Latent image formed body

Abstract

To provide a latent image formed body that can increase a counterfeit prevention effect.SOLUTION: A latent image formed body in which at least a part of a substrate includes a printed pattern, the printed pattern has a latent image element group in which a plurality of latent image elements where an original image is at least divided or compressed are arranged at a constant pitch, and camouflage elements which are arranged adjacent to the latent image elements, the latent image element and the camouflage element are the same color under visible light, at least one of the latent image elements and the camouflage elements consist of a functional material which becomes visible under a specific environment, and a latent image is visually recognized by a filter corresponding to the latent image elements under a specific environment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a latent image forming body for preventing counterfeiting and falsification in the field of security printed matter requiring anti-counterfeiting effects, such as banknotes, passports, securities, identification cards, cards, and travel tickets. [Background technology]

[0002] Recent advances in digital devices such as scanners, printers, and copiers have made it easy to create elaborate copies of security prints and to falsify them. Therefore, in order to prevent the aforementioned forgery and falsification, various anti-counterfeiting technologies that cannot be reproduced by scanners, printers, copiers, etc. are needed.

[0003] Security printed materials such as banknotes, passports, and securities are printed in multiple copies and circulated in large quantities. In other words, the same pattern is often printed on every face of a single note. Furthermore, to ensure that each printed item is unique, variable information (such as a serial number) consisting of letters, numbers, and symbols is generally assigned to each face of the note.

[0004] One example of a technology for preventing unauthorized duplication or tampering of security printed matter is described in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 describes the formation of a printed pattern in which a plurality of latent image elements, each formed by compressing an original image, are formed at a fixed pitch. The technology also discloses a technology in which the latent image becomes visible when a filter corresponding to the printed pattern is superimposed on the security product to which the printed pattern has been applied. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2006-516337 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, it was possible to confirm the line structure of the printed pattern under visible light. Therefore, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, there was a problem in that the printed pattern could be easily copied, reducing the effectiveness of preventing counterfeiting.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In consideration of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a latent image forming member that can enhance the anti-counterfeiting effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object of the present invention, a latent image forming body has a printed pattern on at least a part of a substrate, and the printed pattern has a latent image element group consisting of latent image elements that are at least divided or compressed from an original image and arranged at a fixed pitch, and camouflage elements arranged adjacent to the latent image elements, and a latent image is formed by the latent image element group, the latent image elements and the camouflage elements are the same color under visible light, at least one of the latent image elements and the camouflage elements is made of a functional material that becomes visible under a specific environment, and the latent image can be viewed under a specific environment using a filter corresponding to the latent image element.

[0009] The latent image forming body of the present invention is characterized in that the camouflage elements have white portions of the same shape as the latent image elements, and the printed pattern is formed by the latent image elements fitting into the white portions.

[0010] Furthermore, the latent image forming body of the present invention is characterized in that the latent image elements are i) formed by compressing a base image, the camouflage elements are composed of a plurality of camouflage compressed elements formed by compressing a camouflage base image that serves as the base image of the camouflage element, arranged at the same constant pitch as the latent image elements, or ii) formed by dividing and compressing a base image, the camouflage elements are composed of a plurality of camouflage compressed elements formed by dividing and compressing a camouflage base image that serves as the base image of the camouflage element, arranged at the same constant pitch as the latent image elements.

[0011] The latent image forming body of the present invention also has a printed pattern on at least a portion of the substrate, and the printed pattern is formed by superimposing a group of latent image elements, each of which is formed by at least dividing or compressing an original image, on a camouflage element that is visible under visible light, and the latent image elements are made of a functional material that is invisible under visible light but becomes visible under a specific environment, and the latent image can be viewed under a specific environment using a filter with the same or different pitch as the latent image elements.

