Image device, document, pre-laminate, window element and method for producing an image device

Abstract

Image device, in particular for security documents, comprising a viewing section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent and, formed in and / or on the viewing section, a three-dimensional image-generating structure for generating an image from one or more image elements by means of light refraction, wherein the image-generating structure is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

Description

[0001] PRO GRAVUR AG 26684-PGA-PWO / NZ

[0002] Imaging device, especially for security documents

[0003] The present invention relates to an imaging device, particularly for security documents. The invention also relates to a document, particularly a security document, with a window section. Furthermore, the invention relates to a pre-laminate for producing a document, particularly a security document, and a window element for producing a document, particularly a security document. The invention also relates to a laminating sheet for producing a document, particularly a security document, especially by laminating a substrate with a laminate sheet.

[0004] Finally, the present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an imaging device and a method for manufacturing a laminating plate.

[0005] Documents such as identity cards, passports, banknotes, or other government security documents often feature optical security elements in the form of an imager to prevent or hinder fraud and / or forgery. It is known to integrate transparent components, so-called windows, window sections, or window elements, into the document for this purpose. Structures can be incorporated or arranged within these windows that diffract and / or refract the incoming light in such a way that an image, serving as a security feature, is only recognizable under specific conditions, such as particular viewing angles, angles of incidence of light, and / or wavelengths, either within or outside the window.

[0006] Furthermore, structures are known that allow for the detection of an animation of the image, in particular a moving image from a sequence of images, for example a rotation or displacement of the image, under changing viewing angles and / or angles of incidence of light.

[0007] A banknote with a window is known from AU 2013100001 A4. The window features light-diffusing structures for animating an image. The structure has a particularly shallow structural depth—that is, a structure with very small structural protrusions—and a line resolution of just a few nanometers. Due to the delicate structure, a separate, dedicated substrate is required, making the banknote's design and production particularly complex. The structure is applied to the substrate using a thermosetting ink and an embossing die. After application and embossing, the ink is cured. The production process is therefore quite time-consuming.

[0008] Furthermore, US Patent 8 310 760 B2 discloses a window that generates a moving image using dynamic moiré animation. Due to the operating principle of moiré animation, two coordinated structured layers are necessary, making the design and manufacture of the window particularly complex.

[0009] Against the background outlined above, the present invention was based on the objective of providing an image device with an image generation structure for producing an image that offers a high level of security against forgery, wherein the image device has a simple structure and / or can be manufactured quickly and cost-effectively. Furthermore, the invention was based on the objective of providing a document with a window section for displaying an image as a security feature, which offers a high level of security against forgery, wherein the document has a simple structure and can be manufactured quickly and cost-effectively. Finally, the present invention was based on the objective of providing a laminating plate for producing a document, wherein a three-dimensional image generation structure for producing an image can be incorporated into a document and / or an image device in a simple and cost-effective manner.With respect to an imaging device, this problem has been solved according to claim 1, with respect to a document according to claim 11, with respect to a document according to claim 26, with respect to a pre-laminate according to claim 31, with respect to a window element according to claim 32, with respect to a laminating plate according to claim 33, with respect to a method for manufacturing an imaging device according to claim 38, and with respect to a method for manufacturing a laminating plate according to claim 39. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the respective dependent claims.

[0010] An image device according to the invention, in particular for security documents, has a viewing section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent and a three-dimensional image generation structure formed in and / or on the viewing section for generating an image from one or more image elements by means of light refraction.

[0011] According to the invention, the image generation structure is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

[0012] The inventive design of the imaging device enables a particularly simple, fast, and cost-effective manufacturing process by incorporating the image-generating structure onto an uncovered outer surface and / or by forming it onto an outer surface. The structure of the imaging device can then be kept particularly simple and achieved with minimal production effort. In particular, an additional protective layer on the image-generating structure can be avoided. At the same time, a relatively high level of security against counterfeiting and / or fraud can be ensured by a design according to the invention.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment, the image generation structure is designed to produce a moving image from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source relative to the image generation structure. Such moving images offer particularly high protection against forgery, imitation, and / or fraud.

[0014] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the image generation structure comprises several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image from a sequence of images, especially by moving the image generation structure relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source relative to the image generation structure. In this way, a linear, arc-shaped, or circular animation of an image can be generated, thereby further improving protection against counterfeiting.

[0015] The image-generating structure can be surface-laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed in a laminate on the outside. This allows for particularly simple, fast, and cost-effective production of the image-generating structure, while simultaneously ensuring a high level of counterfeit protection.

[0016] Preferably, the image-generating structure and adjacent material sections are produced by lamination, which allows for particularly simple fabrication of the image device. In particular, the image-generating structure and / or adjacent material sections are produced entirely by lamination. Likewise, the image-generating structure and / or adjacent material sections can be produced at least partially by lamination.

[0017] Preferably, the image generation structure is arranged in and / or on the viewing area without separate holding devices. Thus, no separate support for the image generation structure is required, resulting in a particularly simple design of the image device.

[0018] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the image generation structure has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 m, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

[0019] Such an image-generating structure allows an image to be produced by means of light refraction. The three-dimensional image-generating structure can be incorporated into the manufacturing process in a particularly simple way, namely without requiring exceptionally high accuracy.

[0020] Due to its particularly large structural depth and relatively coarse line resolution, the image-generating structure can be easily and cost-effectively integrated into the imaging device, especially the viewing area, for example by embossing. This makes it possible to quickly and cost-effectively manufacture an imaging device with an optical security feature, providing a particularly high level of protection against counterfeiting and / or fraud.

[0021] At the same time, such structural depth and line resolution can be formed with a high degree of safety on an external surface, in particular an uncovered and / or uncoated external surface, without the risk of easy damage through manual handling.

