Abstract: A viewing device is used with coded data on a surface. The device includes a sensor arrangement for sensing the coded data when the device is placed on the surface, and a processor in signal communication with the sensor arrangement. The processor is configured to decode the coded data. Also included is a transceiver for transmitting the decoded data to a computer system, and to subsequently receive a file pre-associated with the decoded data from the computer system. The device also includes a display configured to display the received file to a user.

Abstract: Systems and methods of interaction with invisible printing. In one embodiment, a printed page includes a printable surface, an invisible machine readable code disposed on the printable surface; and a human viewable image disposed on the printable surface. The invisible machine readable code may not absorb or reflect visible light substantially differently from the printable surface, in one embodiment. The invisible machine readable code may be detectable when exposed to infrared and/or ultraviolet light.

Abstract: An apparatus for easily shooting an invisible image (such as an invisible two-dimensional bar code) latent on an object. The operation of the apparatus is made intuitive and simple and may be incorporated into cameras peripheral to computers and mobile telephones. A novel framing and focusing system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An electronic document management system includes an acquisition unit, a specifying unit and a database. A medium includes a document image and a plurality of code image two-dimensionally arranged. Each code image includes position information and medium identification information. The acquisition unit acquires a code image corresponding to an operation position on the medium in conjunction with a user's operation with respect to the medium. The specifying unit specifies the medium identification information included in the code image acquired by the acquisition unit. The database stores personal information associated with the medium identification information specified by the specifying unit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of reading at least two bar codes with the aid of a reading system comprising: first and second illuminants capable of emitting respectively first and second luminous radiations having different spectral characteristics and an optical detector, the system being arranged so as to allow the reading, with the aid of the detector, of a first bar code when illuminated by the first illuminant and of a second bar code when illuminated by the second illuminant, in which method the first and second bar codes are disposed on two different substrates and in which the first bar code is read with the first illuminant and the second bar code with the second illuminant.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for embedding and recovering machine readable information on a substrate, including an image forming device containing at least two fluorescent marking materials, wherein the image forming device receives data representative of the machine readable information, and forms an image corresponding to the data in a machine readable code format with the at least two fluorescent marking materials on the substrate, and a document reading device including a radiation emitting unit that emits radiation effecting fluorescence of a first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material, and a reader that detects the data in the image on the image receiving substrate while the first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material is fluorescing.

Abstract: An identification verification system includes a combination of indicia that represent measurable characteristics mapped into a characteristic signature, and an indicia detector for detecting the characteristic signature and verifying authenticity of the characteristic signature.

Abstract: A RF structure including a semiconductor chip with an RF element having an RF core with two electrically connected chip pads, including a chip carrier having two carrier pads connected to the two chip pads and including an antenna connected to the carrier pads and electrically connected to the chip pads and to the RF core. The antenna is formed of wires, printed conductors, seal rings or other structures on, below or above the top plane of the semiconductor chip. A primary element is provided where the RF element is a secondary element. The primary element occupies a primary region and the RF core of the secondary element occupies a secondary region where the secondary region is much smaller than the primary region. The RF core secondary region is formed with the same native processing as used for the primary element.

Abstract: A method of using a mobile device to authenticate a print medium online before completing printing onto the print medium, the mobile device including processing means, a printhead, a sensor, a transmitter and a receiver, the print medium comprising a laminar substrate, the method comprising the steps of: using the sensor to sense coded data provided on a surface of the substrate; using the processing means to determine, from the sensed coded data: an identity of the print medium; and at least part of a signature, the signature being a digital signature of at least part of the identity; using the transmitter to send first data to a remote computer system, the first data being indicative of the identity and the at least part of the signature; using the receiver to receive second data from the remote computer system in reply to the first data, the second data being indicative of whether the print medium is authentic based on the identity and the at least part of the signature; and in the event the print medium i

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for embedding and recovering machine readable information on a substrate, including an image forming device containing at least two fluorescent marking materials, wherein the image forming device receives data representative of the machine readable information, and forms an image corresponding to the data in a machine readable code format with the at least two fluorescent marking materials on the substrate, and a document reading device including a radiation emitting unit that emits radiation effecting fluorescence of a first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material, and a reader that detects the data in the image on the image receiving substrate while the first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material is fluorescing.

Abstract: An authentication label and associated method are disclosed that can be covert most of the time and made to be overt only during times immediately before, during, and/or after reading of the label by a reader. The label contains a photochromic ink.