[0012] The latent image forming member of the present invention is characterized in that a filter having the same or different pitch as the latent image elements is formed on the printed pattern in an overlapping manner. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] In the latent image forming member having the above-described structure, the image structure of the printed pattern cannot be confirmed under visible light, making it difficult to copy the printed pattern, thereby enhancing the anti-counterfeiting effect. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a print pattern printed on a latent image forming member according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of a print pattern according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a latent image element group according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a filter and the configuration of a lenticular lens. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the printed pattern according to the first embodiment of the present invention is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an original image of a print pattern according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing a procedure for creating a print pattern according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a second embodiment of the present invention is observed using a lenticular lens under visible light. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a second embodiment of the present invention is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a procedure for producing a latent image element group according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a procedure for producing a latent image element group according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing camouflage elements of a printed pattern according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a third embodiment of the present invention is observed using a lenticular lens under visible light. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a third embodiment of the present invention is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a procedure for creating a print pattern according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is observed using a lenticular lens under visible light. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens. [Figure 18]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a procedure for producing a latent image element group according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a printed pattern according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an adjacent state of a camouflage element image line and a latent image element image line. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a latent image forming member according to an embodiment of the present invention, as observed under visible light. [Figure 22] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a latent image forming member according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the state observed under visible light. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a latent image forming member according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the state observed after irradiating it with ultraviolet light. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a latent image forming member according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state observed after being irradiated with ultraviolet light. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an adjacent state of a camouflage element image line and a latent image element image line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A latent image forming member according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 25. Note that common members in each figure are given the same reference numerals.

[0016] (First embodiment) First, the configuration of the latent image forming body according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 5. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a printed pattern (10) printed on a substrate (101), Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the printed pattern (10), and Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of a first latent image element group (1A) that constitutes the latent image element group (1). Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a lenticular lens as an example of a filter. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the state when a latent image forming body (100) is irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens (5).

[0017] The latent image forming body (100) of this embodiment is a printed matter used for, for example, banknotes, passports, securities, identification cards, cards, passes, etc. As shown in Fig. 1, a print pattern (10) is printed on a substrate (101) of the latent image forming body (100). The substrate (101) is not particularly limited, and for example, paper, polymer, metal, etc. can be used as the substrate (2).

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the print pattern (10) consists of a latent image element group (1) and a camouflage element (2) formed adjacent to the latent image elements constituting the latent image element group (1). The latent image element group (1) is composed of a first latent image element group (1A), a second latent image element group (1B), and a third latent image element group (1C). The latent image element group (1) and the camouflage element (2) are each formed with ink of the same color. The latent image element group (1) and the camouflage element (2) do not need to be exactly the same color; the color difference ΔE (based on the CIE 1976 L*a*b* color difference formula in this invention) between the latent image element group (1) and the camouflage element (2) is preferably 7 or less, and more preferably 3 or less. This configuration makes them indistinguishable under visible light and visible as the same color.

[0019] In the present invention, "adjacent" means that the latent image element and the camouflage element (2) are arranged in contact with each other, and that the latent image element and the camouflage element (2) are arranged in close proximity to each other.

[0020] Also, Figure 2(b) is an enlarged view of a portion (within the frame) of the latent image element group (1) in Figure 2(a). As shown in Figure 2(b), the latent image element group (1) is formed by sequentially arranging a first latent image element (3A) constituting a first latent image element group (1A), a second latent image element (3B) constituting a second latent image element group (1B), and a third latent image element (3C) constituting a third latent image element group (1C).

[0021] The latent image element group (1) is formed with a functional ink that is visible under a specific environment. The functional ink is not particularly limited as long as it is visible under a specific environment, and fluorescent ink, infrared ink, methamphetamine ink, etc. can be used. In the following explanation, a form formed with fluorescent ink that emits light when irradiated with ultraviolet light will be described as an example of a specific environment.

[0022] The detailed configuration of the latent image element group (1) will be explained using Fig. 3. Fig. 3(a) is a diagram showing a "cherry blossom petal" pattern, which is the original image (20) of the first latent image element group (1A) shown in Fig. 2(a). The first latent image element group (1A) shown in Fig. 3(b) is formed by forming a plurality of first latent image elements (3A) having a first element width (W1) obtained by dividing the original image (20) shown in Fig. 3(a) at a first pitch (P1) in a first direction (S1). Although not shown, the second latent image element group (1B) and the third latent image element group (1C) shown in FIG. 2 are also formed by rotating the arrangement angle of the "cherry blossom petals" pattern, which is the base image (20) of the first latent image element group (1A) by an arbitrary angle, and dividing each base image (20) into a first element width (W1) in the same manner as the first latent image element group (1A), to form second latent image elements (3B) and third latent image elements (3C), which are formed in plurality in a first direction (S1) at a first pitch (P1).

