US20060118437A1 - Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity - Google Patents

Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20060118437A1
US20060118437A1 US10/534,719 US53471905A US2006118437A1 US 20060118437 A1 US20060118437 A1 US 20060118437A1 US 53471905 A US53471905 A US 53471905A US 2006118437 A1 US2006118437 A1 US 2006118437A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
wrapping
package
packing element
measurable variable
code
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/534,719
Inventor
Harald Gosebruch
Matthias Overath
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Koerber Technologies GmbH
Original Assignee
Hauni Maschinenbau GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=32116314&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20060118437(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Hauni Maschinenbau GmbH filed Critical Hauni Maschinenbau GmbH
Assigned to HAUNI MASCHINENBAU AG reassignment HAUNI MASCHINENBAU AG ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GOSEBRUCH,HARALD, OVERATH,MATTHIAS
Publication of US20060118437A1 publication Critical patent/US20060118437A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K19/00—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
    • G06K19/06—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
    • G06K19/06009—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code with optically detectable marking
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K17/00—Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups G06K1/00 - G06K15/00, e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K19/00—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
    • G06K19/06—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
    • G06K19/08—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code using markings of different kinds or more than one marking of the same kind in the same record carrier, e.g. one marking being sensed by optical and the other by magnetic means
    • G06K19/083—Constructional details
    • G06K19/086—Constructional details with markings consisting of randomly placed or oriented elements, the randomness of the elements being useable for generating a unique identifying signature of the record carrier, e.g. randomly placed magnetic fibers or magnetic particles in the body of a credit card
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F3/00—Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F3/00—Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
    • G09F3/02—Forms or constructions
    • G09F3/0297—Forms or constructions including a machine-readable marking, e.g. a bar code
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B2220/00—Specific aspects of the packaging operation
    • B65B2220/16—Packaging contents into primary and secondary packaging

