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

p0001The invention relates to an article which is provided with an individual identification means for identification, the identification means being a random identification means which is the object of the article. Furthermore, the invention relates to methods for the individual identification of objects, in particular packages with an individual marking means, as well as for identifying objects provided with an individual marking means, in particular packages by detecting and evaluating the marking means. The invention further relates to devices for individual identification of objects, in particular packages with an individual marking means, as well as for the identification of objects, in particular packages, provided with an individual marking means.

p0002Objects, in particular packaging, are frequently provided with an individual marking means. The marking agent serves, in particular, for the identification of the object or the packaging for authenticity and origin. The identification is important in many cases, for example, in order to detect, for example, counterfeit goods or counterfeit products in original packages and, on the other hand, to be able to monitor sales channels. The labeling and identification of packaging is of particular importance in many different areas. Particularly in the cigarette industry and in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, counterfeiting leads to considerable financial losses for the manufacturing companies and, in some cases, even to a health hazard to the consumer.

p0003It is therefore known and customary to provide packaging with various markings or safety systems in order to enable identification and thus an allocation to the authorized manufacturer or a control of the distribution channels. The identification can be effected, for example, by applying a code to the packaging. The code may consist, for example, of encrypted or unencrypted elements, eg numbers, letters or other elements. Barcodes, holograms and storage media such as magnetic strips, memory chips or the like are only some of the known identification possibilities.<patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="US2001010332A1"><text>US-A1-2001 / 010332</text></patcit> Relates to a detection means which is an information defined or selected prior to application to the object. From the<patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="US5602381A"><text>US 5,602,381</text></patcit> A corresponding object is known.

p0004However, all prior packaging as well as methods and devices for the identification and identification of the packaging have in common the fact that they are both expensive in their production and handling and, on the other hand, they do not provide adequate security against counterfeiting. A clear and doubt-free identification or identification is not possible. Packagings which can not be proven in their original form can be put into circulation, since the known methods and devices can be manipulated by mimicking, imitating or counterfeiting, for example, barcodes. All known packagings are characterized by the application of usually previously defined marking agents. Thus, on the one hand, the cost of the marking is high, Which leads to an increase in the cost of the manufacturing process. On the other hand, considerable effort is also required for identification.

p0005It is therefore the object of the present invention to propose an object which is easy to identify and to identify and which is particularly falsifying. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to propose methods for the identification and identification of objects, in particular packages, which are simple and inexpensive and guarantee a particularly high security against counterfeiting. A further object of the invention is to provide devices for the identification and identification of objects, in particular packaging, which are cost-effective, easy to handle and secure.

p0006The object is achieved, on the one hand, by an object of the type mentioned initially, in that the random identification means is formed from at least one random pattern formed from a distribution of luminophores. Preferably, the article is a package. As a result, counterfeit security against known packagings is increased since accidental identification means are, on the one hand, more difficult to counterfeit or counterfeit against defined identification means. On the other hand, by the fact that the filling identification means is inherent to the respective packaging, a particularly effective and clear marking means is provided which is present anyway on the packaging. Due to the manufacturing process, no packaging of the other, So that a random and unique marking agent, which is particularly difficult to falsify, is created without additional effort by the actual production of the packaging. In other words, each package is its own individual marking means. Advantageously, the random identifier is formed from at least one random pattern, the random pattern being formed from a distribution of luminophores. This inventive technological hurdle hurdle makes possible a secure identification and identification of the packaging, which can be attached and / or installed easily and easily, which is therefore very tamper-proof and simple, in particular machine-readable. This embodiment of the packaging has the particular advantage, That the random identifier is invisible under normal conditions and can only be visualized by a special treatment, which creates an additional hurdle in counterfeiting. Moreover, a visual impairment of the packaging can thus be dispensed with.

p0007In an advantageous development of the invention, the random identification means is part of the design of the packaging. In contrast to known identification means which are selected before the application or attachment to the packaging, the random identification device according to the invention is produced by the packaging itself, so that a particularly effective counterfeiting security exists. Unlike, for example, labels to be applied to the packaging, which can be copied and applied to counterfeit packaging, the random identification means is not foreseeable as a component of the packaging design for anyone and therefore can not be copied.