Abstract: Rare Earth downconverting compositions for optical encoding objects and related methods and apparatuses. The rare earth (RE) downconverting phosphor compositions are capable of generating a unique optical spectrum or unique optical signature from which an optical code or barcode can be derived. In one exemplary embodiment, the RE downconverting phosphor composition may contain two or more lanthanide materials each having a host and at least one downconverting emitter. Each lanthanide material emits a detectable electromagnetic radiation emission peak at an intensity, which is proportional to the amount of emitter present, upon excitation with an absorbable electromagnetic radiation, the emitted radiation comprising a lower energy, i.e., a longer wavelength than the absorbable radiation. One or more ratios of the intensities of the emitted detectable electromagnetic radiation may be used to uniquely identify the composition.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of embedding machine readable information on a substrate, including converting the information to machine readable code format and writing the machine readable code format on the substrate with at least one fluorescent marking material. Also disclosed is a system for embedding and recovering machine readable information on a substrate, including an image forming device containing at least one fluorescent marking material, wherein the image forming device receives data representative of the machine readable information, and forms an image corresponding to the data in a machine readable code format with the at least one fluorescent marking material on an image receiving substrate, and a document reading device including a radiation emitting unit that emits radiation effecting fluorescence of the at least one fluorescent marking material, and a reader that detects the data in the image on the image receiving substrate while the at least one fluorescent marking material is fluorescing.

Abstract: A shopping receptacle for receiving a product item. The product item comprises an interface surface a position-coding pattern containing coded data is printed on the interface surface. The coded data identifies a plurality of position coordinates on the interface surface and an identity of the product item. The receptacle comprises: a receptacle body and an opening through which the product item is placed within the receptacle body. A sensing device is positioned for scanning product items as they are placed through the opening. The sensing device emits a scanning beam across the opening of the receptacle body and generates, using sensed coded data, indicating data indicative of a position coordinate on the interface surface and the identity of the product item.

Abstract: Hand held wireless reading viewer for bar codes printed with fluorescing inks that are invisible to the human eye. The reading viewer comprises a portable housing with a window transparent to the excitation and emission wavelengths, an LED or laser diode illuminator module having optical filter and diffuser, an image sensor module with a spectral band limited imaging optics, real time LCD video display, microprocessor with an image acquisition circuit, RF communications port, battery and self-destruct intrusion detector.

Abstract: An anti-fake identification (14) includes a light-emitting layer (144) and a pattern layer (142). The light-emitting layer includes ultraviolet radiation photo initiator. The pattern layer has some through holes defined therein so as to form a pattern. Under ultraviolet radiation, the light-emitting layer emits light and the light passes through the pattern layer so as to show a pattern.

Abstract: The present invention relates to toys and game applications that are enhanced with digital watermarks. In one embodiment, a character card includes a unique identifier in the form of a digital watermark. The identifier is used to link to a database record, which can be updated to reflect changes in game attributes. Some such game attributes include life, character type and name, health, strength, and power levels. The data record can be updated or modified to reflect changes in attributes due to activity or events during a computer software game. The database record can be used by the computer software game to alter or enhance the game. In another embodiment, a toy interacts with toy components or cards via digital watermarks. Digital watermarks enhance games, toys and books in still other embodiments.

Abstract: A security material for documents comprises a first layer of material, such as a polymeric film or laminate, having first and second sides. A pearlescent material is applied to at least one of the first and second sides. The pearlescent material defines a pattern comprising at least two different colors that are at least partially interlocked in the pattern, and the pattern permits printed information that is overlaid by the pattern to be effectively perceived.

Abstract: A system for authenticating an object is provided having means for sensing coded tags printed on the object which each encode an identity of the object, a signature fragment and a signature fragment identifier associated with the signature fragment, means for identifying a determined signature from the identity, signature fragment and signature fragment identifier encoded by at least one sensed coded tag, means for generating, using the determined signature and a key, a generated identity, means for comparing the identity encoded by the sensed coded tag with the generated identity, and means for authenticating the object using the results of the comparison.

