Personalizable multicolor security feature

Abstract

A data carrier (1) extending along an extension direction (E) comprises at least one first color element (2), wherein the first color element (2) exhibits an appearance under a first illumination and / or an appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination, at least one second color element (3), wherein the second color element (3) exhibits an appearance under the first illumination different from the appearance of the first color element (2) under the first illumination and / or an appearance under the second illumination different from the appearance of the first color element (2) under the second illumination, at least one individualization element (4, 6), and at least one security element (7). The first color element (2) and the second color element (3) are arranged interleaved with respect to the extension direction (E). The security element at least partially comprises the first color element (2), the second color element (3), and the individualization element (4, 6). The security element (7) exhibits a first appearance under the first illumination and a second appearance different from the first appearance under the second illumination.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a data carrier comprising at least one security element as claimed in claim 1, a secure document comprising or composed of such a data carrier as claimed in claim 13, and a method for generating a data carrier as claimed in claim 14. Background Technology

[0002] Data carriers containing one or more secure elements are widely used. For example, they are used or served as secure documents such as driver's licenses, ID cards, membership cards, passports, and bank cards. These data carriers or secure documents are typically personalized, meaning they include personalized information such as the owner's personal data (e.g., photograph, name, date of birth, social security number, biometric information such as fingerprints) or official information such as national emblems and expiration dates. Because of the value and importance associated with these data carriers or secure documents, they are frequently the object of unauthorized manipulation (e.g., forgery).

[0003] Several solutions for protecting against unauthorized manipulation of such data carriers are known in the prior art. For example, EP 2424735 proposes using a transparent ablative varnish under standard fluorescent ink, wherein the ink layer and the varnish are ablated by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. US2012 / 0091704A1 discloses a multi-layer structure within a secure document, in which a special effect ink layer is placed inside the structure and covered by an upper layer, concealing its appearance. Physical micropores are then exposed in the upper layer either inside the pores or at the bottom of the pores. A drawback of this approach is that it compromises the integrity of the sealed document body. US2008 / 0124498A1 discloses that fluorescent marking can be generated by laser if certain conventional pigments are marked by producing some fluorescent products upon pigment decomposition. However, for example, the fluorescent products are not stable enough under UV aging conditions, and the marking has limited fluorescence intensity. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art. In particular, the purpose is to provide a data carrier with enhanced security against unauthorized manipulation.

[0005] This objective is achieved using the data carrier as described in claim 1. Specifically, a data carrier extending along an extension direction is provided, wherein the data carrier includes at least one first color element, at least one second color element, and at least one personalization element. The first color element exhibits an appearance under a first illumination and / or an appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination. The second color element exhibits an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element under the first illumination and / or an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element under the second illumination. For example, and as will be explained in more detail below, the first color element can correspond to offset ink visible under illumination in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum (e.g., in sunlight). However, the first color element can similarly correspond to luminescent ink, such as fluorescent ink, visible under illumination in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Similarly, the second color element can correspond to offset ink visible under illumination in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum, or to luminescent ink, such as fluorescent ink, visible under illumination in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. However, the appearances of the first color element and the second color element are different under the first illumination and / or the second illumination. For example, if the first color element and the second color element correspond to offset printing ink, then one of the color elements can correspond to red offset printing ink, and the other color element can correspond to green offset printing ink. Another example would be that the first and second color elements are fluorescent inks, however, again, having different colors. Yet another example would be that the first color element is offset printing ink and the second color element is fluorescent ink, and so on. Furthermore, and as will be explained in more detail below, personalized elements can correspond to markings, such as opaque markings, colored markings, bleached markings, ablative markings, or transparent markings.

[0006] The first and second color elements are arranged alternately along the direction of extension. This alternate arrangement means that, along the direction of extension, one color element is placed before another. In other words, if the direction of extension is defined as vertical, the first and second color elements are not placed at the same height or horizontal position within the data carrier. The data carrier also includes at least one security element. The security element at least partially comprises the first color element, the second color element, and a personalization element. The security element exhibits a first appearance under first lighting and a second appearance different from the first appearance under second lighting. In other words, the security element exhibits multiple visibilitys under different lighting conditions, such as dual visibility. The security of the data carrier is thus enhanced.

[0007] The first appearance of the safety element preferably includes the appearance of a first color element under first illumination and the appearance of other possible personalized elements and / or other possible second color elements, or is composed of the appearance of the first color element under first illumination and the appearance of other possible personalized elements and / or other possible second color elements. Alternatively, the second appearance of the safety element preferably includes the appearance of a second color element under second illumination and the appearance of other possible personalized elements and / or other possible first color elements, or is composed of the appearance of the second color element under second illumination and the appearance of other possible personalized elements and / or other possible first color elements.

[0008] The first and / or second color elements are preferably configured to reflect the electromagnetic radiation of the impact, thereby generating a reflected spectrum. However, similarly, the first and / or second color elements are preferably configured to emit an emitted spectrum when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation. In the former case, the first and / or second color elements preferably correspond to offset printing inks. In the latter case, the first and / or second color elements preferably correspond to ultraviolet inks. Furthermore, in the former case, the appearance of the safety element is preferably produced according to a subtractive color mixing scheme as known in the art. In the latter case, the appearance of the safety element is preferably produced according to an additive color mixing scheme as known in the art.

[0009] Personalization elements can be configured and / or arranged to influence the appearance of a first color element and / or a second color element and / or the appearance of the first color element under a first illumination and / or the appearance of the first color element under a second illumination and / or the appearance of the second color element under a second illumination. For example, a personalization element can directly influence the first color element and / or the second color element, wherein the direct influence can be provided by the personalization element, which at least partially removes, bleaches, or darkens the first color element and / or the second color element. However, a personalization element can also be configured to indirectly influence the first color element and / or the second color element, wherein the indirect influence can be provided by a personalization element in the form of a mark (such as an opaque or transparent mark), which at least partially blocks or allows electromagnetic radiation incident on the data carrier to propagate toward the first color element and / or the second color element, and / or at least partially blocks or allows electromagnetic radiation generated (e.g., reflected or emitted) from the first color element and / or the second color element to propagate toward the exterior of the data carrier.

[0010] Regarding the direction of extension, the personalized element preferably overlaps at least partially with the first color element and / or the second color element. In other words, when viewed along the vertical direction, the personalized element can be arranged at least partially above or below the first color element and / or the second color element. Alternatively, regarding the direction of extension, the personalized element is preferably arranged at least partially offset relative to the first color element and / or the second color element. In other words, when viewed along the vertical direction, the personalized element can be arranged at least partially separated from the first color element and / or the second color element. Alternatively, regarding at least one lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of extension, the personalized element preferably overlaps at least partially with the first color element and / or the second color element. In other words, the personalized element can be arranged at least partially at the location of the first color element and / or the second color element. For example, and as already described above, it is conceivable that by at least partially removing, bleaching, or blackening the first color element and / or the second color element, the personalized element directly affects the first color element and / or the second color element, thereby overlapping at least partially with the first color element and / or the second color element in the lateral direction. Alternatively, with respect to at least one lateral direction extending perpendicular to the extending direction, the personalized element is preferably arranged to be at least partially offset relative to the first color element and / or the second color element. In other words, when viewed along a horizontal direction extending perpendicular to the vertical direction, the personalized element can be arranged to be at least partially separated from the first color element and / or the second color element.

