Gemstone Traceability via Invisible Polymer Shell Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for making gemstones traceable often damage or impair their optical quality, are unreliable due to removable identification methods, and lose traceability after processing steps like grinding or cutting.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of invisible markers, 10 nm to 1000 nm in size, suspended in a carrier liquid, which are attached to internal sites within the gemstone using natural or artificially created defects, allowing for secure and permanent traceability without affecting the gemstone's appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If laser engraving or etching methods are used to mark gemstones, then traceability is achieved, but the gemstone is damaged or impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a polymer shell as an intermediary carrier that holds the unique identification code. Instead of directly marking the gemstone, the identification is transferred to the shell which then encapsulates the gemstone. This mediator approach allows traceability without direct contact or damage to the gemstone surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification system is segmented into separate components: the gemstone itself and a separate polymer shell containing the identification code. This segmentation allows the identification function to be separated from the gemstone, enabling traceability while preserving the gemstone's integrity.
2Reliability
If barcodes or protective coatings are applied to the gemstone, then traceability is achieved, but the optical quality is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The polymer shell acts as an intermediary that carries the barcode identification. The shell is designed to be transparent or translucent, allowing light to pass through while containing the identification code. This resolves the contradiction by placing the opaque barcode on the shell rather than directly on the gemstone surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a thin polymer shell that can be applied as a coating around the gemstone. This thin film approach allows the identification code to be displayed without significantly interfering with the gemstone's optical properties, as the shell is sufficiently thin to maintain light transmission.
3Reliability
If engraved or etched marks are used on gemstones, then traceability is achieved, but the marks are damaged or removed during processing
Solution Approach 1:
The gemstone is encapsulated in the polymer shell containing the identification code before the gemstone undergoes processing steps like cutting, grinding, or heating. This preliminary encapsulation protects the identification code from damage during subsequent processing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The polymer shell serves as a protective intermediary between the identification code and the gemstone processing operations. The shell shields the barcode from mechanical damage during cutting, grinding, and other processing steps that would otherwise destroy surface markings.
4Ease of manufacture
If the gemstone casing is damaged or removed during processing, then processing is completed, but traceability is impaired or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The identification code is embedded within the polymer shell that encapsulates the gemstone before processing. This preliminary embedding ensures that even if the outer casing or setting is removed or damaged during processing, the identification code remains protected within the polymer shell.
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 method ensures the gemstone remains traceable indefinitely without visual alteration, providing secure and reliable identification throughout its processing stages, including after cutting or grinding, and can be applied at various stages of processing.
Implementation Method 1
the gemstone and the carrier fluid are set in motion, i.e., for example, shaken, sonicated (in particular with ultrasound), agitated, rotated or stirred
Data Source
Figure 1a~2f
Figure 3a~3f
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for making a gemstone (2) traceable, comprising the steps of: providing an invisible marker (1), wherein the marker (1) is clearly identifiable, fastening the marker (1) in a placement location (3) in the gemstone (2), and sensing marking information (4) which contains the fact that this clearly identifiable marker (1) is fastened to this gemstone (2). In this case, the marker (1) can be transported to the placement location (3) in a manner suspended in a carrier fluid (10). An additive (12) may have been added to the carrier fluid (10), for example a primer or a starting material for surface coating of at least a partial surface of the placement location (3). A method for tracing the gemstone (2) is also described. Likewise described is a gemstone (2) having a marker (1) which has been arranged and fastened by said method for making the gemstone (2) traceable.