MAP AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE MAP

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a card, in particular a chip card for transferring money or monetary amounts in a payment transaction. The card preferably has a processing unit for managing electronic coin data records. The card can be designed, among other things, in the form of a security document, a check, a credit, identity, or other payment card, an identification card, or the like. The invention also relates to a method for producing such a card. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] It is known to arrange visible data as information on cards, for example by printing, embossing and the like.

[0003] Cards of various types need to be protected against counterfeiting. The counterfeit security of cards is usually ensured by the hardware and / or software components used. However, security elements (as security features), whose production requires considerable technological effort, are also used to protect cards against counterfeiting. One reason for the popularity of such security elements is that the optical effects caused by diffraction, refraction, lens, or micromirror structures, for example, cannot be reproduced even by the most modern copying machines, but can be easily verified by an observer.

[0004] The presence of such a security element with the defined optical effects is considered an authenticity criterion, i.e., the presence of such a security element is used to determine the authenticity of the card. For example, EP 1 259 383 A1 and EP 2 344 342 A2 each describe cards incorporating a security element.

[0005] Cash in the form of banknotes and coins is a conventional means of payment. This means of payment is issued by a central bank and then sorted out (destroyed) there. Cash is a centrally organized legal tender.

[0006] Conventional means of payment also include cashless payment transactions through transfers, checks, bills of exchange, or direct debits (so-called book money). Other cash substitutes include credit cards, prepaid cards, and traveler's checks. The prerequisite for this is that these instruments, which represent a claim to money, are in circulation as a means of payment. Circulation begins with the issuance contract and the associated transfer of the document from the issuer to the next holder. This book money is managed by financial institutions, such as private or commercial banks, and is therefore transferred between users' accounts without cash (=posted).

[0007] Digital means of payment, so-called virtual means of payment, have been around for some time. These are transferred from a payer to a payee in the form of electronic coin records through direct communication, for example, via a communications network such as the internet, or via contactless near-field communication (card-terminal) or contact-based direct communication (card-terminal). Famous examples of these virtual means of payment are cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Litecoin, and Tether, which are mostly decentralized, meaning they operate without commercial banks or central banks.

[0008] The disadvantage of existing cryptocurrencies is their decentralized organization and the resulting low level of acceptance and trustworthiness among customers.

[0009] Therefore, the German applications DE 10 2019 002 732 A1 and DE 10 2019 002 731 A1 describe an innovative digital means of payment in which a monetary amount can be transferred between end devices in the form of electronic coin data records. These electronic coin data records are received by a central authority, an issuer or its system operator, and are then sorted out (deleted or destroyed) there. These electronic coin data records can be modified by an end device, for example, switched between two owners, or split or combined. For each of these electronic coin data records, a masked coin data record can be calculated, which is uniquely and unambiguously assigned to the (unmasked) electronic coin data record in order to verify their authenticity and ownership.The masking of the electronic coin data record is preferably performed by a processing unit within the terminal device that also has or has received the at least one electronic coin data record. The terminal device described can also be a card, for example.

[0010] This innovative digital means of payment is issued centrally, for example, by a central bank, which also issues cash in addition to this innovative digital, centrally organized means of payment. Alternatively, such an innovative digital means of payment can also be issued centrally by a commercial bank in its own name.

[0011] The security of such systems is regularly enhanced through cryptographic methods, predefined payment processes, and sometimes also through software and / or hardware measures in the end device. For example, secure processors are used reversibly or permanently in end devices, or specially secured runtime environments are provided alongside conventional runtime environments.

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a particularly secure terminal for such digital payment methods, thus offering increased security, preferably for the user. In particular, the authenticity of the terminal used should also be verifiable, preferably for the user, in order to create greater trustworthiness for digital payment methods.

[0013] US Patent No. 7,363,265 B2 describes a method for facilitating payment card transactions from an underlying virtual account that exists as a data entity within an escrow account, enabling cardholders to purchase goods and services from a merchant. The cardholder can execute a transaction at any location where a debit card is currently accepted for payment. The escrow account balance does not need to be linked to a checking or credit account, which can reduce the liability of the cardholder, card issuer, and merchant.Preferably, the virtual account is initially created when the card is issued and activated and may be depleted by one or more transactions for which the card is used as a means of payment or funds transfer, and may be recharged from time to time by depositing additional funds into the virtual cardholder's account or crediting the virtual account balance as a result of a merchant refund, adjustment, or transfer from another cardholder.

[0014] EP 0 542 298 A2 describes an improved monetary system that uses electronic media to exchange economic value securely and reliably. The invention provides a complete monetary system with electronic money interchangeable with conventional paper money, comprising (1) issuing banks or financial institutions coupled to a money generator device for generating and dispensing electronic currency to subscribing customers, backed by electronic credit authorizations for demand deposits; (2) correspondent banks that accept and distribute electronic money; (3) a plurality of transaction devices used by subscribers to store electronic money, conduct monetary transactions with the online systems of the participating banks, or exchange electronic money with other similar transaction devices;(4) ATMs connected to the issuing bank and the correspondent bank for processing and connecting the transaction devices to the issuing bank and the correspondent bank, and for connecting between the issuing bank and the correspondent bank itself; and (5) a settlement bank for balancing the e-money accounts of the various issuing banks (6).

[0015] In order to avoid increased waste in the production of valuable or security documents (100), in particular identity cards, and to increase their integrity against counterfeiting and forgery, WO 2018 / 011108 A1 proposes a method for producing a valuable or security product (100).The method comprises the following steps: (a) providing an unprocessed product element (200) and at least one polymer film (300); (b) printing one of the surfaces (301) of the at least one polymer film (300) with at least one printed image (310); (c) assembling the unprocessed product element (200) and the at least one polymer film (300) to form a product stack (400), wherein the surface (301) of the at least one polymer film (300) is printed therewith, wherein a printed image (310) is brought into contact with the unprocessed product element (200); and (d) laminating the product stack (400) to produce an insoluble assembly of the unprocessed product element (200) and the at least one polymer film (300).

