Method for producing a security element with two security features and use of the method

Abstract

Method for producing a security element (300), comprising the following method steps: (a) providing a light-sensitive film (200) comprising at least one carrier layer (210) and a light-sensitive functional layer (220) lying flat thereon; and (b) exposing the light-sensitive film (200) at least in regions to form a pattern in the light-sensitive functional layer (220), wherein the security element (300) is formed with a first security feature (310); characterized in that the method additionally comprises the following method step: (c) printing the carrier layer (210) on the side opposite the functional layer, whereby a second security feature (320) is produced.

Description

Field of the invention:

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing a security element with two security features. The invention is based on a method comprising the following method steps: (a) providing a light-sensitive film having at least one carrier layer and a light-sensitive functional layer lying flat thereon, and optionally a protective layer on the side of the light-sensitive functional layer opposite the carrier layer; (b) exposing the light-sensitive film to a pattern; and (b') optionally fixing the exposed light-sensitive film to form a security element with a security feature. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to the use of the method for producing a valuable or security document. State of the art and background of the invention:

[0002] Processes for producing valuable or security documents are known per se. These serve to verify the identity of a person, for example, when crossing a national border, or the identity or object or a claim, for example, to payment of a sum of money or the release of a product or provision of a service. To do so, it must be ensured that the document cannot be imitated, forged, or falsified, or only with considerable effort. The document therefore contains security features that are extremely difficult or even practically impossible to imitate. For example, the document, such as a banknote, is made of a material that is not readily available.Additionally or alternatively, security features can be created using special colors, such as luminescent or optically variable colors, optical elements such as holograms, tilting images, cinematic objects, lens or prism arrays, guilloche patterns, mottled fibers, security threads, and others. Furthermore, it is also necessary that the valuable or security documents can be produced easily and securely.

[0003] For example, optical security features in the form of security elements can be manufactured separately and then affixed as patches, layers, security threads, security strips, or the like to an external surface on the valuable or security document or to an internal surface within the valuable or security document, and in the latter case, integrated into the document. Such security elements can be optically variable elements, so that visually perceptible phenomena created thereby are either recognizable or not recognizable and / or can take on different forms depending on the angle at which the valuable or security document is viewed. For example, DE 10 2009 007 552 A1 discloses that valuable or security documents can be provided with a security feature produced using holographic, in particular volume holographic, means.

[0004] DE 10 2009 007 552 A1 discloses a method for producing multi-layer security products consisting of at least one card and at least one polymer film applied to at least one side of the card, wherein the polymer film is provided as a roll and is provided with at least one security feature. For this purpose, a roller conveyor of the polymer film and at least one strip with an n-fold number of panels are fed to a laminating station and laminated. Before lamination, a control line on the polymer film assigned to the at least one security feature to be applied to the respective panel, or a control line assigned to the panel or the strip and / or the reference mark are scanned. A feed speed and / or a feed direction of the roller conveyor of the polymer film and the strip are adjusted to ensure exact alignment with one another.The roller conveyor of the polymer film can be customized and, for example, contain holograms.

[0005] For example, for the production of identity documents that feature individualizing holograms or other optical diffraction elements, the optical diffraction elements are initially provided in the form of rolls, with each roll containing a plurality of optical diffraction elements. After all optical diffraction elements on a roll have been completed, these are connected to the assigned identity document blanks. Since this multitude of optical diffraction elements located on such a roll, which define a production batch, can only be further processed once all optical diffraction elements on this roll have been completed, a significant delay in the process results, at least for those optical diffraction elements on the roll that were produced first.Therefore, the problem arises that the time required to produce a value or security document is also largely determined by the time required to produce all security elements on the web material of a roll of security elements.

[0006] To solve this problem, DE 10 2015 210 522 A1 proposes a method for producing a multi-layer value or security document, which is formed at least by a polymeric base layer and a security element laminated thereon. This method comprises the following method steps: (a) Providing polymeric base material in the form of single or multiple polymeric base material panels comprising polymeric base layer panels; (b) Providing a web material in roll format intended for producing a plurality of security element panels; (c) Producing the security element panels on and / or in the web material; (d) Combining and stacking a single or multiple polymeric base material panel and security element panels on top of one another such that a polymeric base layer panel and a security element panel lie precisely on top of one another;and (e) bonding the respective polymeric base layer panels and the security element panels to one another over the surface, wherein single or multiple security material panels having one or more security element panels are separated from the web material in roll format and the single or multiple security material panels are then processed in process steps (d) and (e);

[0007] Furthermore, DE 10 2015 226 604 A1 specifies a method for integrating a hologram into a security document body comprising a lamination body. The method comprises the steps of: providing a hologram film with a carrier substrate layer and a photo layer; providing further substrate layers; and performing a lamination to form the lamination body. The hologram film is combined with the further substrate layers to form a substrate layer stack and combined with the further substrate layers in a lamination process to form the lamination body.

[0008] EP 2 200 842 B1 relates to a security and / or value document comprising at least two substrate layers stacked together, each substrate layer bearing a diffractive security element. Furthermore, a method for producing such a security and / or value document is described.

[0009] DE 39 32 505 C2 describes a system comprising a series of data carriers, in particular identity cards, securities or the like, in which the data carriers belonging to the system have diffraction structures which contain standard information, in which parts of the series are modified or combined with other elements by additional measures in the area of ​​the diffraction structures in such a way that they are optically distinguishable from the rest of the series, wherein the modification of the diffraction structures and / or the combination with other elements conveys an overall aesthetic impression and the modification and / or combination with the other elements cannot be reversed without destroying the diffraction structures.

[0010] DE 10 2016 214 070 A1 describes a method for simplifying the production of a polymer laminate having at least one diffraction element. The method comprises the following method steps: (a) providing a diffraction element material comprising a carrier film and a light-sensitive layer located thereon, as well as at least one polymer layer; (b) producing the at least one diffraction element by producing a light-diffracting layer from the light-sensitive layer by creating a light-diffracting pattern in the light-sensitive layer of the at least one diffraction element material; (c) assembling the at least one diffraction element and at least one polymer layer to form a layer stack; and (d) surface-bonding the at least one diffraction element and the at least one polymer layer using a lamination process to form the polymer laminate. Objects underlying the invention:

[0011] If, in addition to a hologram that, for example, individualizes the document holder, a personalized security feature generated by printing is to be integrated into the valuable or security document, such as a passport or ID card, using these known processes, the problem arises that these two security features must be correctly assigned to each other during document production in order to integrate them into the same document. This requires meticulous management of all data required for document production and careful data management to match the correct hologram with the correct card blank, which already contains a personalized print. If this is not possible in every case, the produced document must be discarded.This assignment requires considerable logistical effort in the production of such documents, making production time-consuming and complex, as well as requiring too much equipment and prone to errors. For example, DE 10 2015 226 604 A1 states that the additional substrate layers used to produce the document can contain printing. Similarly, DE 10 2015 210 522 A1 mentions that the card formats used to produce the documents can already be personalized using a facial image, which can be created using a printing process. A further disadvantage of these processes is that they are very lengthy, so the effort required to produce the documents is considerable.