Abstract: A scanner for scanning items marked with near-infrared tags includes a laser configured to produce a narrowband near-infrared beam matched to a peak wavelength of near-infrared ink used to print the tags. A mirror assembly re-directs the beam. A deflecting arrangement receives the re-directed beam. A steering mirror steers the deflected beam. A scanning mirror directs the beam onto the tag to be scanned and a light collection system collects light reflected by the tags.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pen for sensing coded data on a page. The coded data is printed on the page as a collection of tags using invisible ink. The pen includes an elongate housing defining an internal space. An ink marking implement is movably mounted within the space and includes an ink marking nib to mark the page with ink. A sensor is mounted within the space and is configured to sense the coded data. A transmitter is mounted within the space and is configured wirelessly to communicate data sensed by the sensor to a printer.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing computer-based operations includes a computer system which includes at least one computer. A printer is connected to the computer system and is capable of printing with visible ink and invisible ink to generate a sheet of media printed with visible information and invisible depictions of coded data on receipt of initial print instructions from the computer system. The computer system is programmed to generate the invisible depictions such that the coded data represents instructions capable of being executed by the computer. A sensor is capable of detecting the invisible depictions and is configured to generate a signal carrying said coded data. The sensor is connected to the computer system, which is configured to decode the coded data and to execute the instructions.

Abstract: An optical imaging pen configured to detect information encoded on a page with ink which is substantially invisible to the human eye. The pen includes a housing, an electronics chassis mounted inside the housing, and an infrared LED supported by the chassis for providing infrared radiation for projection onto the page. The pen also includes an image sensor for receiving reflected radiation from the surface, a radio frequency circuit having a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver, and a radio antenna mounted within the housing, said antenna in signal communication with the radio frequency transmitter and receiver. Further included are a controller circuit for controlling operation of the LED, sensor and radio frequency circuit, as well as a pair of orthogonal accelerometers mounted in a normal plane of the pen axis, said accelerometers allowing the pen to sense motion without reference to a surface location.

Abstract: A method for use in determining product counterfeiting and diversion is provided. The method includes locating an overlay on a label associated with a product. The overlay delineates areas of the label, each area having an identifier associated therewith. Presence of a taggant is detected within one or more of the areas using a reader. The taggant is hidden from sight and provides an indication of its presence that is detectable by the reader.

Abstract: Provided is an object scanning system with a sensing device for generating indicating data indicative of at least one object identity and at least a position and orientation of the data and a position and orientation of the sensing device relative to the object. The sensing device includes a housing, and an optical assembly arranged within the housing and configured to scan the object. The sensing device also includes a controller arrangement inside the housing and arranged in signal communication with the optical assembly. The controller arrangement is configured to control operation of the optical assembly and to generate the indicating data for transmission to the scanning system.

Abstract: A marking carried by a physical object and discernible by an infrared (IR) sensor is at least partially concealed from the human eye. The marking is covered with a coating that is at least partially opaque in the visible spectrum and at least partially transparent in the IR spectrum (or other non-visible spectrum). The marking is thus not apparent to a human eye or to visible light sensors, while remaining discernible in the IR spectrum. Using the present invention to prevent a user from detecting the marking adds intrigue to the detection of the object, since the workings of the IR sensor that enable the sensor to identify the marking are not evident to a user. The present invention is also beneficially employed in games where it is desirable that an opponent be unable to see a marking that is detectable by the IR sensor.

Abstract: The presently claimed invention relates generally to data encoding and steganography. One combination recites a method of encoding data representing color imagery with an auxiliary signal. The method includes: providing a set of encoding values for a data sample; determining a color characteristic associated the data sample based on associated color values; and selectively scaling color values in the data sample based on the color characteristic to encode at least a portion of the auxiliary signal in the data representing color imagery. Of course, other combinations are provided as well.

Abstract: Identification documents have a three dimensional or moving image effect to enable human verification of their authenticity. These effects are created by printing image layers of invisible inks, such as UV or IR fluorescing inks, each depicting an object in varying position or perspective in an area on the document. When the area is strobed sequentially in different bands corresponding to the different layers, the layers become visible sequentially or simultaneously, creating a moving and/or three dimensional effect.

Abstract: A method of identifying or authenticating a product by providing an analog identification indicium including a randomized pattern of identification features on a first part of the product wherein one or more attributes of the randomized pattern of identification features correspond to an item identifier. A digital identification record is provided on a second part of the product including an encoded digital version of the item identifier, the first and second parts being separable when the product is used. The randomized pattern of identification features of the analog identification indicium is read and decoded to generate an item identifier and the digital identification record is read and decoded to generate an item identifier. The product is deemed authentic if the item identifier from the analog identification indicium substantially matches the item identifier from the digital identification record.

Abstract: A method for improving the readability of composite images by determining available areas on a document where no text or graphics will be printed in visible ink and printing one or more 2-D bar code with invisible ink at a size pre-determined based on the available areas. The one or more auxiliary 2-D bar codes are printed in luminescent ink, either invisible or lightly colored when viewed under white light.

