DE102010040521B3 - Device for identification of e.g. article, has laser device, detection unit and processing unit integrated in handheld unit that has inlet and outlet arranged adjacent to each other in distance of ten cm or smaller - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a laser device (102) for delivering a laser pulse (104) to convert chemical elements in a portion of a mark (100) into plasma. A detection unit (108) i.e. detector, detects electromagnetic radiation (106) emitted by the plasma. A processing unit (110) evaluates the radiation or its characteristic property, and provides a signal based on information in the mark to identify an object (114). The laser device, detection unit and processing unit are integrated in a handheld unit (116) that has an inlet and an outlet arranged adjacent to each other in a distance of 10 cm or smaller. The detection unit is formed as spectrometer e.g. wide band spectrometer, prism spectrometer or grid spectrometer. The mark is numerical code or bar code. An independent claim is also included for a method for identification of an object.

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a device for reading out a marking, in particular a device which converts the marking into a plasma for reading a marking by means of a laser pulse and detects and evaluates an electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma.

There is a great need for markings or labeling methods for objects or even living beings, which on the one hand enable unambiguous assignment, on the other hand, are difficult to imitate and counterfeit. This need arises, on the one hand, from the great economic damage caused by brand piracy and, on the other, from the need to protect objects that are privately or publicly owned from theft or to increase counterfeit security. Another field of use of markers is the authentication of documents such. Cash, diplomas or ID cards.

In the GB 23 193 37 A describes a composition of matter which can be attached to articles as a label, the preferred reading method being X-ray fluorescence analysis. In addition, mass spectroscopy, electrophoresis and scanning electron microscopy are listed as possible readout methods. In the WO 99/34315 A9 describes the use of inorganic particles as well as a method for the production and identification of a substrate or particle, wherein the preferred analysis methods are Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Spectroscopy. Furthermore, in the GB 2413674 A described the preparation of a marker for identifying objects. Furthermore, in the GB 2413675 A a tag for object identification with self-validating properties described. In addition, in the GB 2385853 A a method of generating a sequence of synthetic nucleic acid and the use thereof as a label.

A disadvantage of the known methods is the fact that the reading of the mark can not be done on site, since the necessary devices are very large, heavy and expensive. In the case of X-ray fluorescence analysis, a complex shielding of the harmful radiation is also necessary.

The present invention is therefore based on the object to provide a concept for reading marks, which allows an efficient, cost-effective and mobile reading of markings.

This object is achieved by a device for reading a mark according to claim 1, an apparatus for identifying an object according to claim 4, a method for reading a mark according to claim 18, a method for identifying an object according to claim 22, a use of the laser-induced plasma spectroscopy Reading a mark according to claim 26, a mark according to claim 27 or a computer program according to claim 29.

The invention provides a device for reading out a marking, wherein the marking has information based on a plurality of chemical elements, with a laser device, a detection device and a processing device. The laser device is designed to emit a laser pulse in order to convert the chemical elements present in a section of the marking into a plasma. The detection device is designed to detect an electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation depends on the chemical elements present in the marking. The processing device is designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and to provide a signal dependent on the information.

The invention further provides an apparatus for identifying an object by means of a tag attached to the object and having information associated with the object based on a plurality of chemical elements, including laser means, detection means and processing means. The laser device is designed to emit a laser pulse in order to move in a section of the Marking existing chemical elements in a plasma to convict. The detection device is designed to detect an electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation depends on the chemical elements present in the marking. The processing device is designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and to provide an information-dependent signal for identifying the object.

The invention further provides a method of reading a mark, the mark having information based on a plurality of chemical elements. By means of a laser pulse, the chemical elements present in a section of the marking are converted into a plasma. Furthermore, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma is detected, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation depends on the chemical elements present in the marking. In addition, the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation is evaluated and a signal dependent on the information provided.

The invention further provides a method of identifying an object by means of a tag attached to the object and having information associated with the object based on a plurality of chemical elements. By means of a laser pulse, the chemical elements present in a section of the marking are converted into a plasma. Furthermore, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma is detected, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation depends on the chemical elements present in the marking. In addition, the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation is evaluated and an information-dependent signal for identifying the object is provided.

The present invention further provides the ability to read a mark based on a plurality of chemical elements having information associated with an object using laser-induced plasma spectroscopy.

In laser-induced plasma spectroscopy, a small amount of an analyte is first transferred into a plasma by means of a laser pulse. After a short waiting time, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma is analyzed spectroscopically, it being possible to draw conclusions about the type and amount of the chemical elements present in the analyte from the spectrum. In the present invention, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma, which depends on the chemical elements present in the marking, is evaluated in order to read out the information comprising the marking and to provide an information-dependent signal. An assignment of the information further enables a secure identification of the object or a determination of the authenticity of the object to which the marker is attached.

Embodiments of the present invention will be explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

1 a schematic view of an embodiment of a device for reading a mark;

2 a schematic view of a device for identifying an object;

3 a schematic view of the device for identifying an object from 2 wherein the device further comprises a shielding device;

4 a schematic view of an embodiment of an apparatus for identifying an object with two channels, which are connected to a handset;

5 a schematic view of the device for identifying an object from 4 wherein the device further comprises a shielding device;

6 a schematic view of a marker which is attached to an object to uniquely identify the object.

In the following description of the embodiments of the invention, the same or the same elements are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures, so that their description in the different embodiments with each other is interchangeable.