[0016] WO 2016 / 037895 A1 describes a banknote with one or more security features and at least one flexible printed electronic (FPE) element embedded in the banknote. At least one of the security features and at least one FPE element are interrelated. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The stated problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent patent claims.

[0018] The problem is solved in particular by a card defined in claim 1, in particular a chip card.

[0019] The card has a processing unit for managing electronic coin data records, with the electronic coin data records being issued by a central authority, and a card body with visible data and at least one visible feature. The central authority is also the issuer of a banknote series, and the at least one visible feature identifies the card to a viewer as part of the banknote series.

[0020] A chip card, often also called a smart card or (Universal) Integrated Circuit Card ((U)ICC), is a card with a card body and a built-in integrated circuit, also called a "chip", which can contain non-volatile memory and a microprocessor (=processing unit).

[0021] By incorporating a visible feature that is part of a banknote series into the card body, the digital payment instrument's affiliation with the conventional payment instrument (banknote series) is indicated. The viewer immediately realizes that the card is just as secure as a payment instrument for the issuer of the banknote series. Thus, the reputation of the issuer of the banknote series is also transferred to these digital payment instruments—here, by managing the electronic coin records using the card—and user acceptance of such digital payment instruments is increased.

[0022] By using a visible feature, which is preferably also used as a visible feature in a banknote series, the authenticity of the card becomes much easier to verify, because the viewer recognizes the visible feature, which is also used on conventional payment methods. Authentication is thus familiar to the card user.

[0023] The card body preferably comprises at least one paper-like layer or banknote substrate layer. The term "paper-like" is to be understood here as a description of the effect, so that this paper-like layer acts like paper. This layer is therefore made of a flat material consisting essentially of fibers of plant origin that form a nonwoven fabric. Papyrus, tapa, amatl, and huun—so-called pseudopapers—can also form the paper-like layer. Instead of cotton, bleached pulp can also be used as the base material.

[0024] The paper-like layer is preferably a banknote substrate, for example, to increase environmental compatibility or to adapt certain card properties (resistance, everyday usability, but also the application of security elements). Banknote substrates are particularly durable for everyday use, as a banknote is used by a large number of people between production and disposal by the central bank. They are frequently folded, inadvertently washed several times, heated, crumpled, flattened again, and counted / verified / deposited / distributed in machines. To withstand this stress, banknote paper is made from a special raw material composition consisting of 90% cotton. Alternatively, the banknote substrate can also be bleached pulp instead of cotton.

[0025] Preferably, the paper-like layer is provided on a production sheet and is initially completely printed, i.e. application processes such as planographic, gravure, letterpress, offset, screen printing, intaglio and numbering have already been applied to the sheet.

[0026] Preferably, the sheet is laminated on both sides with a film. Laminating is the process of bonding multiple layers of the same or different materials (sometimes films) together using a suitable laminating agent (varnish, glue, wax). Laminating is used to protect and / or decorate the paper-like layer and / or to achieve an additional set of favorable material properties by applying the material on top of or under a layer with the desired properties, or by inserting it between two layers.

[0027] Furthermore, the paper-like layer preferably consists of a combination of at least two different substrates arranged one above the other and bonded to one another, a so-called hybrid. Here, the paper-like layer consists, for example, of a plastic film-paper-plastic film combination, i.e., a paper substrate is covered by a plastic film on each of its two sides, or of a paper-plastic film-paper combination, i.e., a plastic film substrate is covered by paper on each of its two sides.

[0028] Cards that can use such a substrate or security paper include, in particular, high-value admission tickets, identification documents at risk of counterfeiting, such as passports and other identification documents, and cards such as credit or debit cards. The card can be provided with an adhesive layer to serve as a product security element, such as a label or seal.

[0029] On the card, visible data and at least one visible feature can be incorporated into or attached to the card body in a manner customary in banknote production. The manufacturing process for arranging the (visible data and) visible features is then similar to the corresponding manufacturing process for a banknote, thereby simplifying card production.

[0030] The card body preferably comprises at least one layer of laminatable plastic. In this way, visible data and the at least one visible feature can be incorporated into or attached to the card body in accordance with the usual method used in card production. The manufacturing process for arranging the visible data and visible features is then similar to a corresponding manufacturing process for a conventional card.

[0031] More preferably, the card body comprises multiple layers, wherein the visible data and the at least one visible feature are arranged on or in different layers of the card body. The multiple layers can consist entirely of laminatable plastic or comprise at least one paper-like layer (a so-called hybrid substrate).

[0032] Preferably, the paper-like layer and / or at least one of the layers of the card body is printed, in particular to apply information as visible data.

[0033] Visible data can include numbers, letters, text, and / or other characters, such as special characters or currency symbols. Images or purely graphic elements, for example, are not considered visible data in this sense.

[0034] The visible data and / or the visible features can be applied to the card body (=substrate), for example by printing, embossing, punching, etc.

[0035] The visible data and / or the visible features can be incorporated into the card body (=substrate), for example by layering the card body.

[0036] The visible data is preferably readable by the viewer. This data can, for example, relate to the cardholder, such as their name in alphanumeric characters.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, the visible data may include data relating to the card issuer, such as their name, identification number, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the visible data may include data relating to the central authority, such as their name, country, and currency in text form. The visible data may therefore include a currency reference for the banknote series. In addition to the readable visible data, a visible symbol, such as a flag, may be included.

[0038] The at least one visible feature is preferably a security feature, which is in particular a security feature integrated into the card body. This provides the card body with a security feature that is also present on banknotes in the banknote series. Pure information (visible data) is not a visible feature in the present sense.

