SECURITY DOCUMENT WITH THREAD-LIKE SECURITY ELEMENT AND METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ITS PRODUCTION

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a security document with a thread-like security element and a method for its production.

[0002] The present invention is in the field of security technology for documents and relates to a security document, in particular an identification or value document, with a thread-like security element and a method for its production.

[0003] Card-shaped security documents, such as identity cards or driver's license cards, as well as book-like, bound, multi-page security documents, especially official passports or driver's licenses, are known from the state of the art. Such documents often contain a data sheet (also called a "data page" or "holder page") made of a multi-layer plastic laminate that serves as a carrier for the personal information and, in most cases, also for a photo of the ID card holder. These documents are bound together with other document sheets (often called "visa pages"), which are usually made of paper or a paper-based fabric, in a cover or binding with a spine to form a book-like document ("book").The binding is usually designed in such a way that a usually rectangular flap area ("hinge area") of the data sheet extending from one edge of the data sheet serves to fasten it in the cover, while the rest of the data sheet can be pivoted relative to the flap area fixed in the cover, like a sheet of a book.

[0004] The cover typically has a front and back cover substrate, each of which has a multi-layer structure with a robust outer layer (also called the "cover") to protect the document from unwanted external influences, and an inner layer (also called the "flyleaf") attached to the inside of the cover and facing the first or last page of the book when the book is closed. One or more additional layers may be arranged between the cover and the inner layer. An example of such a bound security document is the German passport, as currently (2021) issued by the German authorities.

[0005] Security features suitable for protecting security and valuable documents against counterfeiting include, in particular, microelectronic security features, in which certain information, such as personal details of a document holder, is encoded within a microelectronic component (microchip) present in the security document in a manner that is not recognizable as such by the naked eye or at least not readable. Such security features include, in particular, RFID or NFC chips, which can store or generate security-relevant information and make it available to a suitable reading or radio receiver device external to the document via a contactless communication interface.

[0006] EP 2 338 175 B1 and EP 3 319 168 A1 each disclose a radio device having a radio circuit with two thread-like electrical conductors connected thereto, running parallel to one another and serving as the antenna of the radio device. These radio devices each have a thread-like structure overall. WO 2004 / 043706 A1 discloses the preamble of claim 1 or a method for producing a security thread equipped with a microchip. DE 10 2005 021477 A1 discloses a method for producing a laminate for a passport inlay in an identification document.

[0007] The present invention is based on the object of providing or producing an improved, wirelessly readable, robust security document.

[0008] This object is achieved according to the teaching of the independent claims. Various embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0009] A first aspect of the invention relates to a security document, in particular an identity document or a component (e.g. cover or page, e.g. data page or visa page) or a not yet fully personalized blank for such a security document (e.g. an identity book that is yet to be personalized and is still completely or partially unprinted).The security document comprises: (i) a number N of sheet-shaped substrates; and (ii) a thread-like security element which is at least partially integrated into or attached to at least one of the N substrates and which has a first microelectronic communication device, in particular an active or passive transponder, with an antenna device electrically connected thereto for the wireless communication of security-relevant first information, in particular signals carrying data or other information, to a communication counterpart external to the security document; (iii) wherein the security document is configured as a book-like document with N ≥ 2; (iv) and wherein the book-like document is instead or cumulatively formed with a spine and the security element is at least partially integrated into the spine or fixed to it.

[0010] A "sheet-shaped substrate" within the meaning of the invention is understood to mean, in particular, a page for a single- or multi-sheet security document, whereby the substrate can be manufactured using a paper or cardboard material or a plastic (e.g., polycarbonate). In particular, the covers or pages of an identification document, such as a card- or book-shaped identity card, passport, driver's license, or other identification document, are each sheet-shaped substrates within the meaning of the invention. The shape of the pages can be rectangular, in particular, as is usual for identification documents, without this being understood as a limitation.

[0011] A "thread-like" security element is understood, in particular, to be a security element that, in terms of its elongated, predominantly one-dimensional shape and preferably also its flexibility, which allows for sewing, resembles or is similar to a thread in the sense of textile technology. In the present case, the thread-like security element comprises the first microelectronic communication device with the antenna device connected to it. This means that the communication device and the antenna device are integrated into the thread or the thread is at least partially formed by them. It is possible that the thickness of the thread is not constant, but rather has a slightly larger diameter than the rest of the thread, particularly in the area of ​​the first microelectronic communication device, but preferably not more than four times, preferably twice.This can be provided, in particular, in such a way that the first microelectronic communication device is integrated into the security element, similar to a droplet on a thread. For this purpose, it can be encapsulated, for example (e.g., using a glob-top technique, such as a resin-based one).

