Abstract: A stereolithographically fabricated marking for a semiconductor device component, such as a packaged or unpackaged semiconductor device or another substrate. When the marking is formed on a semiconductor device with a stereolithographically formed package structure, the marking may be integral with the package structure. The marking may be formed as apertures through or recessed areas in one or more stereolithographically fabricated layers of material. Alternatively, the marking may include one or more stereolithographically fabricated layers that protrude from a surface of a semiconductor device component. The marking may be formed directly on a surface of a packaged or bare semiconductor device component. As an alternative, the marking can be fabricated separately from a semiconductor device component, then secured thereto. Methods of stereolithographically marking semiconductor device components are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for counterfeit-proof of documents bearing a picture. The picture is transferred into a digital image file or present as a digital image file into which a binary form secret image present is incorporated. The digital image file is divided into cells of a number equaling a number of pixels of the secret image. A parameter function allocates a binary output value to each cell on the basis of parameter values, which describe each image point, in such a manner that the bivalent output value of all the cells yields a bivalent position matrix, by the parameter values of the image points of the individual cells being modified with the aid of an optimizing process in such a manner that, first, the changes made to the image file of the picture of the document result in no visually perceivable changes and, second, the result of applying the parameter function to the individual cells yields a bivalent position matrix which corresponds to the binary values of the secret image.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the provision of an image forming apparatus capable of effectively preventing the formation of images related to illegal conducts by making provisions so that, even in situations where images can be formed based on image data outputted from any arbitrary image output apparatus, the image output apparatus which outputted the image data can be identified without fail. When image data is inputted from a portable image output apparatus, first it is checked whether identification information has been inputted together with the image data, then an image of an identification pattern is created, and image formation is performed based on image data obtained by attaching the image data of the identification pattern to the input image data.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a tamper evident informational article such as a temporary vehicle registration which may be made of paper or paperboard. The informational article has a zone for inserting information and a pattern within said zone which will resist effective counterfeiting. A transparent tape which preferably has a silicone resin coating which contains a wax is adhesively secured over information contained within the zone.

Abstract: In a method of processing a primary print job corresponding to a primary image using an identification card manufacturing system, a watermarked image is generated that includes a combination of the primary image and a watermark image. The watermark image includes embedded data. Next, the watermarked image is printed on a card substrate. Also provided is an identification card manufacturing system that is adapted to implement the above-described method.

Abstract: A lock device having a rotatable identification brand includes a lock body defining a receiving space and formed with at least one view window, a rotatable member rotatably mounted in the receiving space of the lock body and provided with identification information that may be seen through the view window of the lock body, and a drive mechanism mounted on the rotatable member for rotating the rotatable member. The rotatable member may be driven and rotated by the drive mechanism, so that the user may watch the information printed on the rotatable member through the view window, thereby facilitating other people identifying the owner of the lock device, and thereby enhancing the aesthetic quality of the lock device.

Abstract: A product in the form of a thin, even very thin, sheet of textile material or non-woven material, which product is used in temporary decoration as a covering surface forming a display screen or a ceiling, especially for the get-up of exhibition sites, is marked with a linear inscription distributed in the direction of the characteristic lines of the product. The linear inscription is formed by a combination of dots and dashes representing coded signs. The line is a cutting line of the sheet.

Abstract: A method, a laminator (10), and a belt, for creating a pre-press proof (200) with a thermal mark (190) which comprises laminating a pre-laminate sheet (240) consisting of a first thermoplastic layer, and a first support layer (150) to a receiver stock (160); removing the first support layer (150) forming a pre-laminated receiver stock (350); creating an imaged receiver sheet (140) with a second print layer (308) and a second support layer (170); laminating the imaged receiver sheet (140) with the pre-laminated receiver stock (350) using an embossing belt (110) with an embossing mark 115; and removing the second support layer (170) creating a pre-press proof with a thermal mark (230).

