Glass Sheet Identification Code Marked at Multiple Depths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification codes on glass sheets, such as barcodes and Datamatrix symbols, are not readable when glass sheets are stacked, limiting their utility in authenticating or tracking glass products.
Innovation Solution
A method of marking identification codes within the glass sheet in multiple dimensions, including its thickness, where parts of the symbol are marked at different depths, allowing for readable codes both on the face and edge of the glass, even when stacked, using techniques like laser marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If identification codes are marked on the face of glass sheets using conventional laser marking, then the codes can be read when sheets are isolated, but the codes become unreadable when sheets are stacked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by marking the identification code at multiple depths within the glass sheet thickness rather than solely on the surface. The code is distributed across different depth planes (e.g., first portion at depth d1, second portion at depth d2), enabling reading from both face and edge perspectives. This three-dimensional distribution resolves the contradiction by making the code readable in both isolated and stacked configurations.
2Productivity
If codes are marked only on the surface of glass sheets, then marking is simple and fast, but codes cannot be read through stacked sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification code into multiple portions distributed at different depths within the glass sheet. The first portion is marked at a first depth and the second portion at a second depth, creating a multi-layered code structure. This segmentation allows the code to be read from multiple perspectives (face and edge), ensuring reliability in stacked conditions while maintaining marking efficiency through automated multi-depth processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If identification codes are marked inside the glass at multiple depths, then codes can be read both on face and edge of stacked sheets, but marking process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the depth dimension within the glass sheet to distribute code portions at different levels (d1, d2, etc.). This approach enables dual-readability from face and edge perspectives without requiring complex external reading systems. The laser marking device is programmed to focus at multiple predetermined depths, adding computational complexity but maintaining hardware simplicity.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional surface marking is used, then marking equipment and process are simple, but codes cannot authenticate stacked glass sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the identification code into multiple segments positioned at different depths within the glass sheet. This segmentation strategy enhances authentication reliability for stacked sheets by enabling edge reading capability, while the marking process remains relatively simple using conventional laser equipment with multi-depth focusing control. The segmented structure ensures that at least one portion of the code remains accessible for reading regardless of sheet stacking configuration.
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 rapid and efficient reading of codes on glass sheets whether they are isolated or stacked, enhancing authentication and tracking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The symbols are for example marked by means of laser radiation of any suitable type, preferably oriented perpendicular to the glass sheet
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a glass sheet (2) comprising a symbol (8) marked inside the glass, said symbol forming a code. The symbol is marked in at least two dimensions including the thickness of the glass sheet, parts of the symbol being marked at different depths in the thickness of the glass sheet.