Label, system, and method for forming a label

Abstract

The invention relates to a label (1, 10) for forming a multilayer conductor path structure, comprising a first label section (11) with a first conductor path structure (51), which has a plurality of conductor paths (5) that are electrically coupled to a first connection point (61) by means of another conductor path (5, 6). The label (1, 10) additionally comprises a second label section (12) with a second conductor path structure (52), which has a plurality of conductor paths (5) that are electrically coupled to a second connection point (62) by means of another conductor path (5, 6). The two conductor path structures (51, 52) are formed on a common support layer (2) and can be arranged one over the other with respect to a stacking direction (R) by folding along a folding line (F, F1, F2, F3) so that a folded label (1) can be formed.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Label, system and method for forming a label

[0003] The present invention relates to a label, a system comprising such a label and a method for forming such a label.

[0004] Labels serve as proof of origin or are intended to provide information that can be requested on demand. Electronic labels feature circuit structures that, for example, form a coil or antenna unit for RFID functionality. It is always a challenge to contribute to cost-effective label production while also enabling reliable and secure functionality for the intended application.

[0005] It is an object underlying the invention to provide a label that can be produced cost-effectively and also enables reliable and secure functionality for the intended applications of the label.

[0006] The problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the respective dependent patent claims.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, a label for forming a multilayer conductor track structure comprises a first label section and an adjacent second label section. The first label section has a first conductor track structure comprising a plurality of conductor tracks that are electrically coupled to a first connection point by means of a further conductor track. The second label section has a second conductor track structure comprising a plurality of conductor tracks that are electrically coupled to a second connection point by means of a further conductor track. The two conductor track structures are formed on or at a common carrier layer and can be arranged one above the other with respect to a stacking direction by folding along a fold line, such that a folded label can be formed.Using the label, a multilayer conductor track arrangement can be realized in a simple and cost-effective manner, for example, a coil or drill protection arrangement. To create multiple functional layers, the label is simply folded along one or more fold lines to form a two- or multi-layer conductor track arrangement. Folding thus represents a cost-effective alternative to multiple printing and lamination steps for creating superimposed layers.

[0008] The two conductor track structures are preferably formed on a common side of the carrier layer and can be folded towards and / or away from each other along the fold line. Thus, with respect to the stacking direction in the folded label, the two conductor track structures face each other and are surrounded by the carrier layer or face away from each other, such that the carrier layer is partially arranged between the two conductor track structures. Alternatively or additionally, one conductor track structure or a section thereof can be formed on an opposite side of the carrier layer relative to the other. For example, the first conductor track structure is formed on the top side and the second conductor track structure is formed on the underside of the carrier layer. An electrical coupling of the two conductor track structures can already be established before folding and / or formed by folding and arranging the conductor track structures one above the other.

[0009] By folding, a variety of multi-layer label structures can be realized, which can be predetermined by the application. For example, the conductor track structures can be folded inwards and protected by the carrier layer. Alternatively, the conductor track structure can be folded outwards for easier access and easier contact. The associated output label provides correspondingly predetermined conductor track structures, which are formed next to one another on the shared carrier layer, particularly during a printing process. The carrier layer is designed, for example, as a paper or plastic element, for example a PET film element, and provides a support structure for the conductor track structures. No different printing processes are required to create multiple print layers on top of one another.The described label thus provides an efficient way of forming an electrically conductive multilayer structure. For example, the conductor track structures each have several rectilinear sections, each of which has a different main extension direction relative to adjacent sections and is predominantly described in this description as a conductor track of the associated conductor track structure. If the conductor tracks or conductor track sections are connected to one another, the sections can alternatively be regarded as merely a contiguous conductor track of the conductor track structure. Furthermore, individual or all conductor tracks or conductor track sections of a conductor track structure can also be non-reciprocal.

[0010] It is a finding in connection with the present invention that conventional arrangements for multi-layer labels, for example, comprise a printing process for applying conductive structures to a substrate, followed by overprinting with an insulating layer, on which in turn another layer of a conductive structure is printed to form a multi-layer label with conductive structures. Each individual printing layer requires a separate pass through a printing press and requires corresponding time and costs. Furthermore, with such conventional label arrangements, it may be necessary to print an insulating varnish two or more times per layer to avoid rejects due to short circuits. Such process steps require additional time and material expenditure and increase manufacturing costs.With regard to an application for the production of a conventional drilling protection film, a particularly high level of precision is required, which is difficult to ensure when overprinting several times, so that waste and additional costs must be taken into account.

[0011] Alternatively, a conventional arrangement can be realized by printing several conductive structures onto multiple substrates, and then arranging and laminating the individual printed substrates one above the other. Multiple printed layers of functional materials result in higher cumulative production costs and contribute to a certain amount of material waste. However, even in such label structures, each individual printed layer requires a separate pass through a printing press. Furthermore, contacts must be established between individual film layers. Such through-plating requires, for example, the creation of holes or openings, which must subsequently be filled with conductive materials, such as silver or carbon paste. This requires additional work steps requiring very high precision.Again, with regard to the application of producing a conventional anti-drill film, it is very difficult to ensure a precise lamination. Furthermore, different parameters, such as different film batches, different influences on substrates during different production steps, such as different silver batches or different screens and different production times, have a negative impact on the precision of superimposing conductor track structures and thus lead to increased production waste.

[0012] Using the foldable label construction described above, time-consuming multiple printing and laminating processes can be eliminated, keeping time and material expenditures and production costs low. A multilayer circuit structure can be created by printing the label sections side by side once and then folding them over each other. The conductive connections of the individual label sections can be printed at the same time without additional effort. In particular, complex through-plating after laminating can be eliminated. The fact that only one or at least fewer printing steps are required reduces costs. Furthermore, identical conditions during the production of the individual label sections contribute to high precision when overlapping and also reduce label waste.

[0013] According to a further development, the conductor tracks of the first conductor track structure and the second conductor track structure are designed in a meandering shape, such that the label is configured to form a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement when folded. In particular, the conductor tracks of the first conductor track structure can be oriented parallel to and offset from the conductor tracks of the second conductor track structure with respect to a lateral direction of the label, transverse to the stacking direction. Alternatively or additionally, the fold line between the two conductor track structures, which are arranged one above the other after folding, can be arranged asymmetrically, such that during folding, for example, the conductive conductor tracks of the first conductor track structure on one side of the carrier layer come to lie over the gaps between the conductor tracks of the second conductor track structure on the opposite side of the carrier layer and form a closed surface in projection.Thus, the conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structure, for example, form a continuous protective surface when viewed from above, which cannot be passed through by a micro-drill without being damaged.

[0014] The conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures can be printed adjacent to one another with respect to a projection within a common plane, or they can be designed such that they overlap one another in sections along a lateral direction of the label. If the conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures are, for example, straight and parallel, the folded label will then each have a strip-shaped overlap of adjacent conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures with respect to a top view, which corresponds to a projection within a common plane. Alternatively, the conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures can be designed such that they are oriented obliquely or perpendicularly to one another.The conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures then form, for example, a lattice structure with a plurality of overlapping sections with respect to a top view along the stacking direction.

[0015] Payment information temporarily stored on a card payment reader is of interest to unauthorized persons, such as thieves or hackers. Therefore, it is urgently necessary to improve the security of such card payment readers to prevent unauthorized access. Among other things, unauthorized persons attempt to gain access to the payment information on a card payment reader using an instrument, such as a micro-drill or a laser. Such a micro-drill can create microscopic holes in the housing of the card payment reader, through which the stored payment information can be read.

