Coin Holder Edge View Optics for Slab Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coin slabs do not effectively allow for clear viewing of the edge features of coins, leading to difficulties in assessing damage and authenticity, and lack sufficient security features to prevent counterfeiting.
Innovation Solution
A coin holder with an optical frame that surrounds the coin edge, featuring a double reflective prismatic configuration to project undistorted images of the edge features, along with security windows and unique textures to authenticate the casing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coin is encased in a protective slab, then the coin is protected from handling and environment, but the edge features become difficult to view
Solution Approach 1:
The slab is divided into separate functional components: a protective casing for the coin, a distinct optical frame for edge viewing, and a certificate holder. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with others, solving the contradiction between protection and viewing accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical frame with reflective surfaces is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the coin edge and the viewer's eye. This intermediary device enables the edge features to be viewed through the slab without requiring the slab to be removed or rotated, thus maintaining protection while enabling viewing.
2Ease of operation
If a protruding coin holder surface is used to raise the coin off the slab, then the edge can be viewed when the slab is turned on its side, but the slab becomes difficult to stack for storage
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of raising the coin vertically off the slab surface, the optical frame extends horizontally along the coin edge, creating a viewing dimension parallel to the coin face. This dimensional change allows edge viewing without vertical protrusion, maintaining stacking compatibility while enabling the viewing function.
3Ease of operation
If a magnification circle with a single reflective surface is used, then an inverted image of the edge lettering can be viewed, but the image appears dark and distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The single reflective surface is segmented into multiple distinct reflective surfaces positioned at different locations and angles within the optical frame. This segmentation allows each surface to handle specific portions of the light path, collectively producing a complete, undistorted, and properly illuminated image of the coin edge.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the optical frame are assigned different local qualities: some areas have reflective surfaces at specific angles, others have transparent portions, and the LED lighting is positioned to illuminate specific zones. This local differentiation optimizes the overall image quality by addressing specific optical requirements at different locations within the frame.
4Ease of operation
If four tabs are used to hold the coin in place, then the edge can be viewed directly by holding the slab on an angle, but the view is minimal due to glare
Solution Approach 1:
The optical frame serves as an intermediary that positions and illuminates the coin edge specifically for viewing. It includes integrated LED lighting that directs light onto the edge features, reducing glare and improving visibility, while the frame structure itself guides the viewer's line of sight to the optimal viewing angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical frame incorporates LED lighting that emits specific wavelengths and intensities to illuminate the coin edge. The lighting system can adjust color temperature and intensity to optimize contrast and reduce glare, making the edge features more visible and easier to examine clearly.
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
Enables clear, undistorted viewing of coin edge features without rotating the slab and enhances security by ensuring authentic grading certificates and casings, improving the integrity of the coin grading process.
Implementation Method 1
An angled outer side of the optical frame is located substantially opposite the inner side and includes a reflective surface capable of reflecting an inverted image of the features of the coin edge
Implementation Method 2
The optical frame further includes an angled bottom side that is positioned opposite and aligned with the angled outer side and also includes a reflective surface. The reflective surface of the angled bottom side receives the inverted image reflected from the angled outer side and projects a double inverted image of the features through the viewing side
Data Source
AI summary
A coin holder having edge view optics. The coin holder includes a coin having an obverse side, a reverse side and a coin edge having features on the coin edge. The features can include lettering, decorative patterns or other features of interest. An optical frame is configured to surround the coin edge and includes reflective surfaces that project an image of the coin edge to a viewing side of the optical frame, where the features of the coin edge can be viewed in a desired orientation.