[0012] Another disadvantage is that the hologram has to be applied to the card blank in the oversized format and individual panels are then produced using a punch, after which it is only then possible to remove faulty panels from the production process.

[0013] Therefore, the present invention is based on the object of taking measures in the production of valuable or security documents with which, in particular, error-prone and costly production of the documents can be avoided. Definitions:

[0014] Where the term "value or security document" is used in the description and claims of this application, it is understood to mean, for example, a passport, identity card, driver's license, access control card or other ID card, vehicle registration document, vehicle registration certificate, visa, check, means of payment, in particular a banknote, a check, bank, credit, or cash payment card, customer card, health card, chip card, company ID, proof of authorization, membership card, gift or shopping voucher, waybill or other proof of authorization, tax stamp, postage stamp, ticket, token, or other document. The value or security document can also be, for example, a smart card.The valuable or security document can be in ID 1, ID 2, ID 3, or any other standardized or non-standardized format, for example, in booklet form, as in a passport-like item, or in card form. A valuable or security document is generally a laminate of several document layers that are bonded together in precise registration using heat and increased pressure. Valuable or security documents should meet standardized requirements, for example, according to ISO 10373, ISO / IEC 7810, and ISO 14443 in the respective versions valid on the filing date of this application.

[0015] The valuable or security document layers are preferably made of a polymer material suitable for lamination and which imparts the required mechanical and chemical properties to the document. The valuable or security document can be formed from one or more polymers selected from a group comprising polycarbonate (PC), in particular bisphenol A polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and derivatives thereof, such as glycol-modified PET (PETG), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyimide (PI), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polystyrene (PS), polyvinylphenol (PVP), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), in particular thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), and derivatives thereof, or paper or cardboard or glass or metal or ceramic. It is preferably made of PC or PC / TPU / PC.The polymers can be either filled or unfilled. In the latter case, they are preferably transparent or translucent. If the polymers are filled, they are opaque. The document is preferably made from 3 to 12, preferably 4 to 10, films. The films can also carry printing layers.

[0016] Where the terms "individualising", "individualised", "personalising" and "personalised" are used in the description and claims of this application, this means that the security feature or security element to which the respective term refers distinguishes a valuable or security document from other valuable or security documents and assigns the valuable or security document to a specific entity (in the case of the terms "individualising" or "individualised"), in particular to a specific person (in the case of the terms "personalising" or "personalised"). The valuable or security document can also be assigned to an object, such as a motor vehicle, sales product or a security, instead of to a person. Through individualisation orPersonalization allows a third party to recognize the unique assignment of the value or security document to the entity or to groups of identical or similar entities.

[0017] Where the term "hologram" is used in the description and claims of this application, it refers to holographic information stored in a light-sensitive photopolymer layer that can be reconstructed by irradiating it with electromagnetic radiation of a suitable wavelength and direction. Interference structures representing the hologram are stored in the light-sensitive functional layer of the light-sensitive film. This hologram can be formed, for example, via local refractive index variations.

[0018] Where the term "light-sensitive functional layer" is used in the description and claims of this application, this refers to a layer into which a diffractive optical structure can preferably be stored via an exposure process or is stored after exposure and, if appropriate, fixation of the hologram. Alternatively, a photograph or a motif of an original produced in another way can also be created in the light-sensitive functional layer. In the unexposed state, such a layer can contain, for example, a three-dimensionally cross-linked photopolymer.

[0019] Where the term "pattern" is used in the description and claims of this application, this refers to a diffraction structure formed in a volume region and / or on the surface of a material, or a distribution of elements conveying an optical impression to the human eye in any way. In the latter case, the element distribution is preferably to be understood as a two-dimensional arrangement of light-absorbing locations on one or more (external or internal) planes on and / or in the document, which result in a self-contained representation, for example an image, image element, character, in particular an alphanumeric character, a symbol, coat of arms, decoration, logo, ornament, motif, a line, formula, drawing, simple geometric shape, or the like.For the purposes of the present invention, a visible pattern can be formed in a single color, including black, white, and / or gray, or in multiple colors. The pattern can form an individualizing or non-individualizing marking.

[0020] Where the term "security element" is used in the description and claims of this application, this refers to both a piece of material with one or more security features that can be further processed into a single valuable or security document (single-use), and a piece of material from which multiple valuable or security documents can be produced by separating it (multiple use). For example, a security element in the form of a single use can also be understood to mean a piece of material that does not yet have the final format of the valuable or security document to be produced from it. The latter can be produced from it by trimming. The security element may also not yet have all the features of the finished valuable or security document, which is intended to contain additional security features.

[0021] Where the terms 'lamination' and 'lamination' are used in the description and claims of this application, they are understood to mean the surface bonding of at least two workpieces containing polymer material, for example at least two polymer films, to one another under the influence of pressure and heat for a predetermined period of time, with no additional adhesive material being used between the two layers to be bonded. Typically, a monolithic bond between the two bonding partners is created by the softening or liquefaction of the layer materials due to the glass transition temperature of the polymer material being reached, i.e.A boundary line between the two materials is no longer recognizable in a prepared cross-section unless different materials are in contact with each other and / or there are foreign components, such as printing ink, in the interface area that mark the interface.

[0022] Where the term "protective layer" is used in the description and claims of this application, this refers to a layer that is optionally used to produce the security element together with the carrier layer, the functional layer, and optionally further layers. The protective layer is used to protect a valuable or security document from external damage or other impairments if the security element is bonded to the other components of the document with the protective layer facing outwards. Furthermore, the protective layer protects the light-sensitive or exposed film during processing, i.e., even before bonding to the other components of the document, against damage and other impairments to the functional layer. Basic features of the invention and preferred embodiments:

[0023] The present invention is based on the finding that it is advantageous to produce a first security feature formed in a light-sensitive film and a second security feature formed by printing not in independently conducted production processes, but instead in the same production process. This initially involves producing a semi-finished product in which, for example, a hologram, in particular a volume hologram and very particularly preferably a holographic image, and the printing, for example a photograph, are combined. This ensures, on the one hand, that individualizing first and second security features can be easily assigned in the same value or security document, whereas this is not readily possible with conventional manufacturing processes.This semi-finished product can then be combined with polymer films or other polymer bodies to form a document body, particularly by lamination. A single panel (security element) can then be separated from the semi-finished product, for example, by punching.