p0008In a further preferred embodiment of the packaging according to the invention, in addition to the random pattern, an identifier generated from the random pattern is arranged on or on the package. On the one hand, this results in an even higher safety level since the identification of the packaging is formed from different elements. On the other hand, by the assignment of the random pattern to the identification, the identification is simplified, since a matching or the identification can be performed without a database.

p0009Particularly advantageous is a design of the packaging in which the packaging is provided with a coding means, in particular a serial number, in addition to the random pattern and / or the identification. The additional serial number achieves a further increased safety level because random pattern, identifier and serial number result in a Individual data set, which is very difficult to decipher and thus imitate.

p0010Preferably, the random identification means is an integral part of the package itself, so that a simple production, namely with little or no additional effort is possible, and the identification, the recognition and the deciphering of which is usually required for counterfeiting is not readily understood as Such packaging.

p0011In a further preferred embodiment of the packaging, the coding means and / or the marking means and / or the identification are arranged on the primary package and / or the secondary package and / or the tertiary packaging of the package in such a way that they can be clearly identified from the outside. Primary packaging means the packaging type which is directly in contact with the packaged products, eg blister packs. Secondary packaging is the so-called outer packaging or wrapping, such as, for example, folding cartons. Tertiary packaging is understood to mean cartons, shipping boxes, pallets or the like. By the optional application / application / introduction of the markings, codes, identifications, etc. on one or more of the mentioned types of packs, the so-called "

p0012In a simplified manner, the marking merely comprises the recording on the packaging of existing identification means which, for a later identification, have to be converted into an identifier and stored in a simple form. The steps according to the invention have on the one hand the advantage that the random identification means is not readily recognizable. On the other hand, the detection and identification is very precisely possible so that a particularly high degree of counterfeiting security and identification rate is achieved. Furthermore, the effort involved in identification is also reduced, which makes handling particularly easy. The steps according to the invention have on the one hand the advantage that the random identification means is not readily recognizable. On the other hand, the detection and identification is very precisely possible so that a particularly high degree of counterfeiting security and identification rate is achieved. Furthermore, the effort involved in identification is also reduced, which makes handling particularly easy. The steps according to the invention have on the one hand the advantage that the random identification means is not readily recognizable. On the other hand, the detection and identification is very precisely possible so that a particularly high degree of counterfeiting security and identification rate is achieved. Furthermore, the effort involved in identification is also reduced, which makes handling particularly easy.

p0013The object is further achieved by means of a method for identifying objects provided with an individual marking means, in particular packages by detecting and evaluating the marking means, comprising the steps of: detecting a random identification means which is specific to the object, in particular the packaging, as a marking means, Characterized in that the identifier is visualized and optically detected by irradiation with light in the ultraviolet spectral region, converting the random identifier into an individual identifier and matching the identifier with an imprint of the identifier on the object, in particular of the packaging and / or a database stored in a database Identifier. This ensures reliable and reliable recognition of original packaging.

p0014A device for the individual identification of objects, in particular packages with an individual marking means, characterized in that a means for detecting at least one random identification means which is specific to the object, in particular the packaging, as marking means, means for generating and displaying, Identifier from the random identifier as well as a means for storing the identifier is also provided.

p0015Furthermore, the object is achieved by a device for identifying packagings provided with an individual marking means, which is characterized in that a means for detecting at least one random identification means which is specific to the object, in particular the packaging, as marking means, as well as a means for generating and displaying, Outputting an identifier from the random identification means.