[0023] In the first embodiment, each latent image element (3A, 3B, 3C) is formed by "dividing" the original image (20), but the latent image elements of the present invention are not limited to "division" and are formed by at least dividing or compressing the original image, and a plurality of latent image elements are arranged at a fixed pitch. Specifically, the original image is "divided," "compressed," or "divided and compressed" to form the latent image elements. The detailed configuration of each will be described later.

[0024] The first latent image element group (1A), the second latent image element group (1B), and the third latent image element group (1C) prepared by the above-described preparation method are sequentially arranged in a first direction (S1) so as not to overlap, thereby forming a latent image element group (1) as shown in FIG. 2(a).

[0025] Next, the camouflage element (2) shown in Figure 2 will be described. The camouflage element (2) is arranged adjacent to the latent image element (3) that constitutes the latent image element group (1). In this example, the image lines of the latent image element group (1) are negative-positive inverted to form the camouflage element (2). In other words, the latent image element group (1) and the camouflage element (2) are fitted together to form the printed pattern (10), so the printed pattern (10) in this example is visible as a solid pattern as shown in Figure 2.

[0026] Next, the filter (5) required to develop a latent image (not shown) will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Note that the "latent image" in this invention refers to the base image (20) used to form the latent image element group (1) described above, which is "cherry blossom petals" in this example.

[0027] FIG. 4(a) shows a plan view of the filter (5), and FIG. 4(b) shows its cross-sectional view. The filter (5) shown in FIG. 4 has the configuration of a known lenticular lens. As shown in FIG. 4(a), lens elements (5a) having a second element width (W2) are arranged in a line pattern in a first direction (S1) at a first pitch (P1) identical to that of the latent image elements (3). As shown in FIG. 4(b), each lens element (5a) has a predetermined height (H). The element height (H) of the lens elements (5a) is not particularly limited and may be similar in shape to known, commercially available lenticular lenses. Note that while the lenticular lens shown in FIG. 4 shows a state in which the lens elements (5a) are spaced apart, the lens elements (5a) may also be adjacent to each other to form an integrated structure. In addition, in Figure 4(a), some parts are colored to make the drawing easier to understand, but since the lenticular lens in the present invention is transparent or translucent, in reality the color is almost invisible to the naked eye.

[0028] Next, the effect of this example will be explained using Figure 5. In the latent image forming body (100) of this example, the printed pattern (10) is visible under visible light as a solid pattern, so even if the lenticular lens (5) is placed over it or moved, the latent image (4) is not visible. However, when ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the latent image forming body (100), only the latent image element group (1) emits fluorescence, so the latent image element group (1) is visible as shown in Figure 5(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 5(b) is placed over the latent image element group (1), the pitch of the latent image elements (3) constituting the latent image element group (1) corresponds (the same pitch) to the lenticular lens (5). Therefore, a portion of the latent image element group (1) is sampled, and the latent image (4) shown in Figure 5(c) appears, and the "cherry blossom petals" of the original image (20) are visible. Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in the first direction (S1), the sampling position of the latent image element group (1) changes, and the latent image (4) of the "cherry blossom petals" is viewed at a different angle, so that the "cherry blossom petals" rotate and are viewed dynamically. Thus, according to the printed pattern (10) of this example, it is difficult to grasp the shape and pattern of the latent image elements (3) that make up the latent image element group (1) under visible light, making it difficult to easily replicate.

[0029] (Second embodiment) Next, the configuration of a printed pattern (10A) according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9. Note that the latent image element (13A) in this example is formed by "compressing" an original image (20). FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the original image of the printed pattern (10A). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the steps for producing the printed pattern (10A). FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10A) observed under visible light using a lenticular lens (5). FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10A) observed under ultraviolet light using a lenticular lens (5).

[0030] As shown in Figure 6, the base image (30) of the print pattern (10A) according to the second embodiment is composed of a latent image base image (30A) and a camouflage base image (30B). The latent image base image (30A) is formed with a design of cherry blossom petals, and the camouflage base image (30B) is formed with a design of stars. The camouflage base image (30B) has a white portion (2b), which is formed with the same shape as the latent image base image (30A). In other words, the base image (30) is formed by fitting the latent image base image (30A) and the camouflage base image (30B) together.