[0022] Preferably, the image-generating structure has an average distance between structure-forming elevations of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, and more preferably at least 1.3 pm. Due to the relatively large average distance, the integration of the image-generating structure can be further simplified, and at the same time, suitable light refraction can be promoted. Particularly preferably, the surface roughness of the image-generating structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, and more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.This allows for the creation of an image generation structure that is cost-effective to integrate into the imaging device, while simultaneously providing good light refraction properties.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the imaging device, the structure-forming elevations have an average width of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm, more preferably at least 3 pm and / or less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, more preferably less than 25 pm, more preferably less than 20 pm. A correspondingly designed image-generating structure can reliably produce light refraction and can be incorporated into and / or onto the window section particularly cost-effectively.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a document, in particular a security document, and has a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent. A three-dimensional image-generating structure for generating an image by means of light refraction is formed in and / or on the window section, wherein the image-generating structure is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

[0025] The inventive design of the document enables the image-generating structure to be integrated onto an outer surface of the document, particularly an uncovered one, thereby achieving a particularly simple, fast, and cost-effective production process. In particular, no separate carrier needs to be embedded in the document. At the same time, a high level of security against forgery and / or fraud can be ensured. Furthermore, this design eliminates the need for an additional coating, thus reducing production costs.

[0026] The image generation structure can preferably be configured in accordance with the preceding description, as implemented with respect to an image device. Likewise, an image generation structure, as described below as part of a document, can also be provided and / or configured in the image device according to the preceding description.

[0027] According to one version of the document, the image generation structure can be configured to produce a moving image from a sequence of images. The image sequence can be generated by moving the image generation structure relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source relative to the image generation structure. A moving image generated from a sequence of images offers particularly high protection against forgery and deception.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the image generation structure of the document comprises several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image from a sequence of images, especially by moving the image generation structure relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source relative to the image generation structure. The movement of the image sequence thus results from the successive display of the image(s) in the adjacent image generation sections, thereby generating a particularly linear and / or arc-shaped or circular movement of the image from a sequence of images. Such a moving image from a sequence of images offers a high level of protection against forgery and / or imitation.

[0029] According to a further preferred embodiment, the image-generating structure can be surface-laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed in a laminate on the outside. This can be achieved with minimal effort and simultaneously ensures that no separate structural support is required that would have to be placed in and / or on the window section. The document structure can thus be simplified and cost-effective manufacturing achieved.

[0030] Particularly preferred are the image generation structure and adjacent material sections and / or the window section produced by lamination, especially entirely by lamination. Alternatively or additionally, the material sections adjacent to the window section can be produced, especially entirely, by lamination. The document can thus be advantageously produced cost-effectively and quickly by lamination.

[0031] Similarly, the entire document, especially the entire security document, can be laminated or produced entirely by lamination. Alternatively, the document can be produced by lamination only in sections.

[0032] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the image generation structure is arranged in and / or on the window section without separate holding devices. In this case, no separate support for the image generation structure is necessary, resulting in a particularly simple and cost-effective document design, especially with a reduced risk of production errors.

[0033] The image-generating structure preferably has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a feature depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm. With such a design of the image-generating structure, an image can be generated by light refraction. The image-generating structure with such feature sizes can be incorporated into and / or onto the window section in a particularly simple manner, especially by lamination, thus enabling particularly cost-effective manufacturing in just a few steps.At the same time, such an image-generating structure does not require a separate coating, since such structural sizes do not necessarily need to be protected separately from mechanical abrasion or damage.

[0034] Furthermore, a corresponding image generation structure can be designed in such a way that the image is only visible from one side of the window section, thereby achieving a particularly high level of security against forgery and / or fraud.

[0035] The image-generating structure can advantageously have an average distance between structure-forming elevations of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, and more preferably at least 1.3 pm. This can particularly promote suitable light refraction.

[0036] The surface roughness of the image-generating structure can be less than Ra =

[0037] The refractive index (Ra) should be 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, and more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm, whereby the image-generating structure can be sufficiently precise and simultaneously be easily and quickly integrated into and / or onto the window section. At the same time, sufficiently accurate light refraction can be ensured.According to an advantageous embodiment of the document, the structure-forming elevations of the image-generating structure have an average width of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm, more preferably at least 3 pm and / or less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, more preferably less than 25 pm, more preferably less than 20 pm. A correspondingly designed image-generating structure can reliably generate light refraction and can be incorporated into and / or onto the window section particularly cost-effectively.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment of the document, the image is made visible to the viewer by projecting a light source, in particular a point light source, from a side of the window section facing away from the viewer. The image can then preferably be visible only under predetermined and / or defined lighting conditions, thereby achieving a further increase in security against forgery and / or fraud.

[0039] The image can preferably be reflected at a variable angle using a laser, thus providing a particularly high level of protection against forgery and / or fraud as a security feature.

[0040] Preferably, the image-generating structure can additionally be designed as a diffractive optical element, particularly for generating an additional image. Individual elements of the generated image can then be produced by light refraction, and other elements of the image by light diffraction.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the document comprises one or more electronic components. The component may, in particular, include a chip and / or an RFID transponder and / or an antenna or the like. In this way, the document can provide an additional function, making it suitable for a particularly wide range of applications.

[0042] Preferably, the window section is at least partially made of a plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, document sections adjacent to the window section are at least partially made of a plastic material. The use of plastic allows for a particularly robust document structure through lamination, resulting in a particularly long document lifespan.

[0043] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a document, in particular a security document, with a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent. A three-dimensional image-generating structure for producing an image by means of light refraction is formed in and / or on the window section, wherein the image-generating structure is formed on an outer surface of an intermediate laminate. The outer surface of the intermediate laminate can be covered by at least one further layer, in particular a laminating layer. In this way, the image-generating structure can be mechanically protected from damage. At the same time, the further layer can influence the generated image, for example by further light refraction and / or diffraction at the interface between the further layer and the image-generating structure. Furthermore, the image-generating structure can thus be neither haptically perceptible nor detectable.

[0044] Within the scope of the present invention, the term "intermediate laminate" can refer, for example, to two internally connected and / or laminated layers of the document. Likewise, an intermediate laminate can be a single layer arranged internally between further layers and / or bonded to them by lamination. On the side of the image-generating structure, a layer of a material with a refractive index greater than 1.4, preferably greater than 1.5, more preferably greater than 1.6, more preferably greater than 1.7, and more preferably greater than 1.8, and / or a metallized and / or reflective layer can be applied to the intermediate laminate. The image can then be reflected and / or reflected at an angle, particularly a variable and / or predetermined angle, and / or be visible.