p0016Further preferred embodiments of the packaging and of the devices as well as advantageous process steps are evident from the subclaims and the description. Particularly preferred examples are explained in more detail with reference to the attached drawing. In the drawing: FIG.<ul><li><figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> A perspective illustration of a package with a folding box and a wrapping, namely a cigarette package with a foil wrapper, wherein the random identification means is formed in a partial region of the package,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> A tear strip of the <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> With a serial number, a bar code, reference marks or measurement marks, as well as a random pattern,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> The cut-out A according <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> In high magnification, </li><li><figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref> A perspective view of a package with a further embodiment of a random pattern and a serial number,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref> A representation of a further development of a random pattern,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> A perspective illustration of a packaging part with a control tape or the like, wherein the control tape represents a further embodiment of the random pattern,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> The cut-out B according to FIG <figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> In high magnification,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> A wrapping for packaging, namely a film with a further formation of a random pattern,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref> A perspective representation of a package with a further configuration of a random pattern and a serial number and an identifier,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref> A plan view of a package with a further formation of a random pattern,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref> A further packaging, namely a primary packaging, eg for medicaments or the like, with a device for marking and identifying the packaging,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref> A further primary package, namely a sealed edge bag.</li><li><figref idrefs="f0006">FIG</figref> A further primary package, namely a syringe,</li><li><figref idrefs="f0006">FIG</figref> A further primary package, namely a vial or the like, and</li><li><figref idrefs="f0007">FIG</figref> A packaging unit comprising primary packaging and secondary packaging with a device for marking and identifying the packaging unit.</li></ul>

p0017All the packages shown are designed to ensure accurate identification of the package. Examples are packagings for cigarettes and solid, liquid and powdered medicaments. However, the invention relates to all types of packaging in different fields of application, but in particular to packaging in which high-quality and especially often and extensively counterfeit or manipulated products are packaged, eg packaging for electronic components or cosmetic products. The invention is, of course, applicable to other objects such as, for example, labels, documents or also to products such as spare parts.

p0018In the <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> A package 10 for cigarettes or the like is shown, which is formed from a folding box 11 and an envelope 12 surrounding the folding box 11. In the original state of the packaging 10, that is to say in the filled and closed state, the wrapping 12 is provided with a tear-open strip 13, which is usually separated off and destroyed when the package 10 is opened. The packaging 10 is provided with a marking means 14. The marking means 14 is a random identification means 15 which is separate from the packaging 10 and which is arranged in a partial region of the package 10. Alternatively, a plurality of subregions or the entire package 10 may also be provided with the random identification means 15.

p0019In the embodiment according to FIG <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> The random identification means 15 is a random pattern which is arranged in a corner region of the package 10. The random pattern is formed from a distribution of luminophores 16. Such luminophores 16 are to be made visible by irradiation with light from the ultraviolet spectral region (UV light). The random pattern may, however, also be formed from a distribution of other particles. The random pattern is arranged on the package 10, namely on the or on the folding box 11, from the outside. The luminophores 16 can also be mixed as particles, pigments or threads into the fibers of the folding box 11 made of cardboard or the like. The position of each random pattern is preferably arranged easily accessible for measuring means, detection means and the like, namely on the front side of the package 10.

p0020The random identification means 15 can also be arranged in the region of the tear strip 13. The tear strip 13 according to FIG<figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> Is additionally provided with an encoding means 17, in particular a serial number 18, as an information carrier for recording the random identification means 15, which in turn is a random pattern formed from a luminophore distribution. Furthermore, the tear strip 13 carries a bar code 19 as well as reference marks 20. The reference marks 20 serve for easier detection of the position of the limninophores 16. The position of the luminophors 16 can be determined, for example, by distances X and Y with respect to the reference marks 20 and the length Z of a luminophore 16 As well as the angle φ. However, other measured variables, distances, angles or the like can also be used for detecting the random pattern formed from the luminophores 16.

p0021In a further embodiment, the random identification means 15 is arranged on or on the cover 12. The cover 12 is usually formed from a film 21, which is usually stored as a rollware and is penetrated by statistically distributed luminophores 16. The density of the luminophores 16 can vary, but a density of about 20 luminophore particles per 100 cm is preferred². The film 21 can also be sprinkled with luminophores 16, preferably with a density of about 20-50 luminophore specks per 100 cm².