1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device for reading a mark. The mark 100 has information based on a plurality of chemical elements. In embodiments, the mark 100 Furthermore, based on a plurality of predefined chemical elements, have a predetermined information. In embodiments, the (eg, predefined) chemical elements may be e.g. B. in a certain amount contained in the mark. For example, in embodiments, the plurality of (eg, predefined) chemical elements may include metals, such as metals. As aluminum, iron, gold, copper, magnesium, zinc, etc., be.

In embodiments, the information having the mark, for. B. based on the presence or absence of the plurality of (eg., Predefined) chemical elements are binary coded, so be explicitly present or not present. Further, in embodiments, the (eg, predetermined) information that the tag 100 has, for. B. based on a certain relative ratio of (eg., Predefined) chemical elements. Furthermore, in embodiments, the information that the tag 100 based on an absolute concentration or on a relative concentration ratio between the (eg predefined) chemical elements. Further, in embodiments, the characteristics of an emission spectrum generated by the ratio of the (eg, predefined) chemical elements may be used as the code. In addition, the mark can 100 in embodiments have further chemical elements, for. As a carrier or a substrate and / or chemical elements, the z. B. for attaching and / or camouflaging the marker 100 serve on an object.

To capture the marker 100 , The device for reading a mark comprises a laser device 102 which is adapted to a laser pulse or laser pulse 104 to give up in a section of the marker 100 transform existing chemical elements into a plasma. In embodiments, the plasma-converted portion of the mark 100 z. B. be a volume element with an area A and a layer thickness d, wherein the volume element on the surface of the mark 100 and wherein the area and the layer thickness of the volume element z. B. of the pulse duration and the energy density of the laser pulse 104 can be dependent. In embodiments, therefore, the area and layer thickness of the portion of the marker 100 , which is transferred into a plasma, be predefined, whereby also the amount or the volume of the transferred into the plasma (eg predefined) chemical elements can be within a predetermined range. In embodiments, a quantitative statement regarding the (eg predefined) chemical elements that has the marking can thus also be made. This statement can be made regarding both the absolute amount of (eg predefined) chemical elements and the relative amount of (eg predefined) chemical elements to each other.

In embodiments, the laser device 102 trained to receive a laser pulse 104 which has a high energy density and thus causes rapid heating of the portion of the mark 100 and the transfer of the in the section of the mark 100 allows existing chemical elements in a plasma. In exemplary embodiments, the laser device is 102 trained to receive a laser pulse 104 with a pulse length of 0.1 ns to 100 ns and an energy density of 1 mJ to 3000 mJ. In another exemplary embodiment, the laser device is 102 designed to generate a laser pulse with a pulse length of 2 ns to 10 ns and an energy density of 20 mJ to 850 mJ.

In laser-induced plasma spectroscopy, therefore, the laser is focused on a small area of a surface of an analyte, whereby a small amount of the analyte, which is usually in the range of nanogram to picogram, is ablated by the laser pulse (ablation), whereby a plasma with Temperatures over 100,000 K is generated. During data acquisition, usually after the onset of thermodynamic equilibrium, the temperature of the plasma is in the range of 5,000 to 20,000 K. At high temperatures, during the early plasma, the removed material dissociates (breaks down) to excited atoms and ions. During this time, the plasma emits a continuous radiation which, however, has no information about the chemical elements of the analyte. After a short wait, within a small time window, the plasma expands and cools, with the plasma emitting radiation that has the characteristic atomic emission lines of the chemical elements of the analyte in the spectrum. The delay between the emission of the continuous radiation and the characteristic radiation is on the order of 10 μs, z. In the range of 3 to 30 μs, which makes it necessary to time the detection of the characteristic radiation.

In embodiments, the laser pulse hits 104 on a section of the mark 100 , where by the laser pulse 104 amount of energy radiated due to the low thermal conductivity of the marking 100 , can not be dissipated quickly enough in the adjacent volume, z. B. in the area surrounding the irradiated portion of the mark 100 , Thus, the concentrated by the laser pulse 104 radiated energy only to the portion of the mark on which the laser pulse 104 meets. This leads to a rapid increase in temperature and ultimately to a sudden evaporation or ablation of the portion of the mark 100 and in the section of the mark 100 existing chemical elements. In embodiments, the chemical elements present in the portion of the label dissociate into ions and electrons. The in the section of the mark 100 existing chemical elements are thus transferred into a plasma.

After a short wait, the z. B. may be in the range of 3 microseconds to 30 microseconds or in the range of 10 microseconds to 15 microseconds, the plasma emits electromagnetic radiation 106 having in the spectrum the characteristic emission lines of the chemical elements present in the portion of the label 100 were present and the means of the laser pulse 104 were transferred to a plasma. The electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 is thus of those in the mark 100 dependent on existing chemical elements.

The device for reading a mark 100 further comprises a detection device 108 and a processing device 110 on. The detection device 108 is formed around the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 capture, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation of the in the mark 100 depends on existing chemical elements. The processing device 110 is configured to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and to provide a signal dependent on the (for example predetermined or assigned) information.

In embodiments, the processing device 110 be further designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation with respect to the predefined chemical elements or those in the marker 100 detect information represented by the predefined chemical elements to provide an information-dependent signal. In embodiments, the processing device 110 be further configured to provide the signal dependent on the information, if the evaluation shows that the mark 100 have the predefined chemical elements or a correct concentration ratio of the predefined chemical elements.

In embodiments, the processing device 110 be designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation in the frequency domain or in the spectral range. If the mark 100 has a (eg predefined) chemical element, then this element can be recognized by a corresponding characteristic emission line in the spectrum of the detected electromagnetic radiation. In embodiments, the processing device 110 Thus, evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation in the frequency domain to see if the (eg predefined) chemical elements in the label 100 exist or not. The information that the mark 100 and based on the plurality of (eg predefined) chemical elements, is thus in the spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 recognizable in the form of characteristic emission lines and can thus be read out by the device for reading out a marking.