[0012] "Security-relevant information" refers in particular to information, such as signals or data, that contribute to increasing the security of the security document, for example, to the creation of a security feature of the security document. Such information can, in particular, be cryptographic information, such as cryptographic codes or keys, or personalization data for personalizing the security document with reference to a specific object associated with it, in particular a person (e.g., an ID card holder). Such personalization data can, for example, relate to the person's name, date of birth or age, nationality, membership number, or biometric characteristics.

[0013] The terms "comprises," "includes," "includes," "has," "has," "with," or any other variation thereof, as used herein, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method or apparatus that includes or has a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or that are inherent in such a method or apparatus.

[0014] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or." For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by one of the following conditions: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0015] The terms "a" or "an" as used herein are defined as "one or more." The terms "another" and "another," and any other variations thereof, are defined as "at least one other."

[0016] The term "plurality" as used here shall mean "two or more".

[0017] The term "configured" or "set up" to perform a specific function (and respective modifications thereof) is to be understood within the meaning of the invention that the corresponding device is already in a configuration or setting in which it can perform the function, or that it is at least adjustable - i.e., configurable - so that it can perform the function after being set accordingly. The configuration can be carried out, for example, by appropriately setting parameters of a process sequence or switches or the like for activating or deactivating functionalities or settings. In particular, the device can have several predetermined configurations or operating modes, so that configuration can be carried out by activating one of these configurations or operating modes.

[0018] The security document according to the first aspect features a thread-like microelectronic security element, which, in terms of its form factor, already differs from conventional microelectronic security elements for documents, in particular from RFID tags with a coil or antenna extending predominantly two-dimensionally. This already enables particularly space-saving solutions in which the security element requires only a very small amount of space in the security document.

[0019] Secondly, the thread-like shape and the resulting flexibility of the security element allow it to be placed even in places on the security document that are typically subject to bending stress, particularly strong ones, during use, for example, in the spine area of ​​a book-like security document or in a flexible substrate, such as a paper page of the security document. The thread-like shape thus also allows the security element to be placed in "untypical" or "unexpected" locations, further increasing counterfeit protection.

[0020] Due to the thread-like shape of the security element, it is even possible to provide the security element as a thread in a seam or as part of a textile fabric, which can have advantages, particularly with regard to the robustness of the anchoring or fastening of the security element in the security document, making it more difficult to compromise the security of the security document by removing the security element from the security document, and concealing the security element in the security document as a covert security feature.

[0021] Furthermore, manufacturing advantages can arise because the thread-like security element can be fed from a roll. The roll can, in particular, be a so-called "endless roll" onto which a thread is wound, which, sequentially arranged along its length, has a plurality, in particular a multiplicity, of the aforementioned security elements. To apply a single security element, it only needs to be separated from the thread on the roll in order to separate it and prepare it for individual integration into or attachment to one or more substrates of the security document to be produced.

[0022] The security document can, in particular, be an identification document, such as a passport. It can, in particular, contain an envelope with a plurality of internal pages, for example, data page(s) and visa page(s). The use of the thread-like security element is particularly advantageous in connection with such a book-like security document because, on the one hand, with regard to concealing the security element in the sense of a "covert security feature," the more complex structure of such a book-like document allows for a particularly wide range of variations for the arrangement or integration of the security element into the document. On the other hand, security elements often require a high degree of robustness against bending stresses.

[0023] The spine can, in particular, be a fold area of ​​a cover (which, for example, can have a groove with a reduced thickness compared to the cover pages). Furthermore, the security document can be designed such that its front and / or back cover pages, connected by the fold area or spine, are each thicker than the fold area or spine between them.

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the security document are described below, which can be combined with each other and with the other aspects of the invention as desired, unless this is expressly excluded or is technically impossible.

[0025] In some of these embodiments, a first of the N substrates is configured as a data page or as a cover (or synonymously "cover"), in particular a dust jacket, for the book-like document, and the security element is integrated at least partially into this first substrate. The data pages and covers of such security documents are typically more robust than other substrates of the document, for example, paper pages, particularly with regard to protection against chemical or physical, particularly mechanical or moisture-related, external influences, thus enabling a particularly robust integration of the security element.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first substrate has a layered structure into which the security element is integrated, at least in sections. Data pages and covers, in particular, are usually multi-layered, e.g., as a laminate, thus offering a wide variety of different options for the integration of the security element, particularly in a hidden manner. The layered structure often also requires a greater thickness of such substrates (cover pages), which in turn enables or at least facilitates the integration, particularly in a hidden manner, particularly when the thread thickness of the security element is not constant. The security element can be integrated into the layered structure, for example, by means of gluing or lamination, particularly such that the security element runs along a "long" side of the first substrate, such as when the substrate has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first substrate has a hinge region for connecting the first substrate to at least one of the N-1 other substrates to form the book-like document. The security element is integrated at least partially into the hinge region.