Abstract: Disclosed is a machine readable code of a set of distinguishable symbols including at least a first symbol for encoding zeroes and a second symbol for encoding ones, wherein the first symbol exhibits a first color during machine reading and the second symbol exhibits a second color during machine reading, wherein the first color and the second color are detectably different under machine reading conditions.

Abstract: Barcode data communication methods, barcode embedding methods, and barcode systems are described. According to one embodiment, a barcode data communication method includes accessing a composite image comprising a disguised barcode image incapable of being directly read from a base image by a barcode reader, extracting data corresponding to the barcode image from the composite image, modifying the data to provide the barcode image in a state wherein the barcode image may be directly read by a barcode reader, and reading the barcode image using the barcode reader after the modifying.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a book in which a content is impressed on its pages by invisible ink, and lighting means (e.g. a lamp, a LED, etc.), for exposing the content. According to one embodiment of the invention the lighting means is mounted on a track, therefore enabling the lamp to move along the track. According to another embodiment of the invention, the lighting means is mounted on a pen used for impressing invisible ink, thereby enabling a user thereof to view the impressed content while being impressed. A page of the book may further comprise a light sensor; and an audial unit, for producing sound upon sensing light. A page may further comprise at least two polarizers and a picture underneath, thereby upon changing the angle between the polarizers, a visibility of the picture is changed correspondingly.

Abstract: A height adjustment structure for an image-scanning device. The scanning device has a guiding rod, an optical system and a document panel. The guiding rod and the document panel are fixed relative to each other. The optical system includes a box body and an axial rod bearer that can slide along into the guiding rod. The height adjustment structure includes a first positioning section and a second positioning section. The first positioning section is attached to one side of the box body and the second positioning section is attached to one side the axial rod bearer that faces the first positioning section. The first positioning section and the second positioning section has hooking mechanism, screwing mechanism or teeth-meshing mechanism for fixing the box body relative to the axial rod bearer and hence setting the distance from the box body to the document panel.

Abstract: An item contents verification system, and associated method, for use in an assembly line of carrier-totes (if used) each containing at least one of a plurality of items having a labeling. Also, a labeling for use with a computerized inspection apparatus for verification of items, and associated method.

Abstract: A security mark having multiple optically orthogonal coaligned bar codes is produced using a reflection hologram visible substantially at only a first wavelength that is layered over a wavelength sensitive filter, which blocks light transmission at the first wavelength but transmits light at a second wavelength, and having beneath it an additional bar code visible through the hologram and the wavelength sensitive filter at the second wavelength. A validation means reads multiple holographic bar codes with light at the first wavelength by illuminating the hologram separately from multiple directions, and further reads the bar code beneath the wavelength sensitive filter by illuminating the mark with light of the second wavelength. By suitable choice of multi-directional and multi-wavelength illumination, multiple coaligned bar codes may be read in the same physical location with no mutual interference.

Abstract: A graphical code reader is described herein. The graphical code reader includes an infrared light-emitting diode and a red light-emitting diode. The graphical code reader also includes an image sensor. A lens is positioned to focus reflected light on the image sensor. The graphical code reader also includes a processor and memory in electronic communication with the processor. Instructions are stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to implement a method that involves illuminating the infrared light-emitting diode at an infrared illumination intensity level and illuminating the red light-emitting diode at a red illumination intensity level. The method also involves capturing a digital image for processing. The digital image is an electronic representation of an optical image formed on the image sensor. The method also involves processing the digital image to attempt to decode a graphical code within the digital image.

Abstract: The present invention relates to encoding and decoding of information using materials that are capable of mildly absorbing radiation over a wide range of infrared wavelengths and substantially non-absorbing in the visible wavelengths. Examples of such encoding of information are bar codes and area markings. Information is encoded in markings on a base medium by depositing or intertexturing on the base medium a material where the surface dimensions, thickness and presence of the material contain the encoded information. The encoding, as disclosed in this invention, utilizes a lower cost, more stable material than a material that is capable of highly absorbing over a range of infrared wavelengths and substantially non-absorbing in the visible wavelengths. However, since the material used in this invention is mildly absorbing in the infrared range, the signal obtained by reflecting or transmitting infrared radiation from the markings will be less distinct.

Abstract: A record and related method is provided for storing encoded information comprising a storage media, first marks on the storage media having a covert code characteristic, with the first marks conveying a covertly marked code and second marks preferably having an overt code characteristic which convey a second overtly marked code useful in decoding the covertly marked code.

Abstract: A device and a method for reading out information stored in a storage layer. In this connection it is possible to support the storage layer on a support surface. An emission radiation transmitted from the storage layer is received by means of a receiving device. A distance between the receiving device and the support surface can be variably adjusted.