[0011] Regarding the direction of extension, the first color element can be arranged before the second color element, and regarding the direction of extension, the personalization element can be arranged before the first color element, between the first and second color elements, or after the second color element. In other words, when viewed vertically, the first color element can be arranged above the second color element. Additionally, the personalization element can be arranged above, below, or between the two color elements. Alternatively, regarding the direction of extension, the second color element can be arranged before the first color element, and regarding the direction of extension, the personalization element can be arranged before, between, or after the first color element. In other words, when viewed vertically, the second color element can be arranged above the first color element. Additionally, the personalization element can be arranged above, below, or between the two color elements.

[0012] A personalized element can be generated from the processing element. The processing element can be configured to change its appearance upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation, thereby generating a personalized element at the irradiation site. Alternatively, the processing element, preferably together with at least a portion of a first color element and / or a second color element, can be configured to be removed upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation, thereby generating a personalized element at the irradiation site. In particular, the processing element can correspond to a C-doped layer and / or to one or more polymers, such as thermoplastic polymers, and particularly to polycarbonate and / or to thermal inks. In this case, preferably, the personalized element corresponds to an opaque mark generated on the processing element upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. For example, the opaque mark can be a black mark or a grayscale mark. However, it is also conceivable that the processing element corresponds to one or more pigments. In this case, preferably, the personalized element corresponds to a bleaching effect generated on the processing element upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. It is also conceivable that the processing element corresponds to thermochromic and / or photochromic inks. In this case, preferably, the personalized element corresponds to a color change generated on the processing element upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. It is also conceivable that the processing element corresponds to one or more pigments and / or photochromic inks and / or thermochromic inks. In this case, preferably, the personalization element corresponds to a change in transparency produced on the processing element upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. Additionally, it is conceivable that the processing element corresponds to a varnish and / or ink with metallic particles, preferably configured to be ablated upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. In this case, the personalization element preferably corresponds to ablation produced on the processing element upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, preferably, the varnish is transparent. In other words, the personalization element preferably corresponds to laser personalization. It should be noted that the data carrier can include only one processing element or two or more processing elements. The two or more processing elements can be the same as or different from each other. Therefore, it is conceivable that the data carrier includes only one type of personalization element, for example, only opaque markings in the case of using only a C-doped layer or polycarbonate or thermosensitive ink. By providing two or more different processing elements, two or more different types of personalization elements can be produced. Therefore, the data carrier can achieve different types of laser personalization. Furthermore, these different types of personalization can be produced by applying different settings for the laser used to produce the personalization. The components constituting the processing element preferably correspond to commercially available components known in the art.

[0013] The first color element preferably comprises, or is composed of, standard inks and / or offset inks. For example, the first color element can correspond to a standard ink or offset ink of a first color. In other words, the first color element can be configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Again, in other words, the appearance of the first color element produced under the first illumination can include or consist of electromagnetic radiation reflected from or composed of electromagnetic radiation reflected from the first color element. Alternatively, the first color element can comprise or consist of fluorescent ink. That is, the first color element can similarly correspond to fluorescent ink of the first color. Therefore, the first color element can be configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum and subsequently emit electromagnetic radiation upon its relaxation. The appearance of the first color element produced under the second illumination can therefore include or consist of electromagnetic radiation emitted from or composed of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the first color element. Alternatively, the second color element can comprise or consist of fluorescent ink. That is, the second color element can correspond to fluorescent ink of a second color that is different from the first color associated with the first color element, which is also fluorescent ink. The second color element is preferably configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The appearance of the second color element produced under the second illumination can therefore include or consist of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the second color element. For this purpose, preferably, under the first illumination, the second color element does not reflect and / or emit electromagnetic radiation.

[0014] The first color element can be provided as a layer extending in a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction. Similarly, the second color element can be provided as a layer extending in a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction. Likewise, the processing element can be provided as a layer extending at least partially in a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction.

[0015] The security element can have the shape of an image and / or alphanumeric characters. Non-exhaustive examples of images include, for example, a portrait of the data carrier holder, an outline of a country, a national emblem, a national flag, etc. Non-exhaustive examples of alphanumeric characters include, for example, the data carrier holder's date of birth, expiration date, etc. Therefore, the first color element, the second color element, and the personalization element are preferably arranged and / or configured such that the security element appears in the shape of an image and / or alphanumeric characters.

[0016] In the direction of extension, the first color element and the second color element can be arranged at a distance from each other. Alternatively, in the direction of extension, the first color element and the second color element can be arranged adjacent to each other. For example, the first color element and the second color element can correspond to layers arranged on top of each other or separated from each other in the direction of extension. In the latter case, it is conceivable that one or more additional elements (such as plastic layers, e.g., polymer layers and / or transparent layers) are arranged between the layers of the first color element and the layers of the second color element.

[0017] The data carrier preferably includes one or more additional first color elements. These one or more additional first color elements can be arranged at least along a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction. The data carrier preferably includes one or more additional second color elements. These one or more additional second color elements can be arranged at least along a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction. The data carrier preferably includes one or more additional personalization elements. These one or more additional personalization elements can be arranged at least along a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction. As previously mentioned, the lateral direction can also be considered a horizontal direction, and wherein the horizontal direction extends perpendicular to the aforementioned vertical direction. A horizontal plane extending perpendicular to the extension direction can therefore be defined. The horizontal plane is spanned by the aforementioned lateral direction (or horizontal direction) and another lateral direction (or another horizontal direction) extending perpendicular to the extension direction and perpendicular to the lateral direction (or horizontal direction). Furthermore, preferably, the first color elements and / or the second color elements and / or the personalization elements are arranged along the horizontal plane. In other words, the first color elements and / or the second color elements and / or the personalization elements preferably at least partially cover the surface area. With respect to the lateral direction and / or the other lateral direction, the first color elements (i.e., the first color element and the one or more other first color elements) can be arranged adjacent to each other. Alternatively, it is conceivable that, with respect to the lateral direction and / or the other lateral direction, the first color elements are arranged at a distance from each other. Similarly, with respect to the lateral direction and / or the other lateral direction, the second color elements (i.e., the second color element and the one or more other second color elements) can be arranged adjacent to each other, or with respect to the lateral direction and / or the other lateral direction, the second color elements can be arranged at a distance from each other. Furthermore, the appearance of the first color elements under the first illumination can be at least partially the same or at least partially different from each other. For example, all the first color elements can correspond to the same color of standard ink or offset ink. Alternatively, one or more of the first color elements can correspond to different colors of standard ink or offset ink. Alternatively, one or more first color elements can correspond to standard ink or offset ink, and one or more first color elements can correspond to UV ink colors. Similarly, the appearance of the first color elements under the second illumination can be at least partially the same or at least partially different from each other. For example, all first color elements can have the same UV ink color. Alternatively, at least some of the first color elements can be UV inks of different colors. Similarly, the appearance of the second color elements under the second illumination can be at least partially the same as or at least partially different from each other. For example, all second color elements can have the same UV ink color, or at least some of the second color elements can be UV inks of different colors.In this case, the first color element and / or the second color element can also be provided as a layer. This also applies to personalized elements, such as those provided as layers by means of a treatment layer configured to change their appearance upon electromagnetic radiation irradiation or a varnish layer configured to be ablated or removed upon electromagnetic radiation irradiation.