Abstract: In the method of protecting and identifying a three-dimensional article such as a work of art, a precious article, or an industrial component that is made by a foundry, casting, or like technique, marker elements (50) are included in the main material (30) of the article during manufacture thereof, the nature of the marker elements being different from that of the main material (30) of the article so as to react to means for non-destructive investigation of the internal structure of the article in a manner that is different from said main material (30) of the article, metal marker elements (50) constituted by balls are selected that present a melting point higher than that of the main metal material (30) of the article, the marker elements (50) in the solid state are introduced in random manner and without premixing into the main material (30) of the article while it is in the liquid state and the article is being cast, and after the article has been made, it is identified by identifying marker elements in th

Abstract: A reusable information tag is provided with a substrate bonded on its top surface to a middle layer which has graphics and indicia disposed upon its top surface, the middle layer being bonded to a transparent or translucent top layer of a nonporous writable and erasable film. A reusable means for attachment is provided. The tag may be written upon with a pen and attached to a gift, luggage or other article. It may then be easily detached, erased and reused. An unlimited variety of tags containing different graphics and indicia for every holiday, occasion, event, use and interest may be easily and inexpensively manufactured. A kit for making the tag is also provided. Alternative embodiments provide for disposing the graphics and indicia on either the top surface of the substrate or the bottom surface of the top layer.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for enhancing the security of selected information associated with a negotiable document, such as the monetary value of a cheque. In the invention, one or more security features are printed or applied onto the cheque. One such security feature is an encrypted control code. The preferred embodiment employs a secret key cryptographic scheme to encrypt the monetary value and thereby generate a first control code which is printed on the cheque. When the cheque is presented for payment, a validator, such as bank or cheque clearing house, employs a verification system having a copy of the encryption key to read the monetary value from the cheque and re-encrypt it according to said scheme to generate a second control code. The cheque is not honored if the first and second control codes are not identical. Another security feature is a security image, composed, for instance, from a foreground image of the monetary value superimposed over a background motif image.

Abstract: A data package assembly comprises a substrate which includes a panel portion and a data card portion detachable from each other. The data card portion has an exposed face and a concealed face on opposite sides of the substrate, with personal identifying indicia on the concealed face correlated with a prepaid account. The data card portion is folded into an overlapping relationship with the panel portion so that the panel portion faces the concealed face of the data card portion and thereby conceals the personal identifying indicia without requiring folding of the panel portion. The data card portion is detachably retained in overlapping relationship with the panel portion, at least a major portion of the exposed face of the data card portion being visibly exposed.

Abstract: A luggage tag which has a main body portion, an attachment mechanism for coupling the main body portion to a piece of luggage, and a time zone converter coupled to the main body portion. The time zone converter has a base, a first set of markings disposed on the base, an indicator slidably coupled to the base, and a second set of markings disposed on the indicator. In various embodiments, the first set of markings can represent geographic locations such as cites, and the second set of markings can represent time divisions in hours and/or minutes or vice versa. In addition, the time divisions can be based on either a 12-hour or a 24-hour scale.

Abstract: Due to the wide availability of photocopiers, scanners and printers, security documents are more and more subject to counterfeiting attempts. The present disclosure describes security documents incorporating a new security feature based on a microstructure, whose shapes vary according to intensity and color, as well as methods and computing systems for synthesizing such security documents. The microstructure may be composed of text, graphic elements and symbols. Since the security document is built on top of the microstructure, document elements such as text, graphics and images as well as microstructure elements cannot be erased or modified without introducing visible discontinuities in the security document. Furthermore, thanks to transformations having the effect of warping the microstructure into different orientations and sizes across the security document, individual microstructure elements cannot be simply copied and inserted elsewhere.

Abstract: The invention concerns a printed valuable document with at least one authentication feature in the form of a luminescent substance based on a host lattice doped with at least one rare earth metal. The host lattice largely absorbs in the visible region of the spectrum, is excitable at least in parts of the visible region of the spectrum and transparent at least in partial areas of the IR spectral region. The luminescent substance is present in the volume of the valuable document in such a concentration that the characteristics of the valuable document just remain unimpaired. The rare earth metal concerned is thulium.

Abstract: The invention relates to a printed valuable document with at least one authenticity mark in the form of a luminescent substance based on a host lattice doped with at least one rare earth metal. The host lattice largely absorbs in the visible region of the spectrum and is excitable in the visible region of the spectrum, and is transparent in at least parts of the IR spectral region. The rare earth metal is holmium. The luminescent substance is present in the volume of the valuable document in such a concentration that the properties of the valuable document just remain unimpaired.

