To card for storing coped information - utilises shaped embossed impressions to reflect light in predetermined direction for subsequent decoding by scanner

摘要

A credit card (1) has inscriptions (2) in relief giving the owner's name and address or other information. Stored information (3) comprises a series of convex or concave impressions (4) formed by lines (4) inclined w.r.t. the axis (5) of the series. Each line has a lateral oblique side (6) which reflects incident light rays (7) in a particular direction. The other sides have a matt colouring to prevent reflection. The reflected light is detected and analysed in order to reconstitute the information. The impression can be in the form of a row of parallel bars on the top face ( or end face in case of concave impressions) which are inclined by a predetermined amount w.r.t. the plane of the card.