[0024] This eliminates the previously required individual processes of applying a hologram or another security feature produced using the light-sensitive film and punching out individual panels after the hologram application.

[0025] The above-mentioned objects underlying the present invention are achieved by a method for producing a security element with two security features. The method comprises the following method steps: (a) Providing a light-sensitive film; the light-sensitive film has at least one carrier layer and a light-sensitive functional layer lying flat thereon, and optionally a protective layer on the side of the light-sensitive functional layer opposite the carrier layer; optionally, the light-sensitive film may additionally have one or more further layers (layers / films); (b) exposing the light-sensitive film at least in part to form a pattern in the light-sensitive functional layer, whereby the security element is formed with a first security feature; the exposed area may be smaller than the format of the light-sensitive film; in particular, the exposed area may also be smaller than the format that the light-sensitive film occupies on / in a valuable or security document; (b') optionally fixing the exposed light-sensitive film; if the exposed and optionally fixed film does not yet have a protective layer, such a layer can be applied to the side of the functional layer opposite the carrier layer, preferably after process step (b) or (b') and preferably before process step (c); and (c) printing the carrier layer on the side opposite the functional layer, thereby creating a second security feature.

[0026] In contrast to the method according to the invention, in known methods, a hologram is laminated after its production onto a precursor of the value or security document, which is produced by lamination from polymer layers and additionally has one or more printed features, i.e., glued onto it using an adhesive, as described in DE 10 2015 210 522 A1. Alternatively, in known methods, the hologram is assembled into a stack after its production together with polymer layers, which are additionally provided with one or more printed features, and bonded to them by lamination (DE 10 2015 226 604 A1).

[0027] By forming the printed (second) security feature according to the invention on or in the same substrate (the security element) as the (first) security feature formed, for example, in the form of a (volume) hologram, the generation of these two security features can be initiated practically in parallel, so that security elements are introduced into the valuable or security document at two individualization levels in a single processing step. This has the advantage that the first and second individualizing security features for a given security document can be easily assigned to one another. This largely eliminates misallocation, so that faulty documents are not produced due to such misallocations. Furthermore, the two security features can be produced practically simultaneously because they are generated in / on the same substrate.This enables a shortened process with the advantage of requiring a smaller production facility. In conventional processes, however, the two security features are created in / on different substrates, which are typically produced in sequential processes, resulting in a significantly longer process.

[0028] It is preferably provided that the above-mentioned process steps are carried out in the specified order, wherein, if appropriate, at least one further process step can be provided between individual, several, or all successive process step pairs of the above-mentioned sequence. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, process step (c) (printing the carrier layer) is carried out after carrying out process step (b) (exposing the light-sensitive film) or, if appropriate, after carrying out the optional process step (b') (fixing the exposed light-sensitive film) or, if appropriate, between process step (b) and the optional process step (b').Between process steps (b), (b'), and (c), additional process steps can be performed, such as laminating another layer, such as a protective layer, or trimming the security element material or separating multiple security elements from the security element material. Alternatively, the printing (process step (c)) can also be created before exposing the light-sensitive film (process step (b)).

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the light-sensitive film is a holographic film. It has proven particularly advantageous to integrate full-surface security elements into valuable or security documents, for example in the form of diffraction-optical elements, in particular holograms. For example, German identity cards and the passport cards of German passports contain a full-surface hologram known under the brand name Identigram, into which several different diffraction-optical security features are integrated, including at least one volume reflection hologram.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first security feature can preferably be a volume hologram. Instead of a volume hologram, any other diffractive-optical security element or yet another security feature can also be generated in the light-sensitive film. Examples of diffractive-optical elements that can be formed are holograms, in particular reflection holograms, cinegraphic holograms, or volume holograms, or furthermore, diffractive structures, such as blazed structures, linear gratings, cross gratings, hexagonal gratings, asymmetric or symmetric grating structures, or diffraction structures.

[0031] The first security feature can preferably be individualizing, more preferably personalizing. The second security feature can also preferably be individualizing, more preferably personalizing. Preferably, at least one of the two security features can also be machine-readable.

[0032] The carrier layer of the light-sensitive film is a substrate layer, which is preferably mechanically self-supporting and with which the light-sensitive functional layer is in contact. The carrier layer can be formed, in particular, from one or more of the materials from which the layers of the valuable or security document can also be formed. The carrier layer is preferably made of polycarbonate, particularly preferably based on bisphenol A.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protective layer of the light-sensitive film is in the form of a scratch-resistant layer. This layer can remain in the document during production of the valuable or security document or can be subsequently removed. The protective layer is preferably made of polycarbonate, particularly preferably of polycarbonate based on bisphenol A. Alternatively, a protective layer made of polyethylene terephthalate is also possible. A radiation-curable protective layer, in particular one curable by UV radiation, is conceivable and advantageous. The material of the protective layer is preferably formed from a material based on an optional thermoplastic binder, one or more radiation-curable monomers, preferably selected from the group of mono- or oligofunctional acrylates or methacrylates, as well as one or more UV initiators and / or other additives or auxiliaries.The protective layer can be provided with an additional protective film.

[0034] Accordingly, the photosensitive film is preferably formed by a material comprising a single- or multi-layer carrier layer (thickness typically 20 µm to 200 µm, preferably 35 µm to 100 µm, particularly preferably 50 µm ± 5 µm), a photosensitive functional layer (thickness typically 2 µm to 25 µm, preferably 5 µm to 20 µm, particularly preferably 15 µm ± 3 µm) and optionally a protective layer (thickness typically 5 µm to 50 µm, preferably 7 µm to 30 µm, particularly preferably 8 µm to 20 µm). These layers are preferably formed by conventional materials intended for valuable or security documents, in particular polymer materials, and are particularly preferably in the form of films / layers, namely in the form of the carrier film, the light-sensitive functional layer and the protective layer.For this purpose, a conventional light-sensitive material, for example a photopolymer, preferably based on polyurethane (see, for example, WO 2014 / 029717 A1; the disclosure of this document as prior art, at least with regard to the composition of the photopolymer described therein, is expressly incorporated herein by reference; to this extent, this disclosure is incorporated into the present application), a silver halide layer, dichromate gelatin, or another photographic material suitable for producing diffractive-optical elements, in particular for volume holography, is used for the light-sensitive functional layer. The light-sensitive film can be formed, for example, by a commercially available film. A high-temperature-stable photopolymer is advantageous.Such photopolymers are described, for example, in WO 2011 / 054797 A and WO 2011 / 067057 A and preferably consist of a material based on a three-dimensionally crosslinked binder, preferably polyurethane, containing light-sensitive components and writing chemistry (ingredients in a matrix of photopolymers) into which bright holograms can be written by holographic exposure followed by a bleaching step. At least with regard to the composition and production process of the photopolymer, express reference is made to the disclosure of this prior art document, which is incorporated into the present application.

