Liquid Test Strip Authentication Using Fourier Microcodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test devices lack effective mechanisms to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits and ensure reliable test results, particularly in determining the presence of specific ingredients in bodily fluids.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a unique two-dimensional representation of a binarized Fourier transform as a security feature on the test device, which requires a minimum resolution for decoding, and linking it with a result field to ensure authenticity and prevent duplication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If test devices are marked with two-dimensional microcodes to prevent counterfeiting, then device authenticity and test result reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple layers of security within the label structure: a visible first two-dimensional code for basic authentication, and a hidden second two-dimensional code containing a Fourier transform pattern that requires minimum resolution decoding. This nested structure provides progressive security verification while maintaining a relatively simple overall label design that can be applied to existing test devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the security feature from a simple visual pattern into a multi-dimensional verification system by using Fourier transform patterns that exist in the frequency domain. The second two-dimensional code contains pattern information that is only visible and decodable when viewed at minimum resolution, adding a dimensional aspect of resolution-based verification to the security mechanism.
2Reliability
If a security field with Fourier transform pattern is added to prevent duplication, then device authenticity is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying techniques to encode the Fourier transform pattern into the label's second two-dimensional code. The pattern is created by optically processing an image through Fourier transform and encoding it as a two-dimensional code that can be printed using standard manufacturing processes, making the complex security feature compatible with existing manufacturing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of pattern resolution to create the security feature. The Fourier transform pattern is designed with specific spatial frequency characteristics that require minimum resolution for proper decoding. This parameter-based security approach allows the same manufacturing process to produce both functional labels and security features without requiring entirely new manufacturing equipment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If minimum resolution requirement is imposed on security pattern decoding, then prevention of unauthorized reproduction is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial verification by requiring minimum resolution decoding only for the second two-dimensional code while the first two-dimensional code can be read at lower resolutions. This allows the system to perform basic authentication easily while requiring enhanced verification only when necessary, balancing security requirements with operational convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification process where the two-dimensional codes serve as intermediaries between the physical label and the authentication system. The codes translate the Fourier transform pattern into a machine-readable format that can be verified by scanning devices, mediating between the complex optical pattern and the simple binary verification process.
Data Source
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AI summary
Shown and described is a test device (1) for determining whether a liquid has a constituent, comprising a sample field (3) onto which a sample of the liquid can be applied, a result field (5) which is designed to assume a first appearance if the sample contains the constituent in at least a minimum amount, and to assume a second appearance if the sample does not contain the constituent in at least the minimum amount, and a security field (7) having an information field (9) with a structure (11) with which a first unique identification code is coded, wherein the first unique identification code can only be decoded from the structure (11) if the structure is produced with a minimum resolution, wherein the result field (5) and the security field (7) are arranged in such a manner that the result field (5) and the security field (7) can be jointly, preferably simultaneously, optically detected by a detection unit.