[0018] The first color element can be arranged as a pattern, preferably as a pixelated pattern comprising pixelated first color elements or composed of pixelated first color elements. Alternatively, the second color element can be arranged as a pattern, preferably as a pixelated pattern comprising pixelated second color elements or composed of pixelated second color elements. Alternatively, personalized elements can be arranged as a pattern, preferably as a pixelated personalized element or composed of pixelated personalized elements. Various designs of the pattern are conceivable. For example, a pattern comprising the first color element and / or the second color element can have a regular or irregular design. For example, the pattern can be a line pattern comprising several lines, wherein the lines have the same geometry (e.g., the same thickness or length) or different geometries. Another example involves line patterns whose lines have different colors, etc. This also applies to personalized elements, which can similarly be provided in the form of regular or irregular patterns. A pixelated first color element is understood as a first color element defining a surface area and / or having a specific geometric extension. Similarly, a pixelated second color element is understood as a second color element defining a surface area and / or having a specific geometric extension. Similarly, pixelated personalized elements are understood as personalized elements that define a surface area and / or have a specific geometric extension. The surface area or geometric extension preferably has a minimum spatial extension. In other words, pixelating a first color element and / or pixelating a second color element preferably defines an area with a specific shape that can be divided into pixels for personalizing a data carrier. For this purpose, one pixel up to any desired number of pixels can be defined. Furthermore, when the first and second color elements are printed, the specific area, shape, geometric extension, or minimum spatial dimension is particularly preferably determined by the resolution of the print size. In the context of this invention, the expression "personalization of a data carrier" is understood to mean generating one or more personalized elements. The minimum spatial extension of a pixelated personalized element is preferably defined by a processing device (such as a laser) for generating personalized elements (i.e., pixels). In the case of a laser, the spatial extension of the pixel is in the range of approximately 1 micrometer to 500 micrometers, more preferably in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to 100 micrometers. Alternatively or additionally, when using a laser to generate personalized elements, it is also preferable that the laser pixel is considered as a point, i.e., a point created using a laser.

[0019] With respect to each other and to the direction of extension and / or to the lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of extension, at least one first color element and / or at least one second color element and / or at least one personalized element are preferably aligned according to a selected alignment. Alignment means that (one or more) first color elements and / or (one or more) second color elements and / or (one or more) personalized elements are arranged relative to each other in a desired spatial relationship. It should be noted that the selected alignment can, of course, also be directed to another lateral direction. The selected alignment or desired spatial relationship preferably results in a specific first appearance and / or second appearance of the safety element under the first illumination and / or the second illumination. For example, the first appearance and / or the second appearance can correspond to a first color impression and / or a second color impression of the safety element under the first illumination and / or the second illumination, wherein the first color impression is different from the second color impression. Alternatively or additionally, the first appearance and / or the second appearance can also correspond to a first spatial impression and / or a second spatial impression under the first illumination and / or the second illumination, wherein the first spatial impression is different from the second spatial impression. The specific color impression and / or spatial impression can be achieved in various ways. For example, one or more first color elements are standard inks, followed by one or more personalized elements (or a few), such as opaque markings, which selectively overlay a specific color of a second color element provided as a fluorescent RGB grid. In the direction of extension, the first color elements are arranged before the personalized elements, which in turn are arranged before the second color elements. Therefore, when viewed under a first illumination, such as visible light (e.g., sunlight), the safety element will exhibit the first color elements and the opaque markings. When viewed under a second illumination, such as UV light, the safety element will exhibit the (uncovered) second color elements and the opaque markings. As another example, it is conceivable that a second color element in the form of UV fluorescent ink is provided in the direction of extension, followed by a first color element in the form of standard ink or offset ink, which is then followed by a personalized element in the form of an opaque marking. Therefore, under a first illumination, such as visible light (e.g., sunlight), the safety element appears as the first color elements and the opaque markings. Under a second illumination, such as UV light, the safety element appears as a UV fluorescent second color element. However, and as just described, various ways of producing a specific appearance for the safety element are conceivable. In fact, another approach can be to select the matte finish of the color element, for example by providing a treatment element in the form of a varnish, followed by a second color element in the form of fluorescent UV ink in the direction of extension, wherein the varnish is selectively ablated at the ablation site along with the fluorescent UV ink.Another approach involves at least partial extinction of one or more specific colors, such as RGB fluorescent patterns. For example, 50% of the red and 50% of the green in a fluorescent RGB grid can be covered by an opaque mark so that an average blue is produced when the data carrier is viewed under UV illumination. Therefore, the selected alignment of (one or more) first color elements and / or second color elements and / or (one or more) personalized elements enables the security element to appear under first illumination according to a first color impression and / or a first spatial impression, and / or the security element to appear under second illumination according to a second color impression and / or a second spatial impression.

[0020] For this purpose, particularly preferably, one or more first color elements correspond to one or more pixelated first color elements, and / or one or more second color elements correspond to one or more pixelated second color elements, and / or one or more personalization elements correspond to one or more pixelated personalization elements, wherein the one or more pixelated first color elements and / or one or more pixelated second color elements and / or one or more pixelated personalization elements are aligned according to a selected alignment, with respect to each other and with respect to the extension direction and / or with respect to the lateral direction. Additionally, preferably, with respect to the extension direction, one or more pixelated first color elements and one or more pixelated second color elements are arranged above each other. In other words, preferably, with respect to the extension direction, the one or more pixelated first color elements are arranged to coincide with one or more pixelated second color elements. Again, in other words, the surface areas and / or geometric extensions associated with the pixelated first color elements and second color elements are preferably identical. Again, in other words, when viewed along the extension direction, one or more pixelated first color elements and one or more pixelated second color elements are preferably arranged at the same horizontal location within the data carrier. Particularly preferably, the pixelated pattern including the first color element and the pixelated pattern including the second color element are arranged to be aligned with each other in the direction of extension. Additionally, preferably, one or more personalized elements are provided to be aligned with one or more pixelated first color elements and / or one or more pixelated second color elements. In other words, the personalization of the data carrier achieved by providing one or more personalized elements preferably affects one or more of the aligned pixelated first and second color elements.