[0039] The central authority is an authority that is responsible or in charge of issuing electronic coin data sets. An additional administrative authority, such as a commercial bank and / or system operator, is set up and / or authorized by the central authority to manage the electronic coin data sets. The central authority can only optionally also assume full or partial management of the electronic coin data sets. According to the invention, this central authority is simultaneously also the issuer of a banknote series. Thus, for example, a central bank can be a central authority. The central bank as issuer of the banknote series can also be the issuer of the card according to the invention for the local management of electronic coin data sets. Preferably, the issuer of the card according to the invention is a commercial bank or the additional administrative authority, such as the system operator.According to the invention, it is ensured that a viewer of the card can also find the visible features used on the banknote series on the card and can thus easily verify the card for authenticity.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, a banknote series is a series of banknotes with different base values. A banknote is a document that serves as legal tender in a specific country or currency area and is issued by an authorized institution, in this case the central authority (central bank), and denominated in a round nominal value as the base value of a currency unit. The security features used on the banknotes preferably correspond to at least one visible feature of the card.

[0041] Preferably, the at least one visible feature is a series feature. The series feature is a technically uniform feature used consistently throughout the banknote series, for example, a hologram, a foil, a strip with an optically variable or floating motif, etc.

[0042] Preferably, at least one visible feature is a series feature. The series feature is a visually uniform feature used consistently throughout the banknote series, for example, lettering (possibly the visible data) always in a specific font or a country of the central authority as a map. A currency symbol could always be depicted in a specific design. A name as a visible date could always be depicted in a specific design.

[0043] At least one visible feature is a series feature, and the series feature is a piece of metadata used consistently throughout the banknote series. For example, a base value of the banknote series or a digital symbol could always be located in the same position or in multiple positions on the card. This consistently consistent position then represents the metadata that is also used on the banknote series.

[0044] Preferably, at least one visible feature is a series feature, and the series feature is a pattern used consistently throughout the banknote series. For example, the design of a banknote is also applied to the card to give the viewer a familiar and recognizable pattern that they already recognize from the pattern of the banknote series.

[0045] Alternatively, the at least one visible feature is an independent series feature for the card according to the invention. Thus, in contrast to the banknote series, another visible feature is created and integrated into the card body.

[0046] More preferably, the visible feature is one of a collection of series features from the banknote series. Established security features already used by the central authority for banknote series are also used for the card.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the card body is formed in multiple layers and the at least one visible feature is arranged on an inner layer of the card body.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the visible data is arranged on an inner layer of the card body. Transparent cover layers are used as lamination layers to ensure that this visible data can be recognized by the viewer.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the card body is multi-layered, and an inner layer of the card body is a banknote. The card is then preferably equipped with more than two, in particular all, security features of the banknote series and comprises, for example, one or more of the following visible features of a banknote, namely: watermark, security thread, security patch, window feature, see-through feature, reflective feature, hologram, kinegram, optically variable printing ink, guilloche, and the like. The security feature(s) can be a security element. Security elements are particularly referred to as elements that are manufactured separately and then transferred or laminated onto banknote substrate layers, or integrated into the banknote substrate layer.Security elements include, for example, security threads, security patches or security strips, which are present on or in the banknote substrate layer - each with or without its own carrier.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the dimensions (=format) of the banknote are adapted to the format of the card. The banknote is preferably smaller in size than the card. The card format selected is, for example, one of the formats for identity documents, in particular the ID-1, the ID-2, the ID-3 and / or the ID-000 according to the technical specification ISO / IEC 7810, or a card issuer's own format, such as the Visa Mini format. The banknote inserted into this card then has a format that is smaller than the selected card format. For example, the dimensions of the banknote correspond to 90-95% of the dimensions of the card, preferably 75-95%, more preferably 50-95%.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, a cardholder is registered anonymously and / or pseudonymously in the system for managing and transmitting electronic coin data records—in particular, with the central authority or the additional administrative authority, such as a commercial bank or system operator. This preserves the advantages of the innovative digital payment method (management and transmission of electronic coin data records), particularly the anonymity of participants and thus the non-tracing of payment transactions.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the cardholder is known by name, i.e., to the central authority or the additional administrative authority. Preferably, the cardholder has an account with the additional administrative authority (or the central authority). The account can optionally be used for conventional transactions, such as transfers, in addition to the innovative digital payment method (management and transmission of electronic coin data records). In this case, the card issuer is preferably a commercial bank.

[0053] Preferably, the card has an electronic display unit, which is particularly configured to display monetary amounts of electronic coin data records, which are, for example, managed in the card and / or are part of a current transaction. This allows the cardholder to directly display the monetary amount (or amounts) of the electronic coin data records stored on the card and transferable.

[0054] The card preferably has an input unit for user inputs. The input unit can, for example, comprise one or more, preferably two to four, buttons and / or a (fingerprint) sensor. Using the input unit, the holder can, for example, make a selection, enter data, and / or authorize the transmission of electronic coin data records.

[0055] As an interface unit for exchanging electronic coin data records, the card will preferably include a near-field communication interface (NFC, RFID) and / or a contact-based interface (ISO 7816, USB, SWP). Electronic coin data records can be loaded onto and / or removed from the card via this interface. This is also referred to below as transferring electronic coin data records.

[0056] The card includes at least one visible feature; preferably, a plurality of visible features are provided. The greater the number of visible features, the greater the security against counterfeiting.

[0057] The at least one visible feature is preferably a basic security feature (so-called Level 1 feature) that can be directly recognized by the viewer of the card and checked / verified without any additional tools—i.e., by the naked eye. The following examples of visible features for a card are conceivable; the following list is not intended to be limiting: A watermark as a visible feature is incorporated during the production of a paper-like layer. In this case, at least one paper-like layer is provided in the card body.

