Worm Pattern Code for Secure Item Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for authenticating high-value items, such as certificates of authenticity, are not securely connected to the items themselves, making them susceptible to counterfeiting and authenticity verification challenges.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of a quasi-invisible, two-dimensional code, referred to as a 'worm pattern,' to high-value items. This code is composed of tiny, unconnected line elements and small area elements, which are integrated into the item's surface patterns, making them virtually imperceptible to the naked eye but readable with a specialized app.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a visible marking is applied to the item, then authentication information is provided, but the item may be defaced
Solution Approach 1:
The code elements are rendered in colors that match or blend with the background surface pattern, making them visually imperceptible to the human eye while remaining detectable by a reader device that analyzes the optical properties of the surface
Solution Approach 2:
The code is embedded within existing surface patterns (engravings, reliefs, printed designs) by copying the visual characteristics of the background, allowing the authentication mark to be indistinguishable from the item's decorative or functional surface features
2Shape
If an invisible marking is applied (e.g., UV-visible), then the item is not defaced, but it does not provide safe protection against counterfeiting
Solution Approach 1:
The code elements are distributed locally within specific surface regions with varying optical properties, creating a complex spatial pattern that is extremely difficult to replicate accurately, thereby providing secure counterfeit protection while remaining visually imperceptible
Solution Approach 2:
The code utilizes asymmetric arrangements of line elements with varying orientations, lengths, and positions within surface patterns, creating a unique fingerprint-like structure that is easy to verify but extremely difficult to counterfeit
3Ease of operation
If a conventional code (barcode, QR code) is applied, then information can be read, but the code can also be read and copied by counterfeiters
Solution Approach 1:
The code transitions from a flat two-dimensional pattern to a three-dimensional surface integration, where code elements are embedded within relief structures, engravings, or textured surfaces, adding a dimensional layer that prevents accurate copying while maintaining readability
Solution Approach 2:
The code is segmented into numerous small line elements distributed across the surface, where each element's position, orientation, and shape contribute to the overall code information, creating a complex pattern that is readable but extremely difficult to replicate accurately
Data Source
AI summary
A method for authenticating a high-value item, wherein an optically identifiable code is generated and applied to the item by being integrated into a surface region of the item that is provided with graphics or a surface structure, wherein the code is in the form of a two-dimensional arrangement of code elements and the outline of the two-dimensional arrangement is adapted to the outline of the surface region or of part of a surface region, and wherein the code is linked to an information source that provides information, able to be displayed on a display, in relation to the item, and wherein a reader, such as for example a smartphone, is provided with programming for detecting and reading the code and, when the code is read, the link to the information source is activated and the information is displayed on the display of the reader.