[0016] The described label enables the creation of a drilling protection device, which is mounted, for example, inside the card payment reader, and provides reliable protection against such an access attempt. It can contribute to improving the security of such card payment readers. The connection points of the label or the drilling protection device are signal-coupled to the electronics of the device to be protected, and if the circuit paths are damaged by an unauthorized access attempt, the stored data of the electronic device is immediately deleted. Thus, using the described label, a drilling protection device can be provided in a simple and cost-effective manner, which reliably protects the stored data of an electronic device.In an initial state, the anti-drilling device can be printed, in particular, on a common label web. As a folded label, it can form a layer stack with a plurality of printed functional layers and be referred to as a anti-drilling element or anti-drilling film. The anti-drilling device can reliably protect electronic devices against unauthorized access. To protect the conductor track structures, one or more protective lacquer layers can be provided, covering the conductor track structures partially or completely, either as an alternative to or in addition to insulation layers.

[0017] The label can also be designed such that the conductor tracks of the first conductor track structure are meander-shaped and surround each other in a spiral manner, and / or the conductor tracks of the second conductor track structure are meander-shaped and surround each other in a spiral manner, so that the label is configured to form a multilayer coil arrangement in a folded state. For example, the first and second conductor track structures each comprise a connection point, which are surrounded by the respective conductor tracks in a meander-shaped and spiral manner and which are electrically coupled to the associated connection point by means of a respective further conductor track.

[0018] The respective conductor track structures can be configured such that an electrical coupling of the respective conductor track structures is established before and / or after folding. For example, the label is designed such that the first and second conductor track structures are electrically coupled to one another both before and after folding along the fold line. This can be realized, in particular, by a connecting conductor track that extends between the first and second label sections and electrically connects the two conductor track structures. If the fold line is provided between the label sections, the connecting conductor track accordingly crosses the fold line at least once.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the label can be designed such that the first and the second conductor track structure each comprise one or more connecting sections and are configured such that they are spaced apart from one another before folding and are electrically coupled to one another along the fold line after folding by means of the connecting sections. The connecting sections are designed so as to be coordinated with one another in terms of position and geometry that they come into contact with one another after folding and establish a reliable electrical coupling of the respective conductor track structures. In particular, mutually assigned connecting sections are designed with respect to the stacking direction such that together they have a predetermined height that is greater than a total height of mutually facing conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structure.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the label can be designed such that conductor track structures are formed separately from one another and are also separated in a predetermined manner after folding and, by means of their connection point or connection points, provide respective contact areas, for example for an electrical coupling with a conductor track or a connection of an external sensor or an external detector unit.

[0021] According to a further development, the label has one or more insulation layers that cover the first and / or second conductor track structure at least in sections, so that when the label is folded, they are arranged between opposing conductor tracks. Such insulation sections can be applied locally over predetermined conductor track sections or can fully cover the first and / or second label section or, if appropriate, additional label sections. For example, insulation sections are applied to the respective conductor track structures and cover associated conductor tracks up to a connection point and / or a connection point. One or more additional conductor tracks can then be applied to such insulation sections. Alternatively or additionally, insulation sections can be specifically provided with regard to the folding of the label.The insulation layers are each designed to prevent an undesired electrical connection between conductor tracks, in particular in the folded, operational state of the label.

[0022] The label may further comprise a third label section and a fourth label section with a respective conductor track structure, each having a plurality of conductor tracks. The first to fourth conductor track structures are formed jointly on or on the carrier layer and can be arranged one above the other by folding along predetermined fold lines relative to a stacking direction, so that a folded label can be formed in which the first to fourth conductor track structures are electrically coupled to one another and form respective conductor track layers of a multilayer conductor track arrangement.

[0023] The label can be configured such that a predetermined curved conductor track is formed on the carrier layer between two conductor track structures in the region of a respective fold line, which crosses the associated fold line multiple times and electrically connects the two conductor track structures. Alternatively or additionally, the label can have a predetermined thick or wide conductor track on the carrier layer between two adjacent conductor track structures in the region of a respective fold line, which crosses the associated fold line and electrically connects the two conductor track structures.

[0024] A conductive connection between the layers or label sections of the label can thus be implemented in various variants and protected from damage caused by folding. A conductor track in the form of a simple line, for example, vertically, can run across the fold edge. Alternatively or additionally, an electrically connecting conductor track can be formed on or within the fold line, which is preferably thicker or wider than other conductor tracks next to the fold line. Alternatively or additionally, a meandering conductor track along the fold edge can establish an electrically conductive connection between two conductor track structures, so that the meandering conductor track is located alternately to the left and right of the fold edge.Alternatively or additionally, an electrical connection can be established by a predetermined configuration of surfaces or pads in and around the fold line, which lie on top of each other when folded, thereby establishing electrical contact. Such opposing connecting elements or connecting sections can have an electrically conductive adhesive on their upper surface, so that they contact each other after folding and are adhesively connected.

[0025] According to a further development of the label, one or more spacers are formed on the carrier layer between two conductor track structures in the region of a respective fold line, said spacers having a predetermined height and limiting maximum folding of the label. The spacers can, in particular, counteract damage to the electrical connecting conductor track that crosses the fold line, so that, for example, the first label section cannot be folded 180° toward or away from the second label section. The spacer(s) thus form a curvature limitation in the region of the associated fold line in order to prevent the connecting conductor tracks from bending too sharply at the fold edge. Such spacers can, for example, be formed by dispensing or printing dots or lines of varnish or curable adhesive on and / or at the fold line.

[0026] According to a further development of the label, for example, the first conductor track structure has a free end section with an associated connection point at each of the ends opposite in terms of signal transmission. Alternatively or additionally, the second conductor track structure can have a free end section with an associated connection point at each of the ends opposite in terms of signal transmission. The conductor track structures each comprise a plurality of interconnected conductor tracks, which form, for example, a continuous conductor track strip with changes in direction. The respective ends of such a conductor track strip can be referred to as opposite ends in terms of signal transmission, since a signal would run from one end to the other end.

[0027] The conductor track structures can also be applied as separate components to the label's material web, so that they remain predefined even after folding and, via their respective connection points, provide corresponding contact areas for electrical coupling. Such electrical coupling can be implemented, for example, after the label has been used, by predefined coupling of one or more connection points to electronic components. This allows a simple and cost-effective implementation of a multilayer conductor track arrangement, which, for example, creates a coil or drill protection arrangement, which can later be further processed and electrically contacted with connection components.

[0028] Furthermore, the conductor track structures and their respective connection point(s) can be formed on a common label section or on different label sections relative to existing fold lines. For example, the fold lines separate adjacent label sections from one another, so that, for example, the first conductor track structure with one or more connection points and the second conductor track structure with one or more connection points are formed on different label sections relative to an intermediate fold line.

[0029] For example, with regard to a payment terminal, the label can be designed such that each layer of the label or each label section preferably comprises two or more contact loops in the form of respective conductor track structures, each having two connection points. Thus, four connection points would be provided per label section, which, for example, are not coupled, but rather each establish a separate connection to a respective contact of the payment terminal's security chip. The security chip or the payment terminal is then configured such that damage to even one contact loop leads to data deletion in the payment terminal.

[0030] According to a further development of the label, a fold line is provided between a respective conductor track structure and an associated connection point, so that the respective connection point can be arranged above or below the respective conductor track structure in the folded label with respect to the stacking direction. For example, the first conductor track structure is arranged on a first label section, the second conductor track structure on a second label section, and their respective connection points on a third label section, wherein a fold line is introduced or a fold is provided between adjacent label sections. In the folded label, the first conductor track structure and the second conductor track structure can be folded over one another, and their respective connection points can then be folded upwards or downwards and thus arranged above or below the respective conductor track structures.

