Invisible 3D Image Using Fluorescent Dye Embedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for embedding hidden images in three-dimensional objects are costly, require specialized equipment, and fail to create a strong user impact, as they are often subtle and require close inspection, limiting their applicability to two-dimensional surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A system using a composition of fluorescent dyes and transparent materials within a three-dimensional object, where the inner material remains transparent under visible light and emits color when exposed to invisible light, allowing for the creation of invisible three-dimensional images that can be revealed using modest equipment and low material costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If laser etching or carving is used to embed a three-dimensional image within an object, then a three-dimensional image can be created, but the etched pattern is plainly viewable under standard lighting conditions and requires expensive specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using fluorescent materials that change their optical properties under different lighting conditions. The embedded three-dimensional image uses fluorescent dye or pigment that appears invisible or substantially invisible under visible light but becomes visible when exposed to ultraviolet or other invisible light, creating the desired visibility effect while avoiding expensive laser etching equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the embedding material by using substances with different fluorescent characteristics. The material's visibility is controlled by changing the type of light exposure (visible vs. ultraviolet), allowing the same embedded structure to be invisible under normal conditions and visible under specific activation, eliminating the need for costly specialized manufacturing equipment
2Manufacturing precision
If laser etching or carving is used to embed a three-dimensional image within an object, then a three-dimensional image can be created, but the final user impact is subtle and requires users to closely inspect the object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses fluorescent materials that undergo dramatic color changes when exposed to ultraviolet light. The embedded three-dimensional image transitions from being substantially invisible under visible light to emitting bright visible light under ultraviolet exposure, creating a strong user impact that eliminates the need for close inspection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic or alternating exposure to different light conditions to reveal the hidden image. By switching between visible and ultraviolet light exposure, the system creates a dynamic reveal effect that enhances user impact and makes the three-dimensional image easily detectable without requiring close inspection
3Ease of manufacture
If hidden messages are embedded using ultraviolet or infrared light, then hidden images can be created, but these methods are generally only applicable to two-dimensional objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends two-dimensional fluorescent embedding techniques into three-dimensional space by embedding fluorescent materials within volumetric structures. The fluorescent dye or pigment is incorporated into three-dimensional objects, allowing hidden images to be created within the volume of the object rather than just on its surface, thus achieving three-dimensional hidden image capability
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 the creation of visible three-dimensional images within objects that provide a strong user impact without the need for expensive equipment, as the images are only visible under invisible light, offering a unique and engaging experience.
Implementation Method 1
the inner material remains transparent under visible light and emits color when exposed to invisible light
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system and method for providing and utilizing objects having invisible three-dimensional images. There is provided an object comprising an inner material and an outer material. The inner material is formed in a three-dimensional shape and includes a first portion having a first ratio based on a first fluorescent dye and a first transparent material, wherein the first ratio is selected such as to cause the first portion to remain transparent when exposed to a visible light and the first portion to emit a first visible color when exposed to an invisible light. The outer material comprises a second transparent material formed around the inner material such as to hide the three-dimensional shape of the inner material. By exposing the object to the invisible light, the three-dimensional shape of the inner material is revealed.