Abstract: A method for improving the readability of composite images by determining available areas on a document where no text or graphics will be printed in visible ink and printing one or more 2-D bar code with invisible ink at a size pre-determined based on the available areas. The one or more auxiliary 2-D bar codes are printed in luminescent ink, either invisible or lightly colored when viewed under white light.

Abstract: An imaging method includes the steps of (a) determining whether an object on which an image is to be formed is an information display medium on which a code is formed with an imaging material formed of a near infrared absorbing pigment, and (b) forming the image on the object by a printer engine with an imaging material formed of a pigment absorbing no or little light in a near infrared spectral region if the step (a) determines that the object is the information display medium.

Abstract: Barcode data communication methods, barcode embedding methods, and barcode systems are described. According to one embodiment, a barcode data communication method includes accessing a composite image comprising a disguised barcode image incapable of being directly read from a base image by a barcode reader, extracting data corresponding to the barcode image from the composite image, modifying the data to provide the barcode image in a state wherein the barcode image may be directly read by a barcode reader, and reading the barcode image using the barcode reader after the modifying.

Abstract: A method of forming symbols, characters, and other images from a light polarizing material including machine readable indicia enabling automated identification of articles is disclosed. A light polarizing material is applied over a reflective layer in a machine readable pattern. The material may be an image imprinted on a label with a light polarizing material on a substrate such as a transparent oriented film. In one aspect, a mail processing system includes a computer including a database of destination codes corresponding to a plurality of mail pieces for delivery to at least some of the destination codes. A media applicator utilizes the database for generating and applying a light polarizing material to a label or article to form a machine readable indicia, including the destination code for each of the plurality of mail pieces. A mail sorting system utilizing the label includes a camera with polarized lenses for filtering light reflected from indicia formed from a light polarizing material on the label.

Abstract: An article including a substrate and an invisible symbol on the substrate is disclosed. The invisible symbol is formed by a compound which includes a cyano group and has an infrared absorption wavelength apart from that of the substrate when heated.

Abstract: A method of packaging print media in combination with a printing device enables the printing device to automatically determine the type of media, and its characteristics and attributes, loaded in a media input tray. The print media package includes a pre-cut or perforated line which allows the removal of one end of the package forming a partial package exposing one end of sheets of the print media and encasing the print media. The print media is loaded in the media input tray encased in the partial package with the exposed ends of the print media sheets accessible to the printing device feed roller. The print media package includes an identifying code imprinted on an outside surface of the package located on the remaining portion of the package when the package end has been removed. The media input tray includes a sensor mounted in a location accessible to the identifying code when the print media encased in the partial package is loaded in the media input tray.

Abstract: Methods of coding and retrieving information by using the unique emission properties of the semiconductor nanocrystals (quantum dots) for the identification of valuable documents, articles and objects are described. A carrier medium is prepared containing quantum dots selected to give the carrier medium defined fluorescent emission characteristics encoding predetermined information. The carrier medium is then applied to the object, preferably in the form of an ink.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for reading indicia, such as a bar code, from a remote location. The apparatus includes a light source for illuminating the indicia, preferably with infrared illumination. The indicia is incorporated in a reflective medium, disposed remotely from the light source, which reflects the illumination provided by the light source. The apparatus includes a light sensing device also disposed remotely from the reflective medium. The light sensing device receives the reflected image of the indicia and generates an indicia image signal based thereon. An indicia processing system receives and operates on the indicia image signal to extract indicia information therefrom. The light source and the light sensing device may be located up to 75 feet or more away from the reflective medium, and the reflective medium may be moving at speeds of up to 85 miles per hour or more relative to the light source and the light sensing device.

Abstract: A security instrument and method of forming the same, in which the instrument is comprised of a series of layers which overlay one another, and in which at least one of the layers has a pattern imprinted thereon in a predetermined location, with pearlescent materials of varying colors and hues. When the layers are bonded together on a base member, a design emerges at the surface that provides optical variations, depending on the attitude and lighting at which the instrument is viewed.

Abstract: An hand-held optical symbol scanner assembly employs black-light diodes to illuminate luminescent or phosphorescent bar code symbols that are invisibly printed or formed the surface of an article. The scanner has an array of far blue or UV LEDs or laser diodes on its distal face, and a nosepiece or shroud mounted on the distal face of the scanner device. There can be a transparent plate at the distal end of the nosepiece, mounted at an angle to the optic axis, and a filter (yellow or orange) in advance of the imager device within the scanner.