[0031] By separately arranging one or more connection points on a different label section than the one on which the associated conductor track structure is formed, a connection lug can thus also be created, which, if necessary, can be folded out with the connection point or connection points located thereon and made more easily accessible for electrical coupling. For example, the respective connection points of the first and second conductor track structure can be arranged together on one label section or on different label sections and, by folding along an associated fold line, form one or more predetermined protruding connection lugs. Such a connection lug can, for example, be designed so that it can be folded down in sections from the rest of the folded label using a pressure-sensitive adhesive and then reattached.

[0032] The separate conductor track structures can be contacted using a common or different connection components. A connection point of one conductor track structure can also be electrically coupled to another conductor track structure, making it possible to couple the separate conductor track structures together at a later date if necessary. This allows, for example, the power supply of the existing conductor track structures to be set up independently of one another. The respective connection points are preferably designed as connecting contacts with a significantly larger surface area than the relatively finely printed conductor tracks and / or have a significantly higher or thicker extension in the stacking direction. Because the connection points can be arranged separately between and / or below or above the respective conductor track structures, they can be reliably protected against tampering in the label.

[0033] Particularly with regard to a design in which the spatial arrangement of the connection points as connecting contacts between the layers of the printed conductor track structures is possible, particularly reliable protection against tampering can be created simply by folding and gluing. For example, opposing label sections are connected to the first and second conductor track structures by means of one or more material strips, which can be regarded as an intermediate third label section. The respective connection points of the associated conductor track structures can be formed on the material strip(s), between which a fold line is introduced or a fold is provided. Thus, internal or external contact points can be created by means of folds.For example, a folded label design with internal contacts eliminates the need for contacting outside of the printed layers, for example, by means of pressure contacts directly from above or by means of an adapter to such contact points on the printed flat layers, or by means of lateral connection, for example, to a plug connection. Accordingly, a particularly tamper-proof label design can be realized.

[0034] The described label can be realized in a variety of embodiments, in which the conductor track structures are electrically connected to one another, can be connected to one another during the folding process, or alternatively are arranged separately from one another after the folding process. By means of one or more additional folding lines and / or slits, separate connection tabs and / or contact zones with one or more connection points can be formed, either internally or externally.

[0035] According to a further aspect of the invention, a system comprises an object, for example in the form of an electronic device or RFID functionality, and an embodiment of the previously described label arranged in or on the object. For example, the label, in its initial form, forms a foldable arrangement for establishing a drill protection, so that in an electronic device, such as a card payment reader, the folded label establishes a multi-layer drill protection arrangement in or on the electronic device. Alternatively, the label can be intended to realize a foldable arrangement for establishing a coil structure in its initial form, so that the folded label provides, for example, a multi-layer coil arrangement for an RFID antenna.Because the system comprises an embodiment of the described label, properties and features described in connection with the label are also disclosed for the system and vice versa.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for forming an embodiment of the previously described label comprises providing a carrier layer and applying or attaching a first conductor track structure having a plurality of conductor tracks on or to the carrier layer in a first label section. The method further comprises applying or attaching a second conductor track structure having a plurality of conductor tracks on or to the carrier layer in a second label section. The method further comprises applying or attaching a first connection point and a second connection point on the carrier layer. Furthermore, the method comprises applying or attaching a respective conductor track which is configured to electrically couple the first conductor track structure to the first connection point and the second conductor track structure to the second electrical connection point.The two conductor track structures are formed on or at the common carrier layer and can be arranged one above the other by folding them along a fold line with respect to a stacking direction, so that a folded label can be formed in which the first and second conductor track structures are electrically coupled to one another. In particular, the conductor tracks of the first and second conductor track structures are formed in a meandering and / or spiral shape, so that after the label is folded along the fold line F, the first and second conductor track structures are arranged one above the other, thereby forming a multilayer drill protection arrangement and / or a multilayer coil arrangement.

[0037] Because the respective method is designed, in particular, to produce an embodiment of the previously described label, properties and features of the label are also disclosed for the manufacturing process, and vice versa. The conductor track structures, connecting conductor tracks, and / or connection points and / or connection points can be formed, in particular, in a single printing process. Alternatively, separate printing processes can be performed.

[0038] The label can be formed on a material web with a plurality of anti-drill or coil assemblies and provided as a label or film roll. Processing of a plurality of labels can be carried out in a roll-to-roll process with a pre- and post-run. A material web for the carrier layer can be provided, processed, and printed to form a plurality of the described labels. Furthermore, punching and / or cutting operations can be performed, for example, to perform format and / or functional punching of individual or multiple layers of the label. Furthermore, one or more insulation layers can be provided as material rolls and processed at the same time to electrically insulate conductor tracks from one another.Such roll production is made possible in particular by the fact that the label can be produced essentially entirely in print, providing beneficial flexibility. The unfolded labels can be separated from such a label roll and folded as needed to form the folded label with the multilayer conductor track structure.

[0039] Because all required label layers can be printed side by side in the same operation, the number of machine passes can be reduced. The circuit track structures and conductive connections of the individual label sections can be printed side by side, eliminating the need for subsequent and time-consuming through-hole plating, even for label structures with more than two layers. Folding allows for high precision when overlapping the circuit track structures, as the foldable label eliminates or circumvents the variance of several parameters, such as different film batches, various influences on substrates during different production steps, such as different silver batches, different screens, and different production times.

[0040] Even if the label is intended to form a two- or multi-layer conductor track structure when folded, the respective conductor track structures can be printed next to each other and arranged on top of each other on both sides by folding them over. If, for example, four label sections and associated conductor track structures are provided, two conductor track structures can be printed next to each other and arranged on top of each other by folding them lengthwise and crosswise. With regard to a top view of such an output label, the conductor track structures are printed next to each other on the right and left as well as on the top and bottom. Furthermore, a slit or punch can be provided between two label sections, thus enabling various folding options. In addition, the label can also be designed so that not all of the conductor track structures and / or label sections present are folded over each other.At least two conductor track structures are placed on top of each other by means of folds.

[0041] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained using schematic drawings. They show:

[0042] Figures 1-9 show embodiments of a label for forming a multi-layer coil arrangement in different views,

[0043] Figures 10-18 show embodiments of a label for forming a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement in different views,

[0044] Figure 19 is a flow chart for a method for producing the label with a multilayer conductor track structure, and

[0045] Figures 20-37 show further embodiments of the label for forming a multi-layer coil or drill protection arrangement in different views.

[0046] Elements or features of the same design or function are identified by the same reference symbols throughout the figures. For reasons of clarity, not all elements or features shown may be identified by corresponding reference symbols in all figures.

[0047] Figures 1-9 show various views of exemplary embodiments of a label 1, 10 for forming a multilayer coil arrangement. The label 1, 10 comprises a first label section 11 with a first conductor track structure 51, which has a plurality of conductor tracks 5, which are electrically coupled to a first connection point 61 by means of a further conductor track 6. The label 1, 10 further comprises an adjacent second label section 12 with a second conductor track structure 52, which has a plurality of conductor tracks 5, which are electrically coupled to a second connection point 62 by means of a further conductor track 6.The two conductor track structures 51, 52 are formed on a common carrier layer 2, for example printed in the form of a conductive paste, and can be arranged one above the other with respect to a stacking direction R by means of folding along a fold line F, so that a folded label 1 can be formed in which the first and the second conductor track structures 51, 52 are arranged one above the other and are electrically coupled to one another.

[0048] The conductor tracks 5 of the first conductor track structure 51 are meander-shaped and run outwards or inwards in a rectangular spiral. The conductor tracks 5 of the second conductor track structure 52 are also meander-shaped and run outwards or inwards in a rectangular spiral. The conductor track structures 51, 52 form respective coils that are arranged one above the other in a folded state. The first conductor track structure 51 and the second conductor track structure 52 each comprise a connection point 41, 42 that is surrounded by the respective conductor tracks 5 in a meandering and spiral shape and that is electrically coupled to the associated connection point 61, 62 by means of a respective further conductor track 6. The conductor tracks 5 and 6 are electrically conductive connections and can be of the same or different shapes and / or materials.The conductor tracks 5 and 6 are arranged offset from one another along the stacking direction R and are electrically separated by an insulation layer 3 (see Figures 3 and 4). A current direction in the superimposed conductor tracks 5, 6 effectively runs essentially in the same direction. The conductor tracks 5 and conductor track structures 51, 52 can be configured with respect to lateral directions LI, L2 such that, in a folded state, they are offset from one another along the lateral directions LI and / or L2 or not.

