Fluorescent DNA Marking Material for Secure Area Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security marking materials have limited detectability under UV light and are not effective at long distances due to degradation, and they lack a controlled and targeted dispersion method for secure area applications.
Innovation Solution
A formulation of 1-10% fluorescent identifier and DNA in a solvent, combined with a propellant, is used in a pressurized container to create an aerosol that can be sprayed at high pressures, allowing for enhanced detectability and controlled dispersion as fine particles, with optional inclusion of a visible stain for overt marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If existing security marking materials are used, then the material can be applied for marking, but the detectability under UV light is limited and degrades significantly over short time periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent increases the fluorescent identifier concentration from trace amounts to 1-10% by weight, fundamentally changing the material composition parameter. This substantial increase in fluorescent component concentration directly enhances UV detectability and extends the duration of detectability, resolving the contradiction between detectability and duration.
2Length of stationary object
If material is sprayed at low pressure, then the material can be dispersed, but it cannot be sprayed at long distances with sufficient coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pressurized aerosol delivery system using gas propellants (such as compressed air, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide) to force the marking material through nozzles at high pressures. This pneumatic mechanism enables the material to be sprayed at distances greater than 60 inches while maintaining effective coverage and adhesion, resolving the contradiction between spray distance and pressure requirements.
3Ease of operation
If material is dispersed as aerosol, then the material can be targeted and controlled, but the formulation becomes complex requiring propellant and container system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the delivery system into distinct functional components: the marking material formulation (containing DNA, fluorescent identifier, and solvent), the propellant system (separate gas component), and the delivery device (pressurized container with nozzles). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve controlled and targeted dispersion, managing the complexity through modular design.
4Illumination intensity
If high concentration of fluorescent identifier is used, then the detectability is enhanced, but the cost of material increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the fluorescent identifier concentration to a specific range of 1-10% by weight of the total marking material. This parameter optimization achieves sufficient UV detectability and extended duration without excessive material usage, balancing detectability enhancement with cost considerations by avoiding both trace amounts and excessive concentrations.
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 extended detectability under UV light, allows for longer-range and more precise application of the marking material, and ensures that even if the visible stain is removed, the unique DNA can still be identified, effectively marking and identifying intruders or assailants in secure areas.
Implementation Method 1
the material may be provided in a pressurised container which has one or more nozzles from which the material is dispersible as an aerosol
Implementation Method 2
The container may be pressurised to a pressure of greater than 60 psi
Implementation Method 3
the propellant disperses the material as an aerosol as fine particles each having a diameter of about 40-70 μm
Implementation Method 4
By providing at least 1% of fluorescent identifier, the detection of the material under UV light is enhanced
Data Source
AI summary
A material for indelibly and uniquely marking an article for identification purposes includes a mixture including between about 1% and 10% by weight fluorescent identifier, DNA, and the remainder including predominantly a solvent.