[0031] In FIG. 6, the latent image base image (30A) shows white "cherry blossom petals" bordered by black lines, but the border does not actually exist and is displayed so that the outline can be seen for the sake of convenience.

[0032] Next, a procedure for creating the print pattern (10A) according to the second embodiment from the above-mentioned base image (30) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0033] The original image (30) shown in Figure 7(a) is compressed in the first direction (S1) in accordance with the pitch of the lenticular lenses (5). In this second embodiment, it is compressed to 80% of the pitch of the lenticular lenses (5). This produces the latent image element (13A) and camouflage compressed element (13B) shown in Figure 7(b).

[0034] The print pattern (10A) shown in FIG. 7(c) is formed by arranging a plurality of latent image elements (13A) and camouflage compression elements (13B) shown in FIG. 7(b) in a first direction at a pitch different from that of the lenticular lenses (5). Here, the latent image elements (13A) and camouflage compression elements (13B) are arranged at the same pitch, which is also different from that of the lenticular lenses (5). Note that in order for the moiré magnification phenomenon to occur, it is preferable that the pitch at which the latent image elements (13A) and camouflage compression elements (13B) are arranged and the pitch of the lenticular lenses (5) have a value of approximately 80% to 120% (excluding 100%) of the value of the other pitch, as this results in the appearance of a latent image (not shown) with high visibility and a strong moving image effect.

[0035] When printing, the areas corresponding to the latent image elements (13A) and the areas corresponding to the camouflage compressed elements (13B) are printed with ink of the same color. The areas corresponding to the latent image elements (13A) are printed with fluorescent ink, and the areas corresponding to the camouflage compressed elements (13B) are printed with non-fluorescent ink.

[0036] When the printed pattern (10A) is observed under visible light, the printed pattern (10A) is visible as consisting of multiple "star" designs compressed in a first direction (S1), as shown in Figure 8(a). At this time, the "cherry blossom petal" shapes, which are the latent image elements (13A), cannot be seen. When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 8(b) is superimposed on the printed pattern (10A) under visible light, only the camouflage latent image (14B) of multiple "stars" can be seen due to the moiré magnification phenomenon, as shown in Figure 8(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in the first direction (S1), the camouflage latent image (14B) moves dynamically in the first direction (S1).

[0037] Furthermore, when ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the printed pattern (10A), a latent image element group (11A) consisting of a plurality of "cherry blossom petal" designs compressed in a first direction (S1) emits fluorescence and is visible, as shown in Figure 9(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 9(b) is superimposed under ultraviolet light irradiation, a latent image (14A) of a plurality of "cherry blossom petals" can be visible due to the moire magnification phenomenon, as shown in Figure 9(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in the first direction (S1), the latent image (14A) moves in the first direction (S1) and is dynamically visible.

[0038] Other configurations are the same as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The printed pattern (10A) having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment described above, and since the latent image can be seen even under visible light by overlaying the lenticular lens (5), it is possible to improve the design and the anti-counterfeiting effect.

[0039] (Third embodiment) Next, the configuration of a printed pattern according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14. In this example, the latent image elements (23) are formed by "dividing and compressing" the original image (40). FIGS. 10 and 11 are diagrams showing the steps for creating the latent image element group (21) that constitutes the printed pattern (10B). FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the camouflage elements (22) that constitute the printed pattern (10B). FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10B) observed under visible light using a lenticular lens (5). FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10B) observed under ultraviolet light using a lenticular lens (5).

[0040] First, the procedure for producing the latent image element group (21) will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. The latent image element group (21) shown in Figure 10 is formed by regularly arranging a plurality of latent image elements (23). That is, it is formed by arranging a plurality of latent image elements (23) having a third element width (W3) at a first pitch (P1) in a first direction (S1).

