Multi-Fluid Dendrite Formation for Unclonable Item Tagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing supply chain systems are vulnerable to corruption due to non-secure connections between items and their information, often through removable or counterfeit labels.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a unique, unclonable, and tamper-resistant dendritic identifier formed by a multi-fluid system, where a first fluid is introduced between two substrates, separated to create a stochastically branching pattern, ensuring each identifier is distinct and securely linked to item information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional machine-readable labels are used to link items to information, then the system is simple and easy to implement, but the connection is vulnerable to removal, copying, and counterfeiting
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier system is segmented into two complementary components: a dendritic pattern applied to the physical item and its mirror image applied to the packaging or label. This segmentation ensures that both components are needed to access information, preventing unauthorized access while maintaining system security. The dendritic pattern itself is segmented into unique branching structures that are inherently unclonable.
Solution Approach 2:
The dendritic identifier uses asymmetric branching patterns that are inherently unique and unclonable. The stochastic nature of dendrite formation creates asymmetric structures with high entropy, making each identifier distinct. The mirror image relationship between the item and packaging creates a symmetric verification system that relies on the asymmetric uniqueness of the original dendritic pattern.
2Reliability
If dendritic identifiers are formed using multi-fluid systems, then unclonability and security are improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The dendritic identifier system is self-service in that the dendritic pattern is directly applied to the item itself during manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate application steps. The multi-fluid system self-organizes into dendritic structures through controlled phase separation, requiring no additional patterning equipment or complex manufacturing steps beyond the initial fluid application.
Solution Approach 2:
The dendrite formation process utilizes parameter changes in the multi-fluid system, specifically controlling temperature, viscosity ratios, and phase separation conditions to generate unique dendritic patterns. By adjusting parameters such as the viscosity of the first fluid relative to the second fluid, and controlling the temperature during formation, the system generates reproducible yet unique identifiers without requiring complex manufacturing equipment.
3Reliability
If the dendritic pattern is made resistant to physical alteration, then security is improved, but the identifier may become less flexible in application
Solution Approach 1:
The dendritic identifier system is universal in that it can be applied to diverse items and packaging materials through the multi-fluid system. The same fundamental dendrite formation process works across different substrates, fluid compositions, and application methods (direct application, spray, dip-coating), providing both tamper resistance and broad adaptability to various supply chain applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The dendritic pattern adds a dimensional element of complexity through its three-dimensional branching structure and fractal geometry. This dimensional complexity provides tamper resistance while maintaining versatility, as the pattern can be scaled, rotated, and applied to items of various shapes and sizes. The mirror image relationship adds another dimensional layer for verification purposes.
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
The dendritic identifier provides a secure, unambiguous mapping between items and their information, preventing counterfeiting and ensuring hyper-specific information delivery, while being resistant to physical alteration and reuse.
Implementation Method 1
a viscosity of the first fluid at the formation temperature exceeds a viscosity of the second fluid at the formation temperature
Implementation Method 2
introducing a second fluid between the surface of the first substrate and the surface of the second substrate, wherein the second fluid is in direct contact with the first fluid at a formation temperature
Implementation Method 3
The number of possible patterns depends at least in part on the fractal dimension of the shape (related to its complexity and density)
Data Source
AI summary
Forming a unique stochastically branching pattern includes providing a first fluid between a surface of a first substrate and a surface of a second substrate and introducing a second fluid between the surface of the first substrate and the surface of the second substrate. The second fluid is in direct contact with the first fluid at a formation temperature, and a viscosity of the first fluid at the formation temperature exceeds a viscosity of the second fluid at the formation temperature. The first substrate and the second substrate are separated to yield a unique stochastically branching pattern comprising the first fluid on the surface of the first substrate.