[0021] Furthermore, preferably, the first and / or second appearance of the security element depends on the viewing angle from which the observer views the data carrier. In other words, the appearance of the security element can change when the data carrier is viewed under the same lighting conditions but at different viewing angles, i.e., when the data carrier is tilted. In this regard, preferably, one or more first color elements and / or one or more second color elements and / or one or more personalized elements are arranged and / or configured such that the appearance of the security element is optimized for one or more specific viewing angles. Optimization can be achieved through specific spacing between one or more color elements and / or one or more personalized elements in the extending direction, and / or through specific sizes of one or more pixelated personalized elements, and / or through specific alignment, etc.

[0022] With respect to each other and to the direction of extension and / or to the lateral direction, at least one first color element and / or at least one second color element and / or at least one personalized element are aligned according to another selected alignment, wherein the other selected alignment is preferably different from the selected alignment. Here, again, it should be noted that the other selected alignment can also be with respect to the other lateral direction. The other selected arrangement preferably results in the safety feature exhibiting another first appearance under a first illumination, and / or exhibiting another second appearance different from the other first appearance under a second illumination. Furthermore, the other first appearance can be the same as or different from the first appearance. Similarly, the other second appearance can be the same as or different from the second appearance. Particularly preferably, at least one of the first appearance and the other first appearance or the second appearance and the other second appearance is different from each other.

[0023] The one or more first color elements and / or the one or more second color elements and / or the one or more personalized elements involved in the alignment are preferably different from the one or more first color elements and / or the one or more second color elements and / or the one or more personalized elements involved in the other alignment. This difference is preferably associated with different spatial arrangements within the data carrier. These different spatial arrangements are particularly preferably for the lateral direction and / or the other lateral direction. That is, the elements involved in the alignment are preferably arranged at a different horizontal location within the data carrier than the horizontal location of the elements involved in the other alignment. Again, in other words, for the direction of extension, the elements involved in the alignment are preferably inconsistent with the elements involved in the other alignment. This difference is also preferably associated with the provision of different personalized elements (e.g., personalized elements arranged and / or configured to affect one or more of the first color elements and / or one or more of the second color elements in different ways). For example, for the direction of extension, a second color element in the form of a pixelated UV fluorescent ink pattern can be arranged before a first color element in the form of a pixelated standard ink pattern. Additionally, in the first alignment, the personalization element can be arranged and / or configured such that a first color element participating in the first alignment appears under a first illumination provided by sunlight, and a second color element participating in the first alignment appears under a second illumination provided by UV light. In the second alignment, the personalization element can be arranged and / or configured such that a first color element participating in the second alignment appears under the first illumination provided by sunlight, but has a different color than the first color element participating in the first alignment. Alternatively, the personalization element can be arranged and / or configured such that a second color element participating in the second alignment appears under the second illumination, but has a different color than the second color element participating in the first alignment. It should be noted that these specific alignments are merely examples. Furthermore, personalization elements participating in the first and second alignments can be provided by means of opaque markers constituting alphanumeric characters and / or images, wherein said alphanumeric characters and / or images also appear under the first illumination and / or under the second illumination. Additionally, the alphanumeric characters and / or images associated with the first alignment can be the same as or different from the alphanumeric characters and / or images associated with the second alignment. It should be noted that this is merely an example for illustrative purposes. Similarly, many other alignments can be conceived, and therefore many other appearances of the safety features can be conceived.Importantly, it is important to note that a selected alignment, different from the alignment described above, can provide a safety element that exhibits a first color impression (provided by the alignment) and / or another first color impression (provided by the other alignment) and / or a first spatial impression (provided by the alignment) and / or another first spatial impression (provided by the other alignment) under a first illumination, and / or exhibits a second color impression (provided by the alignment) and / or another second color impression (provided by the other alignment) and / or a second spatial impression (provided by the alignment) and / or another second spatial impression (provided by the other alignment) under a second illumination. Alternatively, simply put, it is possible to produce a safety element comprising a first portion of a safety element constructed by the alignment and another portion of a safety element constructed by the other alignment. It should be noted that two or more of these additional alignments are possible.

[0024] It should be noted that the data carrier can include one or more additional first color elements and / or one or more additional second color elements and / or one or more additional personalization elements arranged along the extension direction. For example, the data carrier can include two or more layers of first color elements and / or two or more layers of second color elements and / or two or more layers of processing elements including personalization elements arranged above each other in the extension direction. The explanations herein regarding first color elements, second color elements, and personalization elements arranged in the lateral direction also apply to these elements arranged in the extension direction. For example, the layers of first and second color elements arranged along the extension direction can correspond to pixelated patterns, etc. It should also be noted that the data carrier can include two or more security elements. In addition, the data carrier preferably includes a data page or card body of a passport, as known in the art. Contemplated card bodies or data pages include or consist of different plastic (particularly preferably, opaque and / or transparent plastic) layers or are composed of different plastic layers. In addition, preferably, one or more of these layers further include one or more prints to form an artwork base picture with guilloché and / or other security print elements as known in the art.

[0025] On the other hand, a secure document is provided that includes or is composed of the data carrier described above. The secure document is preferably an identity card, passport, credit card, bank draft, etc.

[0026] Any interpretation provided for the data carrier itself applies equally to secure files, and vice versa.

[0027] On the other hand, a method is provided for generating a data carrier extending along an extension direction. The preferred data carrier is preferably the data carrier described above. The method includes the steps of: i) providing at least one first color element, ii) providing at least one second color element, iii) providing at least one personalization element, and iv) providing at least one security element.

[0028] The first color element exhibits an appearance under a first illumination, and / or an appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination. The second color element exhibits an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element under the first illumination, and / or an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element under the second illumination. The first and second color elements are arranged alternately with respect to each other and with respect to the direction of extension. The safety element at least partially includes the first color element, the second color element, and the personalization element. The safety element exhibits a first appearance under the first illumination and a second appearance different from the first appearance under the second illumination.

[0029] It should be noted that any interpretation provided for the data carrier itself or the security file also applies to the method, and vice versa.

[0030] Additionally, it should be noted that steps i) and ii) can be performed in any order. However, preferably, step iii) regarding the provision of the personalized element is performed after the provision of the color element, i.e. after steps i) and ii). For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that the provision of the personalized element leads to the generation of the security element.

[0031] Personalized elements are preferably created by irradiating the data carrier with electromagnetic radiation. At least one additional personalized element is preferably formed by irradiating the data carrier with another type of electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation and the other type of electromagnetic radiation can be the same as or different from each other.

