Embedded Magnetic Identification Assembly for Tamper-Resistant Component Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing identification systems for components, such as those using external markings like bar codes or RFID tags, are prone to damage in harsh environments and can be easily tampered with or counterfeited, as they are visible and accessible on the surface of components.

Innovation Solution

An embedded magnetic identification assembly is created using a plurality of magnetic elements with unique geometries and polarities arranged in an array on a base component, which is then covered with an overcoat to prevent visual observation, utilizing additive manufacturing techniques like laser engineered net shape (LENS) or cold spray deposition for robust adhesion and protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external markings (bar codes, RFID tags) are used for component identification, then identification functionality is provided, but the markings are vulnerable to damage in harsh environments and can be easily tampered with or counterfeited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification reliabilityVSAvoidenvironmental damage and tampering

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic identification elements are embedded within the component itself, nested inside the material matrix. This embedding protects the identification features from external environmental damage and tampering while maintaining identification functionality, directly resolving the vulnerability of external markings

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

Magnetic fields serve as an intermediary for reading the embedded identification elements without requiring direct visual access or physical contact with the markings. This allows non-contact, non-line-of-sight reading that prevents tampering during the identification process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If identification markings are placed on the outer surface of components, then identification is easily accessible, but the markings become visible and susceptible to removal or damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification accessibilityVSAvoidvisibility and accessibility to tampering

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic identification elements are embedded within the component material, making them invisible and inaccessible for removal or tampering. The nesting within the material matrix eliminates visibility while maintaining identification functionality through magnetic field interaction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces visual/mechanical reading systems with magnetic field-based reading. Instead of requiring line-of-sight visual access to external markings, the system uses magnetic fields that can penetrate materials and read embedded elements without direct contact or visual exposure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If magnetic elements are embedded within the component, then identification becomes secure and tamper-resistant, but the elements must be undetectable and resistant to environmental stressors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetamper resistanceVSAvoidenvironmental stressors

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite material structures where magnetic elements are integrated within the component material matrix. This composite approach provides both mechanical protection against environmental stressors and tampering, while the magnetic properties remain detectable for identification purposes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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 solution provides a secure, tamper-proof identification method that survives harsh conditions and maintains component integrity, as the embedded magnetic elements are undetectable and resistant to environmental stressors, ensuring reliable and unique identification.

Implementation Method 1

determining at least one characteristic of a magnetic field of at least a portion of a tag, thereby obtaining a first specific magnetic signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

the tag comprises a substantially non-magnetic host material having pores, wherein at least some of the pores contain a magnetic material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3207391B1Magnetic identification assembly and method of identifying a component

Publication Date: 2022.03.02 SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORP

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AI summary

An embedded magnetic identification assembly includes a base component formed of a material. Also included is a plurality of elements formed in an array at a surface of the base component, wherein the plurality of elements is formed of a magnetic material.