[0058] A see-through window, another example of a visible feature, is a window created in polymer-based banknotes by locally omitting a coating for ink absorption, or in paper-based banknotes by punching holes in the paper substrate and covering them with foil elements. See-through registers and registration printing with a complementary pattern on the front and back of the foil layers, which only create the overall image when viewed against the light, are preferred as visible features to increase counterfeit security. A hybrid banknote substrate, for example, is used in this case.

[0059] A transfer and / or foil element can also be used as a visible feature, incorporating optical, difficult-to-reproduce surface markings. Examples of such transfer and / or foil elements include kinegrams or holograms, which are produced by printing patterns on metal or plastic foils.

[0060] Guilloches, iridescent printing, anti-copy screens, mottled fibers, micro-perforation, micro-lettering, pearlescent stripes, and / or optically variable printing inks can also be used as visible features.

[0061] In particular, security threads, security stripes or security patches and effect colors are used as visible features.

[0062] The card body, for example, comprises two lamination layers. Thin, film-like, plastic-based layers are preferably used as the lamination layer. Each of the lamination layers preferably has a top surface coated with an adhesive. In addition to lamination, lamination is preferably also used to produce the card. If the paper-like layer is located between the two lamination layers, the adhesive is arranged on the top side of the lamination layer facing the paper-like layer.

[0063] The card can be produced using a lamination process. For example, an adhesive used during lamination can improve wetting of the surface of the banknote substrate, thus increasing the adhesive force during the lamination process. This makes it difficult or even impossible to separate the individual layers of the laminated card.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, two paper-like layers are provided as the banknote substrate with an inner film layer, wherein the film layer has an adhesive coating on both upper sides. This film layer reinforces the structure of the card and further increases its resistance. This film layer is preferably provided with an antenna winding. For example, conductive tracks are printed onto this film layer as antenna windings. This antenna winding can be electrically connected to a semiconductor chip (the processing unit) of the card in order to form a near-field communication interface, for example NFC or RFID. The semiconductor chip is, for example, integrated into a cavity of the banknote substrate or incorporated into an additional layer of the card. In this way, the functionality of the card can be further increased.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, two paper-like layers are provided as a banknote substrate with an inner foil layer in the card body, with the foil layer having an adhesive coating on both upper sides. This foil layer reinforces the card's structure and further increases its strength. Furthermore, this foil layer allows for the insertion of windows, which may be used for security elements.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, at least one transparent lamination layer is arranged between the two paper-like layers. More preferably, two paper-like layers are arranged on the outer sides of the laminated card.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the paper-like layer on the top side has a surface area that is smaller than the surface area of ​​the card. In other words, the paper-like layer is smaller than the finished laminated card. Thus, the paper-like layer is completely integrated between the two lamination layers. The two transparent lamination layers create a transparent border around the paper-like layer.

[0068] In a further aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a method defined in claim 14 for producing a card of the type described above, comprising the following method steps: providing a card body with visible data and at least one visible feature; and issuing the card by a central instance, wherein the central instance is simultaneously the issuer or administrator of a banknote series and wherein the at least one visible feature identifies the card to a viewer as part of the banknote series.

[0069] The card body is preferably constructed in multiple layers, with the individual layers arranged precisely on top of one another and bonded together using pressure and heat. This bonding preferably takes place by means of a lamination step, optionally in conjunction with a coating step.

[0070] Layers of the card are preferably arranged in precise register. For the purposes of this invention, register refers to the positioning accuracy of printed images or other elements relative to one another on the front and / or back of the banknote substrate. For example, in the case of parts of printed images that complement one another to form an overall printed image when viewed through the card, even small deviations of less than 0.1 mm between the respective printed images significantly disrupt the visual impression when viewed through the card. DIN 16500-2: 1987-01 defines register as the accuracy in printing technology with which the intended reproduction quality of the details to be reproduced is achieved or maintained. The terms "front" or "back" of the substrate or card are relative terms that can also be referred to as "one" and "the opposite" sides, and which constitute the predominant portion of the total surface of the substrate or card.These terms expressly do not include the side surfaces of a substrate or card, which, given a substrate or card thickness of only approximately one millimeter for card bodies or only fractions of a millimeter for banknote substrates, are infinitesimal and typically cannot be provided with security elements or coatings. In particular, see-through effects cannot be achieved with the side surfaces.

[0071] In this case, recesses can be made in at least one paper-like layer of the card body, through which a film layer above and below it are in direct contact with each other in order to bond directly to each other during lamination.

[0072] This is preferably done by applying an adhesive to the film layers and laminating the layers by applying pressure and temperature.

[0073] The introduction of recesses into the at least one paper-like layer is preferably carried out by cutting, laser cutting, punching or similar manufacturing steps. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE CHARACTERS

[0074] The invention and further embodiments and advantages of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to figures, whereby the figures merely describe exemplary embodiments of the invention. Identical components in the figures are provided with the same reference numerals. The figures are not to be considered to scale; individual elements of the figures may be exaggeratedly large or oversimplified.

[0075] They show: Fig.1 an embodiment of a schematically illustrated card according to the invention in cross section; Fig.2 a further embodiment of a schematically illustrated card according to the invention in cross section; Fig.3a further embodiment of a schematically illustrated card according to the invention in cross section; Fig.4 an embodiment of a schematically illustrated card according to the invention in plan view; Fig.5 an embodiment of a payment system for exchanging electronic coin data records using the card according to the invention; and Fig.6 another embodiment of a schematically illustrated card according to the invention in plan view. FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0076] Fig.1shows a layer structure for a laminated card K according to the invention. A film layer 3 is provided. The film layer 3 is provided with an antenna winding to enable near-field communication when the laminated card is in use. Alternatively or in addition to the film layer 3, a film composite (not shown) can be provided, which has a semiconductor chip to which the antenna winding of the film layer 3 can be electrically connected to provide a near-field communication interface.