[0032] The electromagnetic radiation and the other electromagnetic radiation are preferably provided by a radiation source (such as a laser, e.g., an infrared laser). The electromagnetic radiation and the other electromagnetic radiation, being different from each other, can include different wavelengths, different laser powers, different focal points, and different pulse durations, i.e., different laser parameters. Therefore, the present invention allows the use of the same radiation source to produce two or more potentially different personalized elements, wherein only the laser parameters and associated optics must be adjusted. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to illustrate the present preferred embodiments of the invention and not to limit the invention. In the drawings,

[0034] Figure 1aA cross-sectional view is shown, including a first color element, a second color element, and a first and second processing element in an unprocessed state;

[0035] Figure 1b Showing according to Figure 1a A cross-sectional view of a data carrier, wherein a first processing element is processed to produce a first personalized element;

[0036] Figure 1c Showing according to Figure 1b A cross-sectional view of the data carrier, wherein the second processing element is processed to produce the second personalized element;

[0037] Figure 2a A cross-sectional view is shown of another data carrier including a first color element, a second color element, and the first and second processing elements in an unprocessed state;

[0038] Figure 2b Showing according to Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of a data carrier, wherein a first processing element is processed to produce a first personalized element;

[0039] Figure 2c Showing according to Figure 2b A cross-sectional view of the data carrier, wherein the second processing element is processed to produce the second personalized element;

[0040] Figure 3a A cross-sectional view is shown of another data carrier including a first color element, a second color element, and the first and second processing elements in an unprocessed state;

[0041] Figure 3b Showing according to Figure 3a A cross-sectional view of a data carrier, wherein a first processing element is processed to produce a first personalized element;

[0042] Figure 3c Showing according to Figure 3b A cross-sectional view of the data carrier, wherein the second processing element is processed to produce the second personalized element;

[0043] Figure 4a A cross-sectional view is shown of another data carrier including a first color element, a second color element, and the first and second processing elements in an unprocessed state;

[0044] Figure 4b Showing according to Figure 4a A cross-sectional view of a data carrier, wherein a first processing element is processed to produce a first personalized element;

[0045] Figure 4c Showing according to Figure 4bA cross-sectional view of the data carrier, wherein the second processing element is processed to produce the second personalized element;

[0046] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of another data carrier is shown, including a first color element, a second color element, and a processing element, wherein the processing element is processed to produce personalized elements;

[0047] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of another data carrier is shown, including a first color element, a second color element, and a processing element, wherein the processing element is processed to produce personalized elements;

[0048] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of another data carrier is shown, including a first color element, a second color element, and a processing element, wherein the processing element is processed to produce personalized elements;

[0049] Figure 8a A top view on a layer depicting the standard ink color pattern;

[0050] Figure 8b Describes a top view of the fluorescent UV ink layer;

[0051] Figure 8c The illustration is based on Figure 8a and 8b A schematic diagram of the layer arrangement;

[0052] Figure 8d A schematic diagram depicting personalized elements arranged in a pattern using opaque markings;

[0053] Figure 8e The description of what it looks like when observed in sunlight Figure 8c and 8d Furthermore, personalized elements are arranged using the form of a varnish that can be removed;

[0054] Figure 8f The description of what it looks like when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 8c and 8d Furthermore, personalized elements are arranged using the form of a varnish that can be removed;

[0055] Figure 8g The description of what it looks like when observed in sunlight Figure 8e Furthermore, personalized arrangements are made using individualized elements in the form of opaque markings and removed varnish;

[0056] Figure 8h The description of what it looks like when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 8f Furthermore, personalized arrangements are made using individualized elements in the form of opaque markings and removed varnish;

[0057] Figure 8i The description is based on the presence of personalized elements in the form of opaque markings between the standard ink and fluorescent UV ink layers when viewed under sunlight. Figure 8c and 8d The arrangement;

[0058] Figure 8j The description is based on the presence of personalized elements in the form of opaque markings between the standard ink and fluorescent UV ink layers when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 8c and 8d The arrangement;

[0059] Figure 9a The description includes a top view of a standard ink color pattern on a layer, featuring three different standard ink colors.

[0060] Figure 9b The description includes a top view of a fluorescent UV ink pattern on a layer, featuring three different fluorescent UV ink colors;

[0061] Figure 9c A schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of pixelated layers of fluorescent UV ink and standard color ink, with nine pixels illustratively aligned.

[0062] Figure 9d Description based on Figure 9c The conceivable alignment of pixels, where selected pixels are personalized through pixelated personalized elements;

[0063] Figure 9e Description based on Figure 9c Other conceivable alignments of pixels, wherein selected pixels are personalized through pixelation personalization elements;

[0064] Figure 9f The description includes a secure data carrier comprising a first color element, a second color element, and a personalized element aligned according to a specific alignment;

[0065] Figure 9f The description of what it looks like when observed in sunlight Figure 9f Safety components;

[0066] Figure 9g The description of what it looks like when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 9f Safety components;

[0067] Figure 9i The description includes another secure element comprising a first color element, a second color element, and a personalized element aligned according to a specific alignment;

[0068] Figure 9j The description of what it looks like when observed in sunlight Figure 9iSafety components;

[0069] Figure 9k The description of what it looks like when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 9i Safety components;

[0070] Figure 9l The description includes another secure element comprising a first color element, a second color element, and a personalized element aligned according to a specific alignment;

[0071] Figure 9m The description of what it looks like when observed in sunlight Figure 9l Safety components;

[0072] Figure 9n The description of what it looks like when observed under ultraviolet light. Figure 9l Safety components. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Various aspects of the data carrier according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0074] As in Figures 1a to 7 As best seen, the data carrier 1 extends along the extension direction E and includes at least one first color element 2 and at least one second color element 3. In the described example, the color elements 2 and 3 are provided as layers extending along lateral directions T1 and T2, which extend perpendicular to the extension direction E and perpendicular to each other. The extension direction E can also be defined as a vertical direction. The lateral directions T1 and T2 can therefore also be considered as horizontal directions, and wherein the horizontal directions extend perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0075] The first color element 2 exhibits an appearance under the first illumination, and / or exhibits an appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination. The second color element 3 exhibits an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element 2 under the first illumination, and / or exhibits an appearance different from the appearance of the first color element 2 under the second illumination.

[0076] The data carrier 1 further includes one or more processing elements 5, 8 capable of being processed, thereby generating one or more personalized elements 4, 6. In the described example, the processing elements 5, 8 are also provided in the form of layers extending along the lateral directions T1 and T2. Furthermore, the processing elements 5, 8 are configured to be processed by electromagnetic radiation R irradiated onto the processing elements 5, 8. Figure 1a , 2a In 3a and 4a, data carrier 1 corresponds to unprocessed or unpersonalized data carrier 1, meaning their processing elements 5 and 8 have not yet been processed or personalized. Figure 1b , 2bIn 3b, 4b, and 5 to 7, one of the processing elements 5 is processed or personalized by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation R, thereby producing a personalized element 4. Figure 1c , 2c In 3c and 4c, another processing element 8 is further processed or personalized by additional irradiation with electromagnetic radiation R, thereby producing another personalized element 6. As already described, the appearance of processing elements 5 and 8 changes when electromagnetic radiation R is irradiated at the irradiation location.

[0077] For the extending direction E, the first color element 2 and the second color element 3 are arranged alternately. In fact, in Figures 1a to 7 In this configuration, with respect to the extension direction E, the second color element 3 is positioned before the first color element 2. In other words, the second color element 3 is positioned on top of or above the first color element 2. In other words, if the extension direction E is defined as vertical, the first color element 2 and the second color element 3 are not positioned at the same height within the data carrier 1.