[0035] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photosensitive film is produced using a process described, for example, in WO 2009 / 056111 A1. The disclosure of this prior art document, at least with regard to the process for producing the photosensitive film, is expressly incorporated into the present application. According to this embodiment, the photosensitive film in the form of a composite is made up of at least a first polymer layer (carrier layer) and a second polymer layer (protective layer), each made of a polycarbonate polymer based on bisphenol A, with the photosensitive functional layer being arranged between the polymer layers. The process comprises the following process steps: (a) the photosensitive functional layer is arranged on the carrier layer;(b) the carrier layer is coated on the side on or in which the photosensitive functional layer is arranged, at least in the region of the functional layer, with a liquid preparation containing a solvent or a solvent mixture and a polycarbonate derivative based on a geminal disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane; (c) optionally, process step (b) is followed by a drying process step, preferably at an elevated temperature, in particular in the range from 20 °C to 120 °C, for a predetermined drying time, preferably from 1 minute to 600 minutes; (d) following process step (b) or process step (c), the protective layer is placed on the sandwich of photosensitive functional layer and carrier layer, the photosensitive functional layer being covered; (e) the sandwich formed is subjected to pressure, for example 10 N / cm; 2 up to 100 N / cm 2, laminated at elevated temperature, for example in the range from 120°C to 220°C, and for a defined period of time, for example from 0.5 s to 45 min, in particular from 10 min to 30 min. The usable polycarbonate derivatives based on a geminal disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane and their preparation processes are described, for example (in the form of a binder for screen printing inks) in EP 0 688 839 A2.

[0036] The disclosure of this prior art document is expressly incorporated by reference, at least with regard to the composition of the preparation described therein, and particularly with regard to the composition of the binder described therein and the preparation of the components of this binder and the binder itself. To this extent, this disclosure is incorporated into the present application. The polycarbonate derivative preferably has an average molecular weight (weight average) of at least 10,000 g / mol, preferably 20,000 to 300,000 g / mol.

[0037] Diffractive optical elements are created in the light-sensitive film by exposure (process step (b)) and optionally fixing (process step (b')). To produce a diffractive optical structure or another pattern as a security feature, an exposure device (optionally with a fixing device) is used, which is formed by a processing device for exposing and optionally fixing the light-sensitive film to form the structure or pattern in the film. To produce a hologram, the light-sensitive film is holographically exposed in a known manner. A method that can be used for this purpose is described, for example, in EP 0 896 260 A2. Express reference is made to the disclosure of this prior art document, at least with regard to this method, which is incorporated into the present application. An exposure unit is used for this method step.The functional material can then be fixed. In particular, heat (radiant energy in the infrared range) can be applied. For this purpose, an oven or an infrared range is used. Alternatively, electromagnetic radiation in the visible or UV spectral range can be used to fix the functional material. Devices for performing the fixing step are known and commercially available.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photosensitive film is exposed but not yet fixed. In such a case, a film is first provided which has the photosensitive functional layer and the carrier layer and onto which a curable film can be laminated as a protective layer before printing on the film on the side of the functional layer, i.e. either already after exposure (process step (b)) and optionally before fixing (process step (b')) or optionally only after fixing, but in any case before printing (process step (c)). A curable protective layer in this case is a flat layer which can be changed in terms of its chemical and / or physical structure by the input of energy so that it has greater strength after the input of energy.Curing and fixing are particularly preferably achieved by irradiating with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In particular, such a layer comprises prepolymers, monomers, and / or oligomers, or polymers that are induced to a higher polymerization stage and / or crosslink by the application of energy.

[0039] Since the photopolymer is typically sensitive to external influences (e.g., humidity, elevated temperature, chemicals, light) due to its chemical nature, so that the properties of a formed holographic grating can be lost or damaged, it is advantageous to laminate the optional protective layer onto the photosensitive functional layer using a dry process. For this purpose, a carrier-supported protective layer can be used. This is laminated to the film made of photopolymer and carrier layer. After the protective layer has cured, it binds more strongly to the photopolymer than to the carrier, so that the carrier can ultimately be peeled off and the protective layer remains on the photopolymer. A carrier made of a polyethylene-based material is preferably used for this purpose. A material specified above for the radiation-curable protective layer can be used for the protective layer.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a diffractive-optical feature (first security feature) is formed by a (volume) hologram of the facial image of the document holder. It is particularly preferred if a volume reflection hologram is exposed into the light-sensitive functional layer, which is produced, for example, as an individualized contact copy from a hologram master. Individualization is achieved by spatial modulation of the light used for copying.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier layer is printed in process step (c). Although the protective layer can also be printed in this process step, this printing is disadvantageous due to the lower thickness of the protective layer (see below).

[0042] Any printing ink can be used to create the print as the second security feature of the security element, and it can be printed using any printing process. However, according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is preferred to form a printing ink used for printing the carrier layer or, if applicable, the protective layer with a binder based on a polycarbonate, which is particularly preferably produced from a geminally disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane with one or more polyols. Printing inks containing such a binder are known from DE 10 2007 052 ​​947 A1.Express reference is made to the disclosure of this prior art document, at least with regard to the composition of the preparation described therein, very particularly with regard to the composition of the binder described therein and the production of the components of this binder. To this extent, this disclosure is incorporated into the present application. By using this printing ink, the printing on the security element can be printed over a large area without the problem of a separating layer caused by the printing ink, which would lead to the value or security document being separated between the security element and the at least one polymer film. For example, this printing ink can therefore also be used to produce a flat print, such as a flat print leaving a window (which would otherwise be continuous).

[0043] The printing ink can contain conventional colorants (dyes, pigments) in a conventional manner, whereby dyes are preferable to pigments because they diffuse more easily into the materials of the security element and the at least one polymer film, so that a check of the value or security document for tampering is made possible by the fact that residues of the printing remain in the at least one polymer film when the security element is replaced by manipulation.

[0044] In principle, any colorant or colorant mixture can be considered a colorant. Colorants are defined as all color-imparting substances. This means that they can be both dyes (for an overview of dyes, see Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, Electronic Release 2007, Wiley Verlag, chapter "Dyes, General Survey") and pigments (for an overview of organic and inorganic pigments, see Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, Electronic Release 2007, Wiley Verlag, chapter "Pigments, Organic" and "Pigments, Inorganic").

