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How are FractureCodes produced?

FractureCodes are produced using conventional rotary printing techniques, such as gravure, flexo and letterpress.

Is it possible to copy a FractureCode?

FractureCode is extremely secure and copies are highly unlikely because of the exact reproduction of the line pattern required.

Is FractureCode patented?

Yes, we hold a number of worldwide patents relating to our technology.

What is the minimum code size?

We have worked with codes that are less than 1.0mm².

How probable is it that two FractureCode are the same?

It is virtually impossible, the number of unique combinations is in excess of 2.7x10⁸⁰ and we have sophisticated software programs that allow us to carefully control the code sets in existence and ensure no duplicates exist.

How can FractureCode assure the uniqueness of each code, especially as it will be printed by different printers around the world?

FractureCode supplies a mathematically unique line layout for each printing cylinder. In essence this means that all layouts are unique and each printer will always receive a unique cylinder set and therefore any one printer can never print the same code as another, not even by accident. In addition to this, each printer will have its own range of prefixes ensuring further uniqueness to the coding process.

What materials can FractureCodes be used on?

Effectively anything that can be printed on conventional rotary printing machinery, including paper, film, foil, etc.

What carriers can FractureCodes be used on?

If the carrier can be printed using conventional equipment at any stage of conversion, it can incorporate a FractureCode, including labels (both wet glue and self adhesive), caps, lids, shrink sleeves, tear tapes, cartons, boxes, shipping cases, overwrap films & paper, tax stamps, postage stamps, currency, hot foil transfer films, lamination films, etc.

Will using FractureCode slow my production down?

No, the codes are printed separately as part of the product's packaging and high speed reading equipment is used to decode each FractureCode in a seamless fashion on the production line.

Is it possible to interface with non-line of sight tags such as RFID?

Yes and because our databases are built on standard platforms we can usually integrate them very easily with existing systems, facilitating nesting of product and shipping information.

We produce billions of items per year and need to store data for up to 10 years! Is FractureCode suitable for this?

Absolutely, the number of unique possibilities is more than 2.7 x10⁸⁰ which would be more than enough codes for any known application and the file space taken shouldn't prove a problem either.

How long does it take to read a FractureCode and how many codes can you read per second?

It takes a fraction of a second to read an individual code and it is possible to decode up to 32 items per second.

How much file space does an individual FractureCode take in a database?

The data size per code can be as little as 24 Bytes, so even if you produce billions of items per year storing data shouldn't be a problem.

How long does it take to search for an individual FractureCode in a very large database?

A few seconds at most.

Can FractureCodes be used as part of a QA system?

Yes, we can associate a code with whatever database you want and in fact one of the advantages of the code not carrying information itself is that it can even be used for a number of purposes at the same time. In other words, it could be used by different departments within the same company or even by different companies, so different stakeholders within the same supply chain could associate their own information with a given code.

How can it be assured that the code is always placed in the same position?

It depends on the application, we do have experience of printing FractureCode to register on a number of carriers, but it is not fundamental as the reading system doesn't rely on fixed distances, it actually uses an in-built trigger that tells the camera when to capture the code so is less exposed to such problems.

Are the codes tolerant to misprints?

Yes, within reason and of course it is possible to install systems online at the printer to check codes are readable without assigning any data to them and prior to them being used.

I outsource my printing, would my supplier be able to print FractureCode?

Yes, we would always want to carry out a trial with your supplier/s prior to proceeding, but we have experience of teaching people to print FractureCode and if they have the right equipment it shouldn't be a problem and they wouldn't need to make any capital investments in marking equipment.

What happens when the product or document becomes dirty or damaged?

The technology is extremely robust and can be read despite a high level of damage, in fact we have been able to read a code that has sustained 85% damage!

What happens if I need to scan the code through an over-wrap or clear lamination film?

FractureCode is a line of site technology, as long as the code is visible it can be read. It is also possible to print the FractureCode on the overwrap or laminating film itself.

If we use a clear packaging media (labels, tapes, film, etc), are there any limitations on the colour and/or design of the pack in order to ensure that the FractureCode can be read?

The technology is tolerant to all colours and designs as we know today, although we always analyse product samples for final confirmation.

Can I use FractureCode to Track and Trace bottles?

Yes, there are a number of ways we can incorporate the FractureCode into the packaging design for bottles, including placing it onto the cap enabling the code to be read just before the box or shipping case is closed.

My brand protection managers want to verify data in the field, is this possible?

Of course, we have developed a handheld reader system that can be used for exactly this purpose.

Is FractureCode technology easy to use?

Yes, we know from experience that our hardware is easy to install and as our software is based on standard operating platforms, people learn quickly how to use our programs - we also provide full training and support which means in the unlikely event you do experience difficulties we are only a phone call away.

How can I get access to FractureCode technology?

In short the answer is easily, it depends on the exact situation and requirements of your project, but we have a number of ways of working. We can work directly with you to implement the FractureCode system, introduce you to one of our recognised partners who will work with you to introduce FractureCode and other processes/technologies/consumables or we can simply work in partnership with your preferred suppliers.