[0078] Furthermore, with respect to the extension direction E, the first color element 2 and the second color element 3 are arranged at a certain distance from each other, with one or more layers arranged between them. In fact, in all the examples described, a transparent plastic layer 9 is arranged between the color elements. In these examples, the data carrier 1 includes another such transparent plastic layer 9, for example, a transparent plastic layer 9 arranged before the second color element 3 and forming the top of the data carrier 1, see [reference needed]. Figures 1a to 2c And 5. Furthermore, in all the examples described, the data carrier 1 includes a card body 10 as known in the art, i.e., a set of layers common in the card industry, wherein the card body herein encompasses color elements 2, 3 and processing elements 5, 8 and personalization elements 4, 6 as well as additional layers, such as a transparent layer 9 made of plastic.

[0079] In addition, Figures 1a to 1cIn figures 3a to 3c and 5, the processing element 5 and the second color element 3 overlap each other with respect to the extension direction E and the lateral directions T1 and T2. In fact, the processing element 5 and the second color element 3 are provided as a single layer. Therefore, with respect to the extension direction E, the processing element 5 and the second color element 3 are arranged offset relative to the first color element 2. In these examples, the processing element 5 corresponds to a varnish comprising the second color element 3 in the form of UV fluorescent ink. The varnish, i.e., the processing element 5 and the second color element 3, is configured to be bleached or become transparent upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation R, thereby producing a personalized element 4 in the form of said bleaching or transparency at the irradiation site. In these figures, another processing element 8 corresponds to a C-doped layer that forms an opaque mark 6 upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation R, thereby forming a personalized element 6 in the form of an opaque mark. With respect to the extension direction E, this other processing element 8 is arranged here after the first color element 2. Additionally, in the attached figures... Figure 1c , 2c In 3c and 4c, the personalized element 4 in the form of bleached or transparent and the personalized element 6 in the form of opaque marking are arranged to be consistent with each other in the direction of extension E.

[0080] In addition, from Figures 1a to 4c It is concluded that the personalization of data carrier 1, i.e., the generation of personalized elements 4 and 6 in processing elements 5 and 8, is achieved using electromagnetic radiation R originating from the same radiation source, wherein only electromagnetic radiation R and another electromagnetic radiation R are preferably provided by a radiation source (such as a laser, e.g., an infrared laser). Different electromagnetic radiation R and another electromagnetic radiation R can include different wavelengths, different laser powers, different focal points, and different pulse durations, i.e., different laser parameters. Therefore, the present invention allows the use of the same radiation source to generate two or more potentially different personalized elements 4 and 6, wherein only the laser parameters and associated optics are adjusted to achieve different focal points to selectively reach selected elements, such as reaching the varnish or the C-doped layer, or simultaneously reaching both components. Therefore, it becomes clear from these figures that several different types of personalization can be achieved using the present invention. For example, in the first type of personalization ( Figure 1b , 2b In (3b, 4b), the varnish can be removed, in the second type of personalization (see...). Figure 1c , 2c In (3c, 4c), varnish can be removed and opaque markings can be generated simultaneously, or in the third type of personalization (see 3c, 4c)... Figure 5 , 6 In 7), only opaque markers can be generated.

[0081] from Figure 8a , 9aAs shown in 9b, the data carrier 1 can include one or more additional first color elements 2a, 2b, ... and / or one or more additional second color elements 3a, 3b, ..., which are arranged along one or both of the lateral directions T1 and T2. In fact, these first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... and second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... are arranged along a horizontal plane extending perpendicular to the extension direction E and cover the surface area. In the described example, with respect to the lateral directions T1 and T2, the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... and the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... are arranged adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the appearances of the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... and the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... are different from each other. In fact, in this example, the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... correspond to standard inks of different colors, and the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... correspond to UV fluorescent inks of different colors.

[0082] Furthermore, the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... and the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... are arranged in a pattern in each case. Preferably, the pattern is composed of pixelated first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... and pixelated second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... See the following reference. Figure 9c And the explanation provided in the accompanying diagram.

[0083] One or more security elements 7 are formed by first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ..., second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... and personalized elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... (see also...) Figures 8a to 9n The security element 7 here has the shape of alphanumeric characters. The specific arrangement and / or configuration of the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ..., the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... and the personalized elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... results in the creation of the security element 7, which exhibits different appearances or multiple visibilitys.

[0084] For example, and as from Figures 8a to 8c Therefore, the data carrier 1 can include first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... arranged above each other in the direction of extension E, in the form of a layered standard ink color pattern comprising three different colors arranged alternately, and second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... in the form of layered fluorescent UV ink. In fact, in the described example, the fluorescent UV ink layer is arranged before the standard ink color pattern; see [reference needed]. Figure 8c Although not depicted in these figures, processed elements 5 and 8 are also present in the form of varnish and C-doped layers. Additionally, and as from... Figure 8dIt is concluded that a specific laser-personalized pattern is applied. This laser-personalized pattern is composed of opaque markings generated in the C-doped layer and / or removed varnish.

[0085] These components allow for different types of personalization. That is, in the first type of personalization, and as from... Figure 8e and 8f It was found that the first laser setting could be used to selectively remove the varnish. In other words, the fluorescent UV ink was selectively bleached. Therefore, when data carrier 1 was observed under sunlight ( Figure 8e Only the standard ink pattern is visible, and when the data carrier 1 is viewed under UV light ( Figure 8f Opaque markings are visible where varnish has been removed, and fluorescent UV inks are visible where varnish remains. In areas where varnish has been removed... Figure 8g and 8h In the second type of personalization described herein, the varnish is selectively removed, i.e., the fluorescent UV ink is selectively bleached, and opaque markings are generated within the C-doped layer. Therefore, when data carrier 1 is observed under sunlight (see...), Figure 8g The opaque markings and the standard ink color in areas without opaque markings are visible. When viewing data carrier 1 under UV light (see...), the opaque markings and the standard ink color in areas without opaque markings are visible. Figure 8h Opaque markings are visible where the varnish has been removed, while fluorescent UV inks are visible where the varnish has not been removed. In areas where the varnish has not been removed... Figure 8i and 8j In the third type of personalization described herein, the varnish is not removed, i.e., the fluorescent UV ink is not bleached. Instead, only opaque markings are generated in the C-doped layer. Therefore, when data carrier 1 is observed under sunlight ( Figure 8i The opaque markings and the standard ink color in areas without opaque markings are visible. When data carrier 1 is viewed under UV light, only the fluorescent UV ink is visible. Figure 8j ).

[0086] For reference Figures 9a to 9n It will be discussed that, with respect to each other, with respect to the extension direction E, and with respect to the lateral directions T1 and T2 perpendicular to the extension direction E, the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ..., the second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... and the personalized elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... can be aligned according to the selected alignment A, A1, ... respectively.

[0087] In fact, the provision of first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ..., second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... and personalized elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... according to different alignments A, A1, ... allows for the generation of security element 7, which exhibits different appearances, such as different color impressions and / or different spatial impressions, depending on the lighting conditions of the data carrier 1. This will now be utilized in... Figures 9a to 9n The specific examples presented illustrate this effect.

