Product reservoir validation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for authenticating replaceable product reservoirs in dispensers are ineffective against unauthorized use and counterfeiting, as mechanical and electrical key systems can be bypassed, and tag-based systems can be circumvented by counterfeit tags, leading to incorrect product dispensing and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A system that incorporates a data storage device in the product reservoir and a dispenser controller with bi-directional communication, using logic processors and encryption methods like rolling codes to authenticate the reservoir and prevent unauthorized use, ensuring only authorized and genuine products are dispensed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical or electrical key systems are used to authenticate product reservoirs, then product compatibility is ensured, but the systems can be bypassed by determined users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical and electrical key systems with an optical authentication system using lasers and photodetectors. The laser reads unique identifiers embedded in the product reservoir, and the photodetector validates the signal. This optical system cannot be bypassed by mechanical means and provides more reliable authentication while preventing unauthorized product dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (laser beam) between the authentication system and the product reservoir. The laser acts as a mediator that reads the unique identifier without physical contact, creating a barrier that cannot be easily bypassed. This intermediary layer enhances security while maintaining ease of use.
2Measurement precision
If tag-based authentication systems are used on refill containers, then product identification is improved, but the system can be circumvented by applying counterfeit tags
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical tags that can be counterfeited with an embedded optical identification system. The unique identifier is integrated into the product reservoir structure itself, making it impossible to apply counterfeit identifiers. The laser-photodetector system reads this embedded information without contact, ensuring authentic product identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the authentication identifier within the structure of the product reservoir itself, nesting the security feature inside the product. This embedded approach makes the identifier inseparable from the authentic product, preventing counterfeiting while maintaining accurate product identification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If keyed systems are used to prevent unauthorized product installation, then distributor control is improved, but the systems can still be bypassed leading to incorrect product dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical keyed systems with an optical authentication system using lasers and photodetectors. This system provides more reliable product dispensing accuracy by validating the unique identifier of each product reservoir. The optical system cannot be bypassed, ensuring that only authorized products are dispensed while maintaining distributor control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the photodetector reads the unique identifier from the product reservoir and provides feedback to the control system. The control system then determines whether to permit dispensing based on this feedback. This closed-loop system ensures accurate product identification and prevents incorrect dispensing while maintaining distributor control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of authenticating a replaceable product reservoir for use in a product dispenser includes incorporating a data storage device into the replaceable product reservoir where the dispenser control reads data from the storage device to verify that the correct replaceable product reservoir has been installed in the product dispenser.