Anti-counterfeiting Tag with 3D Random Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-counterfeiting technologies, such as PUFs, often require specialized readers or equipment, are expensive, or lack sufficient security, making them impractical for widespread use in authenticating products.
Innovation Solution
A tag with a self-forming three-dimensional (3D) random pattern created by printing multiple layers on a substrate, where one layer generates a physically unclonable function (PUF) and others facilitate pattern formation and protection, allowing for authentication without the need for specialized equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized readers or equipment are used for PUF authentication, then security is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic/magnetic PUF systems requiring specialized readers with an optical PUF system that uses natural light reflection. The 3D microstructures create unique optical signatures visible through simple imaging devices like cameras or smartphones, eliminating the need for complex electromagnetic readers while maintaining authentication security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visible optical copy or image of the 3D microstructure pattern that can be captured and stored as authentication data. Instead of requiring physical access to complex PUF hardware, the system captures an optical image that serves as a replicable authentication signature, simplifying the reader device to basic imaging capabilities.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If millimeter sized 3D features are used for shadow casting, then detection is improved, but resistance to abrasion during transportation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the size parameter of the 3D microstructures from millimeter scale to micrometer scale (25-500 micrometers). This size reduction improves abrasion resistance and durability during transportation while still maintaining sufficient light-interacting properties for shadow casting and optical detection, as the micrometer-scale features remain large enough to affect light paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent emphasizes the three-dimensional nature of the microstructures with heights of 10-100 micrometers, creating vertical dimensionality that casts shadows and affects light reflection. This 3D configuration at micrometer scale provides both detection capability through shadow casting and resistance to abrasion, as the vertical features are more resistant to planar wear during transportation.
3Reliability
If a large number of intricate micro-features are created, then PUF security is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the 3D microstructures directly into the label manufacturing process itself, rather than adding them as a separate post-processing step. The microstructures are formed during label production through techniques like embossing, molding, or 3D printing integrated into the labeling line, which preliminary establishes the PUF features while managing manufacturing precision requirements within existing label production capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a cost-effective, secure, and practical method for authenticating products using a 3D random pattern that is resistant to copying and degradation, enabling widespread adoption in anti-counterfeiting efforts.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of layers printed on at least a portion of the substrate; wherein one of said plurality of layers is configured to generate a self-forming three dimensional (3D) raised random pattern comprising physically unclonable function (PUF)
Implementation Method 2
the other layers are configured to facilitate formation of the 3D pattern and/or to protect the formed 3D pattern
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-counterfeiting tag, system and method of manufacturing and authentication therefor are provided. The tag comprises a substrate; and a plurality of layers printed on at least a portion of the substrate; wherein one of said plurality of layers is configured to generate a self-forming three dimensional (3D) raised random pattern comprising physically unclonable function (PUF) and the other layers are configured to facilitate formation of the 3D pattern and/or to protect the formed 3D pattern.