Laser-Switchable Cover Layers for Visible Confidential Data Concealment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for protecting confidential information, such as printing on paper, face risks of information leakage due to illegal viewing or deterioration of paper/ink, and lack visibility without infrared sensors.
Innovation Solution
A data protector and data protection seal that utilize reversible cover layers transitioning between color-developed and decolored states in the visible wavelength region, controlled by laser light beams, allowing information to be concealed or revealed visibly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If confidential information is stored on a recording medium connected to a computer, then information can be easily accessed and stored, but it risks being stolen by third parties or becoming unreadable due to hacking or device failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cover layer as an intermediary between the confidential information and the external environment. This cover layer contains color-developing and decoloring agents that can be switched between colored and colorless states, acting as a mediator that controls visibility of the underlying information without compromising its storage or accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter (visibility) of the cover layer by switching between colored and colorless states. This parameter change allows the information to transition between visible and invisible states, providing security while maintaining accessibility when needed.
2Reliability
If confidential information is printed on paper, then information security is improved against hacking, but the information may still be illegally viewed or lost due to deterioration of paper or ink
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by switching the cover layer between colored and colorless states. When colored, it prevents illegal viewing; when colorless, it allows authorized viewing. This dynamic parameter change addresses both protection and accessibility needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the cover layer's visibility state changeable rather than static. The ability to switch between colored and colorless states dynamically allows the system to adapt to different security requirements and usage scenarios.
3Reliability
If a cover layer transitions between color-developed and decolored states in the visible wavelength region, then confidential information can be concealed or revealed visually, but the device complexity increases due to additional layers and materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single cover layer: it serves as both a protective layer and a visibility control mechanism. The cover layer combines color-developing agents and decoloring agents in one structure, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover layer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the confidential information, controls visibility, and provides a user interface for switching states. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the device structure.
4Reliability
If existing data protection methods are used, then information can be protected, but visualization without infrared sensors is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter by designing the cover layer to transition in the visible wavelength region rather than requiring infrared sensors. This allows the human eye to directly observe the visibility changes, eliminating the need for specialized detection equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the infrared sensor-based detection system with a direct visual observation system. By using color-developing and decoloring agents that change appearance in the visible spectrum, the system eliminates complex sensing equipment and simplifies the user interface.
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 secure concealment and visibility of confidential information without infrared sensors, using leuco dye and photothermal conversion agents to switch states with laser light, enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
one or a plurality of cover layers disposed at least one of above or below the data layer and configured to transition between a color-developed state and a decolored state in a visible wavelength region
Implementation Method 2
The light source section emits laser light beams... The optical section performs at least one of writing or erasing on the data layer or the one or the plurality of cover layers by applying the laser light beams
Data Source
AI summary
A data protector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a data layer configured to record confidential information as a visible image; and one or a plurality of cover layers disposed at least one of above or below the data layer and configured to transition between a color-developed state and a decolored state in a visible wavelength region.