[0045] The image-generating structure can be formed and / or imaged by the layer of material with a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or the metallized and / or reflective layer, whereby the image to be generated can be adapted to the respective application in a particularly simple way and is also clearly visible when the respective layer is arranged internally.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the document comprises one or more electronic components. The electronic component is preferably embedded in a pre-laminate. The component may, in particular, include a chip and / or an RFID transponder and / or an antenna or the like. In this way, the document can provide an additional function, making it suitable for a particularly wide range of applications.

[0047] The window section and / or the image-generating structure and / or the document section adjacent to the window section is preferably produced using a laminating plate, in particular a laminating plate described below. This allows for particularly simple, cost-effective, and rapid production by means of lamination. Furthermore, according to an independent aspect of the invention, a pre-laminate for producing a document, in particular a document as proposed, is suggested. The pre-laminate has a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent, wherein a three-dimensional image-generating structure for producing an image by means of light refraction is created on the window section or can be created by lamination. The image-generating structure is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

[0048] Within the scope of the present invention, the term "prelamine" can be understood to mean a laminate consisting of at least two layers, wherein the laminate is formed as a laminated unit. Likewise, the prelamine can also consist of only one layer, which may be designed to bond with further layers.

[0049] The pre-laminate is preferably laminated with at least one further layer during the production of the document. In particular, the pre-laminate can thus undergo a lamination process twice.

[0050] Reference is made to all statements relating to the aforementioned document. In particular, the same or similar benefits are achieved.

[0051] Furthermore, according to an independent aspect of the invention, a window element for producing a proposed document is proposed, comprising a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent, on which a three-dimensional image-generating structure for generating an image by means of light refraction is generated, wherein the image-generating structure has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, more preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.All details and specifications relating to the proposed document described above will be disregarded and may also be provided for in such a window element. In particular, the same or similar advantages will be achieved.

[0052] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a laminating plate for the production of a security document, in particular by laminating a substrate with a laminate sheet. Such a laminating plate has at least one embossing section for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure into a substrate and / or a laminate sheet of the document. The embossing section has a three-dimensional negative structure which, when the document is laminated, creates a three-dimensional image-generating structure for producing an image. The negative structure of such a laminating plate has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, and more preferably more than 1.5 pm.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the negative structure has a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.

[0054] The inventive design of the laminating plate allows the three-dimensional image-generating structure to be incorporated into the document, in and / or onto the window section, in a particularly simple manner during lamination. This enables the creation of a document security feature in a particularly simple and cost-effective way. Due to the particularly large size or high resolution of the negative structure, it can be incorporated into the laminating plate easily and cost-effectively, for example, by engraving. It is then possible to produce a document with an optical security feature quickly and cost-effectively. This security feature can be designed to generate an image through light refraction and provides a particularly high level of protection against forgery and / or fraud.

[0055] Within the scope of the present invention, the term "plate" is to be understood as geometrically non-restrictive in relation to the laminating plate. In particular, the term "laminating plate" encompasses all geometric shapes, including geometrically complex ones, with which the lamination of a document can be carried out. This includes not only plate-shaped configurations of the laminating plate, but also, for example, L-shaped or other geometric configurations.

[0056] Likewise, the term "plate" within the scope of the present invention is preferably not to be understood restrictively with regard to the ratio of the thickness of the plate to the length and / or width of the plate.

[0057] Alternatively, the term "plate" within the scope of the present invention can be understood to mean that a plate has a thickness that is less than its length and / or width.

[0058] According to an advantageous embodiment of the laminating plate, the negative structure has an average distance between negative-structure-forming protrusions of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, and more preferably at least 1.3 pm. Due to the relatively large average distance, the integration of the negative structure into the laminating plate can be further simplified, and at the same time, a suitable image-generating structure for image generation by means of light refraction is provided during lamination.According to a preferred embodiment, the surface roughness of the negative structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm, thereby obtaining a negative structure that can be introduced into the embossing section cost-effectively, while maintaining sufficiently high accuracy for light refraction.

[0059] Preferably, the negative-structure-forming elevations have a mean width b1 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm and / or less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, more preferably less than 25 pm. A correspondingly shaped and / or coarse negative structure can be incorporated into the laminating plate particularly cost-effectively.

[0060] The laminating plate is preferably made at least partially or entirely of brass, stainless steel, nickel, and / or an alloy thereof. This results in a particularly high thermal conductivity, enabling highly efficient document lamination. Due to the high mechanical stability of the laminating plate, a particularly long service life, especially of the embossed section, can be achieved.

[0061] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing an image device, in particular a proposed image device, is proposed, wherein a carrier, a window section, a viewing section, and / or an intermediate laminate or pre-laminate is laminated using a proposed laminating plate. Reference may be made to all descriptions of the proposed image device and / or the proposed laminating plate. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a proposed laminating plate is proposed, wherein the negative structure to be created is derived from the desired image to be displayed, in particular by means of a Fourier transform, and wherein the negative structure is introduced into the laminating plate, in particular by engraving. Reference may be made to all descriptions of the proposed laminating plate.In particular, the same or similar benefits are achieved.

[0062] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a laminating plate for the production of a security document, in particular by laminating a carrier with a laminate sheet, comprising at least one embossing section for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure into a carrier and / or a laminate sheet, wherein the embossing section has a three-dimensional negative structure and the negative structure has a mean distance between negative structure-forming protrusions of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm, and / or the surface roughness of the negative structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm.furthermore preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm. Reference may be made to all descriptions of the proposed laminating plate in this respect. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0063] The negative structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, more preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm. A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a laminating plate for the production of a security document, in particular by laminating a carrier with a laminate sheet, with at least one embossing section for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure into a carrier and / or a laminate sheet, wherein the embossing section has a three-dimensional negative structure and the surface roughness of the negative structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm.further preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm, and / or the negative-structure-forming elevations have a mean width b1 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.5 pm, further preferably at least 2 pm and / or less than 40 pm, preferably less than 35 pm, further preferably less than 30 pm, further preferably less than 25 pm. Reference may be made to all descriptions of the proposed laminating plate in this respect. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0064] The negative structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