Definitions

  • the invention concerns a method for labelling as well as a method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention is concerned with a device for labelling as well as a device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention concerns a package, in particular a cigarette packet.
  • Packaging in the sense according to the invention can be soft packages, hard packages (so-called hinged-lid packages), storage tins or other containers for cigarettes, cigars, loose tobacco or the like.
  • the packing element itself can consist of several components.
  • various methods and devices are known.
  • the packages are given e.g. a bar code during manufacture. By means of a scanner or the like, the bar code is then read for checking, so that the information contained in the bar code allows a conclusion about the manufacturer, the place of manufacture, etc.
  • the known methods and devices for labelling and identifying packaging as well as the corresponding packages themselves have the drawback that they do not allow unambiguous and unequivocal labelling or identification of the package. Namely, it is possible to put in circulation forged packages whose original source cannot be proved, as the known methods and devices can be manipulated by bypassing, imitating or forging labels, e.g. the bar codes. Also considerable expenditure is necessary for labelling, which leads in particular to elevated costs in manufacture of the packages.
  • a scanning mark is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping, facilitating detection of the characteristic property of each package as a measurable variable.
  • this scanning mark can also be print which is to be applied to the package anyway or is already present, e.g. the brand name, a logo or the like.
  • the position and overlap width of the joint seam of the wrapping relative to the scanning mark is determined as a measurable variable. Due to this procedure, even greater reliability is achieved when detecting the measurable variable.
  • deviations of the position of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping as well as the position and embossing of patterns which form due to joining or closing of the wrapping particularly by welding in the region of joints or seams as a measurable variable are determined.
  • the object is achieved by a method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which is characterised by the following steps:
  • the measurable variable can be detected, and by scanning the data bank the associated code can be determined. The latter is then compared with the code on the package which has just been checked.
  • the position and overlap width of the joint seam of the wrapping relative to a scanning mark applied to the packing element and/or wrapping is determined as a measurable variable. Due to the auxiliary measure, the reliability of detection of the measurable variable is further increased, so that the error quota when checking for authenticity of the package can be further lowered.
  • deviations of the position of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping as well as patterns of the joints or seams formed particularly by welding are determined as a measurable variable.
  • These pack-specific measurable variables allow particularly reliable and easy identification of the package, particularly also on account of the fact that opening the wrapping e.g. for the purpose of manipulation inevitably leads to altered measurable variables.
  • the object is moreover achieved with a generic device for labelling a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, by the fact that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer (PC) or the like for assigning the measurable variable to an individual code for the package which is allocated once only and filed in the storage medium.
  • PC personal computer
  • the object of the invention is also achieved by a generic device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, by the fact that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer (PC) or the like for comparing an individual code which is allocated once only and the detected measurable variable of the package to be identified, with a unique data record for each package stored in the storage medium beforehand and composed of code and measurable variable.
  • PC personal computer
  • commercially available standard elements can be used as means for detecting the code and measurable variable.
  • such a device can also be used as a transportable unit, which further increases the possibilities of use.
  • the object is also achieved by a packaging of the generic kind by the fact that an individual code readable from the outside and allocated once only is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping, and in addition a scanning mark or the like is provided for detection of a characteristic property of the packing element and/or wrapping as a measurable variable. With such a package, detection of a property characteristic of the packing element and/or wrapping is assisted, which further increases the reliability of authenticity checking.
  • FIG. 1 a cigarette packet with a code and an additional scanning mark
  • FIG. 2 an enlargement of detail A in FIG. 1 ,
  • FIG. 3 schematic extracts of data storage in table form in a data bank
  • FIG. 4 a top view of the end face of a package with scanning marks formed by the wrapping itself in the form of distances, angles and patterns.
  • the methods and devices are used for manufacturing, and so in particular for labelling and for identifying packages, in order to be able to check the authenticity of the packages.
  • each cigarette package 10 consists of a packing element 11 and a wrapping 12 .
  • the wrapping 12 usually consists of a transparent cellophane wrapping. Other materials can be used as well.
  • Inside the packing element 11 which in certain circumstances is also in several parts, is arranged the product to be packed.
  • the wrapping 12 surrounds the packing element 11 preferably completely and usually has to be opened by means of a tear-off strip 13 .
  • each package is provided with a code 14 .
  • This code 14 is preferably designed as a progressive number, so that each code 14 is allocated only once. Every single package 10 therefore has an individual code 14 .
  • the code 14 can also consist of letters, combinations of letters and numbers or other individual characters. The fact that each code 14 is allocated once only is crucial.
  • the code 14 is stored preferably by the manufacturers themselves directly when awarded or applied to the package. An ordinary data bank is suitable for this, for example.
  • the code 14 which can be printed, stamped or otherwise applied to the packing element 11 and/or wrapping 12 , can also be detected only after application by additional means and delivered to the storage medium, namely the data bank.
  • the code 14 can, additionally or alternatively to individual labelling of each package 10 , also contain information on the package 10 itself, e.g. data, time, place, machine, etc., and is arranged on the package 10 so as to be readable from the outside.
  • a property characteristic of the packing element 11 and/or the wrapping 12 is detected as a measurable variable.
  • This variable and unpredictable measurable variable is assigned to the code 14 belonging to the packing element 11 and/or wrapping 12 , in the storage medium, to form a unique data record.
  • This data record can be supplemented as desired with further information, e.g. date (see FIG. 3 ).
  • the individual apparatus components which are necessary for manufacture of the package are also linked to the data bank, so that the desired information can be stored or read out directly.
  • the position and overlap width of the joint seam 15 of the wrapping 12 is determined as a particularly suitable measurable variable. Characters, logos, writing or the like which are already on the package 10 , or even physical characteristics, e.g. edges of the packing element 11 , can be used as reference measuring points. Alternatively or additionally, other characteristic measurable variables can be detected too, e.g. the gap width between lid and container of a hard box, the offset of mutually overlapping parts of the packing element 11 or the wave pattern of the joint seam.
  • FIG. 4 Particularly preferred measurable variables are shown in FIG. 4 .
  • the packing element 11 is surrounded by the wrapping 12 in the original state of the package 10 .
  • the wrapping 12 has fold dimensions.
  • the fold dimensions are individual for each package 10 . Changes or deviations in the position of folds, cut edges, overlap regions, e.g. indicated by the distances d and e as well as the angles ⁇ and ⁇ , here serve as a pack-specific measurable variable.
  • patterns 17 and 18 arising due to joining or closing the wrapping for example by welding can also be determined as a measurable variable.
  • the patterns 17 so-called wave patterns, usually form due to warping, tinting or the like.
  • the patterns 18 in the region of contact surfaces of the wrapping 12 are formed e.g. by air bubbles.
  • the position of the patterns 17 and 18 marked by way of example in FIGS. 1 and 4 , is not limited to the points shown. On the contrary, the patterns 17 and 18 can be formed at any other point of the package 10 .
  • the deviations in the exact position or in the patterns are however not confined to the distances, angles and patterns shown in FIG. 4 . Any pack-specific variable as distance, angle, pattern, dimensional ratio or the like which is detectable from the outside can be used as a measurable variable.
  • the geometry and/or the position of the tear-off strip 13 can likewise be detected as a characteristic property.
  • a scanning mark 16 is appropriately applied to the packing element 11 .
  • the scanning mark 16 is rigidly connected to the packing element 11 and arranged so as to be readable or detectable from the outside.
  • the scanning mark 16 can also be attached to the wrapping 12 or even form part of the package 10 itself or print on the package 10 .
  • the wrapping 12 itself can serve as the scanning mark 16 or form the latter.
  • the scanning mark 16 is arranged in the region of the joint seam 15 or directly below the joint seam 15 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the scanning mark 16 projects a certain amount b or c beyond the joint seam 15 on both sides.
  • the scanning mark 16 is preferably rigidly connected to the wrapping 12 , e.g. by gluing, by sealing or the like, to prevent relative displacement of the scanning mark 16 and wrapping 12 to each other. Even in case of displacement of the scanning mark 16 relative to the joint seam 15 or vice versa, however, unambiguous allocation can be made or authenticity proven, as the width of the overlap a is not altered by the displacement and even the sum of the projecting amounts b and c remains the same.
  • the scanning mark 16 can also be arranged e.g. on the end face of the package 10 , so that the distances d and e and/or the angles ⁇ and ⁇ too can be determined with reference to the scanning mark 16 .
  • the code 14 as well as the measurable variable of each package 10 are preferably detected optically and processed electronically. However, all other contactless and/or mechanical detection, measuring and processing methods can be employed too.
  • the region of the joint seam 15 with the scanning mark 16 underneath it can be photographed and surveyed with a suitable camera or the like. The measurable variable abc can then be determined from the measured values.
  • the characteristic property that is, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the measurable variable abc, in the embodiment of FIG. 4 the position of the folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions by the distances d and e as well as the angles ⁇ and ⁇ or the patterns 17 , 18 is measured or detected.
  • inquiry e.g. by telephoning, direct network connection or the like, to the data bank which is usually accessible only to the manufacturer, it is verified whether the measurable variable (abc or d, e, ⁇ and ⁇ or patterns) and the code 14 to be found on the package 10 belong together.
  • a data record which completely matches the data record of the tested package 10 is located in the data bank, the authenticity of the package 10 can be assumed with a high degree of certainty. It can also be inquired what measurable variable belongs to a code 14 which is detected by the tester or determined automatically. Also, both the code 14 and the measurable variable can be detected and started as a data record inquiry. The inquiry can therefore be made easily, i.e. without any linking, e.g. by a tester. In case of automated inquiry, the individual components, means, memories and the like of the device are linked to each other.
  • the devices with which the packages 10 are labelled and/or identified consist of commercially available components, so that a detailed description is dispensed with. It is important that there is a means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the package 10 , for labelling the packages 10 .
  • This means can be an optical or mechanical device, e.g. a camera.
  • a storage medium is appropriate for storing on the one hand the previously applied code and on the other hand also the measurable variable which is determined.
  • a data bank which can be controlled via a PC or the like is possible as the storage medium.
  • the individual means as well as the data bank and the PC are linked together in order also to be able to ensure allocation of the code and measurable variable. Due to linking, identification can even be performed fully automatically.
  • the device can also include a separate means which is an integral part of the device itself.
  • the device for identification of the package is constructed similarly to the device just described, and can even be identical with the latter.
  • the device appropriately also has means for detecting the code.
  • the means for detecting the measurable variable and the code can also be constructed as a unit or even be identical.