[0041] 11, the latent image element (23) in the third embodiment is formed by using a base image (40) (cherry blossom petals in this example) as an image intended to appear as a moving image pattern, applying a frame of a specific size to a specific position on the base image (40), dividing and extracting only the base image (40) that fits within the frame, and compressing the extracted image at a specific reduction rate in a first direction (S1). For example, the position of the frame (6i) of a certain latent image element (23i) arranged relative to the base image (40) is shifted in the first direction (S1) by a first pitch (P1) from the position of the frame (6i-1) of the adjacent latent image element (23i-1) arranged relative to the base image (40). As a result, the extracted base image (40) is an image shifted in the first direction (S1) by the first pitch (P1). The latent image elements (23i) produced by the above method are arranged offset in the first direction (S1) from adjacent latent image elements (23i-1) by a first pitch (P1). That is, between adjacent latent image elements at the first pitch (P1), the images derived from the original image (40) are offset by the first pitch (P1), and adjacent latent image elements (23) have slightly different shapes. The specific structure and production method of this latent image element (23) are described in JP 2011-126028 A. This is an image configuration that produces a moving image effect using integral photography. For ease of explanation, the latent image element group (21) shown in Figure 11 has been partially omitted and enlarged from the latent image elements (23) that make up the latent image element group (21) shown in Figure 10 to make the configuration of the latent image elements (23) easier to understand.

[0042] Next, the configuration of a camouflage element (22) according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The camouflage element (22) is formed by compressing an ellipse, which is an original image, in a first direction (S1) and arranging multiple compressed images in the first direction (S1). The camouflage element (22) has a white portion (2b) in part that has the same shape as the latent image element group (21) shown in Fig. 11.

[0043] The printed pattern (10B) shown in Figure 13(a) is formed by fitting the latent image element group (21) into the white portion (2b) of the camouflage element (22). Here, the latent image element group (21) and the camouflage element (22) are formed with ink of the same color. The areas corresponding to the latent image element group (21) are formed with ink that emits fluorescence, and the areas corresponding to the camouflage element (22) are formed with ink that does not emit fluorescence.

[0044] Because the latent image element group (21) and the camouflage elements (22) are formed with ink of the same color, when the printed pattern (10B) is observed under visible light, the latent image element group (21) cannot be seen, as shown in Figure 13(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 13(b) is superimposed on the printed pattern (10B) under visible light, only multiple elliptical camouflage latent images (24B) can be seen due to the moire magnification phenomenon, as shown in Figure 13(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in a first direction (S1), the camouflage latent image (24B) moves in the first direction (S1) and is dynamically visible.

[0045] Furthermore, when ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the printed pattern (10B), the latent image element group (21) emits fluorescence and is visible, as shown in Figure 14(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 14(b) is superimposed on the printed pattern (10B) under ultraviolet light irradiation, a latent image (24A) of "cherry blossom petals" can be visible, as shown in Figure 14(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in a first direction (S1), the latent image (24A) moves in the first direction (S1) and is dynamically visible.

[0046] Other configurations are the same as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The printed pattern (10B) having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment described above, and since the latent image can be seen even under visible light by overlaying the lenticular lens (5), it is possible to improve the design and the anti-counterfeiting effect.

[0047] (Fourth embodiment) Next, the configuration of the printed pattern according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 15 to 17. In this example, the latent image element (53A) is formed by "dividing and compressing" the original image (50). Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the steps for producing the printed pattern (10C). Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10C) observed under visible light using a lenticular lens (5). Fig. 17 is a diagram showing the printed pattern (10C) irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens (5).

[0048] First, the procedure for creating the print pattern (10C) will be described with reference to Figure 15. As shown in Figure 15(a), the base image (50) of the print pattern (10C) consists of a latent image base image (50A) and a camouflage base image (50B). This base image (50) is similar to the base image (30) of the print pattern (10A) according to the second embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0049] Next, the base image (50) shown in Fig. 15(a) is subjected to integral photography line construction in the same manner as in the method for producing the latent image element group (21) according to the third embodiment, to produce the print pattern (10C) shown in Fig. 15(b). The detailed production method is the same as in the third embodiment, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0050] The print pattern (10C) shown in Figure 15(b) has a plurality of latent image elements (53A) and camouflage compressed elements (53B) arranged in a first direction (S1), each formed with ink of the same color. The latent image elements (53A) are formed with fluorescent ink, and the camouflage compressed elements (53B) are formed with non-fluorescent ink.