The processing device 110 may further be configured to provide a signal dependent on the information. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information can be processed as desired. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (e.g., predetermined) information may be further provided if the tag 100 has incorrect or no (eg predetermined) information or marking 100 can not be read. This can be z. B. be the case when the mark 100 z. B. falsified or manipulated, or if the transferred into a plasma section no mark 100 having. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information may be z. B. a logical value, such as. Eg "true" or "wrong". In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information may be z. B. a binary one at a successfully read mark or z. B. may be a binary zero in an unsuccessfully read tag, in other embodiments, other conventions can be made.

In embodiments, the device for reading a mark 100 also an issue 112 which is adapted to the from the mark 100 to output read information.

In embodiments, the device for reading a mark 100 be designed to only provide a signal dependent on the information, if the chemical elements transferred to a plasma actually a mark 100 or a section of a marker 100 form. In embodiments, the processing device 110 Furthermore, be configured to only provide a signal dependent on the information, if the mark 100 has real or real information.

In embodiments, the portion of the mark 100 Furthermore, a plurality of (eg predefined) chemical elements have, so that by means of a laser pulse 104 the plurality of (eg predefined) chemical elements can be converted into a plasma, so that the information that the label 100 has, for. B. by means of a single laser pulse 104 can be read out. In addition, in embodiments for reading the mark 100 a very small part or section of the marking 100 be transferred to a plasma, leaving the mark 100 can be read almost any number of times. In addition, the portion of the label transferred to a plasma can 100 have only a very small layer thickness, z. B. a layer thickness in the range of 0.5 microns to 3 microns or in the range of 0.1 microns to 50 microns, so that even if the laser pulse 104 the same place of the mark 100 meets several times, a readout of the mark 100 is still guaranteed. at Embodiments in which the mark 100 z. B. covered by a paint, disposed within a paint or contained in a paint, z. B. mixed with the paint is, the converted into a plasma section can also be a layer thickness of several millimeters, z. Example, a layer thickness of up to 5 mm.

2 shows a schematic view of a device for identifying an object 114 with a marker 100 that are attached to the object 114 is attached and which has based on a plurality of chemical elements information that the object 114 assigned. In embodiments, the mark 100 Furthermore, based on a plurality of predefined chemical elements, have a predetermined information that the object 114 assigned. In the in 2 the embodiment shown is the mark 100 , unlike the one in 1 shown embodiment, clearly the object 114 assigned. In embodiments, the object 114 so clearly by the mark 100 be identified. In embodiments, the information that the mark 100 has, for. B. be a unique serial number or type designation that the object 114 z. B. uniquely identified or authenticated.

In embodiments, the (eg, predefined) chemical elements of the label 100 for example, metals, such as. Copper, gold, silver, platinum and palladium, the information comprising the label being based on the presence or absence of these (eg, predefined) chemical elements, e.g. B. binary coded, so explicitly available or not available, can be. In this case, the presence of a (eg predefined) chemical element z. B. encoded with a binary one, while the absence of a (eg predefined) chemical element z. B. can be encoded with a binary zero. In other embodiments, of course, other conventions can be taken, so z. For example, the presence of a (eg, predefined) chemical element may be encoded with a binary zero, while the absence of a (eg, predefined) chemical element may be encoded with a binary one.

In embodiments, the mark 100 have (for example given) information based on ternary or higher systems by different concentrations of individual (eg predefined) chemical elements, e.g. For example, a first (eg, predefined) chemical element may always be present at a known concentration, with a plurality of further (eg, predefined) chemical elements in a predetermined ratio to the first (e.g. Predefined) chemical element are present. The number of concentration levels is limited only by the accuracy of measurement.

In embodiments, moreover, a calibration by measurement, for. Example, by transferring an unlabeled material, such as a reference material or an unmarked portion of the object 114 , done in a reference plasma. The reference electromagnetic radiation emitted by the reference plasma may be detected by the detection means 108 be recorded. After transferring a section of the marker 100 in a plasma, the processing device 110 consider the previously detected electromagnetic reference radiation in the evaluation of the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation.

For reading the mark 100 has the device for identifying an object 114 a laser device 102 which is designed to be detected by means of a laser pulse 104 in a section of the marker 100 transform existing chemical elements into a plasma. The electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 In the frequency domain, as already described, has the characteristic emission lines of the chemical elements present in the label 100 available.

In embodiments, the spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 thus the characteristic emission lines of the plurality of predefined chemical elements _on, if in the selection 100 available. In embodiments, the portion of the mark 100 also by means of several laser pulses 104 , z. B. by means of five laser pulses 104 in one second with short cooling pauses, be transferred into a plasma to increase the quality of the spectrum.

For detecting the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 has the device for identifying an object 114 a detection device 108 which is adapted to the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 detecting the detected electromagnetic radiation from the chemical elements present in the label or from the (relative) concentration of those in the label 100 depends on existing chemical elements. In embodiments, the detection device z. B. comprise a detector for electromagnetic radiation, which is adapted to the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 to detect. In other embodiments, the detection device 108 z. B. a spectrometer, such as. B. a broadband spectrometer, a prism spectrometer or a grating spectrometer.

The device for identifying an object also has a processing device 110 which is configured to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and a signal dependent on the (for example predetermined) information for identifying the object 114 provide. In embodiments, this signal z. As the determination of whether the mark 100 authentic or not. In embodiments, further information about the marking or the marked object can also be derived from this signal.