[0028] Both the two aforementioned designs, individually and in combination, are made possible in particular by the thread-like nature of the security element, particularly by the resulting flexibility. This type of integration is possible while avoiding the risk of damage to the security element during use of the security document, which is subject to corresponding bending stresses in the hinge area or spine. This also makes the security element particularly easy to conceal, since the hinge area and spine are usually difficult to see from the outside without causing damage, or only with considerable effort, and are generally opaque themselves.

[0029] In some of these embodiments, the spine has a textile reinforcement band for reinforcement, into which the security element is integrated at least in sections. Here, the security element can be integrated, in particular, as a thread itself as a component of a textile fabric of the reinforcement band. Here, too, the aforementioned advantages regarding robust integration and the ability of the security element to be easily concealed in the document apply. Incorporating it as a thread into the textile reinforcement band can offer even greater robustness, particularly with regard to protection against (unobtrusive, especially non-destructive) removal of the security element.

[0030] In some embodiments, the security element is combined with a holographic thread or strip to form a combined thread- or strip-shaped security element by integration into or permanent connection with the holographic thread or strip. This further increases the security, particularly the forgery protection, of the security document. More efficient production is also conceivable if the two security features (security element and holographic thread or strip) can be incorporated into the security document as a combined security element, not separately, but in a single or joint integration process or step, instead of having to be incorporated separately.

[0031] In some of these embodiments, the security document comprises a number M, with 2 ≤ M ≤ N, of mutually similar, sheet-shaped substrates and the combined security element is integrated into or attached to only one of these M substrates. The similarity of the substrates can relate in particular to their structure and / or their function within the security document. For example, they can be substrates for the cover of the document, various laminate pages (e.g. data pages made of plastic laminate), or paper pages (e.g. visa pages) of the document. The aforementioned selective arrangement of the security element can in turn be used to better conceal the security element as a security feature.

[0032] In some embodiments, the security element forms part of a seam in or on the security document as a thread. The security element can thus fulfill multiple tasks, particularly in the sense of "dual use," namely, on the one hand, its security function and, on the other hand, the creation of a seam, for example, for attaching one or more substrates in the document. Integration as part of a seam can also be used to better conceal the security element as a hidden security feature.

[0033] In some of these embodiments, the seam is executed, at least in sections, as a double lockstitch seam, with the security element forming a bobbin thread of the double-stitch seam. This type of seam is particularly easy to achieve because it places lower demands on processability and sewability, particularly with regard to flexibility and uniformity of the thread diameter, than most other known seam types. A second thread made of nylon or textile material can be used as the upper thread.

[0034] In some embodiments, the antenna device comprises two electrically insulated wire-like antenna lines, each of which is electrically connected to the first communication device at a respective contact point located between its ends, and wherein the antenna lines as a whole form a dipole antenna with electrically open ends. In particular, the two arms of the antenna line extending from the respective contact point of an antenna line can be selected to have different lengths, which can be done in particular in such a way that impedance matching of the dipole antenna is implemented.

[0035] The diameter of the antenna cables can be in the range of 40-400µm, whereby the range of 50-200µm and especially the range of 60-150µm have proven to be particularly suitable in order to achieve a good compromise between the smallest possible design with high bending capacity on the one hand and good mechanical robustness and / or electrical performance (in particular current carrying capacity) on the other.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first communication device comprises a passive transponder for wirelessly communicating the security-relevant information. Furthermore, the antenna device is configured as an induction device to generate an induced voltage in response to a magnetic or electromagnetic alternating field acting upon it, thereby supplying the transponder with electrical energy. This eliminates the need for an energy source, such as an electrochemical energy storage device, in the security document or the security element itself. The configuration as an induction device can be achieved, in particular, by the two antenna lines interacting, analogous to the outer and inner conductors of a coaxial cable, to define an inductance of the antenna device.It is also possible for the two antenna lines to be electrically connected, in particular temporarily (e.g., in a clocked fashion), by the first communication device to jointly form an inductance, so that a variable magnetic flux (magnetic flux density B) can act inductively through an area located between the two antenna lines to generate the induced voltage. Additionally or in addition, it is possible for the antenna lines in or on the security element to each extend in a spiral, in particular helical, configuration (and together, in particular, double-helix configuration), so that the cross-sectional area of ​​this spiral arrangement can act as a conductor loop(s) and thus as an inductance.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first communication device is configured to wirelessly communicate information, in particular the security-relevant first information, in the UHF band, i.e., in the frequency range between 300 MHz and 3 GHz, preferably between 800 MHz and 980 MHz. For this purpose, the first communication device can be configured, in particular, to communicate wirelessly using RFID technology. This also allows for particularly short-range wireless communication beyond the near field (in particular beyond NFC technology) in the range of a few meters to a few tens of meters, which can be used, in particular, to detect the security document even at such a distance and, if necessary, to identify it based on the first information transmitted by the first communication device of the security document.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first communication device and the antenna device are provided with a sheath that surrounds them both at least in sections. The sheath can serve, in particular, to protect against external mechanical or other disruptive influences and / or to form the thread-like security element as a bundle formed from its components. The sheath can, in particular, be tubular or can be formed by wrapping the internal components of the security element, in particular the first communication device and the antenna device. The wrapping can, in particular, comprise textile or plastic fibers, in particular consist thereof, whereby electrical insulation of the wrapped interior of the security element can also be achieved at the same time.Additionally or alternatively, the antenna lines can also be individually insulated, in particular coated with a dielectric material or otherwise surrounded.