Abstract: The invention concerns a printed valuable document with at least one authentication feature in the form of a luminescent substance based on a host lattice doped with at least two rare earth metals. The host lattice largely absorbs in the visible region of the spectrum, is excitable in large parts of the visible region of the spectrum and transparent at least in partial areas of the IR spectral region. The luminescent substance is present in the volume of the valuable document in such a concentration that the characteristics of the valuable document just remain unimpaired. The rare earth metals concerned are thulium and holmium.

Abstract: A medical test form having a biological sample receiving material mounted thereto. In one embodiment, the sample receiving material is incorporated in a sample receiving sub-assembly that is secured to a multi-panel carrier substrate that has instructions and/or patient information printed thereon. In another embodiment, the sample receiving material provided on one panel of a V-fold mailer. If necessary or desirable one or more additional panels can be secured to the panels of the V-fold mailer.

Abstract: An anodized micro-pore aluminum tag bearing indicia thereon wherein the micro-pore anodized aluminum has its micro-pores filled with the cured reside of a composition, which contains silicone resin having pendant groups selected from one or more of methyl groups or phenyl groups. The composition in the micro-pores was cured to a degree effective for marking by blackening thereof with a, e.g., CO2, laser beam, in the form of indicia thereon. The surface of the tag preferably is substantially free of said composition. The method for treating the surface of the anodized micro-pore aluminum tag for forming indicia thereon commences by applying the composition to the surface. Excess of the composition from the surface is removed to leave composition resident in said micro-pores. The composition in the micro-pores then is at least partially cured. A laser then can create the indicia by blackening the composition in the micro-pores.

Abstract: A two-part token for business purposes includes an inner part and an outer part. Both parts are assembled by similarity of form; namely, the token has corresponding indents and projections for indexing the inner part on the outer part. A code is stamped on each part such that, when the parts are assembled, both codes are mutually extending from each other, preferably, adjacent to each other to allow a barcode reader to readily scan both codes.

Abstract: An anodized micro-pore aluminum tag bearing indicia thereon wherein the micro-pore anodized aluminum has its micro-pores filled with the cured reside of a composition, which contains silicone resin having pendant groups selected from one or more of methyl groups or phenyl groups. The composition in the micro-pores was cured to a degree effective for marking by blackening thereof with a, e.g., CO2, laser beam, in the form of indicia thereon. The surface of the tag preferably is substantially free of said composition. The method for treating the surface of the anodized micro-pore aluminum tag for forming indicia thereon commences by applying the composition to the surface. Excess of the composition from the surface is removed to leave composition resident in said micro-pores. The composition in the micro-pores then is at least partially cured. A laser then can create the indicia by blackening the composition in the micro-pores.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multilayer label comprising at least one authenticity feature (5), which authenticity feature (5) consists of at least two parts (51, 52) positioned on different layers (1, 2) of the label. The authenticity feature (5) can be a barcode which can consist of at least two parts (51, 52) positioned on different layers (1, 2) of the label. The barcode can have m lines of which n lines are arranged on one layer (1) of the label and m-n lines are arranged on another layer (2) of the label, where m>n>0. The label can have a lower layer (2) and an upper layer (1), with the lower layer (2) having a greater surface area than the at least one layer (1) positioned on top of it. The upper side and/or lower side of at least one of the layers (1, 2) can be coated with an adhesive at least in sections and/or at least in points.

Abstract: A data package assembly includes at least one data card having a first substrate with opposite faces, and indicia correlated with a prepaid account. A package has a second substrate separate from the first substrate, the data card being detachably connected to the second substrate. Personal identifying indicia correlated with the account are concealed by the package. In addition, first account verification indicia on the card, and second account verification indicia on the package, both different from the personal identifying indicia and both correlated with the same account, are visibly exposed, the package including an aperture visibly exposing the first account verification indicia.