[0065] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a laminating plate for the production of a security document, in particular by laminating a carrier with a laminate sheet, comprising at least one embossing section for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure into a carrier and / or a laminate sheet, wherein the embossing section has a three-dimensional negative structure, the negative structure has a mean distance between negative structure-forming protrusions of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm, and / or the negative structure-forming protrusions have a mean width b1 of at least 0.5 pm, more preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm and / or of less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm.further preferably less than 30 pm, and further preferably less than 25 pm. Reference may be made to all descriptions of the proposed laminating plate in this respect. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0066] The negative structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

[0067] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a document, in particular a security document, with a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent and with a three-dimensional image-generating structure formed in and / or on the window section for generating an image by means of light refraction, wherein the image-generating structure has a mean distance between structure-forming elevations of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm, and / or the surface roughness of the image-generating structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.Reference may be made to all statements regarding the proposed document. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0068] The image generation structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.

[0069] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a document, in particular a security document, with a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent, and with a three-dimensional image-generating structure formed in and / or on the window section for generating an image by means of light refraction, wherein the image-generating structure has a mean distance between structure-forming protrusions of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm, and / or the structure-forming protrusions of the image-generating structure have a mean width b2 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm and / or of less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm.further preferably of less than 30 pm, and further preferably of less than 25 pm. Reference may be made to all details in the proposed document. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0070] The image generation structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.

[0071] A further independent aspect of the present invention relates to a document, in particular a security document, with a window section that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent and with a three-dimensional image-generating structure formed in and / or on the window section for generating an image by means of light refraction, wherein the surface roughness of the image-generating structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, and more preferably less than Ra =

[0072] 1 pm, further preferably of less than Ra = 0.9 pm, further preferably of less than Ra = 0.8 pm, further preferably of less than Ra = 0.7 pm, and / or the structure-forming elevations of the image-generating structure have a mean width b1 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably of at least 1 pm, further preferably of at least 1.5 pm, further preferably of at least

[0073] 2 pm and / or less than 40 pm, preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, and more preferably less than 25 pm. Reference may be made to all details of the proposed design. In particular, the same or similar advantages are achieved.

[0074] The image generation structure can have a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.

[0075] Further embodiments of the present invention result from combinations of the features disclosed in the claims, the description, and the figures. The present invention is explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings. These show, schematically:

[0076] Fig. 1 shows a document with an imaging device and a laminating plate according to an embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view.

[0077] Fig. 2 shows a document with a window section according to an embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view, wherein the window is illuminated by a light source.

[0078] Fig. 3 shows a section of the window area with a top view image.

[0079] Fig. 4 shows a section of the window area with an animation of the image in a top view.

[0080] Fig. 5 shows the window section with a structure for generating the image in a top view.

[0081] Fig. 6 shows a document with a window section according to an embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view.

[0082] Fig. 7 shows a document according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view.

[0083] Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a laminating plate 1 for the production of a document 2, in particular a security document, also shown in Fig. 1, with an imaging device 23.

[0084] The imaging device 23 is configured to generate an image 10 as shown in Fig. 3, in particular from one or more image elements 15, 16. The imaging device 23 has a viewing section 24 that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent. A three-dimensional image-generating structure 6 is formed in and / or on the viewing section 24. The image-generating structure 6 is configured to generate an image 10 from one or more image elements 15, 16 by means of light refraction, as will be explained below with reference to Fig. 3.

[0085] As further shown in Fig. 1, the image-generating structure 6 is formed on an outer surface of the image device 23. Alternatively or additionally, the image-generating structure 6 forms an uncovered outer surface of the image device 23.

[0086] Fig. 3 shows a section of the viewing area 24 with a generated image 10 in a top view. Fig. 4 shows a section of the viewing area 24 with an animation of the image 10 from a sequence of images in a top view. Within the scope of the present invention, the term "animation" refers in particular to the representation of a moving image from a sequence of images.

[0087] Fig. 3 shows the image 10 visible to the viewer according to an exemplary embodiment. The image 10 can have or be formed from several image elements 15, 16; in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, two first image elements 15 and a second image element 16.

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the image 10 consists of two first image elements 15 and a second image element 16, wherein the first image element 15 represents, by way of example, a leaf and the second image element 16 represents a letter, whereby other representations of the respective image elements 15, 16 are also possible.

[0089] The image generation structure 6 is preferably configured to generate a moving image 10 from a sequence of images. In Fig. 4, a sequence of two image elements 15, 16 is shown for each of the image elements 15, 16.

[0090] By moving the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure, a moving image 10 can be generated from a sequence of images, as shown by way of example in Fig. 4.

[0091] Fig. 4 shows image 10 from Fig. 3 in a different viewing position and / or light incidence position compared to Fig. 3. Thus, by changing the viewing position, even with a constant viewing angle, the position and / or arrangement of at least one image element 15, 16 relative to the viewing area 23 can be changed. In this way, a moving image can be generated from a sequence of image elements 15, 16 when the document 2 is moved relative to the viewer and / or the light source 13.

[0092] It is possible that at least one image element 15, 16 assumes or represents different positions, particularly in the form of a displacement, depending on the viewing position and / or the angle of incidence of the light. In this way, a linear and / or abrupt movement and / or displacement of the image element 15, 16 or of the image 10 can be achieved.

[0093] As shown in Fig. 4 with regard to the first two image elements 15, a displacement of the first image elements 15 can be generated and / or observed if the viewing position and / or the position of the light incidence is changed.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 4 with regard to the second image element 16, it is also possible to display the image element 16 in different positions relative to an axis of rotation depending on the viewing position and / or the angle of incidence of the light. In this way, an animation or a sequence of images of an image element 16 rotating around an axis of rotation can be generated and / or displayed. Thus, the corresponding image element 16 in the animation can rotate around itself as the viewing position and / or angle of incidence of the light changes.

[0095] Preferably, the image generation structure 6 has several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image 10 from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure 6.