[0039] In some embodiments, the security element may additionally comprise a strain relief element, in particular a substantially thread- or wire-shaped strain relief element, which extends together with the antennas at least in sections along the course of the security element and is configured to absorb or absorb any tensile forces acting on the security element, such as may possibly occur during use of the security document or during its manufacture, in order to protect other components of the security element, in particular the antenna device and its connections and the first communication device, from damage caused by such tensile forces.

[0040] In some embodiments, the security document further comprises a second microelectronic communication device for contactless transmission of second information read from a second data memory associated with or contained in the second microelectronic communication device. The security document has at least one of the following configurations (a) and (b): (a) The second information is stored in encrypted form in the second data storage device, and / or read access to the second data storage device is only possible by the second communication device based on authentication using a key code. The first communication device is also configured to generate the key code or read it from a first data storage device associated with the first communication device and to use it for decrypting the second information orfor authentication for authorized read access to the second data store; (b) The first information and the second information together encode security information required for successful identification or authentication of an object associated with the first information, in particular a person, in such a way that the security information only becomes available by combining the first information with the second information.

[0041] In both cases, the security of the security document, in particular with regard to its protection against forgery, can be increased, since a coordinated combination of the two communication devices is required for the successful identification or authentication of an object associated with the first information or the security information.

[0042] In particular, in some of these embodiments, the second information and / or the security information may at least partially correspond to information otherwise available on the security document, so that multi-factor identification or authentication of the security document or an object associated therewith is enabled based on a comparison of this otherwise available information on the one hand with the second information or the security information on the other hand.

[0043] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for the mechanical production of a security document according to the first aspect, in particular an identity document or a component or blank therefor. The method comprises: (i) producing or receiving (e.g., via a feed or conveyor device) a security document comprising a number N of sheet-shaped substrates, with N ≥ 2; and (ii) integrating or attaching a thread-like security element into or to the sheet-shaped substrate.on at least one of the N substrates, wherein the security element has a first microelectronic communication device with an antenna device connected thereto for wirelessly communicating first security-relevant information to a communication counterpart external to the security document, wherein the security document is configured as a book-like document with N ≥ 2, wherein the book-like document is formed with a spine and the security element is at least partially integrated into the spine or fixed to it. Step (ii) can be carried out in particular within the scope of step (i), in particular simultaneously therewith, or else subsequently thereto.

[0044] In some embodiments of the method, the integration or attachment of the security element is carried out at least partially in at least one of the following ways: (i) forming a material-to-material connection of the security element to the at least one substrate; (ii) mechanically forming a seam in the at least one substrate, wherein the security element is sewn as a thread of the seam, in particular individually or together with one or more other threads.

[0045] As already explained above, this allows in particular a very robust anchoring of the security element in the security document and enables the use of the security element as a hidden security feature.

[0046] The features and advantages explained with respect to the first aspect of the invention are also applicable to the further aspects of the invention.

[0047] Further advantages, features and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures.

[0048] It shows: Fig. 1 schematically shows, in a combined overall and detailed view, a book-like security document according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein at the same time various alternatively or cumulatively applicable possibilities for the placement of the security element in the security document are illustrated; Fig. 2 schematic view of the book-like security document Fig. 1 in the special version in which the security element is arranged in or on the spine of the security document; Fig. 3 schematically in an exploded view an exemplary layer structure for a cover of the security document formed from several substrates Fig. 1 and 2in cross section; Fig. 4A und 4B schematically shows two different exemplary embodiments of a thread-like microelectronic security element which can be contained in a security document according to the invention as its security element; Fig. 5 a flow chart illustrating a preferred embodiment of a manufacturing method according to the invention; Fig. 6 a diagram explaining a warning given in the safety document Fig. 1 enabled two-factor identification of persons (ID card holders); and Fig. 7 a diagram illustrating various provisions contained in the safety document Fig. 1 enabled applications for the identification of persons, particularly in the transport sector.

[0049] Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding elements of the invention.

