Covert Security Marker Deactivation via Optical Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traceless security marker systems lack a covert deactivation method that does not leave visible marks, making it difficult to identify items that have been rightfully paid for, especially in scenarios like return fraud, where security tags need to be deactivated during the production, distribution, and disposal chain.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to deactivate traceless security markers by adding an additional marker that triggers a 'fail' response from authentication readers, either by not meeting shape requirements or producing a different optical response, using markers such as fibers, flakes, or specific optical responses, which can be applied via sprays or pens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional security tags are deactivated by removing or obscuring the marker, then the security feature is disabled, but visible marks are left on the item
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of adding a marker (which could trigger false positives) into a beneficial deactivation mechanism. By adding a specific deactivation marker with distinct optical properties, the system transforms what would normally be a detection error into a reliable deactivation signal that the authentication reader can distinguish from authentic markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes optical property changes to differentiate between active and deactivated security markers. The deactivation marker is designed to produce a different optical response (different color, reflectivity, or absorption characteristics) that the authentication reader can detect, enabling covert deactivation without visible physical marks on the item.
2Ease of operation
If an additional marker is added to deactivate the security feature, then deactivation is achieved, but false positive responses may be triggered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving the deactivation marker distinct optical properties that differ from authentic markers. The deactivation marker has specific characteristics (such as different color, reflectivity, or particle morphology) that are localized to deactivated items, enabling the authentication reader to distinguish between active and deactivated security features without confusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the marker system to enable deactivation detection. By modifying the optical response characteristics (wavelength, intensity, polarization) of the deactivation marker compared to authentic markers, the system creates a parameter distinction that the authentication reader can use to reliably identify deactivated items without triggering false positives.
3Reliability
If the traceless signature is removed or obscured by scratching or adding absorbers, then the marker is deactivated, but visible damage or marks are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a deactivation marker as an intermediary substance that mediates between the need for deactivation and the requirement to maintain item appearance. This intermediary marker provides a covert method to indicate deactivated status without directly damaging or visibly altering the item surface, unlike scratching or applying obscuring absorbers.
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 allows for the covert deactivation of security markers, preventing false positives and negatives, thereby effectively identifying paid items and reducing return fraud without visible damage.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of marker particles having a first optical response and a second set of marker particles having a second optical response different from the first optical response
Implementation Method 2
The marker particles emit or reflect electromagnetic radiation 26 as a response to the radiation from the irradiation sources 22 which is detected by a camera 28
Data Source
AI summary
A method to deactivate a security measure includes applying a first covert optically active security marker to a product or document; completing a transaction for the product or document; and applying a second optically active security marker to the product or document which indicates completion of the transaction.