Landscapes

  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Wrapping Of Specific Fragile Articles (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
  • Cartons (AREA)
  • Image Analysis (AREA)
  • Inspection Of Paper Currency And Valuable Securities (AREA)
  • Holo Graphy (AREA)
  • Auxiliary Devices For And Details Of Packaging Control (AREA)
  • Character Input (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a method for labelling as well as a method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention is concerned with a device for labelling as well as a device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention concerns a package, in particular cigarette package. Previous methods and devices for labelling and identification do not allow reliable checking for authenticity of packaging, as the known safety measures can be bypassed. With the devices and methods according to the invention, by including an individual code and a property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping, which is present in a random and inimitable manner in all successive products, unambiguous and reliable checking for authenticity of the package is ensured with little expenditure. The package according to the invention with the additional scanning mark assists unambiguous identification.

Description

  • The invention concerns a method for labelling as well as a method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention is concerned with a device for labelling as well as a device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element. Furthermore the invention concerns a package, in particular a cigarette packet.
  • Packaging in the sense according to the invention can be soft packages, hard packages (so-called hinged-lid packages), storage tins or other containers for cigarettes, cigars, loose tobacco or the like. The packing element itself can consist of several components. In order to label and identify packages and in particular cigarette packets, namely in order to be able to check the packaging for authenticity or origin, various methods and devices are known. Usually the packages are given e.g. a bar code during manufacture. By means of a scanner or the like, the bar code is then read for checking, so that the information contained in the bar code allows a conclusion about the manufacturer, the place of manufacture, etc.
  • However, other, even more elaborate possible ways of labelling and identification are known too, in which magnetic strips or the like are applied as information carriers in the region of the package, wherein the magnetic strips can contain information e.g. on the manufacturer, place of manufacture, date, etc.
  • However, the known methods and devices for labelling and identifying packaging as well as the corresponding packages themselves have the drawback that they do not allow unambiguous and unequivocal labelling or identification of the package. Namely, it is possible to put in circulation forged packages whose original source cannot be proved, as the known methods and devices can be manipulated by bypassing, imitating or forging labels, e.g. the bar codes. Also considerable expenditure is necessary for labelling, which leads in particular to elevated costs in manufacture of the packages.
  • It is therefore the object of the present invention to propose an easy-to-handle device as well as a cheap method for labelling and an easy-to-handle device as well as a cheap method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which ensure an unambiguous and reliable authenticity check of the package. Furthermore, it is the object of the invention to propose a package which can be labelled and identified easily and reliably.
  • This object is achieved by a method for labelling a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which is characterised by the following steps:
      • during the process of manufacturing the package, at least one individual code which is allocated once only is applied to the packing element and/or the wrapping and stored in a storage medium,
      • during the process of manufacturing the package, furthermore at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping is detected as a measurable variable,
      • the measurable variable is assigned to the code associated with the packing element in the storage medium to form a unique data record.
  • With such a labelling method, namely labelling the packaging with a fixed and therefore invariable but individual code, on the one hand, and a manufacture-related measurable variable of the packing element and/or wrapping itself which is variable and random for all successive packages, on the other hand, a package can be clearly marked by assigning the code and the measurable variable to a unique data record for each package, so that it can be ensured that the package was unequivocally manufactured by the authorised manufacturers themselves. Labelling is also very easy and therefore cheap, because apart from an ordinary code no extra elements have to be applied to the packaging. On the contrary, the invention makes use of the peculiarities of each package itself for labelling.
  • In a development of the invention, in addition a scanning mark is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping, facilitating detection of the characteristic property of each package as a measurable variable. Moreover, this scanning mark can also be print which is to be applied to the package anyway or is already present, e.g. the brand name, a logo or the like.
  • Advantageously, the position and overlap width of the joint seam of the wrapping relative to the scanning mark is determined as a measurable variable. Due to this procedure, even greater reliability is achieved when detecting the measurable variable.
  • In another preferred embodiment, deviations of the position of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping as well as the position and embossing of patterns which form due to joining or closing of the wrapping particularly by welding in the region of joints or seams as a measurable variable, are determined. With this simple labelling which arises automatically in manufacture of the package without extra expenditure, there is provided an individual, unpredictable measurable variable which can be determined reliably and so used for labelling.
  • Furthermore, the object is achieved by a method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which is characterised by the following steps:
      • detection of at least one individual code which is applied to the packing element and/or the wrapping and allocated once only,
      • detection of at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable,
      • comparison of the detected code and measurable variable with a unique data record for each package which is stored in a storage medium during manufacture of the package and composed of code and measurable variable.
  • With such an identification method, the authenticity of the package—and hence manipulation or forgery of the package—can be detected easily and reliably, as the characteristic property of the packing element and/or wrapping is present in all manufactured packages in an unpredictable and inimitable manner, so that opening the wrapping already leads to a measurable change in the property used for labelling. On comparison of the code and measurable variable picked up for checking, with the pack-specific unique data record filed previously in a data bank or the like, it can easily be determined whether there is a match or not. Here the measurable variable can be detected, and by scanning the data bank the associated code can be determined. The latter is then compared with the code on the package which has just been checked. There is also the possibility of detecting the code and, by scanning the data bank, determining the associated measurable variable which is then compared with the measurable variable to be detected on the package which has just been checked. In case of matching, the authenticity of the product can be assumed with a high degree of certainty.
  • Preferably, the position and overlap width of the joint seam of the wrapping relative to a scanning mark applied to the packing element and/or wrapping is determined as a measurable variable. Due to the auxiliary measure, the reliability of detection of the measurable variable is further increased, so that the error quota when checking for authenticity of the package can be further lowered.
  • Advantageously, deviations of the position of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping as well as patterns of the joints or seams formed particularly by welding are determined as a measurable variable. These pack-specific measurable variables allow particularly reliable and easy identification of the package, particularly also on account of the fact that opening the wrapping e.g. for the purpose of manipulation inevitably leads to altered measurable variables.
  • The object is moreover achieved with a generic device for labelling a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, by the fact that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer (PC) or the like for assigning the measurable variable to an individual code for the package which is allocated once only and filed in the storage medium. With such a device, in particular the method according to the invention can be carried out. By simple means the device allows labelling of each package which allows unambiguous proof of authenticity at any time. As standard elements which are usually present anyway on the apparatuses for manufacture of the packages can be used for the device, the device is cheap and also easy to handle.
  • Furthermore, the object of the invention is also achieved by a generic device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, by the fact that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer (PC) or the like for comparing an individual code which is allocated once only and the detected measurable variable of the package to be identified, with a unique data record for each package stored in the storage medium beforehand and composed of code and measurable variable. For this device too, commercially available standard elements can be used as means for detecting the code and measurable variable. Moreover, such a device can also be used as a transportable unit, which further increases the possibilities of use.