[0050] In Fig. 1 An exemplary embodiment 100 of a book-like security document is illustrated in a plan view along a viewing axis running along the spine. The security document 100 can, in particular, be a passport document or other multi-page identification document. It contains an envelope 105, which has two side-shaped substrates 105a and 105b, for example consisting of a multi-layer laminate structure, which are connected to one another by a spine 115 and together with the spine form a (protective) envelope 105 of the security document 100. Within this envelope 105, a data page 120, for example formed as a plastic laminate, and several paper pages 125 (e.g., visa pages) are provided as further side-shaped substrates, so that the book-like security document 100 results overall, as shown in Fig. 1 illustrated.

[0051] The security document 100 may have one or more security features, which may in particular be formed by one or more security elements attached to or integrated into the security document 100. One such security element is a microelectronic security element 130, which may be attached to or integrated into other components of the security document 100, for which purpose there are a number of different placement options, some of which are exemplified in Fig. 1 are marked with the reference numerals 130a to 130e.

[0052] According to the invention, the placement must be such that the security element is at least partially integrated into the spine or fixed to it.

[0053] The security element 130 is thread-shaped and therefore, on the one hand, flexible and, on the other hand, predominantly one-dimensional. It has a first microelectronic communication device 175 with an antenna device 180a, 180b electrically connected thereto for wirelessly communicating security-relevant first information to a communication counterpart 200 external to the security document 100 (see FIG. Fig. 7 ). An exemplary embodiment of such a thread-shaped security element 130 will be described in more detail below with reference to the Figuren 4A und 4B be explained.

[0054] According to the invention, the mentioned placement options also include Fig. 2 illustrated possibility of the security element 130, such as Fig. 1 designated by the reference numeral 130a, to be attached to the book spine 115 or integrated therein, in particular such that the security element runs at least approximately parallel to the pivot axis of the security document 100. This is advantageous in that the book spine 115, on the one hand, offers protection against external influences on the security element 130 and, on the other hand, defines a cavity in which the security element can be easily accommodated, in particular invisibly and thus hidden from the outside.

[0055] A further possibility, which is not claimed per se, is to attach the security element 130, as indicated by the reference numeral 130b, to one of the cover sides 105a of the cover 105 or to integrate it therein. This can be done in particular by woven the security element 130 as a thread into a textile fabric that may be present in the cover side 105a or by integrating it into a layer structure of the cover side 105a, as exemplified below with reference to Fig. 3 will be explained.

[0056] Yet another possibility, which is not claimed per se, consists in integrating the security element 130 into the data page 120, as indicated by reference numeral 130c, in particular in a possibly present layer structure, for example, a laminate, of the same. In one variant, this can be done, for example, by combining the security element 130 with a holographic stripe 135 to form a combined security element that is applied to or on the data page 120 (or optionally also on another substrate of the security document 100).

[0057] A further possibility, which is not claimed in itself, consists in integrating the thread-like security element 130 on or in one of the paper pages 125, as indicated by the reference numeral 130d, wherein a different possibility for orienting the thread is illustrated here by way of example (transverse to the hinge axis of the security document) than in the aforementioned other possibilities, in which the thread-like security element 105 is shown running essentially parallel to the hinge axis of the security document 100.

[0058] Yet another exemplary possibility, which is not claimed per se, is to use the security element 130 as a thread in a seam, as indicated by the reference numeral 130e, which here is, for example, a seam for connecting the various substrates of the security document 100 in the area of ​​the spine 115. In the lower area of ​​the Fig. 1 Two parallel seams are shown, at least one of which contains the security element 130 as a thread. The seams here run through so-called hinge regions of the substrates 120 and 125, which are connected to one another by the seams. By way of example, the hinge region of the front cover page 105a is designated by the reference numeral "110." The hinge regions can, in particular, have a smaller thickness than the foldable regions of the respective substrates, which can be pivoted relative to the respective hinge region when leafing through the book-like security document 100.

[0059] In addition to the security element 130, the security document 100 can have, as a further security feature, a second communication device 140, in particular a near-field communication device (such as an NFC communication device with a corresponding microelectronic NFC chip and an NFC antenna), in which data, in particular security-relevant data (such as personalization data and / or country-specific data), is stored itself or in an associated data memory and can be read out when a corresponding communication connection is established with the communication device 140. Possibilities for using this second communication device 140 will be discussed below with reference to Fig. 6 will be discussed further. In one embodiment, the operating frequencies of the first microelectronic communication device and the second microelectronic communication device (e.g., 13.56 MHz) may differ from one another.

[0060] Fig. 3 shows an exemplary layer structure for an envelope 105 of the security document from the Figuren 1 and 2 in cross-section. The layered structure has a sandwich design, in which between a first sheet-like cover substrate 145, which can be formed as a single- or multi-layered material, and a second sheet-like cover substrate 150, which can be formed, for example, as a single- or multi-layered cardboard, there are further intermediate substrates 155, 160, 165, which form a core of the sandwich layered structure.