[0096] As shown in Fig. 4 with respect to the upper left image element 15, the image element 15 can be displayed or generated in a first position of the image-generating structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or in a first position of a light source 12 relative to the image-generating structure 6 within a first image-generating section, as shown by the image element 15 depicted as an unfilled leaf. In a second position of the image-generating structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or in a second position of a light source 12 relative to the image-generating structure 6, the first image element 15 can be displayed or generated within a second image-generating section, as shown by the image element 15 depicted as a filled leaf.

[0097] The image-generating structure 6 is in particular surface-laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed on the outside in a laminate, as shown by example in Fig. 1.

[0098] The image generation structure 6 and adjacent material sections are generated in particular by lamination.

[0099] The image generation structure 6 is in particular free of separate holding devices arranged in and / or on the viewing section 24 or the image device 23, so that no separate structural support is necessary for the image generation structure 6.

[0100] The image generation structure 6 preferably has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth t2 of at least 400 nm, more preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm.

[0101] The image generation structure 6 can have a mean distance a2 between structure-forming elevations 8 of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm.

[0102] The surface roughness of the image-generating structure 6 can be less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.

[0103] Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a document 2, in particular a security document, according to one embodiment. The document 2 preferably has a carrier 3 and at least one laminate sheet 4.

[0104] The support 3 is preferably designed in an arc or card shape.

[0105] The laminate sheet 4 is preferably transparent and / or at least partially transparent to light of a given wavelength.

[0106] As shown in Fig. 1, the document 2 preferably has two laminate sheets 4. The laminate sheets 4 are preferably arranged on opposite flat sides of the carrier 3.

[0107] The support 3 is preferably laminated with the laminate sheets 4, thereby protecting the support 3 from the environment and / or external influences.

[0108] Document 2 features a window section 9 that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent. The window section 9 can be formed by the support 3 itself or, preferably, directly adjacent to and / or merging into the support 3, particularly laterally. Furthermore, the window section 9 can partially or completely penetrate the support 3 in one direction, from top to bottom in Fig. 1.

[0109] The window section 9 can, moreover, project beyond the support 3, in particular a flat side of the support, in one direction, in Fig. 1 from top to bottom, at least section by section.

[0110] Alternatively or additionally, window section 9 can adjoin laminate arch 4, especially laterally.

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the laminate sheet 4 can cover the window section 9 section by section or completely, as will be explained below with reference to Fig. 7.

[0112] Window section 9 can correspond to imaging device 23. Alternatively or additionally, imaging device 23 can be part of window section 9. Therefore, all design features, details, and advantages relating to imaging device 23 also apply to window section 9, and vice versa.

[0113] Preferably, the viewing section 24 is part of the window section 9. Therefore, all design features, details and advantages relating to the viewing section 24 also apply to the window section 9 and vice versa.

[0114] The window section 9 can be made, at least partially, of a plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, document sections adjacent to the window section 9 can also be made, at least partially, of a plastic material. In this way, the lamination of the document 2 can be carried out in a particularly simple manner. Furthermore, the document 2 has a three-dimensional image generation structure 6 formed in and / or on the window section 9 for generating an image 10, as shown in Figs. 3 and 4, by means of light refraction.

[0115] The image generation structure 6 is formed on an outer surface of the document 2 and / or forms an uncovered outer surface of the document, as shown in Fig. 1, Fig.

[0116] 2 and Fig. 6 show.

[0117] Fig. 3 shows a section of window section 9 with a generated image 10 in a top view. Fig. 4 shows a section of window section 9 with an animation of image 10 in a top view.

[0118] The image 10 can be formed by several image elements 15, 16, in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 two first image elements 15 and a second image element 16.

[0119] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the image 10 consists of two first image elements 15 and a second image element 16, wherein the first image element 15 represents, by way of example, a leaf and the second image element 16 represents a letter, whereby other representations are also possible.

[0120] The image generation structure 6 is preferably configured to generate a moving image 10 from a sequence of images. In Fig. 4, a sequence of two image elements 15, 16 is shown for each of the image elements 15, 16.

[0121] By moving the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure, a moving image 10 can be generated from a sequence of images, as shown by way of example in Fig. 4.

[0122] Fig. 4 shows image 10 from Fig. 3 in a different viewing position and / or light incidence position compared to Fig. 3. Thus, by changing the viewing position of window section 9 and / or the light incidence position on window section 9, the position and / or arrangement of at least one image element 15, 16 can be changed. In this way, a moving image can be generated from a sequence of image elements 15, 16 when the document 2 is moved relative to the viewer and / or the light source 13.

[0123] Firstly, it is possible that at least one image element 15, 16 exhibits or represents different positions, particularly in the form of a displacement, depending on the viewing position and / or the angle of incidence of the light. In this way, a linear and / or abrupt movement and / or displacement of the image element 15, 16 or of the image 10 can be achieved.

[0124] As shown in Fig. 4 with regard to the first two image elements 15, a displacement of the first image elements 15 can be generated and / or observed if the viewing position and / or the position of the light incidence is changed.

[0125] As shown in Fig. 4 with regard to the second image element 16, it is also possible to display the image element 16 in different positions relative to an axis of rotation depending on the viewing position and / or the angle of incidence of the light. In this way, an animation of an image element 16 rotating around an axis of rotation can be generated and / or displayed. Thus, the corresponding image element 16 can rotate about itself in the animation from a sequence of images as the viewing position and / or angle of incidence of the light change.

[0126] Preferably, the image generation structure 6 has several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image 10 from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure 6. As Fig. 4 shows with respect to the upper left image element 15, the image element 15 can be displayed or generated in a first position of the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or in a first position of a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure 6 within a first image generation section, as shown by the image element 15 depicted as an unfilled sheet.In a second position of the image generation structure 6 relative to the viewer and / or in a second position of a light source 12 relative to the image generation structure 6, the first image element 15 can be represented or generated within a second image generation section, as shown by the image element 15 depicted as a filled sheet.

[0127] It is preferably provided that the image-generating structure 6 is surface-laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed in a laminate on the outside.

[0128] It is further preferred that the image generation structure 6 and adjacent material sections are produced by lamination and / or that the window section 9 is produced by lamination, in particular completely by lamination, and / or that material sections adjacent to the window section 9 are produced by lamination, in particular completely by lamination.