  • Finally, the object is also achieved by a packaging of the generic kind by the fact that an individual code readable from the outside and allocated once only is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping, and in addition a scanning mark or the like is provided for detection of a characteristic property of the packing element and/or wrapping as a measurable variable. With such a package, detection of a property characteristic of the packing element and/or wrapping is assisted, which further increases the reliability of authenticity checking.
  • Further preferred developments or embodiments of the methods and devices as well as of the package are to be found in the subsidiary claims and the description. The principle of the devices and methods for labelling and identification as well as a preferred package are described in more detail with the aid of the drawings. The drawings show:
  • FIG. 1 a cigarette packet with a code and an additional scanning mark,
  • FIG. 2 an enlargement of detail A in FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 3 schematic extracts of data storage in table form in a data bank, and
  • FIG. 4 a top view of the end face of a package with scanning marks formed by the wrapping itself in the form of distances, angles and patterns.
  • The methods and devices are used for manufacturing, and so in particular for labelling and for identifying packages, in order to be able to check the authenticity of the packages.
  • Basically, each cigarette package 10 consists of a packing element 11 and a wrapping 12. The wrapping 12 usually consists of a transparent cellophane wrapping. Other materials can be used as well. Inside the packing element 11, which in certain circumstances is also in several parts, is arranged the product to be packed. The wrapping 12 surrounds the packing element 11 preferably completely and usually has to be opened by means of a tear-off strip 13. In the manufacture of such packages 10, which is known and for which a detailed description is dispensed with at this point, each package is provided with a code 14. This code 14 is preferably designed as a progressive number, so that each code 14 is allocated only once. Every single package 10 therefore has an individual code 14. The code 14 can also consist of letters, combinations of letters and numbers or other individual characters. The fact that each code 14 is allocated once only is crucial. The code 14 is stored preferably by the manufacturers themselves directly when awarded or applied to the package. An ordinary data bank is suitable for this, for example. The code 14, which can be printed, stamped or otherwise applied to the packing element 11 and/or wrapping 12, can also be detected only after application by additional means and delivered to the storage medium, namely the data bank. The code 14 can, additionally or alternatively to individual labelling of each package 10, also contain information on the package 10 itself, e.g. data, time, place, machine, etc., and is arranged on the package 10 so as to be readable from the outside.
  • Furthermore, during the process of manufacture of the package 10, preferably at the end of the manufacturing process, a property characteristic of the packing element 11 and/or the wrapping 12 is detected as a measurable variable. This variable and unpredictable measurable variable is assigned to the code 14 belonging to the packing element 11 and/or wrapping 12, in the storage medium, to form a unique data record. This data record can be supplemented as desired with further information, e.g. date (see FIG. 3). The individual apparatus components which are necessary for manufacture of the package are also linked to the data bank, so that the desired information can be stored or read out directly.
  • The position and overlap width of the joint seam 15 of the wrapping 12 is determined as a particularly suitable measurable variable. Characters, logos, writing or the like which are already on the package 10, or even physical characteristics, e.g. edges of the packing element 11, can be used as reference measuring points. Alternatively or additionally, other characteristic measurable variables can be detected too, e.g. the gap width between lid and container of a hard box, the offset of mutually overlapping parts of the packing element 11 or the wave pattern of the joint seam.
  • Particularly preferred measurable variables are shown in FIG. 4. The packing element 11 is surrounded by the wrapping 12 in the original state of the package 10. Usually, in the region of the end faces of the package 10 the wrapping 12 has fold dimensions. The fold dimensions are individual for each package 10. Changes or deviations in the position of folds, cut edges, overlap regions, e.g. indicated by the distances d and e as well as the angles α and β, here serve as a pack-specific measurable variable. Alternatively or in combination with the above-mentioned measurable variables, patterns 17 and 18 arising due to joining or closing the wrapping for example by welding can also be determined as a measurable variable. The patterns 17, so-called wave patterns, usually form due to warping, tinting or the like. The patterns 18 in the region of contact surfaces of the wrapping 12 are formed e.g. by air bubbles. The position of the patterns 17 and 18, marked by way of example in FIGS. 1 and 4, is not limited to the points shown. On the contrary, the patterns 17 and 18 can be formed at any other point of the package 10. The deviations in the exact position or in the patterns are however not confined to the distances, angles and patterns shown in FIG. 4. Any pack-specific variable as distance, angle, pattern, dimensional ratio or the like which is detectable from the outside can be used as a measurable variable.
  • In the event that the wrapping 12 has a tear-off strip 13, the geometry and/or the position of the tear-off strip 13 can likewise be detected as a characteristic property.
  • In order to assist detection of the measurable variable or form precise reference points, in addition a scanning mark 16 is appropriately applied to the packing element 11. The scanning mark 16 is rigidly connected to the packing element 11 and arranged so as to be readable or detectable from the outside. Alternatively, the scanning mark 16 can also be attached to the wrapping 12 or even form part of the package 10 itself or print on the package 10. The wrapping 12 itself can serve as the scanning mark 16 or form the latter. The scanning mark 16 is arranged in the region of the joint seam 15 or directly below the joint seam 15 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, wherein the scanning mark 16 projects a certain amount b or c beyond the joint seam 15 on both sides. On detection of the measurable variable, the projecting amounts b and c as well as the width of the overlap a are determined and compiled to form the characteristic measurable variable or characteristic number. Since exact measurement results are important in this measurement, the scanning mark 16 is preferably rigidly connected to the wrapping 12, e.g. by gluing, by sealing or the like, to prevent relative displacement of the scanning mark 16 and wrapping 12 to each other. Even in case of displacement of the scanning mark 16 relative to the joint seam 15 or vice versa, however, unambiguous allocation can be made or authenticity proven, as the width of the overlap a is not altered by the displacement and even the sum of the projecting amounts b and c remains the same. The scanning mark 16 can also be arranged e.g. on the end face of the package 10, so that the distances d and e and/or the angles α and β too can be determined with reference to the scanning mark 16.
  • The code 14 as well as the measurable variable of each package 10 are preferably detected optically and processed electronically. However, all other contactless and/or mechanical detection, measuring and processing methods can be employed too. Preferably, the region of the joint seam 15 with the scanning mark 16 underneath it can be photographed and surveyed with a suitable camera or the like. The measurable variable abc can then be determined from the measured values.
  • To check a package 10 for authenticity, again the characteristic property, that is, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the measurable variable abc, in the embodiment of FIG. 4 the position of the folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions by the distances d and e as well as the angles α and β or the patterns 17, 18 is measured or detected. By inquiry, e.g. by telephoning, direct network connection or the like, to the data bank which is usually accessible only to the manufacturer, it is verified whether the measurable variable (abc or d, e, α and β or patterns) and the code 14 to be found on the package 10 belong together. If a data record which completely matches the data record of the tested package 10 is located in the data bank, the authenticity of the package 10 can be assumed with a high degree of certainty. It can also be inquired what measurable variable belongs to a code 14 which is detected by the tester or determined automatically. Also, both the code 14 and the measurable variable can be detected and started as a data record inquiry. The inquiry can therefore be made easily, i.e. without any linking, e.g. by a tester. In case of automated inquiry, the individual components, means, memories and the like of the device are linked to each other.
  • The devices with which the packages 10 are labelled and/or identified consist of commercially available components, so that a detailed description is dispensed with. It is important that there is a means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the package 10, for labelling the packages 10. This means can be an optical or mechanical device, e.g. a camera. In addition, a storage medium is appropriate for storing on the one hand the previously applied code and on the other hand also the measurable variable which is determined. A data bank which can be controlled via a PC or the like is possible as the storage medium. The individual means as well as the data bank and the PC are linked together in order also to be able to ensure allocation of the code and measurable variable. Due to linking, identification can even be performed fully automatically. To apply the code 14, the device can also include a separate means which is an integral part of the device itself.
  • The device for identification of the package is constructed similarly to the device just described, and can even be identical with the latter. In addition, however, the device appropriately also has means for detecting the code. The means for detecting the measurable variable and the code can also be constructed as a unit or even be identical.