[0045] The colorants can absorb electromagnetic radiation in the visible (VIS) spectral range, thus making the print visible to the naked eye. Colorants that absorb electromagnetic radiation in a spectral range other than the visible spectral range, namely in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range and / or the infrared (IR) spectral range, are also conceivable, optionally in addition to the visible spectral range. Furthermore, printing inks can be used whose colorants are or contain photoluminescent agents. These agents either fluoresce or phosphoresce when excited by electromagnetic radiation, for example, UV, VIS, and / or IR radiation. Electroluminescent agents are also conceivable. The luminescence can be in the VIS, IR, and / or UV spectral range.In a typical application of photoluminescent agents, they are excited by UV or IR radiation and luminesce in the visible spectral range. In addition to absorption in the VIS spectral range, the colorants can also luminesce, particularly in the VIS spectral range. In addition to absorption in the VIS spectral range, luminescence in the IR and / or UV spectral range is also conceivable. Alternatively, the colorants can exclusively luminesce, but not absorb in the VIS spectral range.

[0046] Furthermore, colorants in the form of optically variable pigments are also possible. Such pigments typically exhibit interference colors by being present in thin layers. Such pigments are available, for example, from Merck AG, Germany, under the trade name Iriodin®. Printing inks containing cholesteric liquid crystal pigments or ferromagnetic pigments are also conceivable.

[0047] For example, the printing inks can also be machine-readable if they contain the colorants mentioned above.

[0048] For inkjet printing, colorants must be sufficiently temperature stable and, above all, have a very fine particle size distribution. In practice, this means that the particle size should not exceed 1.0 µm, as otherwise clogging of the print head will result. Nanoscale solid pigments and dissolved dyes have generally proven to be effective.

[0049] Colorants suitable for printing can be cationic, anionic, or neutral. Examples of suitable colorants include: Brilliant Black CI No. 28440, Chromogenic Black CI No. 14645, Direct Deep Black E CI No. 30235, Fast Black Salt B CI No. 37245, Fast Black Salt K CI No. 37190, Sudan Black HB CI 26150, Naphtol Black CI No. 20470, Bayscript® Black Liquid, CI Basic Black 11, CI Basic Blue 154, Cartasol® Turquoise K-ZL Liquid, Cartasol® Turquoise K-RL Liquid (CI Basic Blue 140), and Cartasol Blue K5R Liquid. Other suitable dyes are, for example, the commercially available dyes Hostafine® Black TS liquid (distributed by Clariant GmbH Germany), Bayscript® Black liquid (CI mixture, distributed by Lanxess), Cartasol® Black MG liquid (CI Basic Black 11, trademark of Clariant GmbH Germany), Flexonyl®black PR 100 (E CI No.30235, distributed by Clariant), Rhodamine B, Cartasol® Orange K3 GL, Cartasol® Yellow K4 GL, Cartasol® K GL, or Cartasol® Red K-3B. Furthermore, anthraquinone, azo, quinophthalone, coumarin, methine, perinone, and / or pyrazole dyes, e.g., available under the brand name Macrolex®, can be used as soluble colorants. Other suitable colorants are described in the literature reference Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, Electronic Release 2007, Wiley Verlag, chapter "Colorants Used in Ink Jet Inks." Easily soluble colorants lead to optimal integration into the matrix or binder of the printing layer. As stated above, the binder can be formed, in particular, by a polycarbonate derivative based on a geminal disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane. For this purpose, reference is made to DE 10 2007 052 ​​947 A1. This document describes various variants of these derivatives and their manufacturing processes.The disclosure of this prior art document is expressly incorporated by reference, at least to this extent, and incorporated into the present disclosure. The colorants can be added either directly as dyes or pigments or as a paste, a mixture of dye and pigment together with an additional binder. This additional binder should be chemically compatible with the other components of the preparation. When using so-called color pigments in the process colors cyan-magenta-yellow and, preferably, (carbon black)-black, solid color images are possible.

[0050] The second security feature can be implemented using conventional printing techniques. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the printing can be produced using a digital printing process, for example, an inkjet printing process or a xerography process (electrophotographic printing process). A laser engraving process is also conceivable. Due to their great flexibility, digital printing processes are particularly well suited for producing individualized printed images. As an alternative to a digital printing process, any other printing process can of course also be used in the process according to the invention for producing the second security feature, for example, a planographic printing, gravure printing, or screen printing process, in particular an offset, flexographic, or screen printing process.

[0051] By creating the first and second security features, the security element can be individualized, in particular personalized.

[0052] Furthermore, in a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the printing of the security element is formed by printing the facial image of the document holder.

[0053] The two security features can be arranged in such a way that they overlap, ensuring greater protection against counterfeiting.

[0054] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, after carrying out process step (c), the following further process steps are carried out: (d) assembling the security element with at least one polymer layer to form a layer stack and (e) laminating the security element with the at least one polymer layer to form a valuable or security document.

[0055] A valuable or security document is produced by gathering and subsequently combining the security element having the first and second security features with at least one polymer layer. Typically, the thickness of the security element is not sufficient to form a valuable or security document. Furthermore, additional security features can be incorporated into the document using additional polymer layers, for example, non-individualizing prints such as guilloche prints and / or an (integrated semiconductor) circuit for storing personal data, for example, or individualizing prints, for example, individualizing information inscribed into one of the polymer films by laser engraving.

[0056] Preferably, the security element is assembled and joined with the polymer layers in such a way that it rests on one side against the polymer layer stack, ie is arranged on the outside of the polymer layer stack.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to first produce a non-individualized raw document body (polymer layer), for example, a raw card body, by producing it, for example, by laminating it from several polymer films, and then to individualize it with the security element by bonding the security element to this raw document body. In this way, many identical non-individualized raw document bodies can be produced in a central production facility and, after transport to a decentralized production facility, individualized there with the respective individualizing security features of the corresponding security element.Preferably, however, the individualized security element is laminated with individual polymer films to form the corresponding value or security documents without the polymer films being previously combined to form a raw document body.

