Optical Carrier with Invisible Coding for Reliable Sample Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for analyzing physical, chemical, or biochemical interactions using optical measuring methods face limitations in sensitivity and reliability due to the use of two-dimensional pattern recognition and fluorescent markers, which can lead to incorrect identification of samples and failure in quality control, especially in sensitive applications like medicine and the food industry.
Innovation Solution
A carrier for optical measurement methods is developed with a base layer coated with reactive elements and special linker molecules, allowing for invisible coding that can be verified without cross-checking, enabling secure quality assurance and authenticity verification through a look-up table, and macroscopic patterns on the substrate surface that continue onto the base layer for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-dimensional pattern recognition with fluorescent markers is used, then sample identification can be achieved, but sensitivity decreases and measurement setup becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional fluorescent marker detection to three-dimensional reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) measurement. This parameter change in detection dimensionality and physical principle enables label-free, high-sensitivity detection by measuring optical interference patterns from reflected light, eliminating the need for fluorescent markers while improving sensitivity and reducing measurement complexity
2Loss of information
If physical barcodes are affixed to arrays, then identification information can be stored, but the codes are not publicly accessible or readable without specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visible copy of the identification code by transferring the pattern from the substrate surface through the base layer to the reactive elements layer. This visible pattern serves as an accessible copy that can be read without specialized equipment, while the original invisible code remains embedded in the carrier structure for authentication purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The base layer acts as an intermediary medium that transfers the identification pattern from the substrate surface to the reactive elements layer. This intermediary structure enables the code to be visible and accessible for reading while maintaining the integrity of the original carrier and its embedded authentication code
3Reliability
If invisible coding with linker molecules is used, then security against counterfeiting is improved, but verification requires look-up tables and cannot be quickly checked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visible macroscopic pattern that copies the identification code structure from the substrate surface through the base layer to the reactive elements. This visible copy enables rapid visual verification and reading of the code without requiring complex look-up table queries, significantly reducing verification time while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a visible dimensional aspect to the previously invisible code by creating a macroscopic pattern on the substrate surface that transfers through the base layer. This dimensional transformation from invisible molecular-level coding to visible macroscopic pattern enables both security and rapid visual verification
Data Source
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Figure 1c~1d
AI summary
The invention relates to a recognizable carrier for determining physical, chemical or biochemical interactions by means of optical measuring methods. The carrier comprises a surface that defines a substrate surface and that has a base layer coated with reactive elements, which are bonded to receptor molecules, wherein the base layer and/or the reactive elements are provided with a pattern of holes which forms a code and/or the reactive elements are provided with linker molecules or markers which form a code. The substrate surface may additionally have a macroscopically planar pattern which is applied using laser light or chemical etching and forms a code. The invention likewise relates to a method for producing a recognizable carrier for spectroscopic processes and/or intensiometric tests to determine said interactions. The code to recognize the carrier can be controlled via a read-out unit coupled to the photometric analysis unit. Such a carrier can be used to analyze biomolecules during security checks, access controls or in-vitro diagnostics.