Claims (24)

1. Method for labelling a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element, characterised by the following steps:
during the process of manufacturing the package, at least one individual code which is allocated once only is applied to the packing element and/or the wrapping and stored in a storage medium,
during the process of manufacturing the package, furthermore at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping is detected as a measurable variable,
the measurable variable is assigned to the code belonging to the packing element and/or wrapping in the storage medium to form a unique data record.
2. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that the code is printed and/or stamped.
3. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that the code is detected and then filed in the storage medium.
4. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that in addition a scanning mark is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping.
5. Method according to claim 4, characterised in that the position and overlap width of a joint seam of the wrapping relative to the scanning mark is determined as a measurable variable.
6. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that deviations of the position (d, e; α, β) of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping are determined as a measurable variable.
7. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that patterns which form due to joining or closing the wrapping are determined as a measurable variable.
8. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that the code and the measurable variable are detected optically and processed electronically.
9. Method for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element, characterised by the following steps:
detection of at least one individual code which is applied to the packing element and/or the wrapping and allocated once only,
detection of at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable,
comparison of the detected code and measurable variable with a unique data record for each package which is stored in a storage medium during manufacture of the package and composed of code and measurable variable.
10. Method according to claim 9, characterised in that the position and overlap width of a joint seam of the wrapping relative to a scanning mark applied to the packing element and/or wrapping is determined as a measurable variable.
11. Method according to claim 9, characterised in that deviations of the position of folds and/or cut edges and/or overlap regions of the wrapping are determined as a measurable variable.
12. Method according to claim 9, characterised in that patterns which form due to joining or closing the wrapping are determined as a measurable variable.
13. Method according to claim 9, characterised in that the code and measurable variable are detected optically and processed electronically.
14. Device for labelling a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element, characterised in that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer (PC) or the like for assigning the measurable variable to an individual code for the package which is allocated once only and filed in the storage medium.
15. Device according to claim 14, characterised in that the device has means for applying the code.
16. Device for identifying a package, particularly one filled with cigarettes, which includes a packing element for holding the product to be packed as well as a wrapping at least partially surrounding the packing element, characterised in that the device includes means for detecting at least one property characteristic of the packing element and/or the wrapping as a measurable variable as well as a storage medium for storing the detected measurable variable, wherein the means and the storage medium are connected to each other via a personal computer or the like for comparing an individual code which is allocated once only and the detected measurable variable of the package to be identified, with a unique data record for each package stored in the storage medium beforehand and composed of code and measurable variable.
17. Package, in particular cigarette package, with a packing element for holding e.g. cigarettes, wherein the packing element is provided with a thin, preferably film-like wrapping, characterised in that an individual code readable from the outside and allocated once only is applied to the packing element and/or wrapping, and in addition a scanning mark or the like is provided for detection of a characteristic property of the packing element and/or wrapping as a measurable variable.
18. Package according to claim 17, characterised in that the wrapping itself is the scanning mark.
19. Package according to claim 17, characterised in that the scanning mark is arranged on the packing element.
20. Package according to claim 17, characterised in that the scanning mark is arranged on the wrapping.
21. Package according to claim 19, characterised in that the scanning mark is arranged in the region of a joint seam of the wrapping.
22. Package according to claim 19, characterised in that the scanning mark is stationarily attached to the packing element and/or to the wrapping.
23. Package according to claim 19, characterised in that the scanning mark is stationarily attached relative to the characteristic property to be detected.
24. Package according to claim 19, characterised in that the scanning mark is composed of print, stamping or the like which is to be found on the package anyway.
US10/534,719 2002-11-12 2003-11-12 Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity Abandoned US20060118437A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP02090376A EP1420381A1 (en) 2002-11-12 2002-11-12 Method and device for identification and checking of authentificity of products
EP02090376.1 2002-11-12
PCT/EP2003/012649 WO2004044869A1 (en) 2002-11-12 2003-11-12 Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20060118437A1 true US20060118437A1 (en) 2006-06-08

Family

ID=32116314

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/534,719 Abandoned US20060118437A1 (en) 2002-11-12 2003-11-12 Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity
US10/534,425 Abandoned US20060011504A1 (en) 2002-11-12 2003-11-12 Object provided with an individual characterizing system enabling its identification, and methods and devices for characterizing and identifying objects, in particular packages, labels or the like

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/534,425 Abandoned US20060011504A1 (en) 2002-11-12 2003-11-12 Object provided with an individual characterizing system enabling its identification, and methods and devices for characterizing and identifying objects, in particular packages, labels or the like

Country Status (11)