Abstract: A pipe or other conduit identification labeling system comprising a kit having at least one identification tag for identifying an individual pipe or conduit, a pipe cleaner, and an adhesive bonding agent for adhering the identification tag to the pipe. The kit also includes appropriate directions on how the identification tag can be properly adhered to a pipe or other conduit. The identification tag comprises a one-piece rigid substrate body having raised indicia for identifying an individual pipe located on an upper flat surface, and arcuately shaped lower surface for permitting the lower surface of the identification tag to matingly attach to the corresponding outer surface of the pipe or other conduit by the application of the adhesive bonding agent applied to the lower surface prior to placement of the identification on the pipe.

Abstract: A multi-layer label/tag is disclosed, which may be utilized either as a label or a tag, depending on the needs of the user. The label/tag includes a printed or printable top face sheet and a number of release layers. The top face sheet is attached to the release layers such that it may be removed as a tag or as a label. Cutting through the multi-layer assembly allows a user to remove the item as a label or a tag, as needed.

Abstract: This patent disclosure describes novel compositions and methods used in the verification of products or documents based on the reading of emitted light from luminescent compositions that can be incorporated or applied to a wide variety of materials. Specifically, the compositions are uniquely luminescent at various wavelengths, displaying qualities of image, wavelength, and time scale for the measure of luminesce decay. The light emitted from the composition, and specifically, the measure of the variable and adjustable luminescence lifetimes provides a multi-parameter signature for purposes of comparative light decay analysis of verification marks or features.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a label having graphical marks, graphical logos or other brand identifiers for easy product association and identification in a commercial environment, and a method of manufacturing the same. A label in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a first section onto which a graphical mark, graphical logo, or other brand identifier is printed. The label may also I include sections onto which textual description information, price/quantity/specific property information, and a Universal Product Code (UPC) may be printed.

Abstract: The invention concerns a printed valuable document with at least one authentication mark in the form of a luminescent substance based on a host lattice doped with at least one rare earth metal. The host lattice largely absorbs light in the entire visible region of the spectrum, is excitable in substantial parts of the visible region of the spectrum, and is at least partially transparent at least in the wavelength range between 0.8 &mgr;m and 1.1 &mgr;m. The host lattice also features a garnet or perovskite structure. The rare earth metal emits light in the wavelength range between 0.8 &mgr;m and 1.1 &mgr;m.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an original document indication device. The device contains a document creating portion for creating a document on a medium; a counterfeit countermeasure transferring portion for creating an original document indication on the medium; a transporting means for transporting the medium; and a controlling portion for controlling operation of the document creating portion, the counterfeit countermeasure transferring portion and the transporting means based on signals which are input from an operating portion; wherein an original document indication is created as the medium is transported by the transporting means through the document creating portion and the counterfeit countermeasure transferring portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microtags, including microdots, and methods for reading the information contained on such microtags, and coordinating and comparing this information with other data, which may or may not be transmitted for a combined approval. The invention further relates to methods for verifying a person's identity using microtags. More specifically, the present invention relates to a novel type of microtag wherein the identifying indicia contained on the microtag includes biometric indicia such as a fingerprint either in whole or in parts, and may also include nonbiometric information, such as account numbers. This invention also provides a method for reading biometric and nonbiometric information contained on such a microtag, and a method for using the biometric information on the microtag to verify a person's identity and to validate transactions.

Abstract: Security documents (e.g. passports, currency, event tickets, and the like) are encoded to convey machine-readable multi-bit binary information (e.g., a digital watermark), usually in a manner not alerting human viewers that such information is present. The documents can be provided with overt or subliminal calibration patterns. When a document incorporating such a pattern is scanned (e.g. by a photocopier), the pattern facilitates detection of the encoded information notwithstanding possible scaling or rotation of the scan data. The calibration pattern can serve as a carrier for the watermark information, or the watermark can be encoded independently. In one embodiment, the watermark and the calibration pattern are formed on the document by an intaglio process, with or without ink. A photocopier responsive to such markings can take predetermined action if reproduction of a security document is attempted.

Abstract: A data package assembly includes at least one data card having a first substrate with opposite faces, and indicia correlated with a prepaid account. A package has a second substrate separate from the first substrate, the data card being detachably connected to the second substrate. Personal identifying indicia correlated with the account are concealed by the package. In addition, first account verification indicia on the card, and second account verification indicia on the package, both different from the personal identifying indicia and both correlated with the same account, are visibly exposed, the package including an aperture visibly exposing the first account verification indicia.