[0077] The foil layer 3 is coated with a suitable adhesive on both flat surfaces (i.e., both sides). A banknote substrate 2, 4 is placed on each of the two surfaces of the foil layer 3. This banknote substrate 2, 4 is a paper-like layer and has visible features such as security threads, security stripes, holograms, kinegrams, watermarks, etc., see Fig. 4and 6 for further explanations. The banknote substrate 2, 4 may also include visible data, for example, printed data, for visually representing a serial number, a cardholder name, a bank institution, and the like.

[0078] One or more lamination layers 1, 5 are arranged on the upper side of the banknote substrate facing away from the film layer 3. These lamination layers 1, 5 preferably have a suitable adhesive on the upper side facing the upper side of the banknote substrate. The lamination layers 1, 5 are transparent. The lamination layers 1, 5 can be printed to display additional information or visible data.

[0079] The paper-like layer 2, 4, 6 preferably consists of a combination of at least two different substrates arranged one above the other and connected to one another, a so-called hybrid. In this case, the paper-like layer consists, for example, of a combination of plastic film-paper-plastic film, i.e. a substrate made of paper is covered on each of its two sides by a plastic film, or of a combination of paper-plastic film-paper, i.e. a substrate made of a plastic film is covered on each of its two sides by paper. Information on the weight of the banknote substrate used is given, for example, in document DE 102 43 653 A9, the statements in this regard are incorporated in this application in full. Document DE 102 43 653 A9 states in particular that the paper-like layer usually has a weight of 50 g / m 2< to 100 g / m 2<, preferably of 80 g / m 2< to 90 g / m 2<.Depending on the application, any other suitable weight can be used.

[0080] Cards K in which such a substrate or security paper can be used include, in particular, high-value admission tickets, documents susceptible to counterfeiting, such as passports and other identification documents, as well as cards such as credit or debit cards, product security elements such as labels, seals, packaging and the like.

[0081] The simplified term "card" includes all of the above-mentioned materials, documents and product security devices.

[0082] In Fig. 2 is a to Fig. 1An alternative structure of a laminated card is described. Here, a single paper-like layer 6 is sandwiched between two lamination layers 1, 5. These lamination layers 1, 5 preferably have a suitable adhesive on the upper side facing the banknote substrate 6. The lamination layers 1, 5 are transparent. The lamination layers 1, 5 can be printed to display additional information.

[0083] One of the Fig. 1 and 2 alternative design of a laminated card is in Fig. 3 Here, the film layer 3 is arranged between two laminating layers 1, 5. The laminating layers 1, 5 are coated on both sides with an adhesive. On each upper side of the laminating layers 1, 5 facing away from the film layer 3, a paper-like layer 2, 4 is arranged. Fig. 3 to 6The configurations shown for improving lamination are also applied to the configuration shown in Fig. 7.

[0084] The Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 The layer structure shown is laminated. Pressure and glass transition temperatures are applied to bond the laminated layers 1 and 5 to layers 2, 3, 4, and 6, creating a cohesive bond.

[0085] To increase the resistance of the card K, recesses can be introduced into the paper-like layers 2, 4, 6 by punching, lasering, cutting, so that an adhesive also flows into the recesses during lamination and thus the holding force is increased by surface enlargement or by directly connecting two film layers 1, 3, 5 (if the recesses are perforations of the paper-like layer).

[0086] Due to these recesses, the laminating layer 1 with the laminating film 5 can also be placed in the recesses due to the effects of temperature and pressure during lamination. The two laminating layers 1, 5 preferably bond within the recess. The resulting material-to-material connection (joining) between the laminating layers 1, 5 significantly increases the mechanical stability of the card K and greatly reduces the risk of delamination (= separation or separation of the layer structure) of the card K due to external forces or other environmental influences. The shape of the recesses can be circular, angular, jagged, star-shaped, or tooth-shaped. The recesses can be arranged circumferentially around an outer edge of the substrate 2, 4, 6, and furthermore, recesses can be distributed over the entire surface of the paper-like layers 2, 4, 6.

[0087] The Fig. 1 to Fig. 3The layered structure shown is laminated. Pressure and glass transition temperatures are applied to the layered structure to bond the laminated layers 1, 5 to the remaining layers 2, 3, 4, and 6, creating a cohesive bond. The process can be performed as hot lamination, cold lamination, or lamination between presses.

[0088] During hot lamination, the adhesive of the film layer 3 or laminating layers 1, 5, which is in the solid state at room temperature, melts with the paper-like layer 2, 4, 6. For this purpose, the paper-like layer is Fig. 1 and 2 and passed through a laminator over hot rollers or between two heating plates, whereby the adhesive changes into the viscous aggregate state and thus the layers 1, 3, 5 are thermally bonded at about 60°C to 120°C. The adhesive is also injected into the recesses (not shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3) of the paper-like layer 2, 4, 6 and thus increases the adhesive force in the layer structure.

[0089] When laminating between presses, the Fig. 1 and 2 The layer structure shown first undergoes a heating press followed by a cooling press, or in a press that can first heat and then cool. In the heating press, the thermoplastic layers are pressed together at high temperatures. When the glass transition temperature is exceeded, the films 1, 3, and 5 bond with layers 2, 4, and 6 at their interfaces and are then cooled again under pressure in a cooling press, so that they fuse together to form a monoblock. This process is preferably used for the card according to the invention.

[0090] In Fig. 4 a paper-like layer 2, 4, 6 is shown, as for example in the laminated card K according to Fig. 1 to 3can be used. Alternatively, the card is not a laminated layer and the card body is not formed from multiple layers, but is formed as a single piece.