[0051] When the printed pattern (10C) is observed under visible light, the camouflage element group (51B) shown in Fig. 16(a) is visible, and when the lenticular lens (5) shown in Fig. 16(b) is superimposed, the "star" camouflage latent image (54B) can be seen as shown in Fig. 16(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in the first direction (S1), the camouflage latent image (54B) moves in the first direction (S1) and is dynamically visible.

[0052] Furthermore, when ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the printed pattern (10C), the latent image element group (51A) emits fluorescence and is visible, as shown in Figure 17(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 17(b) is superimposed on the printed pattern (10C) under ultraviolet light irradiation, the latent image (54A) of "cherry blossom petals" can be visible, as shown in Figure 17(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in the first direction (S1), the latent image (54A) moves in the first direction (S1) and is dynamically visible.

[0053] Other configurations are the same as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The printed pattern (10C) having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects as those of the printed pattern (10) according to the first embodiment described above, and since the latent image can be seen even under visible light by overlaying the lenticular lens (5), it is possible to improve the design and the anti-counterfeiting effect.

[0054] (Fifth embodiment) Next, the configuration of a printed pattern according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 18 and 19. In this example, the latent image elements (63) are formed by "compressing" the original image (60). Fig. 18 is a diagram showing the procedure for creating the latent image element group (61) that constitutes the printed pattern (10D). Fig. 19 is a diagram showing the state of the printed pattern (10D) when irradiated with ultraviolet light and observed using a lenticular lens (5).

[0055] The procedure for creating a latent image element group (61) will be described with reference to FIG. 18. As shown in FIG. 18(a), the base image (60) of the latent image element (63) is formed with a "cherry blossom petal" pattern. First, as in the second embodiment, the base image (60) is compressed in the first direction (S1) in accordance with the pitch of the lenticular lens to create the latent image element (63) shown in FIG. 18(b). Then, a plurality of latent image elements (63) are arranged in the first direction (S1) to create the latent image element group (61) shown in FIG. 18(c).

[0056] As shown in Figure 19(a), the print pattern (10D) in this example has star-shaped camouflage elements (62) and a group of latent image elements (61) created by the process described above. The camouflage elements (62) are formed as a solid pattern. The group of latent image elements (61) are layered on top of the star-shaped camouflage elements (62).

[0057] The camouflage elements (62) are formed with colored ink that is visible under visible light and does not fluoresce, whereas the latent image elements (61) are formed with colorless (transparent) ink that is not visible under visible light and fluorescent ink that fluoresces when irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0058] When ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the printed pattern (10D), the latent image element group (61) emits fluorescence and is visible, as shown in Figure 19(a). When the lenticular lens (5) shown in Figure 19(b) is superimposed on the latent image element group (61), a plurality of "cherry blossom petal" latent images (64) can be viewed as a magnified moiré phenomenon, as shown in Figure 19(c). Furthermore, when the lenticular lens (5) is moved in a first direction (S1), the plurality of "cherry blossom petal" latent images (64) move in the first direction (S1) and are dynamically visible.

[0059] The other configurations are the same as those of the printed pattern 10 according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The printed pattern 10D having such a configuration can also achieve the same effects as those of the printed pattern 10 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0060] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment described above, a colorless functional ink is used as the ink for forming the latent image element group (61). In this fifth embodiment, if the camouflage element (62) has a white portion where the latent image element group (61) is formed, the outer shape of the latent image element group (61) will be visible under visible light. Therefore, when colorless ink is used for the latent image element group (61), the camouflage element (62) does not have a white portion in the area that overlaps with the latent image element group (61), and by overlapping at least a portion of the latent image element group (61) with the camouflage element (62), it is possible to prevent the shape and pattern of the latent image element group (61) from being easily recognized.

[0061] Furthermore, although an example has been described in which a solid image is used as the camouflage element (62), the image configurations of the second to fourth embodiments described above (however, the camouflage base image does not have any white portions) may also be used as the camouflage element, and the image configurations of "division" of the first embodiment or "integral photography" of the third embodiment may also be used as the latent image element group.

