Machine-Readable Code Security via Variable Data Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing technologies lack secure and efficient methods to prevent forgery and unauthorized copying of printed products, particularly in applications where hidden marks are required for authenticity and security.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a variable data printing app and a code detection app that add machine-readable codes to printable items, which can be hidden or visible, and are only decodable by authorized users after validation, ensuring secure communication and preventing unauthorized access or copying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hidden marks are used to enhance security and prevent forgery, then authenticity is improved, but readability and accessibility of the information are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
A decoder application serves as an intermediary between the hidden machine-readable code and the user device. The decoder receives the captured image, extracts and decodes the hidden code, and presents the information in a readable format, thereby bridging the gap between security requirements and user accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional visual reading mechanisms with electronic/image-based decoding. Instead of human visual inspection of hidden marks, the system uses computer vision technology to capture, process, and decode the hidden machine-readable code into readable information
2Ease of operation
If machine-readable codes are made visible as decorative elements, then accessibility is improved, but security against unauthorized copying is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the printed material have different properties: some areas contain visible decorative elements while other areas contain hidden machine-readable codes. This local differentiation allows the system to provide both aesthetic appeal and security functionality in the same printed product
Solution Approach 2:
The information presentation is segmented into two distinct layers: a visible layer for decorative/aesthetic purposes and a hidden layer for security purposes. This segmentation allows each layer to serve its specific function without compromising the other
3Ease of operation
If decoder apps are provided to all users, then information accessibility is improved, but vulnerability to unauthorized access is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of decoder availability from universal access to conditional access. Decoders are selectively distributed only to authorized users based on specific criteria, thereby maintaining information accessibility for legitimate purposes while preventing unauthorized access
4Reliability
If variable data printing is used to create unique codes, then security against forgery is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The variable data and machine-readable codes are incorporated into the printed material during the initial printing process itself, rather than being added as a separate post-processing step. This preliminary integration reduces manufacturing complexity by combining multiple operations into one
Data Source
AI summary
Access is provided to a variable data printing app and a code detection app on a computer server. The variable data printing app is adapted to add machine-readable code to printable items and create a decoder app capable of decoding the machine-readable code. The code detection app is adapted to receive user identification information and transmit the user identification information to designer devices. The printable items are printed as printed products. The designer devices validate a user device based on the validity of the user identification information. In response, the variable data printing app is adapted to transmit the decoder app to validated user devices. The code detection app, operating on the user device, is adapted to decode the machine-readable code in user-acquired images into an optional secure link with the designer devices.