p0022In the embodiment according to FIG <figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref> The random identification means 15 is applied to a label 22. The label 22 is preferably designed in a colored manner and carries a random distribution of luminophores 16. The label 22 can be applied between the folding box 11 and the cover 12 or externally on the cover 12. In addition, the illustrated package 10 is provided with a serial number 18. The serial number 18 can be formed on the one hand as a simple print with ink or the like (<figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref>, Upper serial number). Alternatively, the serial number 18 itself can also be used to support an alternative or supplementary random identification means 15 (<figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref>, Lower serial number). Accordingly, it is possible to provide a package 10 with more than one random identifier 15 or several random patterns.

p0023The serial number 18 may have a distribution of luminophores 16 in the ink or the like. For this purpose, the luminophores 16 are contained as immiscible additives in the ink or the like. The distribution of the luminophores 16 is limited exclusively to the area printed with the ink or the like. In a variant not shown, however, the luminophores 16 can be arranged in the region of the serial number 18 in such a way that the luminophors 16 are arranged next to, above, below, between or on the individual characters of the serial number 18.

p0024The package 10 in the <figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref> Is furthermore provided with an identifier 23. The identifier 23 can be generated from the distribution of the luminophores 16, preferably by means of mathematical algorithms, by conventional cryptological methods or the like. The identifier 23 is the result of the calculation of the distribution of the luminophores 16 and, optionally, in encrypted or unencrypted ones. On the package 10. In the embodiment shown, the identifier 23 is an unencrypted digit sequence. However, the identifier 23 may also be formed from letters, picture elements, other characters, or a combination thereof.

p0025A further embodiment of the package 10 has a band 24, in particular a control band. The band 24 is the bearer of the random identification means 15 by randomly applying the distribution of the luminophores 16 on the band 24. The position of the luminopeds 16 can be determined relative to a corresponding coordinate system by means of defined parameters, such as, for example, X and Y as well as angle φ (see FIG<figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref>).

p0026The random identification means 15, namely the random pattern, can also be a measured variable which is caused by the manufacture of the package 10 and is characteristic of the package 10. In the<figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref> For example, the random pattern is a side seam 25 of the wrapper 12. The wrapper 12 overlaps with the formation of the side seam 25. This random pattern is produced only directly during manufacture and defines the packaging 10 clearly. On the basis of parameters, eg. The width a of the side seam 25 or the width b of an end seam 26, but other distances, angles or the like, can be used for detecting the random pattern. In order to simplify the detection of the random pattern, a grid mark 27 is provided, which is preferably arranged underneath the cover 12 in the region of the side seam 25.

p0027However, this can also be a gap width in the region of the folding cover of the packaging 10 or the detection of cutting edges, for example with the aid of parameters c and d as well as angles α and β (see, eg, FIG <figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref>). In the<figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref> Further random patterns in the form of wave patterns 28 or contact surfaces 29 are shown at connection points of the envelope 12. The wave patterns 28, for example, result in the region of folds 30 and are unique for each package 10 so that the arrangement and formation of the wave patterns 28 can be detected and optionally also converted into an identifier 23. The same applies to the contact surface 29, which has air bubbles 31 or the like in its region. The location, number and distribution of the air bubbles 31 is pack-specific and can be detected from the outside as a random pattern.

p0028Of the above-described securing means for identifying and identifying the package 10, namely the random identification means 15, the coding means 17 and the identifier 23, at least two are correlated with each other. Preferably, the coding means 17 is in a predetermined and reproducible relationship with the marking means 14 or the random identification means 15. However, other interrelationships can also be produced. The correlation can be formed, for example, by storage and / or by an encryption function. The storage can be designed as an imprint on the package 10 or in an external database.

p0029The packaging 10 described above is essentially made in the form of a second box, consisting of a folding box 11 and a cover 12. However, it is also possible to provide one-part or multi-part packages, but also totally different objects, such as documents, labels, spare parts, with the individual marking means 14, in particular the random identification means 15, as well as the coding means 17 and the identification. In the following, other types of packaging are described for which, in principle, the principle already described for the above-mentioned packages 10 applies with regard to the identification and identification.

