following steps:

[0170] - A step (101 - APPL) of applying a physicochemical stimulus to the authentication device (1) in the authentication area (4) to switch the information medium (2) from a first state to a second state,

[0171] - Step of reading at least one item of information encapsulated by the information medium (2) (102 - READ),

[0172] - A step of comparing at least one item among the read information with reference information (103 - COMP).

[0173] As described above, physicochemical stimuli are light irradiation, changes in temperature or pressure, or changes in observation conditions such as the angle of incidence for viewing the authentication device.

[0174] It should be noted that Step 101 may occur after Steps 102 and 103, or conversely, before them.

[0175] The step (101) of applying a physicochemical stimulus ensures physical authentication of the device (1). The reading step (102) and the comparison step (103) ensure digital authentication of the device (1).

[0176] The application step (101) is advantageously performed by changing the viewing angle of the authentication area (4), or by using a small device (smartphone, visible light, UV or infrared) or a dedicated device (specific reading terminal) to induce a color change from a first state to a second state.

[0177] The reading step (102) is advantageously performed using a communication terminal such as a mobile phone (smartphone) or a tablet.

[0178] The comparison step (103) is advantageously performed by a document authentication application.

[0179] If two-factor authentication is successful, the method includes the step (104) (TRANSF) of initiating an exchange, such as data transmission, for example, financial transactions, website access authentication, social networks, online betting, online video games, etc.

[0180] It should be noted that the method (100) can be adapted to three security levels mandated by the European eIDAS regulation of July 23, 2014. This regulation establishes three security levels: low, substantial, and high. The low level corresponds to the estimation of identity sufficient with a username and password. The substantial level requires verifying the individual's identity. The high level requires the use of biometric data to unlock the identity verification portal.

[0181] The security level can be selected according to the type of data encapsulated in the information medium (2).

[0182] Step-by-step browsing may also be provided, where authentication at Step 101 enables a specific action, whereas authentication upon completion of Steps 102 and 103 enables another specific action. For example, this may involve a step of accessing a site or data, or transmitting data of a different sensitivity level, once physical authentication is performed, and a step of accessing another site or data, or transmitting other data, once digital authentication is performed. There may be a differential in the approved sensitivity level depending on whether only one authentication or both authentications are performed. In other words, the security level is advantageously correlated with the level(s) of the authentication performed.

[0183] The present invention will be described below in a non-limiting embodiment of an authentication device (1) and an authentication method (100) according to a third variant.

[0184] The information medium is a QR code, and as previously mentioned, the encapsulated data is biometric data such as at least one item of photographs and / or citizen status data or fingerprints.

[0185] Accordingly, in the first state, the device (1) is in the form of a card in which a QR code is printed using black ink containing a fluorescent compound to form an optical variable element (6). In this example, black corresponds to the first color associated with the first state, and the color under light irradiation is green associated with the second state.

[0186] During step 101, a person and / or a communication terminal causes the optical variable element to change from a first state to a second state by inducing a stimulus, such as a movement and / or a flash of light, that causes a change in the terminal's field of view. The user can then, preferably remotely, verify whether the flashed security area is in the expected state. In the example presented herein, the QR code of the authentication area (4) changes from black to green. Upon completion of step 103, the physical authenticity of the device (1) is verified.

[0187] During step 102, the area (4) of the device (1) is presented in front of a human-machine interface, such as the screen of a communication terminal. The QR code is read by the communication terminal.

[0188] During step 103, the biometric data of the QR code is compared with expected data, for example, through a security application.

[0189] Upon completion of steps 101 and 102, the digital authenticity of the device (1) was verified.

[0190] Two-factor authentication subsequently authorizes the potential exchange of data from the information medium.

[0191] The present invention has many applications. The following non-complete list may be mentioned:

[0192] - Authentication of customers using the Internet through an access provider (e.g., companies such as Free®, Orange®, SFR®, etc.) or a mobile carrier;

[0193] - Customer authentication verified via a secure profile using media with secure access, such as television channels and / or streaming services (e.g., Netflix®, Amazon Prime®, etc.) and through a smartphone and / or webcam;

[0194] - Remote age verification and / or authentication of individuals, particularly for adult sites (pornography, online sports betting portals, etc.), paid sites (online video games, e-commerce sites), and administrative procedures;

[0195] - A biometric "phygital" collectible card featuring a unique NFT (Non-Fungible Token) signature and / or blockchain integration capabilities;

[0196] - A financial transaction card capable of recognition at a service counter or remote recognition via a camera or smartphone, and capable of reading QR codes and encapsulated biometric data (regardless of the presence of a chip).

Claims

Claim 1 An authentication device for an information medium configured to encapsulate at least one item of data related to a product or person, wherein the authentication device is called an authentication area and includes an area that represents a change between a first appearance and a second appearance by having an information medium and an optical variable element, wherein in a first state, the authentication area and / or the information medium represent the first appearance, and in a second state, the authentication area and / or the information medium represent the second appearance, and the switch between the first appearance and the second appearance is caused by a change in viewing angle, a change in illumination, or a physicochemical stimulus. Claim 2 An authentication device according to claim 1, wherein the optical variable element comprises one or more fluorescent compound(s) from the series of 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene and / or the series of difluoroborane β-diketonate (BF2bdks). Claim 3 In the prior claim, the compound(s) from the series of 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene are selected from those having the formula I: (I) Here: R 1 is a C1-C6 alkyl, C5-C6 cycloalkyl, C5-C6 heteroalkyl, or phenyl, and the phenyl group is a C1-C2 alkyl, hydroxy, COO - It can be substituted with one or more groups selected from , and halogens; R 2 and R 2' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl; R 3 and R 3' is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 to C3 alkyls; R 4 and R 4' is independently selected from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl, and said aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, alkyl, and alkenyl may be substituted with one or more groups selected from C1-C3 alkyl, aryl, hydroxy, and ferrocene, said aryl group may be substituted with one or more groups selected from aryl, C1-C2 alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, dimethylamino, and nitro, and said aryl may be substituted with a C1-C2 alkyl group; R 5 is a C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C4 alkenyl. Claim 4 In paragraph 2 or 3, the compound(s) of the difluoroborane β-diketonate (BF2bdks) series are selected from those having Formula II: (II) Here: L 1 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent, and L 2 is an unsaturated aliphatic chain or is absent, R 1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and R 2 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group, and R 3 The is selected from hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group. Claim 5 In any one of the prior claims, the information medium is an authentication device that is a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode called a QR code, or a bank account identifier, or an identifier for a manufactured or food product, or a photograph. Claim 6 A method for authenticating an information medium of an authentication device according to any one of the prior claims, comprising: - a step of applying a physicochemical stimulus to the authentication device to switch the information medium from a first state to a second state; - a step of reading at least one item of information encapsulated by the information medium; and - a step of comparing at least one item of the read information with reference information. Claim 7 In the prior claim, the physicochemical stimulus is a change in observation conditions such as light irradiation, a change in temperature or pressure, or an angle of incidence seen by the authentication device. Claim 8 An authentication method according to claim 6 or 7, comprising a step of exchanging information if, after the steps of application, reading, and comparison, the results of these steps meet expected criteria. Claim 9 Use of the method according to any one of paragraphs 6 through 8 for authorizing the transmission of digital data. Claim 10 For example, in a user experience map, a use comprising the steps of presenting a device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 to an automated or human-assisted reader, recognizing a change in the appearance of an area, reading an information medium, and comparing at least one item of data encapsulated within the information medium.

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