[0061] A first intermediate substrate 155 is designed here as a multi-layer inlay, into which, in particular, the security element 130 or 130b can be integrated. A second intermediate substrate 160 can, in particular, be designed as a single- or multi-layer inlay and have the near-field communication device 140, in particular an NFC chip with an associated antenna, integrated therein. In the area of ​​the spine 115, a third intermediate substrate 165 can also be provided in the form of a, in particular textile, reinforcing band, which can optionally also contain the security element 130 or 130a. In particular, the security element 130 or 130a can be woven or sewn as a thread into the textile fabric of the reinforcing band 165. The various substrates 145-165 of the layered structure can be integrally bonded to form the cover 105 by means of lamination or by means of various adhesive layers 170.

[0062] In other embodiments, the security element 130 and the second communication device 140 can also be located in different substrates (e.g., the data side on the one hand and the cover on the other). 140 is often also laminated into the data side. In particular, it is possible for the near-field communication device 140 to be integrated into the data side, in particular laminated into it.

[0063] Exemplary embodiments of the security element 130 are shown in the Figuren 4A und 4B illustrated. In a first, in Fig. 4A In the illustrated embodiment, the security element 130 has a first microelectronic communication device in the form of a UHF transponder chip 175 and two antenna lines 180a and 180b electrically connected thereto. The two antenna lines 180a and 180b are each connected to the transponder chip 175 such that the connection point lies between the two ends of the respective antenna line 180a or 180b. Overall, the antenna lines 180a and 180b together form, on the one hand, an antenna device as a dipole antenna for transmitting and receiving radio signals in the UHF band and, on the other hand, an induction device (self-inductance) for the transponder chip 175, which is designed as a passive transponder, so that externally coupled magnetic or electromagnetic alternating fields can inductively supply and activate the passive transponder chip 175.

[0064] The shorter sections of the two antenna lines 180a and 180b, as seen from the connection point on the transponder chip 175, can be used in particular for impedance matching of the corresponding antenna line by selecting the length of these sections accordingly during the production of the security element 130 to set a desired impedance. They can also contribute to the formation of the aforementioned inductance.

[0065] Furthermore, a strain relief element 190, in particular a thread-shaped strain relief element, can optionally be provided in the security element 130, which is capable of at least largely absorbing potential tensile forces acting externally on the security element 105 in order to protect the antenna lines 180a and 180b from such forces and thus to protect them from damage or destruction.

[0066] In addition, the security element 130 can have a protective layer, which in the present example is formed by a wrapping 185 that encloses the transponder chip 175, the antenna lines 180a and 180b, and optionally the strain relief element 190. The wrapping 185 can, in particular, be provided by a textile strip or thread. The security element 130 as a whole can thus also externally resemble a pure textile thread and be processed in a similar way.

[0067] In a second, in Fig. 4B In the illustrated embodiment of the security element 130, the two antenna lines 180a and 180b each run, at least substantially, along the entire length of the security element 130 along its thread-like extension. Accordingly, the wrapping 185 also surrounds the two antenna lines 180a and 180b along their entire length. Additionally, a strain relief element 190 can optionally be provided, although this is particularly important in the embodiment shown in Figur 4B shown variant is not the case. Otherwise, the embodiment shown in Fig. 4B those from Fig. 4A .

[0068] In Fig. 5 An exemplary embodiment 500 of a method for producing a security document is illustrated in the form of a flowchart, with reference being made to the security document 100 from the preceding figures by way of example. In the method, in a step 505, a plurality of page-shaped substrates from which the security document 100 is to be produced are provided. The substrates can include, in particular, a cover 105 with a spine 115 and reinforcing tape 165, the data page 120, and the paper pages 125, as already explained in detail above.

[0069] For the further processing of the substrates for the production of the security document 100, various alternative or (especially in the case of several security elements 130) cumulative options are available, which in particular lead to the various Figuren 1 bis 3 The options 130a to 130e shown correspond to the fastening or integration of the security element 130 on or into the security document 100 to be produced. Figure 500 illustrates three of these options by way of example.

[0070] According to a first possibility, in a step 510 the security element 130 or 130a is glued onto the spine 115 or sewn into it, in particular such that the security element 130 / 130a runs along or parallel to the later pivot axis of the pages of the security document 100.

[0071] According to a second possibility, in a step 515, the security element 130 or 130a is integrated into the reinforcement band 165 as a thread, in particular by weaving or sewing. Alternatively or cumulatively, it can be glued to the reinforcement band 165, in particular only in sections.

[0072] According to a third possibility, in a step 520, the security element 130 or 130c is combined with a holographic stripe to form a combined security element, in particular by gluing the security element 130 / 130c, for example, to the holographic stripe 135. The resulting combined security element 130c / 135 is then applied in a further step 525 to one of the substrates, for example, to one of the paper sides 125 (e.g., visa side), which can again be done in particular by means of a material bond.