Country Link
US (2) US20060118437A1 (en)
EP (3) EP1420381A1 (en)
JP (2) JP2006505822A (en)
CN (2) CN100565620C (en)
AT (2) ATE426884T1 (en)
AU (2) AU2003288045A1 (en)
DE (2) DE50311349D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2258233T3 (en)
MY (1) MY134411A (en)
PL (1) PL375229A1 (en)
WO (2) WO2004044870A1 (en)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20090134230A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2009-05-28 Philip Morris Usa Inc. Wrapped container
DE102010055542A1 (en) * 2010-12-22 2012-06-28 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Process and manufacturing plant for the manufacture and / or packaging of cigarettes
CN103577964A (en) * 2013-12-02 2014-02-12 成都爱维科创科技有限公司 Method and system for acquiring product circulation regional information and verifying authenticity of product
EP2738738A4 (en) * 2011-07-29 2016-03-09 Nec Corp Comparison/search system, comparison/search server, image characteristic extraction device, comparison/search method, and program
EP2545496A4 (en) * 2010-03-10 2017-08-23 LinkSmart Technologies Pvt. Ltd. A method of content authentication inside a sealed box using special labels
US9773433B2 (en) * 2013-08-12 2017-09-26 Sicpa Holding Sa Packaging for smoking products having a marking thereon
EP3365834A4 (en) * 2014-10-21 2018-09-26 Valmarc Corporation Counterfeit article detection system

Families Citing this family (46)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2877122B1 (en) * 2004-10-21 2007-12-14 Tagsys Sa SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTHENTICATING AN OBJECT
US7614546B2 (en) * 2005-02-03 2009-11-10 Yottamark, Inc. Method and system for deterring product counterfeiting, diversion and piracy
DE102005062933A1 (en) * 2005-08-24 2007-03-22 Triton Gmbh A method of treating cellular structure in the meat, meat by-product, fish and seafood food processing industries
US7743915B2 (en) * 2006-01-24 2010-06-29 Meadwestvaco Corporation Carton having adjustment indicia
DE202006006903U1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-09-06 Autoliv Development Ab Banderole and airbag unit with banderole
DE102006050120A1 (en) * 2006-10-25 2008-04-30 Man Roland Druckmaschinen Ag Method for individual identification of print product for securing authenticity of print product by using printing machine, involves changing set point settings constantly for position control for controlled drive of plate
GB0702090D0 (en) * 2007-02-02 2007-03-14 Fracture Code Corp Aps Virtual code window
CN101013539B (en) * 2007-02-08 2010-08-11 李峰 Rationing-cutting type anti-counterfeit structure, producing method and anti-counterfeit method
US9460948B2 (en) * 2007-09-04 2016-10-04 Ncr Corporation Data management
DE102008016435A1 (en) * 2008-03-31 2009-10-15 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Adhesive label and method for identifying and authenticating an article with adhesive labels
US8522515B2 (en) * 2009-01-26 2013-09-03 R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Method and apparatus for customizing cigarette packages
GB2477951B (en) 2010-02-19 2013-04-10 Innovia Films Sarl Article tracking method
TWI490146B (en) * 2010-03-26 2015-07-01 Jt Int Sa Method of cigarette packaging and cigarette packaging system
WO2011127282A2 (en) * 2010-04-07 2011-10-13 Sproxil, Inc Systems and methods for verifying authenticity of a product
FR2968798B1 (en) * 2010-12-09 2013-01-18 Eos METHOD AND SYSTEM OF AUTHENTICATION BY DETECTION OF REMARKABLE ELEMENTS
JP6011766B2 (en) * 2012-02-14 2016-10-19 サントリーホールディングス株式会社 Package inspection method and package inspection apparatus
DE102013018036A1 (en) * 2013-12-02 2015-06-03 Carl Freudenberg Kg Arrangement for detecting counterfeit products
FR3017971A1 (en) * 2014-02-27 2015-08-28 Commissariat Energie Atomique METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE AUTHENTICITY OF A PRODUCT CONTAINED IN A PACKAGING
TWI551889B (en) * 2014-03-20 2016-10-01 深圳創銳思科技有限公司 Display device, package box, and package device
CN103903511B (en) * 2014-03-26 2017-03-01 苍南安特防伪科技有限公司 A kind of producing device of antifalsification label
DE102014207318B4 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-03-31 Koenig & Bauer Ag Identification feature with several identification elements arranged in a defined, limited area for identifying an object
DE112015003478T5 (en) * 2014-07-29 2017-04-27 Hicof Inc. Method and device for detecting and determining an integrity state of an outer packaging
US9868311B2 (en) * 2015-05-18 2018-01-16 The Procter & Gamble Company In-line case printing system with dynamic sampling frequency and method therefor
US9968129B2 (en) * 2015-07-31 2018-05-15 R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Product and package including power producer and output mechanism, and related method
CN106564663B (en) * 2015-10-12 2019-04-12 Tcl-罗格朗国际电工（惠州）有限公司 Packaging system
CN106228370A (en) * 2016-07-15 2016-12-14 上海烟草机械有限责任公司 A kind of intelligent packaging system for tobacco leaf production and operational method thereof
US10077132B2 (en) 2016-10-13 2018-09-18 Altria Client Services Llc Box in a box re-sealable pack
US10124953B2 (en) 2016-10-13 2018-11-13 Altria Client Services Llc Box in a box re-sealable cigarette pack
US10086987B2 (en) 2016-10-13 2018-10-02 Altria Client Services Llc Reseal label for box in a box re-sealable pack
EP3476617A1 (en) 2017-10-25 2019-05-01 Österreichische Staatsdruckerei GmbH Document with seam
FI128112B (en) * 2017-12-08 2019-10-15 Upm Raflatac Oy Sealing of a package
CN110136317B (en) * 2018-02-05 2023-03-31 任朝荣 Method and device for generating authentication information of paper voucher and method, device and system for authenticating authenticity
CN109132234A (en) * 2018-02-12 2019-01-04 江苏瑞驰机电科技有限公司 Easy open cigarette case seals outer packing, forming method and wrapping paper
US10894658B2 (en) 2018-03-06 2021-01-19 Altria Client Services Llc Re-sealable cigarette pack
DE102018105509A1 (en) * 2018-03-09 2019-09-12 Logopak Systeme Gmbh & Co. Kg Marking a product
JP7238295B2 (en) * 2018-08-27 2023-03-14 富士フイルムビジネスイノベーション株式会社 Product manufacturing method, product manufacturing device, determination device and program
US11195737B2 (en) * 2018-09-28 2021-12-07 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Apparatus for storing and transporting semiconductor elements, and method of making the same
DE102018124526A1 (en) * 2018-10-04 2020-04-09 Schreiner Group Gmbh & Co. Kg Security label for a multi-part vessel, using a security label, system and method for applying a security label for a multi-part vessel
US10450120B1 (en) 2018-11-16 2019-10-22 Altria Client Services Llc Re-seal label and container with re-seal label
US11462132B2 (en) 2019-01-03 2022-10-04 Altria Client Services Llc Label for pack
CN112208859A (en) * 2020-09-27 2021-01-12 前海新美思科技(深圳)有限公司 Anti-counterfeiting traceability identification system and method based on multi-code association and binding
CN112208861A (en) * 2020-09-27 2021-01-12 前海新美思科技(深圳)有限公司 Anti-counterfeiting traceability identification system and method based on multi-code binding
CN112208860A (en) * 2020-09-27 2021-01-12 前海新美思科技(深圳)有限公司 Anti-counterfeiting traceability identification system and method based on light and shade code association
DE102021111015A1 (en) * 2021-04-29 2022-11-03 Sensor-Instruments Entwicklungs- Und Vertriebs-Gmbh PROCEDURE FOR SECURE REGISTRATION AND VERIFICATION OF AN AUTHENTICITY OF A PACKAGED PRODUCT
CN114348368B (en) * 2022-01-29 2023-08-15 红云红河烟草(集团)有限责任公司 Method and system for evaluating soft package cigarette package forming quality
CN116176935B (en) * 2023-04-06 2024-05-28 东莞东兴商标织绣有限公司 Full-automatic label intelligent packaging device

