Handheld Object Authentication via Barcode and Spectral Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scanning methods for identifying substances in security and public safety contexts are often slow and inefficient, particularly when dealing with large databases of known compounds, making them impractical for applications like airport security screening.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a combination of scanning a feature of an object to provide reference information and measuring electromagnetic radiation emitted from the object to rapidly authenticate the substance, using a hand-held device that compares sample information with reference information to determine if the object contains a specific substance, with features such as bar codes, RFID tags, and low-power electromagnetic radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional scanning methods are used to identify substances by comparing against large databases of known compounds, then identification accuracy can be maintained, but the scanning time becomes excessively long making it impractical for security screening
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by scanning an identifying feature (barcode, RFID tag, label) of the object before conducting full substance analysis. This preliminary scan retrieves reference information about the expected substance, allowing the system to prepare comparison criteria in advance and significantly reduce the time required for full identification while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The identifying feature (barcode, RFID tag, label) serves as an intermediary that provides reference information about the substance. Instead of directly comparing the entire substance against a large database, the system uses this intermediary to obtain preliminary substance information, which then guides the electromagnetic radiation comparison process, reducing the search space and time
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
This approach allows for rapid and accurate authentication of substances, reducing the time required for identification and eliminating the need for extensive database comparisons, making it suitable for fast-paced environments like airport security.
Implementation Method 1
using a first electronic device to scan a feature of an object and provide reference information about the object based on the scanned feature
Implementation Method 2
using a second electronic device to measure electromagnetic radiation emitted from the object and provide sample information about the object based on the measured electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 3
comparing the sample information and the reference information to determine whether the object comprises the substance associated with the object
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for scanning objects and associated substances, where the methods include: (a) using a first electronic device to scan a feature of an object and provide reference information about the object based on the scanned feature, where the feature identifies the object or a substance associated with the object; (b) using a second electronic device to measure electromagnetic radiation emitted from the object and provide sample information about the object based on the measured electromagnetic radiation; and (c) comparing the sample information and the reference information to determine whether the object includes the substance associated with the object.