[0091] In Fig. 4A card K according to the invention is shown. This card K has a substrate in the form of a banknote layer 2, 4, 6 (=substrate or paper-like layer) according to the type described above. Visible data 8 is arranged on the substrate 2, 4, 6. This visible data 8 is, for example, the nominal value "20" of a currency from a banknote series that the card issuer also issues or manages. This visible data 8 is, for example, also the serial number "AB21001XC223" of the card K. The visible data 8 can also be a "country" of the currency / issuer; a "currency" or the name of the issuer, for example, the name of the central bank. Furthermore, the "name" of the cardholder (or their pseudonym) or the type of card can also be indicated.

[0092] In addition, two visible features 7, 7a are depicted on the substrate 2, 4, 6. These visible features 7 are typical security features, i.e., optically variable features – such as flip images, holograms, kinegrams – a security print – such as guilloche or intaglio – a watermark, reflective / transparent features, or front / back features, or transfer elements, such as patches or stripes with or without their own carrier substrate. The visible feature 7 can also be viewed as the overall layout or the format of the data or the metainformation contained therein, here, for example, the position of the base value "20." Of course, a visible feature 7, 7a or security feature can also contain visible data, for example, the security strip contains cutouts in the form of text. However, the visible data then represents additional information.For example, a text or a number can be printed with an optically variable printing ink or coated with a multi-layer structure that shows a reflective / transparent effect, thus forming a visible feature 7 or security feature.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively, the visible feature 7a may be a security element integrated on the substrate 2, 4, 6 or into the substrate 2, 4, 6, for example a security thread or a window thread.

[0094] Visible feature 7 can be a technically uniform feature of the banknote series, for example, a hologram, a kinegram, a foil element over a window, or a strip with an optically variable / floating motif. Alternatively, visible feature 7 can be a visually uniform feature of the banknote series, for example, the representation of the "country" always as a map, or the currency symbol in a specific design, or the alphanumeric characters in a specific design. Alternatively, visible feature 7 can be metainformation of the banknote series, for example, the positioning of the base value of the banknote always in the same place on card K, or a person on the front and a building on the back of card K.

[0095] In Fig. 4A computing unit 9 is indicated in dashed form in the card K. The computing unit is part of a semiconductor chip (not shown), which comprises the computing unit 9 and possibly a memory for managing electronic coin data records, for example, to receive and / or send them; and / or to modify them (switch, split, connect). The computing unit 9 can be a microcontroller or microprocessor. Not shown are interface or output or input units of the card K, with the help of which the electronic coin data records can be inserted into / output (transferred) the card K, possibly also displayed or even selected. For this purpose, the card K can also be connected in an operational manner to a terminal, e.g., a cash register, end device, etc. (not shown).

[0096] In Fig. 5 is a system for the exchange of electronic coin records according to the innovative digital payment system, as it is used in the German

[0097] Patent applications DE102019002732 and DE102019002731 illustrate how this can be implemented using inventive cards K as "terminals." All changes / modifications to an electronic coin data record proposed here serve to manage the electronic coin data records.

[0098] In this process, an electronic coin data record C i is generated at an issuing entity 10, for example, a central bank. The central bank also issues a banknote series. A masked electronic coin data record Z i is generated for the electronic coin data record C i, provided with a concealment amount, and registered in a "masked electronic data record ledger." In the context of this invention, a ledger is understood to be a list, a directory, preferably a database structure. The electronic coin data record C i is transferred to a first card K1. For this purpose, the card K1 has a contactless or contact-based interface.

[0099] For example, a truly random number was generated as the concealment amount ri. This concealment amount ri is linked to a monetary amount υ i and then forms an i-th electronic coin data record according to the invention: C i = υ i ; r i

[0100] A valid electronic coin record can be used for payment. The owner (cardholder) of the two values ​​υ i and ri therefore owns the digital money as the innovative digital means of payment. However, the digital money is defined by a pair consisting of a valid electronic coin record and a corresponding masked electronic coin record Z i . The masked electronic coin record Z i is obtained by applying a homomorphic one-way function f (C i ) according to equation (2): Z i = f C i

[0101] This function f (C i ) is public, meaning that any system participant can call and use this function. This function f (C i ) is defined according to equation (3): Z i = υ i ⋅ H + r i ⋅ G where H and G are generator points of a group G, in which the discrete logarithm problem is hard, with generators G and H for which the discrete logarithm of the other base is unknown. For example, G and H are generator points of an elliptic curve encryption, ECC,—that is, private keys of the ECC. These generator points G and H must be chosen such that the relationship between G and H is not publicly known, so that: G = n ⋅ H The link n must be practically untraceable to prevent the monetary amount υ i from being manipulated while still allowing a valid Z i to be calculated. Equation (3) is a "Pederson commitment for ECC," which ensures that the monetary amount υ i can be granted, i.e., "committed," to a monitoring entity 11 without revealing it to the monitoring entity 11. Therefore, only the masked coin data set Z i is sent (revealed) to the public and remote monitoring entity 11.

[0102] Even if the present example describes an encryption based on elliptic curves, another cryptographic method based on a discrete logarithmic method would also be conceivable.

[0103] Equation (3) allows for the entropy of the obfuscation amount ri to obtain a cryptographically strong Z i even for a small range of monetary amounts υ i . Thus, a simple brute-force attack by merely estimating monetary amounts υ i is practically impossible.

[0104] Equation (3) is a one-way function, which means that the calculation of Z i from C i is easy because an efficient algorithm exists, whereas the calculation of C i starting from Z i is very difficult because no algorithm solvable in polynomial time exists.