[0062] (Regarding the proximity of latent image elements and camouflage elements) Next, another example in which the latent image element (3) and the camouflage element (2) are adjacent will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20(a) and Fig. 20(b) are a plan view and a cross-sectional view of an example in which the latent image element (3) and the camouflage element (2) are adjacent, and Fig. 20(c) and Fig. 20(d) are a plan view and a cross-sectional view showing another example in which the image line of the latent image element (3) and the image line of the camouflage element (2) are adjacent to each other.

[0063] In the plan view shown in Figure 20(a), a latent image element (3) is arranged in a white portion (2b) formed in a part of the camouflage element (2). Figure 20(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the plan view shown in Figure 20(a), in which the latent image element (3) is formed to fit into the white portion (2b) of the camouflage element (2).

[0064] The adjacent state of the latent image element (3) and the camouflage element (2) also includes a state in which a portion of the latent image element (3) overlaps the camouflage element (2). That is, as shown in Figure 20(d), which is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' in Figure 20(c), the latent image element (3) has an overlapping region (3a) that overlaps the camouflage element (2). By having the overlapping region (3a) as shown in Figures 20(c) and 20(d), it is possible to allow for some printing misalignment, without requiring perfect printing registration as shown in Figures 20(a) and 20(b).

[0065] (Example of the configuration of the latent image forming member) Next, the configuration of the latent image forming body in which the above-mentioned printed pattern and filter are integrated will be described with reference to Figs. 21 to 24. Fig. 21 shows the latent image forming body (100A) and is a diagram showing the state observed under visible light. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the latent image forming body (100A) and is a diagram showing the state observed under visible light. Fig. 23 shows the latent image forming body (100A) and is a diagram showing the state observed under ultraviolet light irradiation. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the latent image forming body (100A) and is a diagram showing the state observed under ultraviolet light irradiation.

[0066] As shown in Figure 21, the latent image forming body (100A) has a substrate (101), a printed pattern (110) printed on the substrate (101), and a filter (105). The printed pattern (110) is an example of the printed pattern (10C) described in the fourth embodiment. The filter (105) is disposed so as to be superimposed on the printed pattern (110), and a lenticular lens, for example, is used as the filter (105).

[0067] 21 and 22, under visible light, the latent image element (113) and the camouflage element (112) appear to be the same color. Furthermore, the latent image element (113) is adjacent to the camouflage element (112) and is disposed within the area of ​​the camouflage element (112). Therefore, under visible light, the shape and pattern of the latent image element (113) cannot be seen, but the "star" camouflage latent image (114B) can be seen.

[0068] 23 and 24, under ultraviolet light, which is an example of a specific environment, the latent image elements (113) emit fluorescence, and the latent image elements (113) are sampled by the filter (105), making it possible to visually recognize the latent image (114A). Furthermore, according to the latent image forming body (100A), the filter (105) is provided integrally with the base material (101), so there is no need to prepare a separate member for visually recognizing the latent image (114A).

[0069] Furthermore, according to the latent image forming body (100A) shown in Figures 21 to 24, by tilting the substrate (101) to change the observation angle, the latent image (114A) and the camouflage latent image (114B) can be viewed with a dynamic effect.

[0070] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment, examples have been described in which "stars" and "cherry blossom petals" are used as base images for camouflage elements and latent image elements, but the present invention is not limited to these and various other shapes such as circles, triangles, spheres, etc., as well as hiragana, katakana, numbers, symbols, alphabets, etc. may also be used.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the latent image element (3) is formed within the camouflage element (2) as shown in Figure 25(a), but as shown in Figure 25(b), a portion of the latent image element (3) does not have to be formed inside the camouflage element (2), and there are no particular limitations as long as the latent image element (3) and the camouflage element (2) are formed adjacent to each other so that the shape and pattern of the latent image element (3) cannot be discerned under visible light.

[0073] In the above-described embodiment, the functional ink is a fluorescent ink that fluoresces under ultraviolet light. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Various inks having infrared absorption properties, infrared emission properties, ultraviolet absorption properties, photochromic properties, thermochromic properties, properties that change color through a specified filter, optical change properties, and the like can be used as the functional ink. Watermark ink that penetrates the substrate and changes the substrate's light transmittance, magnetic ink that changes color in response to magnetism, transparent magnetic ink, and the like may also be used. While the example of ultraviolet light as the specific environment under which the latent image elements become visible has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. Depending on the functionality, the latent image elements can be made visible under various conditions, such as by using an infrared camera or a color filter, by causing a temperature change by rubbing with a finger, by applying an external magnetic field by bringing a magnet close, or by tilting the substrate.