In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information can be processed as desired. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (eg predetermined) information may further be at a positive identification and / or a negative identification of the object 114 where the mark 100 is appropriate to be provided. It can be a positive identification of the object 114 z. A successful authentication, a correct serial number, a correct type designation or a genuine (not fake) mark. A negative identification of the object 114 can be z. Example, an unsuccessful authentication, an incorrect serial number, a wrong type designation or a fake mark. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information may be z. For example, the logical values are true or false, e.g. A binary zero or a binary one. In embodiments, the signal dependent on the (for example given) information may, moreover, be z. B. for controlling an LED, z. As a founding LED, to the output of a complete elemental analysis including the concentration data are used according to the inventive processing.

In embodiments, the processing device 110 be further configured to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation with respect to the (eg predefined) chemical elements. In embodiments, the detected electromagnetic radiation z. In particular, it is evaluated whether the spectrum has the characteristic emission lines of the (eg predefined) chemical elements. If the spectrum has a characteristic emission line of a (eg predefined) chemical element, then the marker has the corresponding (eg predefined) chemical element.

In one embodiment, the tag has information based on the predefined chemical elements copper, gold, silver, platinum and palladium z. B. is binary coded, wherein the processing means 110 is designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation with respect to these predefined chemical elements. The absence of one of these predefined chemical elements can e.g. B. be encoded with a binary one, wherein the absence of one of these predefined chemical elements can be encoded with a binary zero, in other embodiments, of course, other conventions can be made. Thus, in this embodiment, the information comprising the tag is a binary string of 5 bits in length.

The invention is not limited to such embodiments, but rather the mark 100 , depending on the requirements, also have information based on a significantly higher number of (eg predefined) chemical elements. In embodiments, the mark 100 have information based on N predefined chemical elements. This creates (2 ^N -1) coding possibilities and thus makes it possible to (2 ^N -1) objects 114 with a marker 100 to mark clearly. The mark 100 For example, in embodiments, it must have at least one predefined chemical element of the plurality of predefined chemical elements to distinguish between a label and a z. B. accidentally transferred to a plasma part or section of the object 114 to meet.

In one embodiment, the mark z. B. have information based on 20 (eg, predefined) chemical elements, resulting in over 1,000,000 objects 114 can be clearly marked with a marker. In another embodiment, the mark z. For example, information may be based on 24 (eg, predefined) chemical elements, resulting in over 16,000,000 objects 114 can be clearly marked with a marker. In embodiments in which the concentration ratios of the (eg predefined) chemical elements are included, these numbers can increase massively.

The processing device 110 may be further configured to provide a first signal, if the evaluation shows that the mark 100 having (eg predefined) chemical elements. In embodiments, the first signal z. An acknowledgment signal, a value associated with the information, or the information itself. In embodiments, the first Signal output if the mark 100 that are attached to the object 114 is attached, has information that the object 114 is uniquely assigned.

The processing device 110 may be further configured to provide a second signal, if the evaluation shows that the mark 100 does not have the (eg predefined) chemical elements. In embodiments, the second signal z. B. be an error signal. In embodiments, the second signal is output if the marker 100 that are attached to the object 114 is attached, has information that the object 114 not assigned. This may be the case if z. For example, the object 114 and / or the mark 100 exchanged, imitated or forged or if no mark 100 is available.

In embodiments, the processing device 110 further comprising a memory that the the object 114 associated information, wherein the processing means is adapted to that of the marking 100 Compare read information with the information contained in the memory to determine whether the mark 100 attached to the object has information corresponding to the object 114 is uniquely assigned or not. Thus, it is z. Possible, counterfeits, imitations and imitations of both the label 100 as well as the object 114 to recognize. In other embodiments, the processing device 110 z. B. an interface, for. As a wireless or wired interface, to those from the mark 100 read information with a z. B. to compare information stored in a database.

In addition, the processing device 110 in embodiments may be configured to detect whether the characteristic emission lines of the (eg, predefined) chemical elements exceed a (eg, predefined) amplitude value or a threshold value to be e.g. B. at a contamination of the mark, z. As by dirt or particles on the surface of the mark 100 or by foreign particles within the mark 100 , nevertheless a correct reading of the mark 100 sure.

In embodiments, the processing device 110 Further, it may be configured to detect whether the characteristic emission lines of the (eg predefined) chemical elements have a predefined amplitude range in order, for. B. a fake mark, the z. B. has a different concentration of the (eg., Predefined) chemical elements to recognize. If the concentration of the (eg predefined) chemical elements is too high or too low, the corresponding characteristic emission lines in the spectrum have too high or too low an amplitude.

In embodiments, a variation of the concentration of the plurality of (eg predefined) chemical elements can be used as a further coding possibility. In embodiments, this z. For example, two or three amplitude ranges may be predetermined which may have the characteristic emission lines of the (eg predefined) chemical elements.

In embodiments, the ratio of certain or predetermined spectral lines or the ratio of certain emissions at certain wavelengths can also be used as the code. The spectral properties are of course caused by the existing chemical elements, but the knowledge about the elemental composition for reading is then not necessary. In embodiments, this may lead to simpler data sets to z. B. real or untrue to decide. Furthermore, in this case, the requirements for the processing device 110 lower. In addition, in this case, a retro-engineering (reconstruct, reconstruct) more difficult because less information about the marking 100 present in the reader. In this case, in embodiments, the processing device 110 z. B. be designed to evaluate some properties of the detected electromagnetic spectrum. In embodiments, the processing device is thus designed to evaluate a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation.