[0073] Regardless of which of these three options is selected, a step 530 follows, in which the reinforcing tape 165 is glued to the other components of the cover 105, in particular to the cover pages 105a, b. In particular, this gluing can be performed on a paper lining (fly leaf) of one or both cover pages 105a, b, whereby the paper lining itself can also be glued.

[0074] Finally, the various page-shaped substrates, in the case of the security document 100, the data page 120 and the paper pages 125, are combined with the cover 105 including its reinforcing band 165 to form a book-like security document 100, which accordingly contains one or more security elements 130.

[0075] Fig. 6 shows a diagram explaining a warning given by the safety document Fig. 1 enabled two-factor identification of persons (ID card holders). As the first factor (factor 1), the security document 100 contains initial identification information, which is either readable by a human controller and / or machine-readable by a suitable reading device. This initial identification information can, in particular, be printed or incorporated on or into one of the substrates 120 or 125, be it in readable writing, for example in the form of a biometric feature, such as a facial image, or by means of a barcode or other machine-readable code.

[0076] A second factor (factor 2) for identification only arises through the interaction of the two communication devices integrated in the security document 100, namely, on the one hand, the security element 130, which can communicate wirelessly in the UHF band, and, on the other hand, the near-field communication device 140, which here is in particular a communication device operating according to the known standardized NFC technology. A data memory can be provided in the near-field communication device 140, in which second information, in particular identification information corresponding to that of factor 1, is stored in cryptographically encrypted form. The cryptographic key required to decrypt this second information can be provided by the security element 130, either by being generated there or by being read from a data memory contained therein.

[0077] To generate the second factor, the security element 130 provides the key, which is used to encrypt the encrypted second information. Two-factor identification can then be performed based on both factor 1 and factor 2 by comparing the corresponding first identification information and second (identification) information. If they match according to a predetermined test criterion during the comparison, the identification is successful; otherwise, it fails, which may indicate a forgery of the security document 100.

[0078] Alternatively or cumulatively, it is also possible to divide the second (identification) information into several information parts and to distribute these separately to the two communication devices 140 and 175 or their associated data memories, such that the second (identification) information required for the comparison is only available in its entirety when the information parts have been received as a whole by the two communication devices.

[0079] Fig. 7 Finally, shows a diagram illustrating various provisions made by the safety document Fig. 1 enabled applications for the identification of persons, particularly in the transport sector.

[0080] The security document 100 can advantageously be used as an identification document, in particular a passport, during passport control at border locations such as train stations, airports, or highways. In order to shorten the waiting time at passport control or to control the entry and exit of a passport holder, the first or second identification information can be retrieved by the UHF transponder 175 from a distance of several meters via radio using a UHF transceiver 200 in order to compare it with third identification information, which was generated, for example, by facial recognition software based on an image or video of the person to be identified captured by a camera 195. Alternatively or cumulatively, the third (identification) information can also be obtained from a portable device belonging to a person (smartphone, tablet, wearable) that the person may carry with them, e.g.in the form of a telephone number or a serial number. IMEI (I international M mobile E equipment I identity), especially via a wireless communication connection. This allows for particularly fast, efficient, and secure passport control when using the security document 100. x

[0081] The first, second, and third pieces of identification information thus each represent information relevant to personal identification and thus security-relevant information. While at least one exemplary embodiment has been described above, it should be noted that a large number of variations exist. It should also be noted that the described exemplary embodiments represent only non-limiting examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the devices and methods described herein.Rather, the foregoing description will provide a guide to implementing at least one exemplary embodiment to one skilled in the art, it being understood that various changes may be made in the operation and arrangement of the elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the subject matter defined in the appended claims. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0082] 100Security document 105(Protective) cover 105Front cover 105bBack cover 110Hinge area of ​​the front cover 115Spine 120Data page 125Paper page(s), in particular visa page(s) 130Security element 130aSecurity element, attached to the spine or integrated therein 130bSecurity element, attached to the cover or integrated therein 130cSecurity element, attached to the data page or integrated therein 130dSecurity element, attached to the paper page or integrated therein 130eSecurity element, sewn as a thread in a seam 135Holographic stripe 140Near-field communication device, in particular with NFC chip 145First cover substrate, in particular sewn paper bundle 150Second cover substrate, in particular single- or multi-layer cardboard 155First intermediate substrate as a multi-layer Inlay, if necessary with integrated security element 130 or130b 160Second intermediate substrate, single- or multi-layered, with integrated near-field communication device 140 165Third intermediate substrate, reinforcement tape, optionally with integrated security element 130 or 130a 170Adhesive 175First microelectronic communication device, in particular UHF transponder chip 180aFirst antenna cable 180bSecond antenna cable 185Wrapping 190Strain relief element 195Camera, coupled to image processing device for facial recognition 200UHF transceiver for radio communication with communication device 175 500Manufacturing method for security document 505-535Process steps of method 500.