[0049] In this description, label 10 refers to a predominantly flat, unfolded starting label that extends substantially along the lateral directions L1 and L2. The conductor track structures 51, 52, 53, 54 are formed adjacent to one another on the top side of carrier layer 2. In this description, label 1 refers to the folded state formed by folding label 10. If label 10, as illustrated in Figures 1-4, is formed substantially symmetrically with respect to the two label sections 11 and 12, the folded label 1 accordingly has twice the height or thickness along the stacking direction R of the unfolded starting label 10.

[0050] The conductor track structures 51, 52, 53, 54 each have a plurality of rectilinear sections, which in this description are each regarded as a conductor track 5 of the associated conductor track structure 51, 52, 53, 54. Since the conductor tracks 5 are connected to one another, it can alternatively be stated that a respective conductor track structure 51, 52, 53, 54 comprises only one continuous conductor track with changes in direction and a plurality of sections. Furthermore, individual or all of the conductor tracks 5 can also be non-reciprocal. For example, the conductor track structures 51, 52 shown in Figures 1 and 2 can be meander-shaped and / or spiral-shaped and / or circular.

[0051] Figure 2 shows, in a top view, that the label 10 can also be completely covered with an insulating layer 3 and / or can have one or more insulating layers 31-33 that cover conductor tracks 5, 6 in a predetermined manner. The insulating layers 3, 31-33 are intended to prevent unwanted contact between conductor tracks 5, 6 on the output label 10 and, in the folded state, on the label 1. According to Figure 1, for example, it is useful to apply an insulating layer 31, 32 between the conductor tracks 5 and 6, relative to the unfolded state of the label 10. Insulation can be formed by separate sections or a continuous insulating layer 3. It can be separated or slit in the area of ​​the fold line F to allow for tighter folding, or it can be continuous in order to deliberately not place too much strain on a fold edge and to mechanically protect the crossing conductor tracks 5, 6.Furthermore, it may be beneficial to apply a third insulation layer 33 to the first or second label section, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, if the label 10 is intended, for example, to be folded inward. The correspondingly folded label 1 is shown in Figure 4. Thus, the two connecting conductor tracks 6 are protected from unwanted contact with each other in the folded state.

[0052] Alternatively, or in addition to a middle insulation layer 33, the label 10 can be designed such that, in a folded state, contact between the conductor tracks 6 cannot occur with themselves and / or with one another. This is made possible, for example, by the label 10 according to Figures 1 and 2 having an alternative course of the conductor tracks 6. The conductor track 6, which connects the first connection point 41 to the first connection point 61, can alternatively be guided slightly upwards or downwards along the fold line F, so that the straight sections are offset from one another perpendicular to the fold line F. In a folded state, they would then not be arranged directly above one another, but rather offset from one another.Alternatively or in addition to a central insulating layer 33, spacer elements can also be provided, which establish a certain minimum distance between the conductor track structures 51, 52 folded toward one another, thus avoiding unwanted contact. If, for example, the label 10 is intended for the conductive structures to be folded outward, no intermediate insulating layer 33 is required, since the conductor track structures 51, 52 and their associated further conductor tracks 6 are separated from one another by the carrier layer 2 (see Figure 3). The side views of the folded label 1 shown in Figures 3 and 4 each show a view along the lateral direction LI. The second connection point 62 is therefore located behind the first connection point 61.

[0053] It should be noted that the conductor tracks 6 are only shown in dashed lines in the figures to distinguish them from the conductor tracks 5 of the respective conductor track structures 51-54. They typically form continuous conductor track strips, so that both the conductor tracks 5 and the connecting conductor tracks 6, which optionally connect the conductor tracks 5 to a respective connection point 61, 62, each provide reliable electrical conductivity. They each form conductive layers, which are printed, for example, with a predetermined pattern onto the carrier layer 2 using an electrically conductive paste.

[0054] Figures 1-4 show a structure of the label 1, 10 with which a two-layer coil arrangement can be realized. Figures 5-9 show a structure of the label 1, 10 with which a four-layer coil arrangement can be realized. The label 1, 10 accordingly has a first to fourth label section 11-14 and a first to fourth conductor track structure 51-54, which are assigned to a respective label section 11-14. Furthermore, a first to fourth connection point 41-44 is provided, which are connected to one another or to the two connection points 61, 62 by means of further conductor tracks 5 or 6. Alternatively, a three-layer or a five- or multi-layer coil arrangement can also be formed by designing the label 1, 10 with corresponding label sections and conductor track structures as well as fold lines.

[0055] The fold lines F, F1-F2 can have predefined structures, such as perforations or embossed / creased lines, to simplify folding, thus contributing to reliable and orderly folding of the label 10. Alternatively, the respective fold line F, F1-F2 in the figures merely represents an auxiliary line along which the label 10 should be folded. The fold lines F, F1-F2 therefore do not necessarily have to be formed as structures in or on the carrier layer 2 of the label 1, 10.

[0056] According to Figure 5, the two fold lines F1, F2 enable the output label 10 to be folded twice. The label 10 can be designed such that a sequence is predetermined or recommended, so that, for example, it is folded first along the first fold line F1 and subsequently along the second fold line F2. This can involve folding inwards or outwards in each case. Figure 6 shows a schematic side view of a first folded state of the label 10 according to Figure 5, in which it has been folded outwards around the first fold line F1, so that the conductor track structures 51 and 54 face away from the two other conductor track structures 52 and 53 or are separated by the carrier layer 2. Figure 6 shows a side view looking opposite to the lateral direction L2 according to Figure 5. The folding edge is thus arranged on the opposite side of the open label edge shown in Figure 6.Further folding along the fold line F2 enables the formation of the label 1, as schematically illustrated in Figure 7. Thus, the first and fourth conductor track structures 51, 54 are arranged on the inside and face each other, while the second and third conductor track structures 52, 53 are arranged on the outside and applied to each other. If necessary or useful, an insulating layer can be arranged between the first and fourth conductor track structures 51, 54, which, for example, as one or more segments on the starting label 10 according to Figure 5, completely or partially covers the first and / or fourth label sections 11, 14. Figure 8 shows a further possibility for forming the folded label 1 with a multi-layer coil arrangement. Starting from the label 10 according to Figure 5, for example, the third and fourth label sections 13, 14 are first folded around the fold line F2 toward the other two label sections 11, 12.Subsequently, the once-folded label 10 is folded around the additional fold line Fl, so that the first and second label sections 11, 12 are essentially folded toward each other. Thus, all conductor track structures 51-54 are securely and reliably arranged within the carrier layer 2 and protected to a certain extent from external influences.

[0057] Figure 9 shows a further embodiment of the output label 10, which has an elongated initial shape, whereas that of the output label 10 according to Figure 5 is more square. The label 10 according to Figure 9 can also provide a multitude of possible folding variants in order to form a multi-layer coil arrangement. A sequence can, but does not have to, be predetermined, so that each fold line can be used first and then the remaining fold lines can be used to form the final state of the folded label 1 from the output label 10. For example, the output label 10 according to Figure 5 can be folded around the two fold lines Fl, F2. The fold lines Fl, F2 each allow folding upwards and downwards, so that eight folding options exist to form the double-folded label 1.

