Embedded QR code for part authentication in additive friction stir deposition

This paper describes an approach for authentication of parts produced by additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) using an embedded QR tag. The manufacturing steps are: produce the QR tag by laser micromachining, deposit the base layers for the part using AFSD, machine a pocket in the top layer, insert the tag with the QR code(s) facing toward the printed material, and deposit the following layers over the QR tag to embed it within the part. Authentication is then provided using CT scanning to image the QR code at the known location within the AFSD part.