Claims

1. Security document (100), in particular identity document or component or blank therefor, comprising: a number N of sheet-shaped substrates (105, 115, 120, 125); and a thread-like security element (130) which is integrated at least in sections into at least one of the N substrates (105, 115, 120, 125) or is fastened thereto and which has a first microelectronic communication device (175) with an antenna device (180a, 180b) electrically connected thereto for wireless communication of security-relevant first information to a communication counterpart (200) external with respect to the security document (100), wherein the security document (100) is configured as a book-like document with N ≥ 2, characterized in that the book-like document (100) is formed with a book spine (115) and the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections into the book spine (115) or is fixed thereto.

2. Security document (100) according to Claim 1, wherein a first of the N substrates (105, 120) is configured as a data page (120) or as an envelope (105) for the book-like document (100) and the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections into this first substrate.

3. Security document (100) according to Claim 2, wherein the first substrate has a layered structure into which the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections.

4. Security document (100) according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein: the first substrate has a hinge region (110) for connecting the first substrate to at least one of the N-1 other substrates (105a, 105b, 120, 125) in order to form the book-like document (100); and the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections into the hinge region (110).

5. Security document (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the book spine (115) has, for its reinforcement, a textile reinforcing tape into which the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections.

6. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the security element (130) is combined with a holographic thread or strip to form a combined thread-shaped or strip-shaped security element (130) by means of integration in or firm connection with the holographic thread or strip.

7. Security document (100) according to Claim 6 and any one of Claims 2 to 5, wherein: the security document (100) has a number M, where 2 ≤ M ≤ N, of sheet-shaped substrates (105a, 105b, 120, 125) which are similar in kind to one another; and the combined security element (130) is integrated into only one of these M substrates (105a, 105b, 120, 125) or is fastened thereto.

8. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the security element (130, 130e) forms, as a thread, part of a seam in or on the security document (100).

9. Security document (100) according to Claim 8, wherein the seam is embodied at least in sections as a double stitch seam, wherein the security element (130) forms a lower thread of the double stitch seam.

10. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the antenna device has two wire-shaped antenna lines (180a, 180b) which are electrically insulated from one another and each of which is electrically connected to the first communication device (175) at a respective contact point situated between their ends, and wherein the antenna lines (180a, 180b) overall form a dipole antenna with electrically open ends.

11. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the first communication device (175) has a passive transponder for wireless communication of the security-relevant information; and the antenna device is also configured as an induction device in order to generate an induction voltage in response to an alternating magnetic or electromagnetic field acting on it and thus to supply the transponder with electrical energy.

12. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first communication device (175) is configured to wirelessly communicate information in the UHF band.

13. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first communication device (175) and the antenna device are provided with a sheathing which surrounds them both at least in sections.

14. Security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second microelectronic communication device (140) for contactless transmission of second information read from a second data memory associated with or contained in the second microelectronic communication device (140); wherein the security document (100) has at least one of the following configurations: (a) the second information is stored in encrypted form in the second data memory and / or read access to the second data memory is possible by the second communication device (140) only on the basis of authentication by means of a key code; and the first communication device (175) is configured to generate the key code or to read it from a first data memory associated with the first communication device (175) and to provide it for decryption of the second information or for authentication for authorized read access to the second data memory; (b) the first information and the second information together encode security information required for successful identification or authentication of an object associated with the first information in such a way that the security information is only available by combining the first information with the second information.

15. Security document (100) according to Claim 14, wherein the second information and / or the security information at least partially corresponds to information otherwise available on the security document (100), such that, on the basis of a comparison of this otherwise available information on the one hand with the second information or the security information on the other hand, multifactor identification or authentication of the security document (100) or of an object associated therewith is made possible.

16. Method (500) for the machine production of a security document (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular an identity document or a component or a blank therefor, wherein the method (500) comprises: producing (505, 530, 535) or receiving a security document (100) which has a number N of sheet-shaped substrates (105, 120, 125), where N ≥ 2; and integrating or fastening (510; 515; 520, 525) a thread-like security element (130) into or to at least one of the N substrates (105, 120, 125), wherein the security element (130) has a first microelectronic communication device (175) with an antenna device (180a, 180b) connected thereto for wireless communication of first security-relevant information to a communication counterpart (200) external with respect to the security document (100), wherein the security document (100) is configured as a book-like document with N ≥ 2, wherein the book-like document (100) is formed with a book spine (115) and the security element (130) is integrated at least in sections into the book spine (115) or is fixed thereto.

17. Method (500) according to Claim 16, wherein the integration or fastening (510; 515; 520, 525) of the security element (130) takes place at least partially in at least one of the following ways: forming a cohesive connection of the security element (130; 130a; 130b; 130c, 130d) to the at least one substrate (105, 115, 120, 125); machine-forming a seam in the at least one substrate, wherein the security element (130, 130e) is sewn as a thread of the seam.