Double-Sided Holographic Security Element with Overlapping Metal Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security elements for documents lack enhanced safety features that can effectively prevent forgery, particularly in visual inspection, as they often rely on single-sided holographic effects and patterns observable in transmitted light, which can be easily copied.
Innovation Solution
A security element comprising a transparent first layer with a holographic surface structure, a first metal layer with transparent and non-transparent regions, and a second layer with a different holographic surface structure and metal layer, where the transparent regions of both metal layers overlap, creating a pattern in transmitted light and distinct holographic effects on each side in reflected light, combined with a radiation-sensitive polymer and protective coating for added security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-sided holographic effect and transmitted light pattern are used, then the security element is recognizable by visual inspection, but it is easy to copy and lacks enhanced safety
Solution Approach 1:
The security element is divided into multiple layers (first transparent layer with first metal layer, second transparent layer with second metal layer) where each layer contributes different security features. The transparent regions are segmented into multiple sets that overlap to create the transmitted light pattern, while the non-transparent regions provide holographic effects on different sides, making copying difficult
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-sided holographic effects to double-sided holographic effects by adding another dimension (the second layer with second metal layer). The transparent regions overlap in the vertical dimension to create transmitted light patterns visible from both sides, while non-transparent regions provide holographic effects on both front and rear surfaces
2Reliability
If transparent regions in metal layers are arranged to overlap, then a pattern is visible in transmitted light from both sides, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each layer structure serves multiple functions: the transparent regions with overlapping metal layers create transmitted light patterns visible from both sides, while the non-transparent regions provide holographic effects. The same layer structure simultaneously provides both pattern visibility and holographic effects, reducing the need for additional separate components
3Reliability
If non-transparent regions have holographic surface structure, then holographic effect is visible on both sides in reflected light, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the security element have different local qualities: transparent regions are designed for transmitted light pattern visibility with overlapping metal layers, while non-transparent regions are designed for holographic effects with surface structures. Each region is optimized for its specific function, allowing the overall structure to meet security requirements without requiring uniform high precision across all areas
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 improved visual inspection safety by creating a pattern visible in transmitted light and unique holographic effects on both sides, making it difficult to copy and enhancing the detection of forgery without equipment, while the protective coating and radiation-sensitive polymer enhance durability and solubility for selective removal.
Implementation Method 1
a first metal layer arranged on the first layer in a first pattern having transparent and non-transparent regions and a holographic surface structure
Implementation Method 2
Visual inspection of the security element in transmitted light will disclose the overlapping portions of the transparent regions in the first and second metal layer as a pattern
Implementation Method 3
exposing the de-metallized regions of the second layer to light or radiation, so as to transfer the radiation-sensitive polymer in the de-metallized regions into a soluble state
Data Source
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AI summary
A security element is described which comprises a transparent first layer (2) having a holographic surface structure (21), a first metal layer (41) on said first layer in a first pattern thereby forming transparent and non-transparent regions (9) and a holographic surface structure, a second layer (3) having a second holographic surface structure (32), and a second metal layer (42) on said second layer in a second pattern thereby forming transparent and non-transparent regions and a holographic surface structure, wherein said transparent regions of said first metal layer and said second metal layer are arranged to at least partly overlap each other and the non-transparent regions of the metal layers develop holographic effects on both sides of the security element which effects may be different. In a process for making the security element, an embossable radiation-sensitive polymer material is used to form the second layer.