Recyclable Container Authentication via Multi-Wavelength Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for authenticating recyclable containers are time-consuming due to the need for image analysis and transmission, which slows down the processing of recyclable containers in collection systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves illuminating a security mark on a recyclable container with light across different wavelength ranges, detecting reflection values, and transmitting these values to a central validation unit for quick authentication, reducing the need for image file transmission and enabling faster processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image analysis and transmission is used for authentication, then authentication accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential authentication information (reflection values at specific wavelengths) from the security mark, rather than transmitting and analyzing complete images. This extraction of critical data points enables fast processing while maintaining authentication accuracy by focusing only on the wavelengths that distinguish authentic from counterfeit marks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the authentication approach by changing from image-based analysis to parameter-based analysis. Instead of processing visual images, the system measures specific physical parameters (reflection values) at defined wavelength ranges, enabling rapid numerical comparison that maintains accuracy while dramatically reducing processing time.
2Reliability
If multiple wavelength ranges are used for detection, then authentication reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral detection into specific, discrete wavelength ranges (e.g., first wavelength range and second wavelength range) rather than analyzing the entire spectrum. This segmentation allows the use of multiple wavelength bands for improved reliability while keeping the detection system manageable by focusing only on the critical wavelength regions that differentiate authentic security marks.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time required for authenticating recyclable containers by using simpler reflection values for validation, allowing for quicker determination of authenticity and refund processing.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a first reflection value of the security mark by means of the security mark detection means when the security mark is illuminated with light within the first wavelength range
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a validation system (1) for validating the authenticity of a security mark (2)on a recyclable container (3). The system (1) includes conveying means (4) for conveying the recyclable container (3), one or more security mark detection means (5) arranged to detect more than one reflection value (R1, R2) of the security mark (2), a first light source (6) arranged to illuminate the security mark (2) with light within a first wavelength range (13), a second light source (7) arranged to illuminate the security mark (2) with light within a second wavelength range (14) which is different from the first wavelength range (13). The reflection values (R1, R2) are transferred to a central validation unit (9) arranged to check if the first and second reflection values (R1, R2) are within predefined ranges in order to determine the authenticity.