[0105] In addition, equation (3) is homomorphic for addition and subtraction, i.e.: Z i + Z j = υ i ⋅ H + r i ⋅ G + υ j ⋅ H + r j ⋅ G = υ i + υ j ⋅ H + r i + r j ⋅ G

[0106] Thus, addition and subtraction operations can be performed both in the direct transaction layer 12 and in parallel in the accounting layer 13, without the accounting layer 13 having knowledge of the electronic coin records C i . The homomorphic property of equation (3) allows accounting of valid and invalid electronic coin records C i based solely on the masked coin records Z i and ensures that no new monetary amount υ j has been created.

[0107] Due to this homomorphic property, the coin data set C i can be divided according to equation (1) into: C i = C j + C k = υ j ; r j + υ k ; r k where: υ i = υ j + υ k r i = r j + r k

[0108] The following applies to the corresponding masked coin data sets: Z i = Z j + Z k

[0109] For example, using equation (9), a "splitting" processing or a "splitting" processing step of an electronic coin record can be easily verified without the monitoring entity 11 having knowledge of C i , C j , C k . In particular, the condition of equation (9) is checked to declare split coin records C j and C k valid and to declare coin record C i invalid.

[0110] In the same way, electronic coin records can also be merged (linked).

[0111] In addition, it is necessary to check whether (prohibited) negative monetary amounts are registered. An owner of an electronic coin data record C i must be able to prove to the monitoring instance 11 that all monetary amounts υ i in a processing operation lie within a value range of [0, ..., n], without informing the monitoring instance 11 of the monetary amounts υ i. These range proofs are also called "range proofs". Ring signatures are preferably used as range proofs. For the present embodiment, both the monetary value and the obfuscation amount of an electronic coin data record are resolved in bit representation, i.e. υ i =∑aj *2 j< for 0≤j≤n and aj "element" {0; 1} and ri =∑bj *2 j< for 0≤j≤n and bj "element" {0; 1}.For each bit, a ring signature with C i,j =aj ·H+bj ·G and C i,j -aj ·H is preferably carried out, wherein in one embodiment it can be provided to carry out a ring signature only for certain bits.

[0112] In Fig. 5An electronic coin data set C i is generated by the issuing entity 10, and a masked electronic coin data set Z i is calculated by the issuing entity 10 using equation (3), which is then registered in the monitoring entity 11. Subsequently, the first terminal M1 transmits the electronic coin data set C i to a second card K2 or can perform one of the processing steps (switching, connecting, splitting). The transmission takes place wirelessly via WLAN, NFC, or Bluetooth, for example. The transmission can be additionally secured by cryptographic encryption methods, for example, by negotiating a session key or using a PKI infrastructure.

[0113] The second card K2 receives the transmitted electronic coin data set C i as C i *. Upon receipt of the electronic coin data set C i *, the second card K2 is in possession of the digital money represented by the electronic coin data set C i *. If both cards K1, K2 trust each other, no further steps are necessary to complete the process. However, the second card K2 does not know whether the electronic coin data set C i * is actually valid. Furthermore, the first card K1 could also transmit the electronic coin data set C i to a third card (not shown). To prevent this, further preferred steps are provided in the process.

[0114] To check the validity of the received electronic coin data set C i *, the masked transmitted electronic coin data set Z i * is calculated in the second card K2 using the - public - one-way function from equation (3). The masked transmitted electronic coin data set Z i * is then transmitted to the monitoring instance 11 and searched for there. If it matches a registered and valid masked electronic coin data set, the validity of the received coin data set C i * is displayed to the second card K2 and it is assumed that the received electronic coin data set C i * is equal to the registered electronic coin data set C i. With the validity check, it can be determined in one embodiment that the received electronic coin data set C i * is still valid, i.e.that it has not already been used in another processing step or in another transaction and / or has not been subject to further modification.

[0115] Preferably, the received electronic coin data set is then switched over.

[0116] The procedure states that the sole knowledge of a masked electronic coin data set Z i does not authorize the issuance of digital money. However, the sole knowledge of the electronic coin data set C i authorizes the payment, i.e., the successful execution of a transaction, particularly if the coin data set C i is valid. There is a 1-to-1 relationship between the electronic coin data sets C i and the corresponding masked electronic coin data sets Z i . The masked electronic coin data sets Z i are registered in the monitoring instance 11, for example, a public decentralized database. This registration initially makes it possible to verify the validity of the data set, for example, whether new monetary amounts have been created (illegally).

[0117] A key differentiator compared to conventional solutions is that the masked electronic coin records Z i are stored in an accounting layer 13 and all processing on the electronic coin record Z i is registered there, whereas the actual transfer of the digital money takes place in a (secret, i.e., not known to the public) direct transaction layer 12.

[0118] To prevent multiple dispensing or to ensure more flexible transfer, the electronic coin records can now be processed in the process. Table 1 below lists the individual operations, with the specified command also executing a corresponding processing step: Table 1 - Number of operations to be performed per processing of a coin record in the card or issuer instance Command or step Create signature Create random number Create masking Create area verification Generate 1 1 1 0 or 1 Deactivate 1 0 1 0 or 1 Split 0 1 3 0 or 1 Connect 0 0 3 1 Switch 0 1 2 1

[0119] Further operations not listed in Table 1 may be required. Instead of the implementation listed, other implementations are conceivable that imply different operations. Table 1 above shows that for each electronic coin record, each of the processing operations "Create," "Deactivate," "Split," "Connect," and "Toggle," various operations "Create Signature," "Create Random Number," "Create Mask," and "Range Check" can be provided. Each of the processing operations is registered in the monitoring instance 11 and appended there in an immutable form to a list of previous processing operations for masked electronic coin records Z i .The operations of "Create" and "Deactivate" an electronic coin record are performed only in secure locations and / or only by selected entities, for example, Issuer Instance 1, while the operations of all other processing can be performed on cards K1, K2.