[0058] A further exemplary embodiment of the output label 10 is shown in Figure 5a, which has a slit S between two adjacent label sections 11 and 14 in order to provide even more folding options. The slit S implements a predetermined section-by-section separation of the carrier layer 2, so that the first label section 11 and / or the fourth label section 14 can be folded upwards or downwards individually or independently of one another along the fold lines F1. The structure according to this exemplary embodiment is similar to the output label 10 according to Figure 5, with the difference that the conductor track structures 51 and 54 are correspondingly predetermined with regard to the slit S. Accordingly, in comparison to Figure 5, the second connection point 62 is relocated to the fourth label section 14, so that no conductor track crosses the slit S.Accordingly, the conductor track structures 51 and 54 can be folded individually upwards or downwards due to the slit S, while according to Figure 5, two conductor track structures 51-54 are each folded together around the fold line Fl or F2.

[0059] For example, according to Figure 5a, the first label section 11 with the first conductor track structure 51 can be folded around the first fold line F1 to the left onto the second conductor track structure 52. This folding can be carried out such that the first conductor track structure 51 then faces or faces away from the second conductor track structure 52. Alternatively or additionally, the fourth label section 14 with the fourth conductor track structure 54 can be folded upwards or downwards around the first fold line F1 or, as seen from above in Figure 5a, to the left toward the third conductor track structure 53. Furthermore, such a local slit can also be provided at other positions on the label 1, 10 in order to provide desired folding options. The respective conductor track structures 51-54 are then to be designed accordingly in coordination with a predetermined slit.Furthermore, connecting sections 57 may also be used if necessary, as explained below with reference to Figure 17.

[0060] Figures 10-18 show various views of exemplary embodiments of the label 1, 10 for forming a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement. Figures 10-18 each show a structure of the initial label 10 with two label sections 11, 12, so that the folded label 1 can establish a two-layer drilling protection arrangement. Alternatively, however, three or more label sections can also be provided, which establish respective layers in the folded label 1.

[0061] The conductor tracks 5 are each predominantly meander-shaped. The first conductor track structure 51 is electrically connected to the first connection point 61 by means of a conductor track 5, 6. The second conductor track structure 52 is electrically connected to the second connection point 62 by means of a conductor track 5, 6. The two conductor track structures 51, 52 are further coupled to one another by means of the conductor tracks 5. Thus, two conductor tracks 5, 6 cross the fold line F. Figures 11 and 12 show possible configurations of the folded label 1, viewed along the lateral direction LI. If the conductor track structures 51, 52 are folded inward toward one another, an intermediate insulation layer 3 is beneficial.The conductor tracks 5 of the first and second conductor track structures 51, 52 are preferably offset from one another within the lateral plane L1-L2, so that in the folded state they form a continuous surface, as illustrated in the schematic plan view in Figure 13. Alternatively or additionally, the fold line F can be arranged asymmetrically between the conductor track structures 51, 52. Thus, in each case, with respect to a plan view, a continuous conductor surface can be formed, which cannot be passed through without being damaged in the event of a manipulation or access attempt using a micro-drill.

[0062] Figures 14 to 18 show further embodiments of the label 10 for forming a two-layer drilling protection arrangement. The transition between the label sections 11, 12 and the conductor track structures 51, 52 is different in each case. This ensures that the conductor tracks 5 that cross the fold line F are not subjected to excessive stress during folding, and damage caused by folding is avoided and an associated risk is at least reduced. The conductor tracks 5 or conductor track sections crossing the fold line F can, for example, run within the fold line F (see Figure 14). Alternatively or additionally, the respective conductor track 5 can be designed with a predetermined thickness or width within or next to the fold line F, so that it is thicker or wider than neighboring conductor tracks 5 of the meander structure (see Figure 15).Alternatively or additionally, the respective conductor track 5 can be curved or wave-shaped so that it crosses the fold line F several times (see Figure 16). Each crossing is preferably not perpendicular but oblique to the fold line F, thus reducing the risk of damage due to bending or folding.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, a respective conductor track structure 51-54 can comprise one or more connecting sections 57, as illustrated in Figure 17. The connecting sections 57 are formed, for example, as relatively large surfaces or pads on or around the fold line F and, when the label sections 11, 12 are folded, lie one above the other, thereby establishing electrical contact. The connecting sections 57 are formed higher, in particular with respect to the stacking direction R, than the adjacent conductor tracks 5, so that they can establish reliable electrical contact in the folded label 1. Preferably, a conductive adhesive is applied to an upper side of one or both connecting sections 57 that are coupled to one another, which can contribute to a particularly reliable electrical connection.According to Figure 17, adjacent conductor track structures 51-54 are not necessarily electrically coupled to one another before the label 10 is folded, but at the latest after folding in an operational state of the label 1.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, the respective conductor track 5 crossing the fold line F can also be protected by providing spacers 58, which are applied, for example, as printed structures on and / or adjacent to the fold line F on the carrier layer 2. Such spacers 58 can be particularly useful or provided when the label 10 is to be folded inward to form the label 1.

[0065] The options described in Figures 14-18 for providing kink protection or reducing the risk of damage to the conductor tracks 5 crossing the fold line F are also applicable to the previously described coil arrangements. Furthermore, the connecting conductor tracks 6 can also be designed accordingly if this is beneficial in the application.

[0066] Figure 19 shows a flow chart for a method for producing an embodiment of the output label 10 or the folded label 1 with a multi-layer conductor track arrangement for forming a coil or

[0067] B ear protection arrangement .

[0068] In a step S1, the carrier layer 2 is provided, for example as a film element.

[0069] In a step S2, the conductor track structures 51-52 or 51-54 with a respective plurality of conductor tracks 5 are applied, in particular printed, to the carrier layer 2 in the respective label section 11-12 or 11-14. Additionally or in a further step, provided connection points 41-44 and / or the connection points 61-62 can be formed on the carrier layer 2. Accordingly, for example, a design of the label 10 according to Figures 10 or 14-18 can already be formed. Any thicker or curved conductor tracks 5, 6 and / or connecting sections 57 and / or spacers 58 that may be provided can be printed at the same time.

[0070] Optionally, in a step S3, one or more insulation layers 3, 31-33 can be applied to one or more of the formed conductor track structures 51-52 or 51-54.

[0071] If provided, in a further step S4, connecting conductor tracks 5, 6 can be applied to the insulation layer(s) 3, 31-33, which are configured to electrically connect the first conductor track structure 51 to the first connection point 61 and the second conductor track structure 52 to the second electrical connection point 61. Thus, for example, a design of the label 10 according to Figures 1-2, 5, or 9 can be formed.

[0072] Optionally, in a further step S5, one or more fold lines F, F1-F3 can be formed in or on the carrier layer 2. Alternatively, the carrier layer 2 is already provided with the desired fold lines F, F1-F3 in step S1.

[0073] In one or more further steps, the folds can be performed along existing fold lines F, F1-F3 to form the folded label 1. The folded label 1 can further comprise one or more adhesive layers that hold the folded state of the label 1 together and / or are provided for easy and reliable attachment of the label 1 to a substrate.

[0074] Thus, by folding, the label 1 can be realized with a two- or multi-layer structure of printed conductor track structures 51-52 or 51-54. The multi-layer structure of the label 1 can be produced in various designs depending on the type of folding. Adjacent conductor track structures 51-54 are electrically connected to one another by a printed conductor track 5 or 6. To protect the connecting conductor tracks 5, 6 during folding and to avoid electrical interruptions due to mechanical stress, the respective connecting conductor track 5, 6 is preferably printed over a larger area and / or thicker or wider in the region of the associated fold line F, F1-F3 and / or spacers 58 can be used as mechanical protection. Alternatively or in addition to a connecting conductor track 5, 6, electrical contact between folded conductor track structures 51-54 can also be made via electrical contact points, as represented by the connecting sections 57.