[0074] In the above-described embodiment, the latent image elements are formed with fluorescent ink that fluoresces under ultraviolet light, and the camouflage elements are formed with non-fluorescent ink, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the camouflage elements may be formed with fluorescent ink and the latent image elements with non-fluorescent ink, or the latent image elements and camouflage elements may be formed with fluorescent ink that emits light of different wavelengths and different colors, or the latent image elements may be formed with fluorescent ink and the camouflage elements with other functional ink (for example, infrared absorbing ink).

[0075] Furthermore, the filter for visualizing the latent image is not limited to a lenticular lens, but may be a color filter, a checkered pattern, or any other filter made of various lens elements or light blocking elements.

[0076] The printing method for the print pattern of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be offset printing, gravure printing, intaglio printing, screen printing, flexographic printing, digital printing, ink jet printer, laser printer, etc., but when printing fine, specially shaped halftone dots, offset printing, digital printing, ink jet printer, or laser printer is preferred. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1, 11A, 21, 51A, 61 latent image element group 1A First latent image element group 1B Second latent image element group 1C Third latent image element group 2, 22, 62, 112 camouflage elements 2b White area 2c Overlap area 3, 13A, 23, 23i, 23i-1, 53A, 63, 113 latent image element 3A First Latent Image Element 3B Second latent image element 3C Third latent element 3a Overlap area 4, 14A, 24A, 54A, 64, 114A latent image 5 Lenticular Lens 5a lens element 6i, 6i-1 frame 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 110 Printing pattern 51B Camouflage Elements 13B, 53B camouflage compression elements 14B, 24B, 54B, 114B camouflage latent image 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 base images 30A, 50A Latent image base image 30B, 50B camouflage base image 100, 100A latent image forming body 101 Base material 105 filters

Claims

1. A printed pattern is provided on at least a portion of the substrate; The printing pattern is a latent image element group consisting of a plurality of latent image elements, each of which is formed by dividing or compressing an original image, and arranged at a fixed pitch; a camouflage element disposed adjacent to the latent image element, a latent image is formed by the latent image element group, the latent image element and the camouflage element have the same color under visible light; At least one of the latent image element and the camouflage element is made of a functional material that becomes visible under a specific environment; A latent image forming member, wherein the latent image is visible under the specific environment using a filter having the same or different pitch as that of the latent image elements.

2. the camouflage element has a hollow portion having the same shape as the latent image element, 2. The latent image forming member according to claim 1, wherein the printed pattern is formed by fitting the latent image elements to the white portions.

3. 3. A latent image forming member according to claim 1, wherein a filter having the same or different pitch as the latent image elements is formed so as to overlap the print pattern.

4. The latent image element is i) When the original image is formed by compression, The camouflage elements are formed by compressing a camouflage base image that serves as a base image for the camouflage elements, and the compressed camouflage elements are arranged at the same constant pitch as the latent image elements; or ii) When the base image is formed by dividing and compressing, 3. The latent image forming body according to claim 1, wherein the camouflage elements are formed by dividing and compressing a camouflage base image that serves as the base image of the camouflage elements, and the camouflage compressed elements are arranged at the same constant pitch as the latent image elements.

5. 5. A latent image forming member according to claim 4, wherein a filter having the same or different pitch as the latent image elements is formed so as to overlap the print pattern.

6. A printed pattern is provided on at least a portion of the substrate; The printing pattern is A latent image element group is formed by overlaying a camouflage element visible under visible light on a latent image element group, the latent image element group being formed by at least dividing or compressing an original image and arranging a plurality of latent image elements at a fixed pitch; the latent image element is made of a functional material that becomes visible only under a specific environment; A latent image forming member, wherein under the specific environment, a latent image is visible through a filter having the same or different pitch as that of the latent image elements.

7. 7. A latent image forming member according to claim 6, wherein a filter having the same or different pitch as the latent image elements is formed so as to overlap the print pattern.

Images