[0088] As from Figure 9a and 9b It is found that the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... are provided in the form of a layered standard ink color pattern comprising three different standard ink colors arranged alternately, and also in the form of a layered fluorescent UV ink pattern comprising three different fluorescent UV ink colors arranged alternately. In fact, the pattern is composed of lines of different colors in each case, and the lines of the standard ink color pattern extend perpendicularly to the lines of the fluorescent UV ink color pattern.

[0089] For the extension direction E, the fluorescent UV ink layer is arranged before the standard ink color layer, see [reference]. Figure 9c Furthermore, and also from Figure 9c Therefore, the individual colors of the two different layers are defined as pixels. In fact, for illustrative purposes, it is shown that, for example, 3x3 pixels of a fluorescent UV ink layer can constitute a sub-matrix of fluorescent UV ink, which is arranged to correspond with the 3x3 pixels of a standard ink color layer. The nine pixels of the fluorescent UV ink layer and their corresponding nine pixels of the standard ink color layer can be said to form a superposition of sub-matrix pixels. For example, a sub-matrix of fluorescent UV ink representing second color elements 3, 3a, 3b, ... can be made of horizontal lines, consisting of a first red line, a second green line, a third blue line, and so on, whereby elements 1, 2, and 3 of the sub-matrix are red, elements 4, 5, and 6 are green, and elements 7, 8, and 9 are blue. Furthermore, the sub-matrix representing the standard ink colors of the first color elements 2, 2a, 2b, ... can be made of vertical lines, which consist of a first yellow line, a second magenta line, a third cyan line, and so on. Thus, elements 1, 4, and 7 of the sub-matrix are yellow, elements 2, 5, and 8 are magenta, and elements 3, 6, and 9 are cyan.

[0090] Figures 9d to 9e These pixels are described by different conceivable alignments A, A1, ..., where selected pixels are personalized by pixelation personalization elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... . As a result, different appearances are produced when viewed under sunlight and UV light, see [reference needed]. Figures 9f to 9nHere, the personalization of data carrier 1, namely the provision of selected personalization elements 4, 4a, ..., 6, 6a, ... represented by black squares, corresponds to the selected bleaching or removal of fluorescent UV ink according to a specific alignment and the selected blocking or hiding of the standard ink color by the opaque markings above the standard ink color.

[0091] In particular, in each case, Figure 9d and 9e The black squares are described, where each black square represents a personalized color element of a submatrix of pixels, as just described.

[0092] use Figure 9d Alignment A1, A2, or A3 yields the same global color for the submatrix. For example, assuming color standard A corresponds to a blue offset, this color is achieved using 1 yellow pixel + 2 magenta pixels + 2 cyan pixels + 4 black pixels. Therefore, color standard A is visible in sunlight but not in UV light. Using alignment A1, the global color of the submatrix under UV light corresponds to yellow, which is constructed using 2 red pixels + 2 green pixels + 1 blue pixel + 4 black pixels = color UVa. Using alignment A2, the global color of the submatrix under UV light corresponds to magenta, which is constructed using 2 red pixels + 1 green pixel + 2 blue pixels + 4 black pixels = color UVb. Using alignment A3, the global color of the submatrix under UV light corresponds to cyan, which is constructed using 1 red pixel + 2 green pixels + 2 blue pixels + 4 black pixels = color UVc. Colors UV a, UV b, and UV c are invisible in sunlight, meaning they appear transparent, but are visible under UV light.

[0093] Similarly, Figure 9e The alignments A4, A5, and A6 in the text represent three different types of personalization. It should be noted that alignment A6 corresponds to... Figure 9d Alignment A1. Using alignment A4, the global color of the submatrix corresponds to standard red, which is constructed by 2 yellow pixels + 2 magenta pixels + 1 cyan pixel + 4 black pixels = color standard B. Using alignment A5, the global color of the submatrix corresponds to standard green, which is constructed by 2 yellow pixels + 1 magenta pixel + 2 cyan pixels + 4 black pixels = color standard C.

[0094] Using alignment A6, the global color of the submatrix corresponds to standard blue, which is constructed by 1 yellow pixel + 2 magenta pixels + 2 cyan pixels + 4 black pixels = color standard A (same as A1, i.e., A6 = A1). Color standards A, B, and C are visible in sunlight but invisible in UV light. Using alignments A4, A5, or A6, the same global color is formed for the submatrix, for example, UV yellow constructed by 2 red pixels + 2 green pixels + 1 blue pixel + 4 black pixels, which here corresponds to color UV a. Color UV a is invisible in sunlight but is visible in UV light.

[0095] Figure 9f The security element 7 represents the characters "T" and "A" generated using the specific personalizations described above. Specifically, the background outside the character shapes corresponds to the personalization implemented using alignment A4. The T character shape is implemented using personalization A5, and the A character shape is implemented using personalizations A1 or A6.

[0096] Figure 9g The data carrier 1, comprising security elements 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A," describes how the data appears when viewed in sunlight. Alignment with A4 produces a background corresponding to the color red. Alignment with A5 produces the character "T" corresponding to the color green. Alignment with A1 or A6 produces the character "A" corresponding to the color blue. The characters will appear on a red background according to their color, meaning they are visible and recognizable to the observer.

[0097] Figure 9h The data carrier 1 includes safety elements 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A" as described when viewed under UV light. The background color produced by aligning A4 is yellow. The character "T" produced by aligning A5 is yellow. The character "A" produced by aligning A1 or A6 is yellow. Because the characters appear in the same color as the background, they will not appear, i.e., they are invisible or unrecognizable to the observer.

[0098] Figure 9i The security element 7 represents the characters "A" and "T" generated using the specific personalization described above. Specifically, the background outside the character shape corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A1 or A6. The character T corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A2. The character A corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A3.

[0099] Figure 9jThe data carrier 1 includes security elements 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A" as described when viewed in sunlight. The background color produced by aligning A1 or A6 is blue. The character "T" produced by aligning A2 is blue. The character "A" produced by aligning A3 is blue. Because the characters appear in the same color as the background, they will not appear, i.e., they are invisible or unrecognizable to the observer.

[0100] Figure 9k The data carrier 1, comprising the security element 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A," describes its appearance under UV light. The background produced by aligning A1 or A6 corresponds to the color yellow. The character "T" produced by aligning A2 corresponds to the color magenta. The character "A" produced by aligning A3 corresponds to the color cyan. The characters will appear on the yellow background according to their color, meaning they are visible or recognizable to the observer.

[0101] Figure 9l The security element 7 represents the characters "A" and "T" generated using the specific personalization described above. Specifically, the background outside the character shape corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A1 or A6. The character T corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A5. The character A corresponds to personalization achieved using alignment A2.

[0102] Figure 9m The data carrier 1 includes security elements 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A" as described when viewed in sunlight. The background color produced by aligning A1 or A6 is blue. The character "T" produced by aligning A5 is green. The character "A" produced by aligning A2 is blue. The character "T" will appear green against a blue background, meaning it is visible and recognizable to the observer.