Family Cites Families (42)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1448153A (en) * 1974-03-15 1976-09-02 Mullard Ltd Security systems process for manufacturing highly wear-resistant undistored
DE2922882A1 (en) 1979-06-06 1980-12-11 Stockburger H METHOD FOR SECURING CARTRIDGES AND THEIR LABELS AND / OR PACKAGING AGAINST IMITATION
JPH0212197B2 (en) 1980-05-30 1990-03-19 Gee Aa Oo G Fuyuuru Automatsuioon Unto Oruganizatsuioon Mbh
US4489318A (en) 1980-06-23 1984-12-18 Light Signatures, Inc. Non-counterfeitable document system
US4785290A (en) 1980-06-23 1988-11-15 Light Signatures, Inc. Non-counterfeitable document system
US4462851A (en) * 1982-10-18 1984-07-31 United States Banknote Corporation Method for taxing cigarette packs and validating cigarette cartons
NL8502567A (en) 1985-09-19 1987-04-16 Bekaert Sa Nv METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR VERIFYING ARTICLES FOR OBJECTS AND OBJECTS SUITABLE FOR THE USE OF THIS METHOD
US5360628A (en) 1986-04-30 1994-11-01 Butland Trust Organization Technique for labeling an object for its identification and/or verification
NL8802472A (en) 1988-10-10 1990-05-01 Homer Hollandse Meet En Regels DOCUMENT INCLUDING RANDOM INFORMATION, CARRIER OF THIS RANDOM INFORMATION AND METHOD AND DEVICE FOR READING THIS RANDOM INFORMATION.
US5135569A (en) 1990-08-24 1992-08-04 W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. Ink composition containing fluorescent component and method of tagging articles therewith
JP3292506B2 (en) 1992-07-14 2002-06-17 日本発条株式会社 Method and processing apparatus for discriminating an object containing a magnetic-sensitive wire and authenticity of the object
US5473147A (en) 1992-09-25 1995-12-05 Nhk Spring Co., Ltd. Method and an apparatus for checking objects to be checked for authenticity
US5602381A (en) 1993-05-19 1997-02-11 Nhk Spring Co., Ltd. Objects to be checked for authenticity, and method and apparatus for checking whether or not objects are authentic
US5521984A (en) * 1993-06-10 1996-05-28 Verification Technologies, Inc. System for registration, identification and verification of items utilizing unique intrinsic features
US5451759A (en) 1993-06-24 1995-09-19 Nhk Spring Co., Ltd. Using high-permeability magnetic elements randomly scattered in the objects
US5418855A (en) 1993-09-27 1995-05-23 Angstrom Technologies, Inc. Authentication system and method
US6456729B1 (en) * 1994-04-14 2002-09-24 Lewis J. Moore Anti-counterfeiting and tracking system
US6246778B1 (en) * 1994-04-14 2001-06-12 Lewis J. Moore Product distribution verification system using encoded marks indicative of product and destination
US5719948A (en) 1994-06-24 1998-02-17 Angstrom Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and methods for fluorescent imaging and optical character reading
DE9410874U1 (en) 1994-07-07 1994-10-06 Emrich, Dirk, 51709 Marienheide Cardboard packaging with a label
US6030657A (en) 1994-11-01 2000-02-29 Dna Technologies, Inc. Labeling technique for countering product diversion and product counterfeiting
US5739517A (en) 1995-01-27 1998-04-14 Nhk Spring Co., Ltd. Apparatus and a method for checking an object to be checked for authenticity
EP0744348B1 (en) 1995-05-24 2002-01-30 Eastman Kodak Company Product container containing a magnetic identifier
DE19540348B4 (en) * 1995-10-28 2007-01-11 Micronas Gmbh Method for identifying components
GB2309685B (en) 1996-01-31 1999-10-27 Portals Security packaging
GB2324065A (en) * 1997-04-09 1998-10-14 James Howard Slater An identification code for banknotes or credit cards comprising a pattern of random beads
JP3710913B2 (en) * 1997-05-19 2005-10-26 富士写真フイルム株式会社 Packaging system for goods
US6746053B1 (en) * 1998-10-29 2004-06-08 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for preventing parallel marketing of wholesale and retail items
JP3543931B2 (en) * 1998-12-17 2004-07-21 日本電気株式会社 Mobile communication terminal having character editing means by voice recognition
WO2001015097A1 (en) 1999-08-25 2001-03-01 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Method for product assurance
US6243615B1 (en) * 1999-09-09 2001-06-05 Aegis Analytical Corporation System for analyzing and improving pharmaceutical and other capital-intensive manufacturing processes
DE19947282A1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2001-04-05 Hauni Maschinenbau Ag Process for the production of packs by wrapping a packaged product
DE19951140A1 (en) * 1999-10-23 2001-04-26 Hauni Maschinenbau Ag Method for testing integrity of pack of cigarettes comprises applying machine-readable metallic or metal-containing marks to cigarettes and comparing these with similar marks on pack
US6574574B1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2003-06-03 Hauni Maschinenbau Ag Method of and apparatus for ascertaining the genuineness of packaged commodities
EP1236192B1 (en) * 1999-12-06 2005-03-02 Boegli-Gravures S.A. Method and devices for the identification of packaged objects
DE10003674A1 (en) * 2000-01-28 2001-08-02 Hauni Maschinenbau Ag Method and arrangement for producing a packaging container formed from several packaging components
US7089420B1 (en) * 2000-05-24 2006-08-08 Tracer Detection Technology Corp. Authentication method and system
ITBI20000001A1 (en) * 2000-06-28 2001-12-28 Sys S P A SYSTEM TO CERTIFY THE ORIGINALITY OF ANY OBJECT, BASED ON APPROPRIATE LIGHTING METHODS AND MACROPHOTOGRAPHY.
DE10100248A1 (en) * 2001-01-05 2002-07-11 Focke & Co Process and device for identifying cigarette packets stamps the packet with centrally controlled numerical code
WO2002073550A1 (en) 2001-03-14 2002-09-19 Orell Füssli Security Documents AG A method for verifying the authenticity of an article
DE10124442A1 (en) 2001-05-18 2002-11-21 Bosch Gmbh Robert Identifying products to determine authenticity involves using second marking encoded depending on first marking varying from product to product on product/packaging element(s)
GB0124254D0 (en) 2001-10-09 2001-11-28 Payne P P Ltd Anti-counterfeit packaging