Abstract: The authenticity attribute for an object to be protected is formed by an elongate profile which produces characteristic oscillations upon scanning with the edge or the tip of a scanning object.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a security element for documents, forgery-proof labels, checks, seals and the like, comprising the steps of providing a backing layer and applying a covering layer to at least one face of the backing layer. The method also comprises a step of removing preset regions of the covering layer with a laser beam having a wavelength between 900 and 1200 nm. The preset regions define a code which can be customized in any manner and detected in any manner.

Abstract: The invention relates to a security marking label for a transparent support such as the windshield of a motor vehicle. The label comprises information specific to the marked support. The label is comprised of a complex formed of two superimposed elements between which is interleaved a marking element, at least one of said elements having a layer appropriate to provide for the binding of the transparent support and at least one of said elements comprising a diffraction network.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multilayer foil, in particular a transfer foil. The transfer foil consists of a carrier. foil, a one- or multilayer transfer layer containing an optically variable structure, and an intermediate layer located between the carrier foil and the transfer layer, the intermediate layer being a metal oxide or semiconductor oxide layer.

Abstract: Coded means and system for neonatal care, which consist of a mother record which contains all the physical elements for implementing the system which appears in illustrated and textual form on the back of the said mother record; in the obverse there is a record for the signature of the attending health official, a self-copying record with a fixed part and other separable parts and, essentially, a self-adhesive label, cleverly stamped out or perforated in order to be divided in sequence for different supports, these parts being coded with the same visible code and with invisible microcodes which are independent or shared and intended to be attached to the mother record itself, to the record file, to the mother's bracelet, to the child's bracelet and to the cord clamp.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for marking solid, liquid or gaseous substances, whereby the substance to be marked is provided with at least one synthetically produced nucleic acid sequence. Said nucleic acid sequence contains a first sequence section constructed with the 5′ terminal end, a second sequence comprised of at least two bases and connected to said nucleic acid sequence, and a third sequence section constructed with the 3′ terminal end and connected to the said nucleic acid sequence. In order to simplify the identification of the marking, the invention provides that a first primer group is used with a first primer section corresponding to the first sequence section and a second primer group is used with a third primer section corresponding to the third sequence section.

Abstract: A security document is prepared by designating specialized tiling elements to be printed in selected image element cells across the face of the document. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a method of preparing a security document is provided comprising the steps of: (i) designating a security image area on a face of a document; (ii) dividing the security image area into a plurality of image element cells, such that the image element cells define an array of image element cells across the security image area; and (iii) designating respective printed tiling elements to be printed in selected ones of the image element cells to define a printed security image and a printed complementary security image within the security image area. Individual ones of the respective printed tiling elements comprise printed units positioned within the respective image element cells.

Abstract: Methods are described whereby multiple users can swap a controller of consumer devices between themselves frequently, while each retains the ability to reinstate their own customized controller interface through a quick and simple yet secure log-on procedure. Stored data accessible to the controller is used to automatically upon log-on return a user to a system state associated with that user, which is typically the system state of the controller that existed the last time the user logged on thereto. The log-on procedure may include fingerprint and/or voice recognition. Additionally, time-out algorithms wherein the controller automatically shuts down and/or logs-off the current user as a security measure to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access thereto, may take into account factors other than merely the amount of time that has passed during which there has been no activity.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for enhancing the security of selected information associated with a negotiable document, such as the monetary value of a cheque. In the invention, one or more security features are printed or applied onto the cheque. One such security feature is an encrypted control code. The preferred embodiment employs a secret key cryptographic scheme to encrypt the monetary value and thereby generate a first control code which is printed on tile cheque. When the cheque is presented for payment, a validator, such as bank or cheque cle aring house, employs a verification system having a copy of the encryption key to read the monetary value from the cheque and re-encrypt it according to said scheme to generate a second control code. The cheque is not honoured if the first and second control codes are not identical. Another security feature is a security image, composed, for instance, from a foreground image of the monetary value superimposed over a background motif image.