The device for identifying an object 114 may also have an output 112 which is adapted to the information that the mark 100 has to spend.

In embodiments, the laser device 102 , the detection device 108 and the processing device 110 also in a hand-held device 116 be integrated to a mobile use of the device to identify an object 114 to enable. The handset 116 indicates an exit 118 for the laser pulse and an entrance 120 for the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 on. In one embodiment, the entry is 118 and the exit 120 adjacent to each other, for. B. at a distance of 10 cm or less arranged to meet a mobile use of the device for the identification of an object. In another embodiment, the entrance 118 and the exit 120 arranged adjacent to each other at a distance of 2 cm or less.

In embodiments, at the exit 118 and at the entrance 120 Furthermore, optical components, such. B. lenses, be arranged, the z. B. are formed to the laser pulse 104 to focus or emitted by the plasma electromagnetic radiation 106 take.

The following exemplary embodiments of the invention relate by way of example to the device for identifying an object. However, the invention is not limited to such Ausfürungsbeispiele, but rather the following embodiments can be transferred to the same device for reading a mark. The above-described integration of the laser device, the detection device and the processing device in a hand-held device is also applicable to the device for reading a mark.

3 shows a schematic view of the device for identifying an object 114 out 2 wherein the device further comprises a shielding device 122 having. The shielding device 122 is formed to the environment of the device or the mark 100 before the laser pulse 104 or of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 shield. In embodiments, it is thus possible to protect the user as well as other persons, living beings and objects from the released laser radiation, which can occur during the reading of elementary markings by a user.

In embodiments, the shielding device 122 z. B. a hollow body with a square, square or round cross-section, such as. B. be a hollow cylinder with the handset 116 is connected and on one side adjacent to the object 114 on the object 114 can be applied to a z. B. prevent leakage of electromagnetic radiation. In embodiments, the shielding device 122 further on the side adjacent to the object 114 z. B. have an elastic material which is adapted to the shape or the surface of the object 114 adapt to a leakage of z. B. to prevent electromagnetic radiation. In embodiments, by the shielding 122 Furthermore, the existing background radiation attenuated or excluded, which would result in a better measurement, z. B. by a better signal-to-noise ratio.

In a further embodiment, the shielding device 122 z. B. an apron made of an opaque, elastic material, for. B. of dark or black plastic or rubber, or another material that is impermeable to the electromagnetic radiation occurring. In embodiments, such a shielding device 122 in addition, inside a reflective material to the intensity of the radiation emitted at the detection device 108 arrives, increase. In embodiments, such apron on the handset 116 , z. B. on the optics of the handset 116 , are placed on, and closes the side gap between the handset 116 and the surface or surface of the object to be analyzed 114 on which the. mark 100 is appropriate. In contrast to the elaborate shielding z. B. for the shielding of the X-ray radiation in the X-ray fluorescence analysis is required and which is usually made of lead, in the present invention, a simple and thus cost-shielding 122 be used.

In embodiments, the shielding device 122 further configured to be a predefined distance between exit 118 , Entry 120 and mark 100 to comply with z. B. an optimal reading of the mark 100 sure. In other embodiments, the shielding device 122 Beyond that, be trained to the distance between exit 118 , Entry 120 and mark 100 automatically set to a predetermined value. If no shielding 122 is required, in embodiments, the shielding device may be formed only for adjusting the distance, wherein the shielding z. B. has no shielding material.

In embodiments, safety functions can additionally be provided which trigger the measurement only when the shielding device is in the correct position 122 , z. B. correctly seated safety apron or correctly set distance allow. The shielding device 122 can this purpose a detection device 124 formed to detect whether the shielding means the area between the exit 118 , the entrance 120 and the mark 100 completely encloses to generate a laser pulse 104 to prevent, if the shielding device 122 does not completely surround this area. The recognition device 124 can this z. B. comprise one or more contact sensors, which are designed to detect whether the shielding 122 completely on the object 114 rests. In another embodiment, the recognizer 124 z. B. on one of the mark 100 Have side facing a detector of electromagnetic radiation, which is designed to detect a leaking electromagnetic radiation, if the shielding 122 not completely on the object 114 rests. For this purpose, in embodiments z. B. before reading the mark from the laser device 102 one Laser pulse low power density can be generated, wherein the detection device 124 is formed to detect this laser pulse, wherein no electromagnetic radiation of the laser pulse is detectable, if the shielding 122 completely on the object 114 rests.

4 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device for identifying an object 114 with an extension element 128 , A first extension subelement 128a is with the laser device 102 connected, wherein the first extension sub-element 128a at one of the laser device 102 opposite side an exit 118 and is adapted to the laser pulse 104 to the exit 118 to lead and at the exit 118 issue. A second extension subelement 128b is with the detection device 108 connected, wherein the second extension sub-element 128b at one of the detection means 108 facing away an entrance 120 which is formed to the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 and to the detection device 108 respectively. In embodiments, the extension sub-elements 128a and 128b z. B. each having a channel which is adapted to guide an electromagnetic radiation. In embodiments, the extension sub-elements 128a and 128b further z. B. a bendable material such. B. one or more optical fibers have.

In embodiments, moreover, the extension element 128 have only one extension sub-element, wherein the extension sub-element is formed, both of the laser device 102 generated laser pulse 104 output as well as the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 106 take. In this case, the extension element 128 z. B. have an optical fiber. In embodiments, for. B. only one optical fiber for outward and return of the radiation can be used.

