3D Printed Objects With Embedded Unique Identifier Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies lack effective methods to authenticate and verify the authenticity of printed objects, making it difficult to prevent counterfeiting and ensure the integrity of manufactured products.
Innovation Solution
A computer-controlled system that infuses unique-identifier elements (UIEs) into 3D printed objects, using miniaturized physical unclonable function (PUF) elements embedded in the printing process, allowing for unique and random responses to stimuli, which can be used for authentication and verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional 3D printing is used without unique identifiers, then the manufacturing process is simple and fast, but the ability to authenticate and prevent counterfeiting is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines unique identifier elements (UIEs) directly into the 3D printing process by incorporating them into the filament material. This merging of authentication functionality with the manufacturing process allows objects to be authenticated without adding separate authentication steps or components, thus improving reliability while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The unique identifier elements are pre-integrated into the filament before printing. This preliminary action ensures that authentication capability is built-in from the start, eliminating the need for post-printing authentication additions and maintaining process simplicity while enhancing security
2Reliability
If unique identifier elements are integrated into printed objects, then authentication security is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the filament material parameters by incorporating UIEs into the filament composition. This parameter change allows the printing process to remain fundamentally the same while adding authentication capability, thus maintaining ease of manufacture without sacrificing security
Solution Approach 2:
The printed objects themselves carry the unique identifiers, making them self-authenticating. The objects serve their own authentication function without requiring external tags or separate verification mechanisms, simplifying the manufacturing process while enhancing authenticity verification
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a computer system having a memory coupled to a processor system, wherein the processor system is operable to perform processor system operations that include accessing a model of a physical object; and accessing instructions associated with the model of the physical object. The instructions are used to control a printhead coupled to a unique-identifier-element-infused (UIE-infused) filament source to print the physical object from UIE-infused filament.