[0058] For example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or even more polymer layers can be used together with the security element. Preferably, 5 to 8, most preferably 6, polymer layers are used. The thickness of these layers can be arbitrarily selected, taking into account the requirements of the value or security document. For example, the thickness of the individual layers can be 20 µm to 500 µm, preferably 50 µm to 200 µm, and most preferably 100 µm ± 10 µm. The polymer layers can be made from materials commonly used for the production of value or security documents. They are preferably made from polycarbonate and / or polyethylene terephthalate. More preferably, polycarbonate is used for this purpose, and most preferably, polycarbonate based on bisphenol A. All polymer films can be made from the same material or from different materials.If they are made of the same material, a particularly high bond strength is achieved between the layers. The polymer films can be printed, for example, with additional individualizing or non-individualizing, possibly machine-readable, security features and / or with flat printing layers. Furthermore, windows can be removed from the polymer layers, for example, punched out. Additionally, an inlay made of a polymer film with a circuit consisting of a semiconductor chip and connection contacts and / or an RFID antenna can be integrated into the document by placing this inlay between polymer layers in the stack to be joined.

[0059] The security element is preferably located on an outer side of the document. It is preferably bonded to the polymer layers in such a way that there is no further layer, including an adhesive layer, between the security element and the polymer film located on the side of the layer stack facing the security element. However, it is conceivable that an adhesive layer is also arranged between the security element and this polymer film. The latter case is particularly interesting when the security element is adhered to a raw card body already produced by lamination, for example as a patch, label, or the like, or as a laminated element covering the entire surface of the raw card body. The security element can also be adhered to a sales product to guarantee its authenticity.

[0060] The polymer layers can be transparent, translucent (translucent), or opaque, with one, some, or none being transparent, one, some, or none being translucent, and one, some, or none being opaque. If an electrical circuit is to be integrated into the polymer layer stack, it is preferred if the polymer layers adjacent to the electrical circuit are opaque in order to shield the electrical circuit from view from the outside. This applies in particular to the polymer layer on which the electrical circuit is mounted (circuit carrier layer) and the polymer layer adjacent to the electrical circuit. The outer polymer layers can be transparent in order to keep internal printing visible.Preferably, in addition to a protective layer in the form of a scratch-resistant layer on the security element, a further outer polymer layer can be formed as a scratch-resistant layer and, for this purpose, can be made of polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate or another suitable polymer, for example an acrylate polymer. This further outer polymer layer is more preferably the one arranged on the (main) side (back) opposite the (main) side of the document (front) on which the security element is arranged. An inner polymer layer in the value or security document can be provided with an individualizing or non-individualizing security print, for example with a guilloche print and / or with logos and / or with a card number and / or with general information about the card issuing authority.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier layer of the security element in the layer stack rests against the at least one polymer layer to which the security element is bonded. Thus, the protective layer of the security element is located on one of the outer sides of the valuable or security document. By printing the carrier layer to form the second security feature, the printing is arranged internally within the document. This protects the printing against tampering.

[0062] In principle, however, it is also conceivable for the carrier layer to be arranged on the outside of the document, i.e., for the protective layer to be in contact with the at least one polymer layer, particularly if the protective layer is made of polycarbonate. If, in this case, the carrier layer is printed to form the second security feature, this printing is exposed on the surface of the document. This is disadvantageous, however, because the printing is easily manipulated due to its exposure. If, in this arrangement, the protective layer is arranged on the inside of the document, it can also be printed to form the second security feature in order to arrange the printing on the inside. Since the protective layer is usually very thin, a diffractive optical element in the functional layer can be impaired, at least at the locations where printed surface areas are located, i.e.,In this case, the printing influences the diffractive element, causing it to overlay the diffractive element. For example, solvents in the printing ink can widen the resulting diffraction grating, causing local changes in the diffraction conditions. This reduces the sharpness of the reconstructed image. Furthermore, this change can affect the colors of the diffractive image.

[0063] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a polymer layer region of the value or security document adjacent to the carrier layer is made of polycarbonate. In particular, the polymer layer that is in contact with the security element, i.e., adjacent to it, can be made of polycarbonate. By selecting this material for the polymer layer region adjacent to the carrier layer, very good mechanical properties are created in the value or security document.

[0064] In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier layer is made of polycarbonate. The choice of polycarbonate for the carrier layer also creates very good mechanical properties in the valuable or security document.

[0065] If both of the above-mentioned document layer components (carrier layer and adjacent polymer layer regions) are made of polycarbonate, a very strong connection of the security element with the at least one polymer layer is created.

[0066] The polymer layers can be made of the usual materials typically used to manufacture valuable or security documents. In principle, it is possible that not only the polymer layers directly adjacent to the security element, but also some other or all polymer layers in the layer stack are made of polycarbonate, particularly bisphenol A-based polycarbonate.

[0067] The security element and the polymer layers or the raw document body are assembled into a stack of layers in the usual way. For this purpose, these document components can be stacked on top of one another at a document stacking station in a suitable device and then secured together. For precise assembly, the individual components are preferably placed on top of one another using the registration marks contained therein, so that they lie precisely on top of one another. The components can be secured together either detachably or permanently: The components can be joined together by spot welding, or mechanical means, such as clamps, are used to firmly connect the components in a stack of layers before they are finally joined.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the security element and the at least one polymer layer or the raw document body are bonded (joined) to one another by lamination. Preferably, a conventional hot / cold lamination process is used, in which the fixed stack of the security element and the at least one polymer layer (or an already bonded raw document body) is first pressed under elevated pressure and elevated temperature for a first predetermined period of time, then cooled with increasing pressure and held in this state for a second predetermined period of time, optionally under even further increased pressure. The pressure in the hot-pressing phase is preferably at least 20 N / cm 2 , preferably in the range of 20 N / cm 2 up to 100 N / cm 2. The temperature during the hot pressing phase is preferably in the range of 150 °C to 200 °C and more preferably in the range of 160 °C to 195 °C.

[0069] The product produced by lamination can then be coated with a protective film on the side where the security element is located. This film provides further protection for the security element. A protective varnish, for example, based on an acrylic varnish, can be used.

[0070] A valuable or security document produced according to the invention can, in addition to the described security features, have further security features that are either individualizing or non-individualizing. Examples of further security features that can be considered include mottled fibers, guilloches, watermarks, embossed prints, security threads, microprints, tilt images, translucent registers, and the like. Furthermore, the document can also have electronic components, for example, an RFID circuit with an antenna and RFID microchip, electronic display elements, LEDs, touch-sensitive sensors, and the like. The electronic components can, for example, be concealed between two opaque layers of the document.