[0075] Figures 20-37 show further embodiments of the label 1, 10 for forming a multilayer anti-drilling arrangement in various views. Figures 20-29 show various embodiments of the label 1, 10, in each of which one or more connection points 61-64 of an associated conductor track structure 51, 52 are arranged on the outside of a label section 13, 14.

[0076] In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 20, the first conductor track structure 51 is formed on a first label section 11, and the second conductor track structure 52 is formed on a second label section 51. The conductor track structures 51 and 52 are electrically connected by means of a conductor track 5, which crosses the first fold line F1. The connection points 61 and 62 of the first and second conductor track structures 51 and 52 are formed on a common third label section 13 and are electrically connected to the associated conductor track structure 51, 52 by means of a respective conductor track. Thus, a folded label 1 can be realized in which a connection lug 70 with the connection points 61, 62 located thereon can be formed (see Figures 21-23).

[0077] According to Figure 21, the conductor track structures 51, 52 are arranged one above the other, folded away from each other around the fold line F1. The third label section 13, with the connection points 61, 62, is folded toward the second conductor track structure 52 around the second fold line F2. The third label section 13 can accordingly form a connection lug 70. In this context, it should be noted that existing lines or overlaps in the fold areas in this and other figures are only visible due to the simplified preparation of the illustrated representations of the folded label 1.

[0078] According to Figure 22, the conductor track structures 51, 52 are arranged one above the other, folded toward one another around the fold line F1. For electrical insulation, the insulation layer 3 is arranged between the conductor tracks 5 of the first and second conductor track structures 51, 52. The third label section 13, with the connection points 61, 62, is folded back toward the second conductor track structure 52 around the second fold line F2. Compared to Figure 21, the conductor tracks 5 and the connection structures 61, 62 are now separated from the conductor tracks 5 of the second conductor track structure 52 by two layers of the label 10, which are formed by the second and third label sections 12, 13. The third label section 13 can again form a connection lug 70.

[0079] Figure 23 shows an embodiment of the folded label 1 according to Figure 22, in which the connecting lug 70 is folded in or in which no connecting lug 70 is provided.

[0080] In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 24, the first conductor track structure 51 is formed on a first label section 11 and the second conductor track structure 52 is formed on a second label section 51. The conductor track structures 51 and 52 are not electrically connected to one another. The first conductor track structure 51 essentially surrounds the second conductor track structure 52. Both conductor track structures 51, 52 each have, at their signal-technically opposite ends, a contact area with a respective connection point 61-64, which form a respective end section of the associated conductor track structure 51, 52. The connection points 61 and 63 of the first conductor track structure 51 and the connection points 62 and 64 of the second conductor track structure 52 are formed on the common third label section 13 and are electrically connected to the associated conductor track structure 51, 52 by means of a respective conductor track.Thus, a folded label 1 can be realized, as shown in the side view according to Figure 25. Optionally, the third label section 13 can again be configured such that a connection lug 70 with the connection points 61-64 located thereon can be formed (see Figures 21 and 22).

[0081] Figure 26 shows a further embodiment of the output label 10 with electrically unconnected conductor track structures 51 and 52. The first conductor track structure 51, together with the connection points 61, 63, is formed on the common first label section 11. The second conductor track structure 52 is formed on a second label section 12. The connection points 62 and 64 of the second conductor track structure 52 are formed on the common third label section 13 and are electrically connected to the associated second conductor track structure 52 by means of a respective conductor track, each of which crosses the second fold line F2. In addition, the second label section 12 has connection recesses 90 on opposite sides along the fold line F1, which are formed in coordination with the connection points 61, 63 of the first conductor track structure 51. Thus, a folded label 1 can be realized, as shown in the side view according to Figure 27.Optionally, the third label section 13 can again be configured to form a connection lug 70 with the connection points 62 and 64 located thereon (see Figures 21 and 22). The connection points 61 and 63 are easily accessible and can be reliably contacted even in the folded label 1 due to the connection recesses 90.

[0082] Figure 28 shows a further embodiment of the output label 10 with electrically unconnected conductor track structures 51 and 52. The first conductor track structure 51 is formed on the first label section 11. The connection points 61 and 63 of the first conductor track structure 51 are formed on the common fourth label section 14 and are electrically connected to the associated first conductor track structure 51 by means of a respective conductor track, each of which crosses the first fold line F1. The second conductor track structure 52 is formed on the second label section 12. The connection points 62 and 64 of the second conductor track structure 52 are formed jointly on the third label section 13 and are electrically connected to the associated second conductor track structure 52 by means of a respective conductor track, each of which crosses the second fold line F2.Thus, a folded label 1 can be realized, as shown in the side view according to Figure 29.

[0083] Optionally, the third and / or fourth label section 13, 14 can be configured such that a single connection lug 70 (see Figures 21 and 22) or a double connection lug 70 (see Figure 29) with the connection points 61, 63 and / or 62, 64 located thereon can be formed. The third and fourth label sections 13 and 14 each form outer label parts of the output label 10. In this context, it should be noted that the third and / or fourth label sections 13 and 14 can also have a different shape, for example, a rectangular or rounded shape.

[0084] The same applies to the label sections 11-14 of the further exemplary embodiments. Alternatively, in contrast to Figure 29, the fourth label section 14 can also be folded upwards toward the first conductor track structure 51. Figure 29a shows a folding variant of the label 1 in which the fourth label section 14 is folded upwards and can accommodate a further connection lug 70. Figure 29b shows a folding variant of the label 1 in which the fourth label section 14 is folded inwards between the first label section 11 and the second label section 12 and, for example, allows lateral contacting of the connection points 61, 63.

[0085] If conductor tracks 5, which are not intended to contact each other in the folded label 1, are located opposite one another, one or more insulation layers 3 are preferably provided. As an alternative to Figure 29, the two conductor track structures 51, 52 can be folded toward one another around the inner fold line F2. Furthermore, the outer third and fourth label sections 13, 14 can be folded toward one another around the respective outer fold lines F1, F3, so that the connection points 61-64 of the conductor track structures 51, 52 are protected internally by the label layers of the third and fourth label sections 13, 14. Preferably, the connection points 62, 64 of the second conductor track structure 52 are then arranged between the connection points 61, 63 of the first conductor track structure 51.The connection points 61, 63 of the first conductor track structure 51 are accordingly to be designed at a corresponding distance from one another so that the connection points 62, 64 of the second conductor track structure 52 fit into the intermediate space.

[0086] Figures 30-37 show, in various views, a further exemplary embodiment of the label 1, 10, in which eight connection points 61-68 are formed, two of which are each assigned to one of the four conductor track structures 51-54. The conductor track structures 51 and 52 are formed on the first label section 11, for example next to one another or adjacent to one another, such that a predetermined distance is established between the conductor tracks 5 of the two conductor track structures 51 and 52. Accordingly, the third and fourth conductor track structures 53, 54 can be formed on the second label section 12. The third and fourth conductor track structures 53, 54 are preferably formed next to one another or adjacent to one another such that a predetermined distance is established between the conductor tracks 5 of the two conductor track structures 51 and 52.The distance may be the same as or different from the distance between the conductor tracks 5 of the first and second conductor track structures 51 and 52.

[0087] Each conductor track structure 51-54 has two contact areas each, which are configured by connection points 61-68. For example, connection points 61 and 62 are assigned to the first conductor track structure 51. For example, connection points 63 and 64 are assigned to the second conductor track structure 52. For example, connection points 65 and 66 are assigned to the third conductor track structure 53, and connection points 67 and 68 are assigned to the fourth conductor track structure 54. Connection points 61-68 are arranged internally on a central third label section 13, which is arranged between the first and second label sections 11, 12.

