Multilayer Data Carrier Laser Ablation Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for protecting personalized data on data carriers, such as identity cards and passports, are elaborate and require specialized equipment, making them inefficient for preventing unauthorized modifications of data like photographs, dates of birth, and names.
Innovation Solution
A multilayer data carrier with a thin metallized layer, preferably less than 4 μm thick, is applied between thermoplastic layers, and partially ablated using a laser during personalization to create secure images or text, allowing for economic production without additional machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods (lens structures, matrix images) are used to protect personalized data, then security protection is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase due to requiring specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the security function from complex specialized equipment and implements it through a simple metallized layer that can be applied using conventional card production techniques. The metallized layer itself becomes the security feature carrier, eliminating the need for additional specialized devices during personalization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the metallized layer through laser ablation during personalization, transforming it from an intact reflective surface to a patterned structure that reveals the underlying transparent layer with security features. This parameter change (from solid metal layer to ablated pattern) creates the security effect using existing equipment.
2Reliability
If conventional methods are used to introduce second images for protection, then security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to elaborate production methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the security feature introduction with the existing personalization process. The metallized layer is applied during standard card manufacturing, and the same laser equipment used for personalization is employed to create security features by ablating the metallized layer, combining two functions into one process flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing laser personalization equipment multi-functional by enabling it to perform both data writing and security feature creation. The metallized layer serves dual purposes: as a reflective cosmetic layer and as a mask that, when ablated, reveals the transparent security features underneath.
3Reliability
If a metallized layer is applied and ablated during personalization, then security protection is improved, but the metal layer thickness must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the metallized layer during the card manufacturing stage before personalization, establishing a uniform base layer with controlled thickness. This preliminary action ensures consistent metal layer properties across all cards, and the subsequent laser ablation during personalization does not require precise thickness control since the laser parameters are optimized for the pre-applied layer.
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
This method effectively enhances protection against unauthorized modifications by creating secure, visible images or text within the card, offering improved security without the need for specialized production equipment, while maintaining economic production processes.
Implementation Method 1
the metal layer is then partially ablated, i.e. evaporated, using a laser
Implementation Method 2
the metal sheet evaporates and a recess is formed in the metal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a multilayer data carrier comprising a first layer which is made of plastic and has an upper face on which an opaque layer partially covering said upper face, for example a metal layer, is arranged. The data carrier has a second layer made of plastic which is disposed on the first layer and is transparent at least in a sub-region of the metal layer. The metal layer is partially removed by a laser to such an extent that the metal layer has at least one break. The metal layer is preferably laminated between the first and the second plastic layers.