[0129] The image generation structure 6 is in particular free of separate holding devices arranged in and / or on the window section 9.

[0130] Fig. 5 shows the image-generating structure 6 in a top view. The image-generating structure 6 has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm. The image-generating structure 6 can have a mean distance α2 between structure-forming protrusions 11 of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, more preferably at least 1.3 pm.Alternatively or additionally, the surface roughness of the image-generating structure 6 can be less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.

[0131] The structure-forming elevations 11 of the image-generating structure 6 preferably have a mean width b2 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably of at least 1 pm, more preferably of at least 1.5 pm, more preferably of at least 2 pm and / or of less than 40 pm, preferably of less than 35 pm, more preferably of less than 30 pm, more preferably of less than 25 pm.

[0132] Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of document 1, with document 2 positioned between a light source 12 and the eye 13 of a viewer.

[0133] Preferably, the image 10 is visible to the viewer by projection of the light source 13, in particular a point light source 12, from a side of the window section 9 facing away from the viewer, as shown in Fig. 2. A light beam 14 from the light source 12 is guided through the window section 9 and refracted by the image-generating structure 6 such that the image 10 is visible to the viewer.

[0134] If the window section 9 is illuminated by a point light source 12 on the side facing the viewer, it may be designed so that the image 10 is not visible or barely visible due to the optical properties. It is also possible that, in order for the image 10 to be displayed, the image-generating structure 6 must be oriented towards or away from the viewer's eye 13, while a reversed arrangement renders the image 10 invisible.

[0135] Alternatively or additionally, image 10 can be reflected by means of a laser at a particularly variable angle.

[0136] The image-generating structure 6 can additionally be configured as a diffractive optical element, particularly for generating an additional image. Thus, at least one image element 15, 16 is configured as an additional image generated by diffraction of light. For example, the first image element 15 shown in the upper left of Fig. 3 can be generated as an additional image by diffraction of light, while the other first image element 15 and the second image element 16 are each generated by refraction of light.

[0137] In Fig. 6, document 2 is shown according to a further embodiment.

[0138] Document 2 shown in Fig. 6 has a pre-laminate 20. The pre-laminate 20 can consist of at least two previously bonded layers, in particular those produced by lamination. Preferably, at least one further laminating layer 17 is arranged on at least one side of the pre-laminate 20.

[0139] On its outer surface, document 2 has at least one laminate sheet 4. As shown in Fig. 6, a first laminate sheet 4 is arranged on the outer side of the laminating layer 17, and a second laminate sheet 4 is arranged on the side of the pre-laminate 20 facing away from the laminating layer 17. It is also possible to provide further layers 4 between the two outer laminate sheets 4.

[0140] The pre-laminate 20 can be configured as a carrier 3 of the document 2. The image-generating structure 6 is preferably incorporated on the outside of the document 2, in particular into the laminate sheet 4 of the document 2. The image-generating structure 6 is particularly incorporated onto the window section 9.

[0141] The document 2 shown in Fig. 6 further comprises at least one electronic component 21. The component 21 is preferably arranged in the pre-laminate 20. Alternatively, it is also possible to arrange the electronic component 21 between two laminate layers of the document 2, for example between the pre-laminate 20 and the lamination layer 17.

[0142] The electronic component 21 is preferably embedded in a pre-laminate 20. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the electronic component 21 can be fixed in the pre-laminate 20 by means of lamination. Subsequently, lamination with the further laminate layers of the document 2 can then take place. As Fig. 6 shows, the document depicted therein has two electronic components 21.

[0143] The electronic component 21 can be a circuit, an RFID transponder and / or chip, such as an RFID chip, an NFC chip, an antenna or the like, and / or a memory and / or microprocessor.

[0144] Figure 7 shows document 2 according to a further embodiment. Document 2 can have an intermediate laminate 18. The image-generating structure 6 can be formed on an outer surface of the intermediate laminate 18. The intermediate laminate 18 can be configured as a support 3 or as a component of the support 3.

[0145] The outer surface of the intermediate laminate 18, on which the image-generating structure 6 is formed, can be covered by at least one further layer, in particular a laminating layer 17 and / or a laminate sheet 4, thereby achieving particularly efficient protection of the image-generating structure 6. In particular, by covering the image-generating structure 6 with a further laminate sheet, as shown in Fig. 7, it is possible to prevent the image-generating structure 6 from being felt from the outside.

[0146] On the intermediate laminate 18, a layer 19 made of a material with a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or a metallized and / or reflective layer 19 can be applied on the side of the image-generating structure 6.

[0147] Alternatively or additionally, the image-generating structure 6 can be formed and / or imaged by the layer 19 made of the material with a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or the metallized and / or reflective layer.

[0148] Such a layer 19 can therefore assume and / or reproduce the shape of the image-generating structure 6 on both sides. Despite the further covering by the upper laminate sheet shown in Fig. 7, the desired light refraction for image generation can be achieved by the layer 19.

[0149] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the lamination layer 17 can be formed by the layer 19 made of a material with a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or a metallized and / or reflective layer 19.

[0150] As further shown in Fig. 7, document 2 comprises at least one electronic component 21 or a plurality of electronic components 21, wherein the electronic component 21 is preferably embedded in the intermediate laminate 18. The intermediate laminate 18 can be configured as a pre-laminate 20.

[0151] The document 2 shown in Fig. 7 preferably has two outer laminate sheets 4. One laminate sheet 4 preferably rests against the outer surface of the laminating layer 17 and the other laminate sheet 4 rests against the outer surface of the intermediate laminate 18. The image-generating structure 6 is then preferably at least partially covered by the laminating layer 17 and / or the laminate sheet 4.

[0152] Figure 6 shows a pre-laminate 20 for producing a document 2, particularly one conforming to the proposed design. The pre-laminate 20 has a window section 9 that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent. A three-dimensional image-generating structure 6 for generating an image 10 by means of light refraction is formed on the window section 9 or can be formed by lamination, wherein the image-generating structure 6 is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

[0153] Figure 1 shows an example of a window element 22 as part of document 2. The window element 22 is designed to produce a proposed document 2. The window element 22 has a window section 9 that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent.