[0088] The first and third label sections 11, 13 are each delimited, for example, by the introduced or imaginary fold line F1. The second and third label sections 12, 13 are each delimited, for example, by the introduced or imaginary fold line F3. The connection points 61-68 are arranged internally on a central third label section 13, which is arranged between the first and second label sections 11, 12. The third label section 13 comprises four spaced-apart material strips, which are designed, in particular, in the form of a common material web of the output label 10. Alternatively, the material strips are designed as separate label parts that are connected to the two further label sections 11, 12. Two of the eight connection points 61-68 are formed spaced from one another on each material strip.

[0089] The fine conductive lines or conductor tracks 5 of the printed conductor track structures 51-54 provide protection against physical attacks on the components to be protected by the label 1, 10. The conductor track structures 51-54 or the label sections 11, 12 can be glued together during use to fix the folded label 1 in its fold. For example, one label section 11, 12 or several label sections 11, 12 have an adhesive layer 80 on an underside (see Figure 31), which enables simple and reliable bonding to one another. The material strips of the middle, third label section 13 can also be provided with an adhesive layer or be adhesive-free, adhesive-neutral, or with a weakened adhesive. At the actual contact points in the form of the connection points 61-68, there is preferably no bonding, so that simple and reliable electrical contact can be established.

[0090] An adhesive or mechanical contact between the printed conductor structures 51-54 and the respective label sections 11, 12 can, alternatively or in addition to other connection options, be achieved by a connection effected by the adhesive force of the adhesive layer 80. With respect to the folded and bonded label 1 (see Figures 35-37), the two label layers 11, 12 are reliably coupled to one another by means of the integral adhesive connection, and the connection points 61-68 on the material strips can be securely arranged within the folded label 1 or arranged outside the folded label sections 11, 12, for example, to provide easier accessibility for subsequent electrical contacting.If the two bonded label layers 11, 12 are moved from their position, for example, when the object to be protected is tampered with, the resulting tensile forces cause the label sections 11, 12 and the conductor track structures 51-54 to separate from the non-bonded connection points 61-68. Tampering is thus detectable.

[0091] Figures 32-37 show possible folding processes along provided fold lines F1-F3, whereby not all fold lines F1-F3 need to be used. The order of the folding processes is also not mandatory and can be performed differently to achieve a respective folded label 1. For example, the starting label 10 according to Figures 30 and 31 can first be folded around the fold line F1 and then around the fold line F3, so that the first and second label sections 11, 12 with the associated conductor track structure 51-54 are angled away from the third label section 13 with the material strips (see Figure 32). The partially folded label can then be folded around the central fold line F2, so that the material strips are each bent and moved towards each other (see Figures 33 and 34).Figure 34 shows arrow-shaped external leads or conductor tracks 92, with which the film structure of the folded label 1 can be contacted. Corresponding to the eight connection points 61-68, eight external conductor tracks 92 are indicated. However, more or fewer conductor tracks 92 can also be connected to the connection points 61-68. Each connection point 61-68 can be connected to one or more conductor tracks 92. Furthermore, depending on the application, one or more connection points 61-68 can also remain unconnected, for example, so that not all connection points necessarily have to be connected with a separate lead.

[0092] Figure 35 shows the folded label 1 with a view of the first conductor track structure 51, which, according to another embodiment, could also have been folded inward. The internal connection points 61-68 are relocated to an area protected against attacks and thus more reliably protected. Tampering with the connection points 61-68 located between the conductor track structures 51, 52 and 53, 54 is at least significantly more difficult.

[0093] Alternatively, the connection points 61-68 on the material strips can also be folded outward, as shown in Figures 36 and 37. Thus, for example, only the central fold line F3 is used to obtain the folded label 1 according to this exemplary embodiment. The respective material strips form a relatively rigid contact strip, for the installation or use of which additional reinforcement elements can be dispensed with. Thus, after folding and gluing, a rigidity can be achieved that can be sufficient for a variety of contacting applications.

[0094] The illustrated fold lines are therefore not necessarily introduced into the material web of the label 1, 10 as predefined structures, for example in the form of fold lines, but can merely be intended as designated positions for folding. The fold lines F can be used for folding in both directions, provided the label 10 permits it. However, in order to form a desired folded label 1, not all existing or possible fold lines necessarily have to be used (see also Figures 34-37). The four conductor track structures 51-54 according to Figures 30-37 form four separate conductor track loops that are not electrically connected to one another before and after folding. Alternatively, two or more conductor track structures 51-54 can be designed such that they are already electrically connected to one another before or after folding.The connection points 61-68 form eight contact areas for subsequent connections to conductors or tracks 92 on one or more electronic components, such as a chip or a sensor. The connection points 61-68 establish, for example, connecting contacts for a power supply or for an electrical connection to a drilling protection film and can be designed as relatively thin flat elements.

[0095] The label 1, 10 with four separate conductor track structures 51-54 and eight connection points 61-68 according to Figures 30-37 enables the design of a particularly secure anti-drilling film, particularly with regard to a cash card reader or payment terminal. The number of conductor track structures 51-54 and connection points 61-68 is adapted to current security requirements for electronic devices, such as payment terminals, but can alternatively deviate or, if such security requirements change, can also be adapted accordingly. Accordingly, two, three, five, or more conductor track structures can alternatively be provided, each of which can have one, two, or more connection points. Alternatively or additionally, the central third label section 13 according to Figures 30-37 can alternatively comprise only one, two, three, five, or more material strips, with more or wider material strips contributing to greater stability of the label 1, 10.Alternatively, the central third label section 13 can also be formed over the entire surface or according to the dimensions of the two adjacent label sections 11, 12.

[0096] The label 1, 10 according to Figures 30-37 enables, among other things, the following installation situations in a payment terminal with connections to a security chip as to the label 1, 10 external electronic component:

[0097] Internal fastening - the third label section 13 with the four material strips and the eight connection points 61-68 located thereon is folded inward (see Figures 34 and 35); a contact element, for example in the form of a foil or paper element, can have the supply lines 92 and can be inserted, for example glued, between the conductor track structures 51, 52 and 53, 54 in the region of the third label section 13. Such a foil element preferably offers contact points on the top and / or bottom for the respective connection points 61-68. External fastening - the third label section 13 with the four material strips and the eight connection points 61-68 located thereon is folded outward and connected, for example, to a terminal contact strip (see Figures 36 and 37).The third label section 13 accordingly has a stiffening by twice the material thickness of the material web of the label 1, 10, which can be useful for establishing an electrical connection at the connection points 61-68.

[0098] List of reference symbols

[0099] 1 folded label

[0100] 10 Output label

[0101] 11 first label section

[0102] 12 second label section

[0103] 13 third label section

[0104] 14 fourth label section

[0105] 2 Carrier layer

[0106] 3 Insulation layer

[0107] 31 first insulation layer

[0108] 32 second insulation layer

[0109] 33 third insulation layer

[0110] 41 first connection point

[0111] 42 second connection point

[0112] 43 third connection point

[0113] 44 fourth connection point

[0114] 5 Conductor track

[0115] 51 first conductor track structure

[0116] 52 second conductor track structure

[0117] 53 third conductor structure

[0118] 54 fourth conductor structure

[0119] 55 thick conductor track

[0120] 56 curved conductor track

[0121] 57 connecting section

[0122] 58 spacers

[0123] 6 Conductor track

[0124] 61 first junction

[0125] 62 second junction

[0126] 63 third junction

[0127] 64 fourth junction

[0128] 65 fifth junction

[0129] 66 sixth junction 67 seventh junction

[0130] 68 eighth junction

[0131] 70 connecting lug

[0132] 80 Adhesive layer 81 Adhesive-free area

[0133] 90 connection recess

[0134] 92 external leads / conductor tracks

[0135] F fold line Fl first fold line

[0136] F2 second fold line

[0137] F3 third fold line

[0138] LI first lateral direction of the label

[0139] L2 second lateral direction of the label R stacking direction of the label

[0140] S slitting

[0141] S(i) Steps of a method for forming a label

Claims

Patent claims 1. A label (1, 10) for forming a multilayer conductor track structure, comprising: - a first label section (11) with a first conductor track structure (51) comprising a plurality of conductor tracks (5) which are electrically coupled to a first connection point (61, 63) by means of a further conductor track (5, 6), and - a second label section (12) with a second conductor track structure (52) comprising a plurality of conductor tracks (5) which are electrically coupled to a second connection point (62, 64) by means of a further conductor track (5, 6), wherein the two conductor track structures (51, 52) are formed on or at a common carrier layer (2) and can be arranged one above the other with respect to a stacking direction (R) by means of folding along a fold line (F, F1, F2, F3), so that a folded label (1) can be formed.

