Gemstone Identity Validation via Angular Spectrum Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assessing the dimensions and weight of faceted gemstones, such as diamonds, in mounted settings are unreliable and can damage the setting, posing risks to the gemstone and the setting itself, and are not suitable for consistent validation of gemstone identity.
Innovation Solution
A faceted structure analysis system comprising a faceted structure imaging assembly and an analyzer that uses angular spectrum information to determine dimensions and weight of gemstones while they are mounted, employing a cylinder with color features and a light source to capture images without requiring full visibility of the gemstone, allowing for validation of gemstone identity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If gemstone dimensions are measured by removing the gemstone from the setting, then measurement precision is improved, but the setting may be damaged and the gemstone may be lost or stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is segmented into two independent phases: first capturing the angular spectrum signature while the gemstone remains mounted, then removing the gemstone separately for weight measurement. This segmentation allows dimensionless identification without exposing the mounted gemstone to theft or setting damage risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an optical copy (angular spectrum signature) of the gemstone's light interaction patterns while mounted. This signature serves as a dimensional identifier that can be stored and compared later, eliminating the need to physically handle or remove the gemstone for identification purposes.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If gemstone volume is estimated by skilled gemologists using calipers on mounted gemstones, then the gemstone remains mounted and safe, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to subjective variation
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical measurement process using calipers is replaced with an optical measurement system that captures angular spectrum information. This substitution eliminates human subjectivity while keeping the gemstone mounted, providing objective and consistent dimensional data through light interaction patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from direct physical dimension measurement (which requires gemstone removal or close contact) to optical parameter measurement (angular spectrum of reflected light). This parameter change enables non-contact measurement that maintains gemstone safety while improving precision through objective optical data.
3Measurement precision
If the culet is visible to measure depth, then volume determination is improved, but typical mounted settings hide the culet from view
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from direct spatial measurement (requiring line-of-sight to the culet) to angular spectrum measurement. By capturing light reflection patterns from multiple angles, the system can infer depth information without direct visual access to the culet, effectively adding an angular dimension to the measurement approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The angular spectrum acts as an intermediary that carries depth information from the hidden culet to the observer. Instead of directly viewing the culet, the system captures how light interacts with the gemstone's internal structure and reflects it, allowing indirect measurement of depth through the light's angular distribution.
4Device complexity
If gemstone identity validation is performed using traditional methods, then the process is simple, but reliability deteriorates due to inability to consistently obtain critical dimensions from mounted settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capture of the angular spectrum signature while the gemstone is still mounted and easily identifiable. This signature is stored as a reference for future validation, allowing quick and reliable identification without needing to repeatedly measure physical dimensions or remove the gemstone.
Solution Approach 2:
The angular spectrum signature serves as a unique optical fingerprint copied from the gemstone's light interaction patterns. This copy can be stored and compared against future measurements, providing reliable and consistent identity validation without requiring repeated physical measurements or gemstone removal.
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
Enables reliable and consistent determination of gemstone weight and validation of gemstone identity without damaging the setting, improving accuracy and reducing risks associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
As light enters the faceted structure, some of the entering light is internally reflected within the structure and redirected to the eye of an observer
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a faceted structure imaging assembly and a faceted structure image analyzer. Signature information of the gemstone is obtained and compared to stored signature information. The signature information includes angular spectrum information generated by the imaging assembly while a colored light pattern is reflected onto the gemstone. The signature information uniquely identifies the gemstone and indicates whether an entity was the source of the gemstone. The signature information comparison involves comparing an angular spectrum image obtained by the imaging assembly to stored angular spectrum images. In one example, the system compares the obtained signature information to stored signature information to validate a source of the gemstone. In another example, the system obtains signature information of the gemstone and forwards the signature information to a remote validation system. The remote validation system compares the signature information to stored signature information and forwards a validation result to the system.