Apparatus for authenticating products and authorizing processes using the magnetic properties of a marker

摘要

This invention provides a system that utilizes the magnetic properties of specific materials to provide an authentication and/or authorization function. The system consists of two parts. The first is a marker that contains a magnetic material with spectral magnetic properties and is attached to the item that is to be authenticated or is to be part of a subsequent information transfer process requiring authorization. The second is a reader. The reader contains a transmitter that generates the electromagnetic search field and energizes the magnetic material and a receiver that analyzes the signal produced by the resulting interaction with the magnetic material and gives a go/no go decision based upon a match with stored information. The reader employs a feedback control system to stabilize the measurement environment, thereby producing accurate, high quality results. The go/no go signal in itself can be used as the authentication signal and can also be used to energize an actuator for the purpose of automatically authorizing a process such as photocopying, sending a fax, data copying and data communication.