p0030In the <figref idrefs="f0005 f0006">11 to 14</figref> For example, packs 10 which are designed as primary packs 32 are shown. The primary coating 32, which is in direct contact with the vapacked product, can be, for example, a blister pack for solid substances, in particular medicaments (<figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref>), A sealing tape pouch for powdered or liquid substances (<figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref>) Or a syringe or vial, a bottle, a vial, a carpule or the like for liquid substances (<figref idrefs="f0006">Figures 13 and 14</figref>) be. All in the<figref idrefs="f0005 f0006">Figures 11 to 14</figref> Are provided with the random identification means 15, the coding means 17 and the identifier 23. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to provide the individual primary packs 32 with only one of the securing means.

p0031The blister packaging in <figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref> Comprises a support 33 for the products, preferably made of thermofoil, as well as a lid film 34 for closing the carrier 33 provided with nests 35 for receiving the products. A random pattern of luminophores 16 is preferably applied directly to the lid film 34 as random identification means 15. The distribution of the luminophores 16 is limited to a pattern field of the primary package 32. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable to expand the distribution over the entire primary package 32. The luminophores 16 can also be applied to a label 36, the label 36 optionally being self-destructive. Preferably, the serial number 18 is arranged as coding means 17 as well as the identifier 23 generated from the random pattern in the edge region of the blister pack<figref idrefs="f0005 f0006">Figures 12 to 14</figref> Shown in FIG. In addition to medicaments, the primary packs 32 can also be designed for other products, such as cosmetics, electronic components, among others.

p0032In <figref idrefs="f0007">FIG</figref> A packing unit 37 is shown which is formed from a plurality of primary packages 32 and a secondary package 38. The primary packages 32 are configured as described above, wherein each primary package 32 has its own coding means 17 or a serial number 18 bearing all the production data, for example, as well as an identifier 23 which is derived from the random coding element 15 or the distribution of the luminophore 16 as a random pattern Primary packages 32, regardless of whether they are blister packs, flakons or the like, are arranged in their designated form in the secondary package 38. In the embodiment shown, the secondary package 38 is a cardboard box or the like.

p0033The identification of the primary packages 32, ie, the random identification means 15 and / or the coding means 17 and / or the identifier 23, are correlated with the identifications of the secondary package 38. The secondary package 38 preferably has a serial number 18 as well as an identifier 23, Identifier 23 is designed as a so-called coupling number 39. The coupling number 39 is generated from the serial numbers 18 and / or identifiers 23 of the primary packages 32 and thus creates a clear relationship between the primary packages 32 and the secondary package 38.

p0034One or more secondary packages 38 may also be arranged in or on a tertiary package (not shown). The tertiary packaging can be a wrapper, an outer carton, a shipping carton, a transport or presentation pallet, or the like. The tertiary packaging can, in turn, alternatively or cumulatively be provided with an identification from random identification means 15 and / or coding means 17 and / or identifier 23, the identification of the tertiary packaging correlating with the identification of the primary package 32 and / or the secondary package 38.

p0035From the <figref idrefs="f0005">FIGS</figref> and <figref idrefs="f0007">15</figref> Further, means 40 for identifying and identifying the packages 10 and the primary and secondary packages 32 and 38, respectively. The identification and identification means 40 are substantially similar. Ideally, a device 40 for marking the package 10 (including the primary package 32 and the secondary package 38) is not necessary at all in the actual sense because the packages 10 themselves or parts thereof are the marking means 14. However, in order to ensure a later identification of the packaging 10, at least one specific information of the package 10 must be recorded. In a very simple and non-illustrated embodiment, the device 40 for marking the packaging 10 can only comprise a means for detecting at least one pattern of the packaging 10, a means for generating and displaying the identifier 23 from the random nut, as well as a means for depositing Of the identifier 23. Thus, in a first step, a simple identification of the packaging 10, which permits a subsequent unambiguous identification, can take place. The corresponding device 40 for identification is simply missing from the means for storing the identifier 23. Otherwise, the required means are the same. Output of the identifier 23 from the random mutant as well as a means for depositing the identifier 23. Thus, in a first step, a simple identification of the packaging 10, which permits a subsequent unambiguous identification, can take place. The corresponding device 40 for identification is simply missing from the means for storing the identifier 23. Otherwise, the required means are the same. Output of the identifier 23 from the random mutant as well as a means for depositing the identifier 23. Thus, in a first step, a simple identification of the packaging 10, which permits a subsequent unambiguous identification, can take place. The corresponding device 40 for identification is simply missing from the means for storing the identifier 23. Otherwise, the required means are the same.

p0036The preferred device 40 for the identification of objects of all types, in particular packages 10, essentially comprises a means (not shown) for applying the cuff identification device 15 by a random distribution of the luminophores 16. In the event that the random identification device 15 has already been switched off, Line in the production process of the materials required for the packaging 10, eg. In the production of the carton for folding boxes 11 or of the film 21, the said means (not shown) can be dispensed with. Furthermore, a camera or the like for detecting the random identification means 15 is provided as the means 41. The camera is connected to the means 42 for generating, namely, the evaluation of the detected data for forming the identifier 23 as well as for compressing the identifier 23. Furthermore, the device 40 comprises a database 43 as storage medium for storing the evaluated and compressed identifier 23 of the random identifier 15. The database 43 also serves to store the coding means 17 or the serial number 18 previously applied to the packaging 10. In the database 43 The identifier 23 of the random identifier 15 of the corresponding serial number 18 is assigned to form a unique data pair. The identifiers 23 on the package 10 and in the database 43, each of which can be generated from the same random pattern but with different accuracy, can have a different data record length. The database 43 also serves to store the coding means 17 or the serial number 18 previously applied to the packaging 10. In the database 43 the identifier 23 of the random identifier 15 of the corresponding serial number 18 is assigned to form a unique data pair. The identifiers 23 on the package 10 and in the database 43, each of which can be generated from the same random pattern but with different accuracy, can have a different data record length. The database 43 also serves to store the coding means 17 or the serial number 18 previously applied to the packaging 10. In the database 43, the identifier 23 of the random identifier 15 of the corresponding serial number 18 is assigned to form a unique data pair. The identifiers 23 on the package 10 and in the database 43, each of which can be generated from the same random pattern but with different accuracy, can have a different data record length.

p0037The means 42 is designed to generate the identifier 23 from the random identifier 15 and has suitable algorithms for this purpose. Connected to the means 42 is a further means 44 which is designed for the cryptology of the identifier 23, that is to say encryption and encryption. The means 44 is connected to a printer 45 or the like, so that the encrypted or unencrypted identifier 23 can be applied to the package 10. With the printer 45, for example, the viewing number 18 can also be placed on the packaging 10. Alternatively, the serial number 18 can also be applied by a separate means. All the means 41 to 45 of the device 40 are interlinked, so that automated automated marking of the packages 10 is ensured.

p0038The device 40 for identifying the package 10 substantially corresponds to the device 40 for marking the package 10. There is at least the means 41 for detecting at least one random identification device 15 which is separate from the package 10, as well as a means 42 for generating and displaying the package Identifier 23 from the random identification means 15 is provided. The means 41 is designed to emit UV light and to record the information made visible. Alternatively, however, an embodiment for emitting IR light or light of other wavelengths is also possible in the visible or invisible range. The means 42 is furthermore designed in addition to the detection of further information located on the package 10, in particular the identifier 23 and the serial number 18. However, the individual information can also be detected by means of its own means, preferably cameras. The means 42 is designed for the execution of mathematical functions in such a way that the random identification means 15 can be converted into the identifier 23. In addition, the means 44 for decrypting the identifier 23 is provided. For the purpose of matching the recorded and generated means of the means 41, 42, 44, they are connected to the database 43 in order to be able to compare them with the information stored there. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. The means 42 is designed for the execution of mathematical functions in such a way that the random identification means 15 can be converted into the identifier 23. In addition, the means 44 for decrypting the identifier 23 is provided. For the purpose of matching the recorded and generated means of the means 41, 42, 44, they are connected to the database 43 in order to be able to compare them with the information stored there. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. The means 42 is designed for the execution of mathematical functions in such a way that the random identification means 15 can be converted into the identifier 23. In addition, the means 44 for decrypting the identifier 23 is provided. For the purpose of matching the recorded and generated means of the means 41, 42, 44, they are connected to the database 43 in order to be able to compare them with the information stored there. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. In addition, the means 44 for decrypting the identifier 23 is provided. For the purpose of matching the recorded and generated means of the means 41, 42, 44, they are connected to the database 43 in order to be able to compare them with the information stored there. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. In addition, the means 44 for decrypting the identifier 23 is provided. For the purpose of matching the recorded and generated means of the means 41, 42, 44, they are connected to the database 43 in order to be able to compare them with the information stored there. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. In that they are crosslinked with one another. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit. In that they are crosslinked with one another. Without the cross-linking, the device 40 is designed as a mobile hand-held device, the devices 41, 42, 44 being accommodated in a common unit.

p0039The methods for identification and identification are described in more detail below: The packages 10, 32, 38 are provided with an individual random pattern. The random pattern, preferably a distribution of luminophores 16, is applied over the entire package 10, 32, 38 or in a pattern field. The application can be off-line or preferably on-line. The on-line application is effected eg by direct pressure on the folding box 11, the cover 12, the carrier 33 or the cover film 34. Labels 22, 36 can also be printed. The luminophores 16 are thereby mixed, for example, into the printing ink. However, the luminophores 16 can also be introduced into the materials already during the production of the materials for the packaging 10, 32, 38.

p0040Furthermore, a unique serial number 18 is printed on the packaging 10, 32, 38. The serial number 18 is stored for each package 10 in the database 43. The pack-specific random pattern is detected by the means 41, evaluated by the means 42, compressed and also stored in the database 43. Each serial number 18 of a package 10, 32, 38 is assigned to the compressed random pattern in the database 43. Alternatively or cumulatively, Randomly generated identifier 23 of each package 10, 32, 38 can also be stored in the database 43 or printed onto the package 10, 32, 38 by means of the printer 45. The identifier 23 can still be encrypted by the means 44 prior to printing or before the deposit.

p0041The identification takes place almost in the same way. The random pattern is detected for the identification of the packages 10, 32, 38. This is carried out, for example, by a hand-held device, which on the one hand is designed to emit UV light or light of other wavelengths, in order to make the luminophores 16 visible and on the other hand to receive the distribution of the lumphophore 16. The identifier 23 is determined by means of suitable algorithms. The data obtained, namely the identifier 23 determined from the random pattern and the serial number 18 are then compared with the data sets stored on the package 10, 32, 38 or in the database 43. If there is sufficient or high correlation - ideally match - the record can be surely assumed to be an original package. The correlation is a measure for the detection reliability. Compressing the records will cause information to be lost. As a result, only a similarity (= correlation) of the data records can be determined. This is called "fuzzy evaluation". The attainable accuracy depends on the data record length, ie the longer the identifier 23, the higher the safety level.

p0042However, it is also possible, for example, to generate two or more identifiers 23 which have different data record lengths. A shorter identifier 23 is applied directly to the package 10 while the longer identifier 23, which can be of virtually any length, is deposited in the database 43. Microscopically small patterns of distributions of particles, or the like or also of fibers of the package 10 itself can be detected and evaluated as random patterns.

p0043There are various possibilities for the marking and the packing unit 37. In a first example, the means 41 takes the data, samples or the like from the three individual primary packs 32, generates a common coupling number 39 therefrom, encrypts the coupling number 39 with the means 44, and brings the coupling number 39 to the secondary package 38 The serial number 18 is applied to the secondary package 38. The data, samples or the like from the secondary package 38 are also assumed by the means 41, the identifier 23 is generated by the means 42 and, after encryption with the means 44, applied to the secondary package 38

p0044As an alternative or cumulatively, all recorded, generated and encrypted data, patterns, information, etc. can also be stored in the database 43 and assigned to one another in a pack.

p0045The data, patterns, information etc. of the secondary package 38 are recorded, the identifier 23 is generated and decrypted and compared with the identifier 23 previously stored on the secondary package 38 or in the database 43. The assignment to serial number 18 increases safety. In order to check the allocation of the primary packages 32 located in the secondary package 38, the data, patterns, information, etc. of the secondary packages 32 are acquired, generated and decrypted and matched with the coupling number 39.