RFID Tag Embedded in Locking Varnish for Tamper-Evident Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tamper-evident marking methods using locking varnish in the assembly of electronic elements do not provide traceability of assembly events, such as when, where, and by whom the assembly occurred, and can be easily falsified by reapplying varnish during unauthorized disassembly.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag marker into a layer of locking varnish applied between assembled elements, allowing for remote interrogation and recording of assembly parameters, which remains concealed and protected within the varnish, enabling tamper-evident and traceable marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking varnish is applied to assembly screws, then tamper-evident marking is achieved, but traceability of assembly events is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate functions into a single integrated system: the locking varnish provides tamper-evident marking while the RFID tag embedded within it provides traceability of assembly events. This merging resolves the contradiction by ensuring both reliability of tamper detection and preservation of assembly information simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite structure where an RFID tag is embedded within the locking varnish material. This composite approach allows the varnish to maintain its tamper-evident properties while the embedded RFID tag provides additional traceability functionality, thus resolving the information loss issue.
2Ease of manufacture
If locking varnish is reapplied during unauthorized disassembly, then the marking appears intact, but the ability to detect unauthorized disassembly is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag provides a feedback mechanism that records and communicates whether the assembly has been disassembled and reassembled. Even if the varnish is reapplied and looks intact, the RFID tag's memory retains information about the disassembly event, allowing detection of unauthorized modifications through remote interrogation.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary between the physical varnish marking and the detection system. While the varnish can be visually inspected and potentially faked, the RFID tag provides an independent verification layer that cannot be easily replicated, thus maintaining reliability of unauthorized disassembly detection.
3Manufacturing precision
If RFID tag is placed before applying locking varnish, then marker position can be optimized, but the marker is exposed to impact
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is placed in position before the locking varnish is applied, allowing for precise positioning and optimization of the marker location. The subsequent application of varnish then protects the pre-positioned tag from impacts and environmental factors, resolving the contradiction between positioning precision and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking varnish serves as a protective intermediary layer that shields the RFID tag from physical impacts and environmental damage. This allows the tag to be positioned precisely before application while the varnish subsequently protects it from harmful factors.
4Reliability
If locking varnish is used for tamper-evident marking, then assembly control is improved, but information about assembly time, location, and personnel is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag provides multi-functionality by not only indicating whether disassembly occurred but also recording assembly metadata such as time, location, and personnel information. This universal approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining assembly control through tamper detection while simultaneously preserving comprehensive assembly information.
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 method provides secure, tamper-evident, and traceable marking by ensuring that disassembly destroys the varnish, while the RFID tag allows for remote tracking of assembly events, preventing unauthorized disassembly and ensuring authenticity of assembly records.
Implementation Method 1
placing a marker of the radio tag type on a first surface of the first element
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the tamper-evident and traceable marking of an assembly of a first element and a second element, the marking method comprising steps of assembling the first element and the second element, placing a radio tag marker on a first surface of the first element, the first surface being facing a second surface of the second element, and applying a first layer of locking varnish to a third surface, the third surface comprising the first surface and the second surface, in order to cover the marker, the first layer of locking varnish, once dried, guaranteeing that the marking is tamper-evident and the radio tag marker affording tracing of the marking.