Modified Product Code for Covert Anti-Counterfeiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting counterfeit items often incur additional costs and complexity, such as holographic labels and RFID tags, which are not effectively addressed by current covert and overt code technologies.
Innovation Solution
A method of printing a product code that includes a modified character, which is subtly different from standard characters, using existing printers to create a covert security feature that is difficult for counterfeiters to replicate, without requiring additional equipment or materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If holographic labels or RFID tags are used to detect counterfeit items, then authenticity verification capability is improved, but production cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the security feature directly into the existing product code printing process. The modified character is integrated into the standard barcode or alphanumeric code, combining the identification function and security verification function into a single element that is printed using existing equipment, eliminating the need for separate security devices or processes
Solution Approach 2:
The product code serves multiple functions: it provides standard product identification for scanning and tracking, and simultaneously embeds a security verification feature through the modified character. This multi-functional approach allows the same printed element to serve both operational and security purposes without requiring additional components
2Reliability
If holographic labels or RFID tags are used to detect counterfeit items, then authenticity verification capability is improved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple, inexpensive modified character printed with standard equipment instead of expensive reusable security devices like RFID tags or holographic labels. The security feature is embedded as a permanent part of the product code printing process, requiring no additional materials or components that would increase production cost
Solution Approach 2:
The security feature is merged into the existing product code printing operation, eliminating the need for separate security labeling or tagging processes. This integration allows the same printing equipment and ink to serve both product identification and security verification functions, avoiding additional material and equipment costs
3Ease of manufacture
If standard product codes are printed without modification, then printing simplicity is maintained, but counterfeit detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by modifying only one specific character within the product code sequence while leaving all other characters standard. This localized modification embeds security information without changing the overall printing process or requiring different equipment, maintaining printing simplicity while adding counterfeit detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes a parameter of one character (such as font type, size, or style) to create the modified character that serves as the security feature. This parameter change is applied to a single character within the standard code sequence, allowing existing printers to produce both standard identification and security verification functions without process modification
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of printing a modified product code includes providing a printer and a substrate. An initial product code is determined. The initial product code includes a plurality of unmodified characters. A modified product code is determined. The modified product code includes at least one modified character that is different from a corresponding one of the plurality of unmodified characters of the initial product code. The modified character is a function at least in part by of initial product code. The printer is controlled to print the modified product code on the substrate.