[0071] The following figures and examples serve to further explain the invention. These are merely illustrative of specific embodiments and do not limit the scope of the invention. They show in detail: Fig. 1 an isometric view of a valuable or security document produced by the method according to the invention; Fig. 2: a representation of the process steps of the process according to the invention in a first embodiment by means of a schematic representation of the processed semi-finished product in various process stages in cross section: (A) providing the light-sensitive film; (B) exposing and optionally fixing the film to form the security element with the first security feature; (C) printing the film to form the security element with the first and second security features; (D) assembling the security element and the polymer layers to form a layer stack (in the form of an exploded view); (E) laminating the layer stack to form a value or security document; Fig. 3: a representation of some of the process steps of the process according to the invention in a second embodiment by means of a schematic representation of the processed semi-finished product in various process stages in cross-section: (C) Printing on both sides of the film to form the security element with the first and second security features; (D) assembling the security element and the polymer layers to form a layer stack (in the form of an exploded view); (E) laminating the layer stack to form a value or security document; Fig. 4: a representation of part of the process steps of the process according to the invention in a third embodiment by means of a schematic representation of the processed semi-finished product in various process stages in cross-section: (D) assembling the security element and a raw card body to form a layer stack (in the form of an exploded view); (E) laminating the layer stack to form a value or security document; Fig. 5: a representation of some of the process steps of the process according to the invention in a fourth embodiment by means of a schematic representation of the processed semi-finished product in various process stages in cross-section: (D) assembling the security element and the polymer layers to form a layer stack (with electrical circuit; in the form of an exploded view); (E) laminating the layer stack to form a value or security document having an electrical circuit; Fig. 6 a reproduction of some of the process steps of the process according to the invention in a fifth embodiment by means of a schematic representation of the processed semi-finished product in various process stages in cross section: (A) providing the light-sensitive film (without protective layer); (B1) exposing and optionally fixing the film to form the security element with the first security feature; (BII) laminating a composite of a protective layer applied to a carrier; (BIII) peeling off the protective layer.

[0072] In the figures, like reference numerals designate like elements or elements with the same function. The figures do not always show the elements to scale. Furthermore, the size relationships of individual elements to others within a figure or between figures are not always shown to scale.

[0073] In Fig. 1 shows a valuable or security document in the form of an identification card 100. The following description refers to an identification card, but is transferable to any other valuable or security document. The identification card has standard dimensions, for example, the ID 1 format (ISO / IEC 7810 in the version valid at the time of registration). The card is made of a rigid plastic, for example, polycarbonate and possibly partially also of polyethylene terephthalate. It has a top side 101 and a bottom side 102. On the top side, two fields 110, 120 are visible with personalized information displayed in alphanumeric format. These include, for example, the cardholder's name, date and place of birth, nationality, date of issue, and a card number. Furthermore, it can also contain a facsimile of the cardholder's signature.

[0074] Furthermore, the cardholder's facial image is visible on the top side 101, specifically in the form of a printed photograph 130 and a volume hologram 140. Instead of the photograph and the volume hologram, other security features can also be used. The volume hologram forms a first security feature 310, and the printed photograph forms a second security feature 320. Furthermore, the volume hologram can contain a (non-personalizing) logo (not shown) in addition to the facial image.

[0075] The method according to the invention is exemplified by Fig. 2 described: According to the first step (a) of the method according to the invention ( Fig. 2A), a light-sensitive film 200 is provided. This is formed by a carrier layer 210, for example, 50 µm thick, a light-sensitive functional layer 220 lying flat thereon, which may, for example, have a thickness of 15 µm, and a protective layer 230, which may, for example, have a thickness of 10 µm to 20 µm. Alternatively, the film can also be formed solely from the carrier layer 210 and the light-sensitive functional layer 220 ( Fig. 6A). The carrier layer can preferably be made of polycarbonate. The protective layer lies on the side of the light-sensitive functional layer opposite the carrier layer. It can be made of polycarbonate or polyethylene terephthalate, for example, or based on an acrylate. The film is a commercially available holographic film that can be obtained from various manufacturers. It can be in the form of a so-called single-use sheet and, in this case, is preferably present in excess if the format of the film is larger than the ID card for which this sheet is intended. The film is preferably in the form of a multiple-use sheet, namely particularly preferably as a web material on which the holograms can be produced in a row one after the other and separated from this, for example by punching.

[0076] According to the second step (b) of the procedure ( Fig. 2B, Fig. 6BI), the light-sensitive film is exposed to form a security element 300 having a first security feature 310 in the form of a volume hologram 140, and optionally subsequently fixed (process step (b')). For this purpose, the light-sensitive film, which is preferably in the form of web material, is fed from a roll to an exposure device (optionally with a fixing device) (not shown). In the exposure device, the light-sensitive functional layer 220 is exposed. In the fixing device, heat or electromagnetic radiation in the visible or UV spectral range is applied to the material. The method for exposure and fixing is described in more detail in EP 0 896 260 A2.

[0077] For example, a facial image of the cardholder can be exposed into the light-sensitive functional layer 220 using a master hologram in the form of a volume hologram 140. Suitable methods for producing holograms, in particular volume holograms, are known and can be carried out using suitable devices. If necessary, the latent diffraction-optical structure formed in the light-sensitive functional layer is subsequently fixed (process step (b'); Fig. 2B, Fig. 6BI). For this purpose, the light-sensitive film is exposed to electromagnetic radiation in the visible or UV spectral range or to heat. Such methods are also known to those skilled in the art and can be carried out using suitable devices. When carrying out process steps (b) and (b'), the diffractive optical structure is created in the light-sensitive functional layer. This preferably forms a hologram 140.

[0078] As an alternative to producing a volume hologram 140, another pattern can also be formed in the light-sensitive functional layer 220, for example another diffractive structure or a photographic image that can be produced using a conventional photoreprographic process.

[0079] If the light-sensitive film 200 does not have a protective film 230 ( Fig. 6A), this protective film is then applied. In a preferred embodiment, the protective film can be provided in a composite in which the protective film is carried by a carrier 250 and laminated onto the exposed and optionally fixed photopolymer layer 140. For this purpose, the formed layer stack is heated and subjected to pressure ( Fig. 6BII). In a preferred embodiment, the protective layer is formed with a UV-curable material that is cured by UV radiation after lamination (not shown separately). The carrier is then peeled off, which is possible because the protective layer adheres more firmly to the layer 140 than to the carrier ( Fig. 6BIII).

[0080] Subsequently, the security element 300 provided with this first security feature 310 is processed according to the third method step (c) of the method ( Fig. 2C) printed (print layer 130), for example with the facial image of the cardholder, so that a second security feature 320 is formed. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2C, in this embodiment the carrier layer 210 of the security element 300 is printed.

[0081] Alternatively, in addition to the carrier layer 210, the protective layer 230 can also be printed (see Fig. 3C). However, in this case, the volume hologram 140 can be impaired / influenced by the printing, at least in those places where the printing areas are located.

