Composite Coin Separator for Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing composite coin structures lack effective security features for authentication, particularly in generating unique frequency-dependent capacitance values to differentiate between components, which is crucial for secure identification and validation.

Innovation Solution

A striked composite structure comprising an inner stack of inserts, an outer ring, and a separator made of different materials, where the separator provides varying frequency-dependent capacitance values between the inserts and the outer ring, generating up to three distinct capacitance signatures for authentication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional single, bi- or tri-metallic coin structures are used, then visual identification and basic security features are provided, but unique frequency-dependent capacitance values for authentication are not generated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication securityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dielectric separator as an intermediary component between conductive inserts and the outer ring. This separator generates frequency-dependent capacitance values that serve as authentication features, without requiring complex multi-material constructions. The mediator approach adds authentication capability while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite structure combining conductive inserts, dielectric separator, and outer ring. This composite approach enables generation of unique capacitance signatures through the interaction of different materials, providing authentication security without excessive structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If multiple discrete inserts are stacked to create tri-metallic coins, then additional security features are provided, but the number of junctions increases making the structure more complex and harder to validate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity featuresVSAvoidnumber of junctions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dielectric separator acts as a mediator that simplifies the validation process. Instead of validating multiple metal-to-metal junctions, the system validates the capacitance signature generated by the separator, reducing the number of validation points while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical junction validation with electromagnetic field-based capacitance measurement. This substitution eliminates the need to physically validate multiple junctions, simplifying the validation process while enhancing security through frequency-dependent capacitance signatures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If conventional coin structures without dielectric separators are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but unique capacitance signatures for authentication cannot be generated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The dielectric separator is introduced as a straightforward intermediary component that can be manufactured and assembled using conventional processes. Its primary function of generating capacitance signatures does not require complex manufacturing, thus maintaining ease of manufacture while enabling authentication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes changes in dielectric parameters (permittivity, thickness) of the separator to generate unique capacitance signatures. These parameter variations can be achieved through standard manufacturing tolerances and material selections, avoiding complex manufacturing requirements while providing authentication capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 enhances security by providing a unique capacitance signature that is difficult to replicate, ensuring reliable identification and authentication of the composite coin structure, thereby preventing counterfeiting.

Implementation Method 1

the separator provides varying frequency-dependent capacitance values between the inserts and the outer ring, generating up to three distinct capacitance signatures for authentication

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3764836B1Composite structure with separator for coins and the like
Publication Date: 2023.11.08 ROYAL CANADIAN MINT
  • EP3764836B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1C
  • EP3764836B1 patent drawingFigure 1D
  • EP3764836B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A composite coin, coin black, medal or token structure provides an inner stack, an outer ring surrounding the inner stack, and a separator, an authentication method and method of manufacture for the same. The inner stack comprises one or more inserts stacked on top of each other. The separator is disposed between the outer ring and the inner stack separating the outer ring from the inner stack and separating the plurality of inserts from each other.