[0154] A three-dimensional image-generating structure 6 for generating an image 10 by means of light refraction is produced on the window section 9, wherein the image-generating structure 6 has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth of at least 400 nm, more preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, more preferably at least 650 nm. For simple and cost-effective manufacturing, it is preferably provided that the window section 9 and / or the image-generating structure 6 and / or document sections adjacent to the window section 9 are produced by means of a laminating plate 1, in particular according to the proposed design.

[0155] The production of document 2 is carried out in particular by laminating a carrier 3 with a laminate sheet 4 using a laminating plate 1, as shown in Fig. and explained below.

[0156] The laminating plate 1 has at least one embossing section 5 for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure 6 into a substrate 3 and / or a laminate sheet 4. The embossing section 5 has a three-dimensional negative structure 7. The negative structure 7 is designed to be complementary to the three-dimensional image-generating structure 6.

[0157] The negative structure 7 has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth t1 of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

[0158] The negative structure 7 can have a mean distance a1 between negative structure-forming protrusions 8 of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.1 pm, more preferably at least 1.2 pm, and more preferably at least 1.3 pm. Additionally or alternatively, the surface roughness of the negative structure 7 can be less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, and more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.The negative structure-forming elevations 8 can have a mean width b1 of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably at least 2 pm and / or of less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, more preferably less than 25 pm.

[0159] The laminating plate 1 is made at least partially or entirely of brass, stainless steel, nickel, and / or an alloy thereof. A laminating plate 1 designed accordingly exhibits particularly good thermal conductivity and heat transfer, thus enabling fast, easy, and cost-effective lamination of the document 2. Furthermore, the laminating plate 1 is therefore exceptionally mechanically stable, resulting in a long service life.

[0160] A method for producing a proposed imaging device 23 and / or a document 2, in particular a proposed document 2, is preferably characterized in that a carrier 3, viewing section 24 and / or a window section 9 and / or an intermediate laminate 18 or pre-laminate 20 is laminated by means of a proposed laminating plate 1.

[0161] For example, a carrier 3 with a window element 22 and / or a window section 9 can first be provided. The carrier 3 can be designed as a pre-laminate 18 or an intermediate laminate 20. If necessary, further layers, in particular laminating layers 17, can be placed and / or applied to the flat sides of the carrier 3. An outer laminate sheet 4 can be arranged on at least one side, and in particular on both sides. The structure produced in this way from individual layers can then be arranged between two laminating sheets 1. The laminating sheets 1 can be pressed perpendicularly onto the flat sides of the structure and additionally heated so that the softening temperature of at least the outer laminate sheet 4 is exceeded. Due to the softening of the material, the document 2 is laminated, whereby the layers are bonded together.Alternatively, it is also possible to laminate document 2 successively from both outer sides using a laminating plate 1. The method or lamination process preferably forms the image-generating structure 6 in and / or on the window section 9.

[0162] A method for producing a lamination plate 1 according to the proposed method is preferably characterized in that the negative structure 7 to be created is derived from the desired image 10 to be displayed, in particular by means of Fourier transformation, and wherein the negative structure 7 is introduced into the lamination plate 1, in particular by engraving.

[0163] Reference symbol list

[0164] 1 laminating plate

[0165] 2 documents

[0166] 3 carriers

[0167] 4 laminate sheets

[0168] 5 embossing section

[0169] 6 Image generation structure

[0170] 7 Negative structure

[0171] 8 surveys

[0172] 9 window section

[0173] 10 images

[0174] 11 Survey

[0175] 12 light sources

[0176] 13th eye

[0177] 14 Light beam

[0178] 15 image elements

[0179] 16 image elements

[0180] 17 Laminating layers

[0181] 18 Intermediate laminate

[0182] 19 shift

[0183] 20 pre-laminate

[0184] 21 Component

[0185] 22 window element

[0186] 23 Imaging device

[0187] 24 Visible section a1 Distance a2 Distance b1 Width b2 Width t1 Structure depth t2 Structure depth

Claims

PRO GRAVUR AG 26684-PGA-PWO / NZ PATENT CLAIMS 1. Image device (23), in particular for security documents, with a viewing section (24) that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent and with a three-dimensional image generation structure (6) formed in and / or on the viewing section (24) for generating an image (10) from one image element (15, 16) or several image elements (15, 16) by means of light refraction, wherein the image generation structure (6) is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

2. Image device (23) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the image generation structure (6) is designed to generate a moving image (10) from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure (6) relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source (12) relative to the image generation structure (6).

3. Image device (23) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) has several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image (10) from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure (6) relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source (12) relative to the image generation structure (6).

4. Image device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image-generating structure (6) is surface laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed on the outside in a laminate.

5. Image device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) and adjacent material sections are produced by lamination.

6. Image device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) is arranged in and / or on the viewing section (24) free from separate holding devices.

7. Imaging device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image-generating structure (6) has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, more preferably more than 1.2 pm, more preferably more than 1.4 pm, more preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth (t2) of at least 400 nm, more preferably at least 500 nm, more preferably at least 550 nm, more preferably at least 600 nm, preferably at least 650 nm.

8. Image device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image-generating structure (6) has a mean distance (a2) between structure-forming elevations (11) of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.1 pm, further preferably at least 1.2 pm, further preferably at least 1.3 pm.

9. Imaging device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface roughness of the image-generating structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.

10. Image device (23) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure-forming elevations (11) of the image-generating structure (6) have a mean width (b2) of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.5 pm, further preferably at least 2 pm, further preferably at least 3 pm and / or less than 40 pm, preferably less than 35 pm, further preferably less than 30 pm, further preferably less than 25 pm, further preferably less than 20 pm.

11. Document (2), in particular a security document, with at least a partially transparent and / or translucent window section (9) and with a three-dimensional image generation structure (6) formed in and / or on the window section (9) for generating an image (10) by means of light refraction, wherein the image-generating structure (6) is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

12. Document (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) is designed to generate a moving image (10) from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure (6) relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source (12) relative to the image generation structure (6).

