Reflectance-Based Security Mark for Recyclable Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional security marks for recyclable containers require image analysis for authentication, which is inefficient and can be easily tampered with, as they rely on visible and invisible color elements under different illumination conditions.
Innovation Solution
A security mark with specific reflectance values in the visible and infrared spectra, allowing authentication based on reflectance measurements, making it difficult to produce tampered marks and enabling detection in both existing and new reverse vending machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If image analysis is used for detecting color elements in conventional security marks, then authentication can be performed, but the process becomes inefficient and vulnerable to tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces image analysis (complex processing) with direct reflectance value measurement (simple measurement). Instead of capturing images and analyzing color elements, the system uses a detector to directly measure reflectance values at specific wavelengths, which are then compared against reference values for authentication. This substitution of measurement method dramatically improves efficiency while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent shifts from analyzing spatial parameters (image coordinates, color element locations) to measuring optical parameters (reflectance values at specific wavelengths). By measuring reflectance at predetermined wavelengths and comparing these numerical values against reference ranges, the system achieves both efficiency and reliability without complex image processing.
2Reliability
If conventional security marks use visible and invisible color elements, then authentication is possible, but the marks can be easily copied with similar illustrations and color elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different reflectance properties to different parts of the security mark by using multiple inks with distinct spectral characteristics. Each ink has a unique reflectance profile at specific wavelengths, creating local quality differences that are difficult to replicate. The verification process measures reflectance values from these different regions and checks them against reference ranges, making forgery difficult.
Solution Approach 2:
The security mark uses composite ink materials with specific spectral properties. Each ink is formulated to have distinct reflectance characteristics in the visible and infrared ranges, creating a multi-layered optical signature. This composite approach with multiple inks having different optical properties makes the security mark more resistant to copying compared to single-color conventional marks.
3Measurement precision
If security marks are designed with specific reflectance values in infrared spectrum, then unique characteristics are achieved, but compatibility with existing reverse vending machines must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The security mark design serves multiple functions: it provides unique infrared reflectance signatures for precise authentication while simultaneously maintaining visibility in the visible spectrum for basic identification. The mark works with both existing visible-light-based reverse vending machines and new infrared-capable systems, achieving universal compatibility across different verification technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the security mark's functionality from the visible spectrum to the infrared spectrum, adding a new dimensional layer of verification. By incorporating infrared reflectance properties alongside visible light characteristics, the system enables authentication in multiple spectral dimensions, allowing compatibility with both traditional and advanced verification systems.
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 solution provides a safer and more fraud-proof method for validating the authenticity of recyclable containers by using reflectance values, ensuring unique characteristics and easier detection, while being compatible with existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The reflectance of the first part is above 80 percent in infrared light having a wavelength above 800 nm making the first part substantially invisible in most of the infrared spectrum
Implementation Method 2
The reflectance of the second part is between 0 and 20 percent in light having a wavelength up to 800 nm making the second part substantially fully visible in the visible spectrum and a first part of the infrared spectrum up to 800 nm
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention provides for a security mark (1) on a recyclable container (2), where the security mark (1) comprises an illustration (3) including a first part (4) printed in a first ink and second part (5) printed in a second ink. The reflectance of the first part (4) is between 0 and 20 percent in the visible spectrum having a wavelength up to 660 nm, making the first part (4) substantially fully visible in most of the visible spectrum and the reflectance of the first part (4) is above 80 percent in infrared light having a wavelength above 800nm making the first part (4) substantially invisible in most of the infrared spectrum. The reflectance of the second part (5) is between 0 and 20 percent in light having a wavelength up to 800 nm making the second part (5) substantially fully visible in the visible spectrum and a first part (4) of the infrared spectrum up to 800 nm and the reflectance of the second part (5) is above 25 percent in infrared light having a wavelength above 960 nm making the second part (5) at least not fully visible in most of the infrared spectrum. A method for validating the authenticity of a security mark (1) on a recyclable container (2) is also disclosed.