2. Label (1, 10) according to claim 1, wherein the two conductor track structures (51, 52) are formed on a common side of the carrier layer (2) and can be folded towards one another along the fold line (F, F1, F2, F3), so that the two conductor track structures (51, 52) face one another with respect to the stacking direction (R) in the folded label (1) and are surrounded by the carrier layer (2).

3. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the two conductor track structures (51, 52) are formed on a common side of the carrier layer (2) and can be folded away from one another along the fold line (F, F1, F2, F3), so that the two conductor track structures (51, 52) face away from one another in the folded label (1) with respect to the stacking direction (R) and the carrier layer (2) is arranged between the two conductor track structures (51, 52).

4. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the conductor tracks (5) of the first conductor track structure (51) are designed in a meandering shape, and in which the conductor tracks (5) of the second conductor track structure (52) are designed in a meandering shape, so that the label (1, 10) is designed to form a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement in a folded state.

5. Label (1, 10) according to claim 4, wherein, with respect to a lateral direction (LI, L2) of the label (1, 10) transverse to the stacking direction (R), the conductor tracks (5) of the first of the first conductor track structures (51) are oriented parallel to and offset from the conductor tracks (5) of the second conductor track structure (52).

6. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the conductor tracks (5) of the first conductor track structure (51) are formed in a meandering shape and surround one another in a spiral manner, and in which the conductor tracks (5) of the second conductor track structure (52) are formed in a meandering shape and surround one another in a spiral manner, so that the label (1, 10) is designed to form a multi-layer coil arrangement in a folded state.

7. Label (1, 10) according to claim 6, wherein the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) each comprise a connection point (41, 42) which are surrounded by the respective conductor tracks (5) in a meandering and spiral manner and which are electrically coupled to the associated connection point (61, 62) by means of a respective further conductor track (6).

8. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) are arranged such that they are electrically coupled to one another both before and after folding along the fold line (F, F1, F2, F3).

9. Label (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) each comprise one or more connecting sections (57) and are arranged such that they are spaced apart from one another before folding and are electrically coupled to one another after folding along the fold line (F, F1, F2, F3) by means of the connecting sections (57).

10. Label (1, 10) according to claim 9, wherein mutually associated connecting sections (57) together have a predetermined height with respect to the stacking direction (R) which is greater than a total height of mutually facing conductor tracks (5) of the first and second conductor track structure (51, 52).

11. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: one or more insulation layers (3, 31, 32, 33) which cover the first and / or the second conductor track structure (51, 52) at least in sections, so that they are arranged between opposing conductor tracks (5, 6) in a folded state of the label (1).

12. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: - a third label section (13) with a third conductor track structure (53) comprising a plurality of conductor tracks (5), and - a fourth label section (14) with a fourth conductor track structure (54) comprising a plurality of conductor tracks (5), wherein the first to fourth conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) are formed jointly on the carrier layer (2) and can be arranged one above the other by means of folding along predetermined fold lines (F, F1, F2, F3) with respect to a stacking direction (R), so that a folded label (1) can be formed in which the first to fourth conductor track structures (51, 52) are electrically coupled to one another.

13. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which a predetermined curved conductor track (56) is formed on the carrier layer (2) between two conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) in the region of a respective fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3), which crosses the associated fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3) several times and electrically connects the two conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) to one another.

14. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which a predetermined thick conductor track (55) is formed on the carrier layer (2) between two conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) in the region of a respective fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3), which crosses the associated fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3) and electrically connects the two conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) to one another.

15. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which one or more spacers (58) are formed on the carrier layer (2) between two conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) in the region of a respective fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3), which spacers have a predetermined height and limit a maximum folding of the label (1).

16. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the two conductor track structures (51, 52) on or at the common carrier layer (2) are formed and can be arranged one above the other with respect to a stacking direction (R) by means of folding along a fold line (F, F1, F2, F3) in such a way that they are electrically coupled to one another in the folded label (1).

17. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first conductor track structure (51) has a free end section with a connection point (61, 63) at each of the ends opposite in terms of signal technology, and in which the second conductor track structure (52) has a free end section with a connection point (62, 64) at each of the ends opposite in terms of signal technology.

18. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the respective connection points (61, 62, 63, 64) of the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) are formed on a common label section with respect to existing fold lines (F, F1, F2, F3).

19. Label (1, 10) according to claim 18, wherein the respective connection points (61, 62, 63, 64) of the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) are formed on a common third label section (13) which is arranged between the first label section (11) with the first conductor track structure (51) and the second label section (12) with the second conductor track structure (52).

20. Label (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the respective connection points (61, 62, 63, 64) of the first conductor track structure (51) and the second conductor track structure (52) are formed on different label sections with respect to existing fold lines (F, F1, F2, F3).

21. Label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which a fold line (F, F1, F2, F3) is provided between the first conductor track structure (51) and an associated connection point (61, 63) and / or the second conductor track structure (52) and an associated connection point (62, 64), so that the respective connection points (61, 62, 63, 64) can be arranged above or below the respective conductor track structures (51, 52, 53, 54) in the folded label (1) with respect to the stacking direction (R).

22. Label (1, 10) according to one of claims 18, 20 or 21, wherein the respective connection points (61, 62, 63, 64) form a predetermined projecting connection lug (70) by means of folding along an associated fold line (F, F1, F2, F3).

23. System comprising: - an object, and - a label (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, which is arranged in or on the object.

24. A system according to claim 23, wherein the article is formed as an electronic device and the label (1, 10) in conjunction with claim 4 establishes a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement in or on the electronic device.

25. A system according to claim 23, wherein the label (1, 10) in conjunction with claim 6 establishes a multi-layer coil arrangement in or on the article.

26. A method for forming a label (1, 10), comprising: - providing a carrier layer (2), - applying a first conductor track structure (51) with a plurality of conductor tracks (5) on the carrier layer (2) in a first label section (11), - applying a second conductor track structure (52) with a plurality of conductor tracks (5) on the carrier layer (2) in a second label section (12), - applying a first connection point (61) and a second connection point (62) on the carrier layer (2), and - applying a respective conductor track (5, 6) which is designed to electrically couple the first conductor track structure (51) to the first connection point (61) and the second conductor track structure (52) to the second electrical connection point (61), wherein the two conductor track structures (51, 52) are formed on or at the common carrier layer (2) and are folded relative to a stacking direction (R) can be arranged one above the other along a fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3) so that a folded label (1) can be formed.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the conductor tracks (5) of the first conductor track structure (51) are formed in a meandering shape and / or surround each other in a spiral, and wherein the conductor tracks (5) of the second conductor track structure (52) are formed in a meandering shape and / or surround each other in a spiral, comprising: Folding the label (1, 10) along the fold line (F, Fl, F2, F3) so that the first and second conductor track structures (51, 52) are arranged one above the other and thereby forming a multi-layer drilling protection arrangement and / or a multi-layer coil arrangement.

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