Multi-Element Security Feature for Banknote Backdrop Images
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security documents lack a combination of high protection against counterfeiting with attractive visual appearance and design freedom, particularly in foil-based security elements.
Innovation Solution
A security document featuring a multi-element security feature with an optically variable printed element, a partially metallized foil element, and a through opening or ablation area, where elements overlap to form a backdrop image, and the foil element protects the underlying elements from abrasion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If foil-based security elements are used, then protection against counterfeiting is improved, but visual appearance and design freedom are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The security feature is divided into multiple independent elements (first element, second element, third element) that can be individually designed and combined. Each element serves a specific function while contributing to the overall design, allowing greater design freedom while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines different material types (foil element, printed element, and substrate with openings) into a composite security feature. This allows each material to contribute its unique properties while working together to create a visually appealing and secure design.
2Reliability
If multiple security elements are combined, then counterfeit protection is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple security elements are merged into a single integrated security feature that functions as one cohesive unit. The elements are positioned relative to each other on the substrate to form a unified backdrop image, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining enhanced security.
Solution Approach 2:
Each element serves multiple functions: the foil element provides both security verification and visual appearance, the printed element contributes to both design and authentication, and the openings serve both aesthetic and security purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
3Reliability
If through openings are created in substrate, then security verification is improved, but structural integrity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is modified locally at specific positions to create openings, while the rest of the substrate maintains its full structural integrity. The openings are strategically positioned to provide security verification without compromising the overall strength of the substrate.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced counterfeit protection with an attractive visual appearance and design flexibility, while ensuring the security features remain intact and recognizable.
Implementation Method 1
an optically variable printed element which forms a first image part of the backdrop image
Implementation Method 2
the printed element contains at least a portion of a luminescent substance, in particular fluorescent pigments. This security feature then also allows for automated authentication by excitation of the luminescent substance through exposure to UV radiation
Implementation Method 3
only the pressure element is removed in the ablation area, without creating a recess in the substrate. This can be achieved, for example, by laser ablation with appropriately selected laser parameters
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4(a)~5(b)
Figure 6(a)~7(c)
AI summary
The invention relates to a security document (10), in particular a banknote, comprising a substrate (12) and a multi-element security feature (14). The multiple elements (30, 32+34, 40) of the security feature overlap each other at least partially in pairs and interact to form a backdrop image (20) in which several image parts (22, 24, 26) appear arranged one behind the other like a stage set. The security feature (14) comprises, as a first element, an optically variable printed element (30) that forms a first image part (22) of the backdrop image (20), and, as a second element, a partially metallized foil element (40) with transparent foil areas, wherein the metallized area (42) of the foil element (40) forms a second image part (24) of the backdrop image. The foil element (40) is positioned on the substrate (12) over the printing element (30) and overlaps it at least partially with its metallized area (42).The third element is a continuous opening (32) which can be created by laser application or punching.