In embodiments, the device for identifying an object may further comprise a handheld device 126 have, wherein the exit 118 and the entrance 120 adjacent portion of the extension element 128 with the handset 126 is connected, and wherein the exit 118 and the entrance 120 adjacent to each other at a distance of 10 cm or less are arranged.

In embodiments, the handset 126 z. B. be formed to a simple readout of markings 100 allow by a user, the user z. B. on the handset 126 the laser pulse 104 on a mark to be read 100 can judge. In other Ausführungsbeispilen the handset 126 z. B. are arranged or mounted on a robot arm to z. B. a readout of marks 100 in a production facility. Furthermore, in embodiments, the laser device 102 , the detection device 108 and the processing device 110 in a housing, for. B. in a desktop device that is located remotely, be integrated.

In embodiments, the laser device 102 and the detection device 108 Moreover, be arranged separately from each other, for. B. can the laser device 102 be arranged in a handset while the detection device 108 can be arranged in a base station. In other embodiments, the detection device 108 be placed in a hand-held device while the laser device 102 can be arranged in a base station.

5 shows a schematic view of the device for identifying an object 114 out 4 wherein the device further comprises a shielding device 122 having. The shielding device 122 is formed to the environment of the device or the mark 100 or the object 114 where the mark 100 is attached, before the laser pulse 104 or in front of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma 120 shield and / or by a predetermined distance between entry 118 , Exit 120 and mark 100 adjust.

6 shows a schematic view of the mark 100 attached to an object 114 is attached to the object 114 clearly identifiable. In 6a is the mark 100 on the surface 140 of the object 114 appropriate. In 6b however, is the mark 100 in the object 114 let in, the surface of the marker 100 and the surface 140 of the object 114 are arranged flush. In embodiments, the mark 100 or the object 114 and the mark 100 Furthermore, be covered with a protective layer or a paint, so that the mark 100 is not visible or tactile. For reading the mark 100 can the protective layer or the paint z. B. first with one or more laser pulses 104 be removed. In embodiments, the spectra obtained in addition z. To calibrate the spectrum of the mark 100 be used.

In 6c is the mark 100 within the object 114 arranged. In embodiments, the mark 100 within the object 114 be arranged to the mark z. B. to install concealed on the object. Without the Knowing the exact position, the mark is thus not visible nor palpable. To read the mark, the material of the object 114 that the mark 100 covered, z. B. first with one or more laser pulses 104 be removed. In embodiments, the marker may be in one area 142 from Z. B. 0.01 to 100 microns or in a range of z. B. 0.1 microns to 10 microns below the surface 140 of the object 114 be arranged.

In embodiments, the mark z. B. have a plurality of (eg., Predefined) chemical elements, wherein the information z. B. may be binary-coded based on the presence or absence of the (eg, predefined) chemical elements. In embodiments, of course, the already described (complex) coding options can be used. In embodiments, the marker may further include a plurality of regions, each region of the marker having information. In embodiments, the device for reading out a marking can be designed to successively transfer in each case a section of each region of the marking into a plasma, in each case generating a plasma and respectively detecting and evaluating the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma in order to obtain one from the Information to provide the marker dependent signal. Furthermore, the information that has the mark, z. B. output via an output.

Moreover, in embodiments, the marker may include a plurality of layers stacked on top of each other, each layer of the marker having information based on a plurality of (eg, predefined) chemical elements, and for reading the information of the respective layers Layers, starting with the top layer, are successively transferred by means of a laser pulse into a plasma, wherein in each case the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma is detected by the detection device. Furthermore, the detected electromagnetic radiation is evaluated by the processing device with respect to the (eg predefined) chemical elements and a signal dependent on the information is provided.

In embodiments, the mark z. B. for marking objects that z. B. in public or private ownership are used. In embodiments, the information having the mark, for. B. be a serial number or type designation. In embodiments, the mark z. B. are used for the unique assignment of motor vehicles, the mark z. B. can be attached to one or more locations of the body. Further, the tag, which includes information based on a plurality of chemical elements, may include a substrate or substrate, not visible to the human eye, in which the plurality of (eg, predefined) chemical elements are disposed. Moreover, in embodiments, the substrate or substrate may be odorless and non-tactile. Thus, it is z. For example, it is possible to hide objects and optionally mark them repeatedly, so that the effort to find the marking or markings is so high that theft of the object or an attempted forgery of the object and the marking is not worthwhile.

In embodiments, the mark z. B. for marking of living things such. B. of livestock. Thus, it is not necessary to farm animals, such. As horses or cows, by means of a brand or RFID tag (RFID tag = identification using electromagnetic waves - trailer) to mark. For reading out the marking, moreover, only a small portion of the marking is transferred into a plasma, so that a reading of the marking for the domestic animals is painless.

In embodiments, a z. B. Random mixture of elements are attached as a mark on an object, the mark is first read. The device generates a code from the spectrum, eg. B. a sequence of numbers. This code is z. B. recorded or stored outside the device. To check the authenticity of the mark is read with the same or a similar device, with a code, for. B. a sequence of numbers is issued. Subsequently, the output code with the z. As noted or stored code to be compared.

In embodiments, a z. B. Random mixture of elements are attached as a mark on an object, the mark is first read. The device generates a code from the spectrum, eg. B. a sequence of numbers. This code will be on the marked object or object noted, z. B. as an encrypted bar code. To check the authenticity of the mark is read with the same or a similar device, with a code, for. B. a sequence of numbers is issued. Subsequently, the output code with the z. As noted or stored code to be compared.