[0082] For printing the security element 300, a digital printing process is preferably used, for example, an inkjet printing process, in order to allow sufficient flexibility for creating an individualized print. It is particularly advantageous if a printing ink is used for the printing that has a composition based on a polycarbonate, for example, based on a geminal disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane. Such printing inks have the advantage that, upon thermal exposure, they diffuse into the surface of a polymer layer 400' and the carrier layer 210 or protective layer 230 ( Fig. 3E), making it practically impossible to remove the print without leaving any residue.

[0083] With the generation of the first security feature 310 and the second security feature 320, the present invention is already realized, since a security element 300 is thereby created that has both security features. The security element can, for example, be applied to a raw card body 600 (see Fig. 4D, Fig. 4E) and bonded thereto. In this embodiment, the preceding process steps (not shown) are combined with the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. The steps shown in Figure 2C are identical.

[0084] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the finished security element 300 is assembled with polymer layers 400, 400' to form a layer stack 500, which together with the security element are intended to form the value or security document 100 ( Fig. 2D, Fig. 3D, Fig. 5D). These polymer layers can be made from the polymer materials commonly used for the production of valuable or security documents. Polycarbonate and / or polyethylene terephthalate are preferably used for this purpose. It is particularly advantageous if a region of the polymer layers adjacent to the carrier layer 210, preferably the polymer layer 400' adjacent to the carrier layer, is made of polycarbonate. This achieves a particularly high adhesive strength between this polymer layer and the adjacent carrier layer during subsequent lamination, especially if the carrier layer is also made of polycarbonate.

[0085] The same applies if it is not the carrier layer 210 that is in contact with the polymer layer 400' but the protective layer 230 ( Fig. 3D, Fig. 3E). In this embodiment, the preceding method steps for producing the security element 300 are carried out with the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B are identical to the steps shown. Fig. 2B, in this case, in contrast to the security element produced in Fig. 2C shown process step for further processing in addition to the carrier layer 210 also printed on the side of the protective layer ( Fig. 3C). This side is then assembled with the polymer layers and laminated ( Fig. 3D, Fig. 3E).

[0086] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an RFID circuit 700 or any other electrical circuit is also integrated during the manufacture of the identification card 100 ( Fig. 5D, Fig. 5E). In this embodiment, the preceding method steps for producing the security element 300 are carried out with the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 2C. For this purpose, one of the polymer layers 400 is provided with such a circuit. The circuit comprises an RFID semiconductor chip 710 and electrical wiring in the form of an RFID antenna 720. The polymer layer on which the electrical circuit is arranged, as well as the further polymer layer 400' adjacent to the side of the electrical circuit on this polymer layer, are preferably opaque in order to conceal the electrical circuit from the outside.

[0087] To join the security element 300 with the polymer layers 400, 400' or with the raw card body 600, these are in the aforementioned embodiments according to the Fig. 2 to 6 after flat stacking, are placed in a laminating press and there, under application of high pressure (P), for example 20 N / cm 2 up to 100 N / cm 2 , and high temperature (Δ), for example at 180 °C, by partially melting the layers ( Fig. 2E, Fig. 3E, Fig. 4E, Fig. 5E). These conditions are maintained for a predetermined period of time. During this stage, the printing ink tends to diffuse into the layer regions of the adjacent bonding partners. Upon subsequent cooling while maintaining or even further increasing the pressure, the resulting composite solidifies and forms a monolithic bond. Preferably, interfaces are no longer recognizable between the bonding partners. Only in the area of ​​the printing layer 130 (second security feature 320) is this interface marked by the printing ink.

[0088] In Fig. 2E, Fig. 3E, Fig. 4E, Fig. Figure 5E shows the final state of the produced ID card 100: The interfaces between the original layers 210, 230, 400, and 400' of the card 100 are shown only to illustrate the layers used. In the area of ​​the printing layer 130, it is indicated that the printing ink has diffused into both the carrier layer 210 (or protective layer 230) and the polymer layer 400' or the raw card body 600.

[0089] In the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. In one embodiment, the security element 300 can occupy the entire surface of the ID card 100. In another embodiment, the security element can occupy only a partial surface of the ID card. In the latter case, it can be applied, for example, as a label or patch to a raw card body 600 and bonded thereto. List of reference symbols: 100 valuable or security document, identification card 101 Top 102 subpage 110, 120 information fields 130 Photography 140 exposed and fixed functional layer, (volume) hologram 200 light-sensitive film 210 carrier layer 220 light-sensitive functional layer 250 carriers 230 protective layer 300 security element 310 first security feature 320 second security feature 400, 400' polymer layers 500 layer stacks 600 raw document bodies, raw card bodies 700 electrical circuit, RFID circuit 710 semiconductor chip, RFID chip 720 electrical wiring, RFID antenna

Claims

[1] Method for manufacturing a safety element (300) comprising the following process steps: (a) Providing a light-sensitive film (200), at least comprising a support layer (210) and a light-sensitive functional layer (220) lying flat against it; and (b) Exposing the light-sensitive film (200) at least partially to form a pattern in the light-sensitive functional layer (220), the security element (300) being formed with a first security feature (310); characterized by that the procedure additionally includes the following procedural step: (c) Printing the carrier layer (210) on the side opposite the functional layer, thereby creating a second security feature (320). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by, that after process step (b) a protective layer (230) is applied to the side of the light-sensitive functional layer (220) opposite the carrier layer (210). [3] Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the procedure additionally includes the following procedural step between procedural steps (b) and (c): (b') Fixing the exposed light-sensitive film. [4] Method according to claim 3, characterized by , that process step (c) is carried out after process step (b') has been carried out or between process steps (b) and (b'). [5] Method according to any of the foregoing claims, characterized by , that the light-sensitive film (200) is a holographic film and the first security feature (310) is a volume hologram. [6] Method according to any of the foregoing claims, characterized by, that after carrying out procedure step (c), the following further procedure steps are carried out: (d) Assembling the security element (300) with at least one polymer layer (400, 400') to form a layer stack (500) and (e) Laminating the security element (300) with the at least one polymer layer (400, 400') to form a valuable or security document (100). [7] Method according to claim 6, characterized by , that the support layer (210) of the safety element (300) in the layer stack (500) is in contact with at least one polymer layer (400'). [8] Method according to one of claims 6 and 7, characterized by , that a polymer layer area of ​​the valuable or security document (100) adjacent to the carrier layer (210) is formed from polycarbonate. [9] Method according to any of the foregoing claims, characterized by , that the carrier layer (210) is made of polycarbonate. [10] Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a printing ink used for printing the substrate layer (210) is formed with a binder based on a polycarbonate. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by that the polycarbonate of the printing ink is based on a geminal disubstituted dihydroxydiphenylcycloalkane with one or more polyols. [12] Use of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11 for the production of a security document (100).

Images