Chain-of-custody tracking platform for sensitive printed
This technology creates a system for physically tracking high-value printed documents throughout their entire lifecycle—from printing to destruction. When a sensitive document is printed, it receives a unique identifier (think a specialized tag or code embedded in or on the paper). Sensors and peripheral devices scattered throughout a facility continuously detect that identifier, reporting back where the document is, who has it, and what its current status is. If a document goes somewhere it shouldn't, or disappears, the system flags it and can trigger automated responses.
What you could build
A document lifecycle management platform—hardware plus software—sold to defense contractors, government agencies, and regulated financial or legal institutions that must maintain chain-of-custody records for physical documents. The product would combine smart printers, embedded identifiers, and a network of detection peripherals with a compliance dashboard.
Who in Virginia should care
Northern Virginia defense contractors, cleared facilities, and federal agencies with document security mandates would be natural early customers or licensing partners.
Readiness: Concept
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Alan J. Michaels
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed April 3, 2025
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20250315487A1
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology. Email us for an introduction prosim@harbor.capital.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.