[0120] The number of operations for each processing step is indicated in Table 1 with "0", "1", or "2". The number "0" indicates that the terminal device or issuing entity 1 does not need to perform this operation for this processing of the electronic coin data record. The number "1" indicates that the terminal device or issuing entity 10 must be able to perform this operation once for this processing of the electronic coin data record. The number "2" indicates that Card K or issuing entity 10 must be able to perform this operation twice for this processing of the electronic coin data record.

[0121] In principle, one embodiment may also provide for a scope check to be performed by the issuing instance 1 during creation and / or deactivation. Table 2 below lists the operations required for the monitoring instance 2 for the individual processing steps: Table 2 - Number of operations to be performed per processing of a coin record in the monitoring instance Command or step Check the publisher's signature Check the validity of the masked electronic coin record Understand area verification understand homomorphic properties of the masked electronic coin records, i.e. adding Generate 1 0 0 or 1 0 Deactivate 1 1 0 or 1 0 Split 0 1 2 or more 1 Connect 0 2 or more 1 1 Switch 0 1 1 0

[0122] Additional operations not listed in Table 2 may be required. Instead of the implementation listed, other implementations are conceivable that imply different operations. All operations listed in Table 2 can be performed in the monitoring instance 11, which, as a trusted entity, for example, as a decentralized server, in particular a distributed trusted server, ensures sufficient integrity of the electronic coin records.

[0123] Table 3 shows the system participants in the payment system of Fig. 1 Components to be installed preferably: Table 3 - Preferred units in the system components Command or step Publisher - instance 11 Map Monitoring inst ance Random number generator (high security) Yes - - Random generator (deterministic) - Yes - PKI for signing Yes - - PKI for signature verification - (Yes) Yes Read access to DLT Yes Yes Yes Write access to DLT Yes Yes Yes Deactivating the electronic coin record Yes Yes - Transport encryption Yes Yes - Secure storage (Yes) Yes - / Yes Masking unit Yes Yes - Area verification - Yes - Check area verification - - Yes DLT Software - - Yes

[0124] Table 3 shows an overview of the preferred components to be used in each system participant, i.e. the issuing entity 10, a card K1 and the monitoring entity 11. The card K1 can be designed as a wallet for electronic coin data records, i.e. as an electronic purse, i.e. a data storage device of the card or a terminal device with which the card is operational and in which a large number of coin data records can be stored, and can be implemented, for example, in the form of an application on the card K or IT system of a merchant, a commercial bank or another market participant and can send or receive an electronic coin data record. Thus, the components in the card, as shown in Table 3, are implemented as software. It is assumed that the monitoring entity 11 is based on a DLT and is operated by a number of trusted market participants.

[0125] In Fig. 6is that in Fig. 4 The banknote substrate 2, 4, 6 shown is laminated into a card K. It can be seen that the banknote substrate 2, 4, 6, in its final dimensions, is smaller than the dimensions of the card K. The card K is designed in the ID-1 card format. Other card formats are also conceivable.

[0126] Within the scope of the invention, all described and / or drawn and / or claimed elements may be combined with one another as desired. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0127] 1, 5Lamination layer 2, 4, 6Banknote substrate, paper-like layer 3Foil layer 7Visible feature 7aSecurity feature 8Visible data 9Calculation unit 10Issuing entity 11Monitoring entity 12Direct transaction layer 13Accounting layer C i , C i *Digital currency unit, electronic coin record Z i , Z i *Masked electronic coin record K1, K2Card

Claims

1. A card (K), in particular a chip card, comprising: - a computing unit (9) for managing electronic coin data records (Ci), said electronic coin data records (Ci) being issued by a central entity (11), - a card body with visible data (8) and at least one visible feature (7, 7a); characterized in that - said central entity (11) is also the issuer of a series of banknotes; and - said at least one visible feature (7, 7a) identifies said card (K) as part of said series of banknotes to an observer.

2. The card (K) of claim 1, wherein a series of banknotes is a series of banknotes of different denominations; and / or said visible data (8) include a number, letters, text and / or other characters, such as a special character or a currency symbol.

3. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one visible feature (7, 7a) is a series feature and said series feature is - a technically uniform feature used throughout said series of banknotes; and / or - an optically uniform feature used throughout said series of banknotes; and / or - a piece of meta-information used throughout said series of banknotes; and / or - a pattern used throughout said series of banknotes.

4. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one visible feature is an independent series feature for said card (K) or is from a collection of existing series features from said series of banknotes.

5. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said card body is multi-layered and wherein said at least one visible feature is arranged on or in an inner layer of said card body.

6. The card (K) according to claim 5, wherein a security element is arranged as a visible feature (7, 7a) on or in said inner layer (2, 4, 6).

7. The card according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said card body is multi-layered and an inner layer (2, 4, 6) of said card body is a banknote.

8. The card (K) according to claim 7, wherein said banknote has the format of a card format or has a format smaller than the card format.

9. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a cardholder of said card (K) is anonymous or pseudonymous at said central entity (11).

10. The card (K) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a cardholder of said card (K) is known to said central entity (11).

11. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an issuer of said card (K) is a commercial bank.

12. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said card (K) includes an electronic display unit, in particular for displaying the monetary amounts of the electronic coin data records (Ci).

13. The card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said card (K) includes an input unit for user inputs, in particular for controlling the management of the electronic coin data records (Ci), and / or an interface unit.

14. A method for producing a card (K) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the method steps of: - providing a card body with visible data (8) and at least one visible feature (7, 7a); and - issuing the card by a commercial bank or by a central entity (11), wherein the central entity is also the issuer of a series of banknotes and wherein said at least one visible feature (7, 7a) identifies said card (K) as part of said series of banknotes to an observer.

15. The method for producing a card according to claim 14, wherein said card body is multi-layered and the individual layers are arranged in register one above the other and are joined by means of pressure and temperature.