Abstract: A packaged data card assembly includes at least one data card having a first substrate with opposite faces and personal identifying indicia on one face correlated with a selectively activatable account. The assembly also includes a package comprising at least one panel having a second substrate separate from the first substrate, the data card being detachably connected to the panel so that the personal identifying indicia on the card are concealed by the panel. Account activation indicia are on the package in an exposed location, such activation indicia also being correlated with the account. Preferably, first account verification indicia are provided on the data card and second account verification indicia are provided on the package, both different from the personal identifying indicia on the card and both correlated with the same account.

Abstract: A simplified method and apparatus for creating counterfeit-resistant labels is described. A laser is used to mark a retro-reflective material such that light only from specific directions are reflected back towards the source. During authentication of the labels, the label is tilted to verify that only light from the specific directions are reflected back towards the source.

Abstract: A laser energy microinscribing system, comprising a semiconductor excited Q-switched solid state laser energy source; a cut gemstone mounting system, allowing optical access to a mounted workpiece; an optical system for focusing laser energy from the laser energy source onto a cut gemstone; a displaceable stage for moving said gemstone mounting system with respect to said optical system so that said focused laser energy is presented to desired positions on said gemstone, having a control input; an imaging system for viewing the gemstone from a plurality of vantage points; and a rigid frame supporting said laser, said optical system and said stage in fixed relation, to resist differential movements of said laser, said optical system and said stage and increase immunity to vibrational misalignments. The laser energy source is preferably a semiconductor diode excited Q-switched Nd:YLF laser with a harmonic converter having an output of about 530 nm.

Abstract: The printable substrate of biaxially multi-layered laminate material is perforated to define an integral strap having a free end for insertion into a crescent-cut slotted opening. An additional perforation defines an optional, removable index card that may be printed upon when the tag itself is printed. The tag substrate may be provided as a continuous web that has been perforated to define multiple tags, suitable for printing and dispensing by automated mechanism.

Abstract: A method and article for advertising and promoting an institution or organization comprises providing a flag formed of a flexible material and having a portion thereof coated with a material which provides a smoother surface and greater retention of marks from a writing instrument. The flag includes a first indicia which includes the name of an institution or organization to be promoted and a second indicia which includes the picture or name of a person associated with the named institution or organization. The coated surface of the flag is adapted to receive and retain the signature of the person portrayed by the second indicia. A third indicia is carried on the flag which includes a textual expression of aggressive loyalty to the person and organization identified on the flag. The method for advertising and promoting the institution or organization includes the steps of providing a flag as described above and distributing it to a consumer.

Abstract: A numbered data carrier and method for producing the same, wherein the data carrier includes a document of value and at least one security element having a serial number that individualizes the data carrier out of a series of data carriers. The security element includes first and second parts. The first part of the security element partly represents the serial number and the second part of the security element represents the serial number either partly or completely. The security element is applied on the document.

Abstract: An organizer includes sample cards which are mounted on pages which, in turn, are stored within a binder. Each of the sample cards bears a color sample and an associated written description for a particular cosmetic product.

Abstract: A mailer blank, which may be configured for subsequent printing and folding processes, includes a transparent sheet and an attached opaque layer, both of which extend between longitudinal and transverse edges. An aperture is formed within the opaque layer. In a first version, the mailer blank also includes a second opaque layer, having an aperture aligned with the aperture of the first opaque layer, similarly extending between the longitudinal and transverse edges. Both the first and second layers are paper, adhesively attached to opposite sides of the transparent layer. In a second version, the opaque layer is a ultra-violet ink coating. In a third version, a paper layer is attached to one side of the transparent sheet, with a pocket being formed between one of the paper layers and the sheet for use as a return envelope.

Abstract: A combined medical device and form (20) having a unitary substrate (22) which is divided into a medical device portion (24) and a form portion (26). The form portion (24) of the substrate includes an informational section (30, 32, 34), and form identification material (36). The medical device portion (26) is illustrated as a DBS packet for collecting blood samples. The medical device portion (26) also has medical device identification material (68) that is preferably identical to the form identification material (36). With identical identification materials, which are preferably machine readable, the occurrences of patient misidentifications are substantially reduced if not eliminated.