[0103] Figure 9n The data carrier 1 includes safety elements 7 in the form of the characters "T" and "A" as described when viewed under UV light. The background color produced by aligning A1 or A6 is yellow. The character "T" produced by aligning A5 is also yellow. The character "A" produced by aligning A2 is magenta. The character "A" will appear in magenta on a yellow background, meaning it is visible and recognizable to the observer.

[0104] List of labels

[0105] 1 Data carrier

[0106] 2, 2a, ... First color element

[0107] 3, 3a, ... Second color element

[0108] 4, 4a, ... Personalized Components

[0109] 5 processing elements

[0110] 6 Personalized Components

[0111] 7 safety elements

[0112] 8 processing elements

[0113] 9 transparent layers

[0114] 10 card bodies

[0115] E Extension Direction

[0116] T1 Lateral Direction

[0117] T2 Lateral Direction

[0118] R Electromagnetic radiation

[0119] A, A1, ... aligned

Claims

1. A data carrier extending along an extension direction (E) and comprising: - At least one first color element, The first color element exhibits its appearance under the first illumination, and / or exhibits its appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination; - At least one second color element, The second color element exhibits an appearance different under the first illumination from the appearance of the first color element under the first illumination, and / or exhibits an appearance different under the second illumination from the appearance of the first color element under the second illumination; -At least one personalized element, and -At least one safety element, Along the extending direction (E), the first color element and the second color element are arranged alternately. The security element at least partially comprises the first color element, the second color element, and the personalization element, and The safety element exhibits a first appearance under the first illumination and a second appearance, different from the first appearance, under the second illumination. The personalized element is generated from the processing element. The processing element corresponds to a C-doped layer and / or to one or more polymers and / or to a thermal ink, and the personalization element corresponds to an opaque mark, or The processing element corresponds to one or more pigments, and the personalization element corresponds to bleaching, or The processing element corresponds to thermochromic ink and / or photochromic ink, and the personalization element corresponds to color change, or The processing element corresponds to one or more pigments and / or photochromic inks and / or thermochromic inks, and the personalization element corresponds to a change in transparency, or The processing element corresponds to a varnish and / or ink having one or more metal particles, which is ablated when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation (R), and the personalization element corresponds to ablation.

2. The data carrier of claim 1, wherein the personalization element is arranged to affect at least one of the first color element, the second color element, the appearance of the first color element under the first illumination, the appearance of the first color element under the second illumination, or the appearance of the second color element under the second illumination.

3. The data carrier of claim 1, wherein along the extending direction (E), the personalized element at least partially overlaps with the first color element and / or the second color element, and / or is arranged to be at least partially offset relative to the first color element and / or the second color element, and / or Wherein, along at least a lateral direction (T1; T2) extending perpendicular to the extension direction (E), the personalized element at least partially overlaps with the first color element and / or the second color element, and / or is arranged to be at least partially offset relative to the first color element and / or the second color element.

4. The data carrier of claim 1, wherein along the extension direction (E), the first color element is arranged before the second color element, and wherein along the extension direction (E), the personalization element is arranged before the first color element, between the first color element and the second color element, or after the second color element, or... Along the extension direction (E), the second color element is arranged in front of the first color element, and along the extension direction (E), the personalization element is arranged in front of the second color element, between the second color element and the first color element, or after the first color element.

5. The data carrier as described in claim 1, The processing element changes its appearance upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation (R), thereby creating the personalized element at the location of the exposure. The processing element is removed upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation (R), thereby generating the personalized element at the location of the exposure.

6. The data carrier of claim 1, wherein the first color element comprises ink, and / or The first color element includes or is composed of fluorescent ink, and / or The second color element includes or is composed of fluorescent ink, and / or The security element described therein has the shape of an image and / or alphanumeric characters.

7. The data carrier as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein along the extending direction (E), the first color element and the second color element are arranged at a distance from each other, or Along the extending direction (E), the first color element and the second color element are arranged close to each other.

8. The data carrier of claim 1, further comprising one or more additional first color elements (2a, 2b, ...), wherein the one or more additional first color elements (2a, 2b, ...) are arranged at least along a lateral direction (T1; T2) perpendicular to the extension direction (E), and / or The data carrier further includes one or more additional second color elements (3a, 3b, ...), wherein the one or more additional second color elements (2a, 2b, ...) are arranged at least along a lateral direction (T1; T2) perpendicular to the extension direction (E), and / or The data carrier further includes one or more additional personalized elements (4a, 4b, ...; 6a, 6b, ...), wherein the one or more additional personalized elements (4a, 4b, ...; 6a, 6b, ...) are arranged at least along a lateral direction (T1; T2) perpendicular to the extension direction (E).

9. The data carrier of claim 8, wherein the first color element is arranged as a pattern, comprising pixelated first color elements or a pixelated pattern composed of pixelated first color elements, and / or The second color element is arranged as a pattern, and / or The personalized elements are arranged as a pattern, including pixelated personalized elements or pixelated patterns composed of pixelated personalized elements.

10. The data carrier of claim 1, wherein, for each other and along the extension direction (E) and / or along a lateral direction (T1; T2) perpendicular to the extension direction (E), at least one first color element and / or at least one second color element and / or at least one personalized element are aligned according to a selected alignment (A).

11. The data carrier of claim 10, wherein at least one first color element and / or at least one second color element and / or at least one personalized element are aligned relative to each other and along the extension direction (E) and / or along the lateral direction (T1; T2) according to another selected alignment (A1, A2, ...).

12. A secure document, comprising the data carrier as described in claim 1.

13. A method for generating a data carrier extending along an extension direction (E), the method comprising the steps of: - Provide at least one first color element, wherein the first color element exhibits an appearance under a first illumination, and / or exhibits an appearance under a second illumination different from the first illumination; - Provide at least one second color element, wherein the second color element exhibits an appearance different from that of the first color element under the first illumination, and / or exhibits an appearance different from that of the first color element under the second illumination; - Provide at least one personalized element (4; 6), and - Provide at least one safety element, The first color element and the second color element are arranged alternately with respect to each other and along the extending direction (E). The security element at least partially comprises the first color element, the second color element, and the personalization element (4; 6), and The safety element exhibits a first appearance under the first illumination and a second appearance, different from the first appearance, under the second illumination. The personalized element is generated from the processing element. The processing element corresponds to a C-doped layer and / or to one or more polymers and / or to a thermal ink, and the personalization element corresponds to an opaque mark, or The processing element corresponds to one or more pigments, and the personalization element corresponds to bleaching, or The processing element corresponds to thermochromic ink and / or photochromic ink, and the personalization element corresponds to color change, or The processing element corresponds to one or more pigments and / or photochromic inks and / or thermochromic inks, and the personalization element corresponds to a change in transparency, or The processing element corresponds to a varnish and / or ink having one or more metal particles, which is ablated when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation (R), and the personalization element corresponds to ablation.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the personalized element is generated by irradiating the data carrier with electromagnetic radiation (R), and The electromagnetic radiation (R) therein may be the same as or different from each other.

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