In embodiments, the chemical elements may be distributed randomly over a particular area. The two-dimensional pattern is read out and converted into a code. This code is noted on the marked object or object, eg. B. as a number code or as an encrypted bar code. To check the authenticity of the mark is read with the same or a similar device, with a code, for. B. a sequence of numbers is issued. Subsequently, the output code with the z. As noted or stored code to be compared.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention describe an apparatus for reading out elementary markings or markings, which have information based on a plurality of (eg predefined) chemical elements, by means of laser-induced plasma spectroscopy. Embodiments of the present invention further describe marking articles or animals with a mixture of different chemical elements associated with reading such a mark by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy. Embodiment of the invention thus provide a device for reading a mark or for identifying an object that is small, inexpensive, reliable and secure.

Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention describe a device for reading out a marking or for identifying an object which is based on laser-induced plasma spectroscopy. The invention is not limited to such embodiments, but rather, the device for reading a mark or for the identification of an object based on further developments of the laser-induced plasma spectroscopy.

Further, embodiments of the present invention describe the use of laser-induced plasma spectroscopy to read labels that may be based on the presence or absence or on the concentration ratios of one or more (eg, predefined) chemical elements. In addition, a spatially non-uniform distribution of this presence or absence can be used as another coding feature.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention describe a device for reading out a marking or for identifying an object, which makes it possible to read out elementary markings locally and in a short time. Since the development of the individual components, such. As laser, broadband spectrometer, continue to be driven forward, it is expected that the device for reading a mark or for the identification of an object in the future will be even smaller, cheaper and more reliable.

In embodiments, the device for reading a mark or for identifying an object comes without sample preparation or preparation for marking and without ionizing radiation. Furthermore, only the surface or a portion of the mark is transferred by means of the laser pulse in a plasma, so that by continued irradiation with laser pulses and the associated emergence of a minor material removal, z. As a small hole, different information based on a change in the elemental composition of the marker can be read in different superimposed layers. In embodiments, this can be used for additional security features.

In embodiments, it is also possible to detect elemental markings from a few meters away, since the laser-induced plasma spectroscopy is a purely optical method. This is especially true for applications in defined environments, such. B. Production facilities of advantage, which is about the automatic readout of a large number of marks. In embodiments, the device can thus be designed to read a marking or to identify an object in order to enable remote detection. The devices z. B. have larger dimensions and over several meters, z. In the range of 1 to 100 m or in the range of 10 to 70 m.

In embodiments, it is also conceivable to combine the previously described functions or coding options with a spatially resolving method or coding, which allows to analyze the spatial distribution of chemical elements on a defined test field or a marker. This leads to further coding possibilities.

In embodiments, a device for reading out marking or for identifying an object is preferred in which the exit of the laser beam or laser pulse and the entrance for the emitted radiation are close to each other. It should be noted, however, that other arrangements are conceivable, especially when used in production facilities. In embodiments, this can be realized by integrating the laser device, detection device and processing device as well as the necessary optical and electronic components in a hand-held device. Alternatively, in embodiments, a device can be implemented by emanating from a table top device, in which some or all components are present, radiation conductors that transmit the radiation generated and / or measured there to or from a hand-held device.

In embodiments, two measurements may also be performed, where one of the two measurements may be a calibration measurement. Once on unmarked material, eg. B. reference material of known and / or constant composition, and once at the marked position, the z. B. has a variable composition.

The results of the first measurement can be used to calibrate the second measurement. This may be particularly advantageous when using different concentrations.

Although some embodiments have been described in the context of a device, it is understood that these embodiments also represent a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or a component of a device is to be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block or detail or feature of a corresponding operation. Some or all of the method steps may be performed by a hardware device (or using a hardware device). Apparatus), such as a microprocessor, a programmable computer or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the most important method steps may be performed by such an apparatus.

Depending on particular implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation may be performed using a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray Disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM or FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic disk or optical memory are stored on the electronically readable control signals that can cooperate with a programmable computer system or cooperate such that the respective method is performed. Therefore, the digital storage medium can be computer readable.

Thus, some embodiments according to the invention include a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system such that one of the methods described herein is performed.

In general, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a computer program product having a program code, wherein the program code is operable to perform one of the methods when the computer program product runs on a computer.

The program code can also be stored, for example, on a machine-readable carrier.

Other embodiments include the computer program for performing any of the methods described herein, wherein the computer program is stored on a machine-readable medium.

In other words, an embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a computer program which has a program code for performing one of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer.

A further embodiment of the inventive method is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program is recorded for carrying out one of the methods described herein.

A further embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a data stream or a sequence of signals, which represent the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein. The data stream or the sequence of signals may be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, for example via the Internet.

Another embodiment includes a processing device, such as a computer or a programmable logic device, that is configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

Another embodiment includes a computer on which the computer program is installed to perform one of the methods described herein.

A further embodiment according to the invention comprises a device which is designed to transmit a computer program for carrying out at least one of the methods described herein to a receiver. The transmission can be done for example electronically or optically. The receiver may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device or a similar device. For example, the device or system may include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (eg, a field programmable gate array, an FPGA) may be used to perform some or all of the functionality of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. In general, in some embodiments, the methods are performed by any hardware device. This may be a universal hardware such as a computer processor (CPU) or hardware specific to the process, such as an ASIC.