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8235297B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2012-08-07 Philip Morris Usa Inc. Wrapped container
US20090134230A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2009-05-28 Philip Morris Usa Inc. Wrapped container
EP2545496A4 (en) * 2010-03-10 2017-08-23 LinkSmart Technologies Pvt. Ltd. A method of content authentication inside a sealed box using special labels
DE102010055542A1 (en) * 2010-12-22 2012-06-28 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Process and manufacturing plant for the manufacture and / or packaging of cigarettes
US9493258B2 (en) 2010-12-22 2016-11-15 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Method and production system for producing and/or packaging cigarettes
US10853705B2 (en) 2011-07-29 2020-12-01 Nec Corporation Collation/retrieval system, collation/retrieval server, image feature extraction apparatus, collation/retrieval method, and program
EP2738738A4 (en) * 2011-07-29 2016-03-09 Nec Corp Comparison/search system, comparison/search server, image characteristic extraction device, comparison/search method, and program
US9842285B2 (en) 2011-07-29 2017-12-12 Nec Corporation Collation/retrieval system, collation/retrieval server, image feature extraction apparatus, collation/retrieval method, and program
US11983725B2 (en) 2011-07-29 2024-05-14 Nec Corporation Collation/retrieval system, collation/retrieval server, image feature extraction apparatus, collation/retrieval method, and program
US10460216B2 (en) 2011-07-29 2019-10-29 Nec Corporation Collation/retrieval system, collation/retrieval server, image feature extraction apparatus, collation/retrieval method, and program
US9773433B2 (en) * 2013-08-12 2017-09-26 Sicpa Holding Sa Packaging for smoking products having a marking thereon
CN103577964A (en) * 2013-12-02 2014-02-12 成都爱维科创科技有限公司 Method and system for acquiring product circulation regional information and verifying authenticity of product
EP3365834A4 (en) * 2014-10-21 2018-09-26 Valmarc Corporation Counterfeit article detection system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20060011504A1 (en) 2006-01-19
EP1561197B1 (en) 2006-03-08
ATE426884T1 (en) 2009-04-15
CN100555364C (en) 2009-10-28
CN1711570A (en) 2005-12-21
CN100565620C (en) 2009-12-02
EP1561198A1 (en) 2005-08-10
WO2004044870A1 (en) 2004-05-27
WO2004044869A1 (en) 2004-05-27
JP2006505822A (en) 2006-02-16
JP2006505466A (en) 2006-02-16
DE50311349D1 (en) 2009-05-07
AU2003286166A1 (en) 2004-06-03
EP1561197A1 (en) 2005-08-10
AU2003288045A1 (en) 2004-06-03
EP1561197B8 (en) 2006-06-28
DE50302626D1 (en) 2006-05-04
EP1420381A1 (en) 2004-05-19
MY134411A (en) 2007-12-31
CN1711569A (en) 2005-12-21
ATE320060T1 (en) 2006-03-15
PL375229A1 (en) 2005-11-28
ES2258233T3 (en) 2006-08-16
EP1561198B1 (en) 2009-03-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20060118437A1 (en) Method and device for characterizing and verifying product authenticity
RU2279379C2 (en) Method and device for package member marking
CN105894307B (en) Holographic anti-fake inquiry system and its anti-fake technology inquiry application method
US20170132773A1 (en) Method and apparatus for proving and determining an integrity status of an outer packaging
CN101516635B (en) Anti-counterfeit mark, anti-counterfeit packaging and method for detecting counterfeit product
CN105654164A (en) Combined identification code, product using the combined identification code, and product monitoring method
DK3190065T3 (en) PACKAGING WITH A PATTERN WITH ENCODED INFORMATION DETECTABLE BY A CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSOR SCREEN
JP2014501209A (en) Method and apparatus for manufacturing and / or packaging cigarettes
US20190095928A1 (en) Anti-diversion, anti-counterfeiting product packaging
RU2334663C2 (en) Packing with identifying marks
CN107004382A (en) The device of the authenticity of the packaging product for sale for recognizing
KR20170127453A (en) Product Use Management
US9842237B2 (en) Device and method for identifying an object at least partially covered by a transparent material
EP1236192B1 (en) Method and devices for the identification of packaged objects
CN114476294A (en) Inner and outer package associated anti-counterfeiting packaging box and anti-counterfeiting code pasting method
US20230127113A1 (en) Method for provisioning a container with food
Frederick Integrated Packaging Validation
WO2000055859A1 (en) Compact disc packs
ITMI20100190A1 (en) "PACKAGING EQUIPPED WITH A CODE FOR THE TRACEABILITY AND VERIFICATION OF ORIGINALITY"

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: HAUNI MASCHINENBAU AG, GERMANY

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:OVERATH,MATTHIAS;GOSEBRUCH,HARALD;REEL/FRAME:017372/0836;SIGNING DATES FROM 20050415 TO 20050420

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION