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Digital Equivalent Data System for XRF Labeling of ObjectsA digital equivalent data system (DEDS) is a system for identifying objects by means of the x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectra of labeling elements that are encased in or deposited on the objects. As such, a DEDS is a revolutionary new major subsystem of an XRF system. A DEDS embodies the means for converting the spectral data output of an XRF scanner to an ASCII alphanumeric or barcode label that can be used to identify (or verify the assumed or apparent identity of) an XRF-scanned object. A typical XRF spectrum of interest contains peaks at photon energies associated with specific elements on the Periodic Table (see figure). The height of each spectral peak above the local background spectral intensity is proportional to the relative abundance of the corresponding element. Alphanumeric values are assigned to the relative abundances of the elements. Hence, if an object contained labeling elements in suitably chosen proportions, an alphanumeric representation of the object could be extracted from its XRF spectrum. The mixture of labeling elements and for reading the XRF spectrum would be compatible with one of the labeling conventions now used for bar codes and binary matrix patterns (essentially, two-dimensional bar codes that resemble checkerboards). A further benefit of such compatibility is that it would enable the conversion of the XRF spectral output to a bar or matrix-coded label, if needed. In short, a process previously used only for material composition analysis has been reapplied to the world of identification. This new level of verification is now being used for "authentication."
Document ID
20110014881
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Other - NASA Tech Brief
External Source(s)
http://www.greendesignbriefs.com/component/content/article/533
Authors
Schramm, Harry F. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Kaiser, Bruce (KeyMaster Technologies, Inc. Kennewick, WA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 25, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 2005
Publication Information
Publication: NASA Tech Briefs, May 2005
Subject Category
Man/System Technology And Life Support
Report/Patent Number
MFS-31886
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.

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IDRelationTitle20110014878Collected WorksNASA Tech Briefs, May 2005
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