13. Document (2) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) has several, in particular adjacent, image generation sections for generating a moving image (10) from a sequence of images, in particular by moving the image generation structure (6) relative to the viewer and / or by moving a light source (12) relative to the image generation structure (6).

14. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the image-generating structure (6) is surface laminated and / or embedded and / or embossed in a laminate on the outside.

15. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) and adjacent material sections are produced by lamination and / or that the window section (9) is produced by lamination, in particular is produced entirely by lamination, and / or that material sections adjacent to the window section (9) are produced by lamination, in particular are produced entirely by lamination.

16. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) is arranged in and / or on the window section (9) free from separate holding devices.

17. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth (t2) of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

18. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) has a mean distance (a2) between structure-forming elevations (11 ) of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.1 pm, further preferably at least 1.2 pm, further preferably at least 1.3 pm.

19. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that the surface roughness of the image-generating structure is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, further preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.

20. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 19, characterized in that the structure-forming elevations (11 ) of the image-generating structure have a mean width (b1 ) of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.5 pm, further preferably at least 2 pm, further preferably at least 3 pm and / or less than 40 pm, preferably less than 35 pm, further preferably less than 30 pm, further preferably less than 25 pm, further preferably less than 20 pm.

21. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 20, characterized in that the image (10) is visible to the viewer by projection of a light source, in particular a point light source (12), from a side of the window section (9) facing away from the viewer.

22. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 21 , characterized in that the image (10) can be reflected at a variable angle by means of a laser.

23. Document according to one of claims 11 to 22, characterized in that the image generation structure (6) is additionally designed as a diffractive optical element, in particular for generating an additional image.

24. Document (6) according to one of claims 11 to 23, characterized by at least one electronic component (21) or by a plurality of electronic components (21).

25. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 24, characterized in that the window section (9) is produced at least section by section from a plastic material and / or that document sections adjacent to the window section (9) are produced at least section by section from a plastic material.

26. Document (2), in particular a security document, with at least a partially transparent and / or translucent window section (9) and with a three-dimensional image generation structure (6) formed in and / or on the window section (9) for generating an image (10) by means of light refraction, wherein the image-generating structure (6) is formed on an outer surface of an intermediate laminate (18) and wherein the outer surface of the intermediate laminate (18) is covered by at least one further layer, in particular a laminating layer (17).

27. Document (2) according to claim 26, characterized in that a layer (19) of a material having a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or a metallized and / or reflective layer (19) is applied to the intermediate laminate (18) on the side of the image-generating structure (6).

28. Document (2) according to one of claims 26 or 27, characterized in that the image-generating structure (6) is formed and / or imaged by the layer (19) made of the material having a refractive index of more than 1.4, preferably more than 1.5, further preferably more than 1.6, further preferably more than 1.7, further preferably more than 1.8, and / or the metallized and / or reflective layer (19).

29. Document (2) according to one of claims 26 to 28, characterized by at least one electronic component (21 ) or by a plurality of electronic components (21 ), wherein the electronic component (21 ) is preferably embedded in an intermediate laminate (18).

30. Document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 29, characterized in that the window section (9) and / or the image generation structure (6) and / or document sections adjacent to the window section (9) are produced by means of a laminating plate (1), in particular a laminating plate (1) according to one of claims 33 to 37.

31. Pre-laminate (20) for producing a document (2), in particular a security document and preferably a document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 30, with a window section (9) that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent, on which a three-dimensional image-generating structure (6) for generating an image (10) is produced by means of light refraction or can be produced by lamination, wherein the image-generating structure (6) is formed on an outer surface and / or forms an uncovered outer surface.

32. Window element (22) for producing a document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 30, comprising a window section (22) that is at least partially transparent and / or translucent, on which a three-dimensional image generation structure (6) is generated for generating an image (10) by means of light refraction, wherein the image generation structure (6) has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth (t2) of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

33. Laminating plate (1) for the production of a security document (2), in particular by laminating a carrier (3) with a laminate sheet (4), with at least one embossing section (5) for introducing a three-dimensional image-generating structure (6) into a carrier (3) and / or a laminate sheet (4), wherein the embossing section (5) has a three-dimensional negative structure (7) and the negative structure (7) has a line resolution of more than 0.8 pm, preferably more than 1 pm, further preferably more than 1.2 pm, further preferably more than 1.4 pm, further preferably more than 1.5 pm, and / or a structure depth (t1) of at least 400 nm, preferably at least 500 nm, further preferably at least 550 nm, further preferably at least 600 nm, further preferably at least 650 nm.

34. Laminating plate (1) according to claim 33, characterized in that the negative structure (7) has a mean distance (a1) between negative structure-forming protrusions (8) of at least 0.8 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, further preferably at least 1.1 pm, further preferably at least 1.2 pm, further preferably at least 1.3 pm.

35. Laminating plate (1 ) according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that the surface roughness of the negative structure (7) is less than Ra = 1.2 pm, preferably less than Ra = 1.1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 1 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.9 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.8 pm, more preferably less than Ra = 0.7 pm.

36. Laminating plate (1) according to one of claims 33 to 35, characterized in that the negative structure-forming elevations (8) have a mean width (b1) of at least 0.5 pm, preferably at least 1 pm, more preferably at least 1.5 pm, more preferably we- at least 2 pm, more preferably at least 3 pm and / or less than 40 pm, more preferably less than 35 pm, more preferably less than 30 pm, more preferably less than 25 pm, more preferably less than 20 pm.

37. Laminating plate (1 ) according to one of claims 33 to 36, characterized in that the laminating plate (1 ) is made at least partially or completely of brass, stainless steel, nickel and / or an alloy thereof.

38. Method for manufacturing an image device (23) according to one of claims 1 to 10 or a document (2), in particular a document (2) according to one of claims 11 to 30, wherein a carrier (3), viewing section (24) and / or window section (9) and / or an intermediate laminate (18) or pre-laminate (20) is laminated by means of a laminating plate (1) according to one of claims 33 to 37.

39. Method for producing a laminating plate (2) according to one of claims 33 to 37, wherein the negative structure (7) to be created is derived from the desired image (10) to be displayed, in particular by means of Fourier transformation, and wherein the negative structure (7) is introduced into the laminating plate (1), in particular by engraving.

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