The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It will be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the appended claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

Claims (17)

Device for identifying an object ( 114 ) by means of a mark ( 100 ) attached to the object ( 114 ) and which, based on a plurality of chemical elements, has information that is associated with the object ( 114 ), having the following features: a laser device ( 102 ) which is adapted to receive a laser pulse ( 104 ) in a section of the marking ( 100 ) to convert existing chemical elements into a plasma; a detection device ( 108 ) which is adapted to detect an electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma ( 106 ), the detected electromagnetic radiation being different from that in the marking ( 100 ) depends on existing chemical elements; and a processing device ( 110 ) which is designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and to generate a signal dependent on the information for identifying the object ( 114 ) to provide; wherein the laser device ( 102 ), the detection device ( 108 ) and the processing device ( 110 ) in a handheld device ( 116 ) and the handset ( 116 ) an exit ( 120 ) for the laser pulse ( 104 ) and an entrance ( 118 ) for the emitted electromagnetic radiation ( 106 ), the entry ( 120 ) and the exit ( 118 ) are arranged adjacent to each other at a distance of 10 cm or less. Device for identifying an object ( 114 ) by means of a mark ( 100 ) attached to the object ( 114 ) and which, based on a plurality of chemical elements, has information that is associated with the object ( 114 ), having the following features: a laser device ( 102 ) which is adapted to receive a laser pulse ( 104 ) in a section of the marking ( 100 ) to convert existing chemical elements into a plasma; a detection device ( 108 ) which is adapted to detect an electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma ( 106 ), the detected electromagnetic radiation being different from that in the marking ( 100 ) depends on existing chemical elements; a processing device ( 110 ) which is designed to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation and to generate a signal dependent on the information for identifying the object ( 114 ) to provide; an extension element ( 128 ), wherein the extension element ( 128 ) an exit ( 118 ) for the laser pulse ( 104 ) and an entrance ( 120 ) for the emitted electromagnetic radiation ( 106 ) having; and a handset ( 126 ), whereby an exit ( 118 ) and admission ( 120 ) adjacent portion of the extension element ( 128 ) with the handset ( 126 ) and the exit ( 118 ) and admission ( 120 ) are arranged adjacent to each other at a distance of 10 cm or less. Device for identifying an object ( 114 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the marking ( 100 ) based on a plurality of predefined chemical elements has a predetermined information that the object ( 114 ), and wherein the processing device ( 110 ) is further adapted to evaluate the detected electromagnetic radiation with respect to the plurality of predefined chemical elements and to a signal dependent on the predetermined information for identifying the object ( 114 ). Device for identifying an object ( 114 ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing device ( 110 ) is further formed, to provide a first signal if the evaluation shows that the marker ( 100 ) has the predefined chemical elements, or to provide a second signal if the evaluation shows that the label ( 100 ) does not have the predefined chemical elements. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a shielding device ( 122 ), which is formed around the environment of the device or the marking ( 100 ) of the laser pulse ( 104 ) or the emitted electromagnetic radiation ( 106 ) shield. Device according to Claim 5, in which the screening device ( 122 ) a detection device ( 124 ), which is designed to detect whether the shielding device ( 122 ) the area between the exit ( 118 ), admission ( 120 ) and the mark ( 100 ) in order to prevent generation of the laser pulse ( 104 ), if the shielding device ( 122 ) the area between the exit ( 118 ), admission ( 120 ) and the mark ( 100 ) does not completely enclose. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the processing device ( 110 ) an issue ( 112 ), which is designed to receive the information that the marker ( 100 ) output. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the marking ( 100 ) has information that is binary-coded based on the presence or absence of the plurality of chemical elements. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the marking ( 100 ) has information coded based on an absolute or relative concentration of the chemical elements. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the marking ( 100 ) has multiple areas, each area of the marker ( 100 ) has information. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the marking ( 100 ) has a plurality of superimposed layers, each layer of the marker ( 100 ) has information, and wherein for reading out the information of the respective layers, the layers, starting with the topmost layer, successively by means of a laser pulse ( 104 ) are transferred to a plasma. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the marking ( 100 ) has a protective layer, which is formed around the marking ( 100 ), wherein the protective layer by means of one or more laser pulses ( 104 ) is removable. A method of identifying an object by means of a tag attached to the object and having information associated with the object based on a plurality of chemical elements, comprising the steps of: translating the chemical elements present in a portion of the tag into one Plasma by means of a laser pulse of a laser device; Detecting the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the plasma with a detection device, wherein the detected electromagnetic radiation depends on the chemical elements present in the marking; Evaluating the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation with a processing device; Providing an information-dependent signal for identifying the object with the detection device; wherein the laser device ( 102 ), the detection device ( 108 ) and the processing device ( 110 ) in a handheld device ( 116 ), whereby the handset ( 116 ) an exit ( 120 ) for the laser pulse ( 104 ) and an entrance ( 118 ) for the emitted electromagnetic radiation ( 106 ), the entry ( 120 ) and the exit ( 118 ) are arranged adjacent to each other at a distance of 10 cm or less. The method of identifying an object according to claim 13, wherein the marker based on a plurality of predefined chemical elements has predetermined information associated with the object, wherein the evaluation evaluates the electromagnetic radiation with respect to the plurality of predefined chemical elements, and wherein in providing a signal dependent on the given information for identifying the object is provided. A method of identifying an object according to claim 13 or 14, wherein in the providing a first signal is provided if the evaluation shows that the marker has the predefined chemical elements, or a second signal is provided if the evaluation shows that the marker does not have the predefined chemical elements; A method of identifying an object according to any one of claims 13 to 15, further comprising the steps of: transferring an unmarked portion of the object to a reference plasma by means of a laser pulse; Detecting the electromagnetic reference radiation emitted from the reference plasma; Evaluating the detected electromagnetic radiation or a characteristic property of the detected electromagnetic radiation taking into account the detected electromagnetic reference radiation; Computer program for carrying out the method according to one of claims 13 to 16 when the computer program runs on a computer or microprocessor.

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