Method and apparatus for labeling using diffraction grating-based encoded optical identification elements
US7126755B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 12, 2003 |
| Grant date | Oct 24, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 12, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03H2270/24
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and apparatus for labeling an item using diffraction grating-based encoded optical identification elements 8 includes an optical substrate 10 having at least one diffraction grating 12 disposed therein. The grating 12 has one or more colocated pitches Λ which represent a unique identification digital code that is detected when illuminated by incident light 24. The incident light 24 may be directed transversely from the side of the substrate 10 (or from an end) with a narrow band (single wavelength) or multiple wavelength source, and the code is represented by a spatial distribution of light or a wavelength spectrum, respectively, or a combination thereof. The element 8 can provide a large number of unique codes, e.g., greater than 67 million codes, and can withstand harsh environments. The encoded element 8 may be used to label any desired item, such as large or small objects, products, solids, powders, liquids, gases, plants, minerals, cells and/or animals, or any combination of or portion of one or more thereof. The label may be used for many different purposes, such as for sorting, tracking, identification, verification, authentication, anti-theft/anti-counterfeit, secu…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.