Embossed Security Element Plateau Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements with optically variable structures face issues during production, such as rounding off of fine flanks and wear of embossing forms, which affect the optically variable effect and increase the risk of counterfeiting.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a flat area or plateau between adjacent embossing elements, arranged essentially parallel to the substrate surface, to protect fragile peaks from mechanical damage and erosion, and using an embossing tool with a specific design that reduces wear and tear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fine tapered edges are used in embossing elements to achieve optically variable effect, then the optically variable effect is improved, but the edges are prone to rounding off during manufacturing and wear during printing runs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing a flat area or plateau between adjacent embossed elements that are prone to wear. This flat area acts as a buffer zone that protects the tapered edges from mechanical damage during manufacturing and printing processes. The plateau structure absorbs the mechanical stress and prevents direct contact between opposing embossed elements, thereby preserving the sharpness of fine tapered edges while maintaining the optically variable effect.
2Productivity
If embossing elements are used for higher print runs, then productivity is improved, but wear and tear on squeegees, wiper cylinders, and embossing forms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flat area or plateau introduced between adjacent embossed elements serves as a protective buffer that reduces mechanical wear during extended printing operations. This cushioning structure prevents direct mechanical contact and friction between opposing embossed elements, thereby reducing wear on squeegees, wiper cylinders, and embossing forms while enabling higher print runs and improved productivity.
3Reliability
If fragile raised points are protected from erosion, then reliability of optically variable effect is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional flat areas or plateaus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the embossed element structure into distinct functional zones: the tapered edges that generate the optically variable effect, the flat areas or plateaus that provide protection, and the spacing between elements. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, protecting fragile raised points from erosion while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through a modular structural approach.
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 enhances the stability and durability of the embossing tool, reduces wear, and maintains the optically variable effect, thereby improving protection against counterfeiting and extending the tool's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The embossed structure and the coating are combined such that at least parts of the coating are fully visible when viewed perpendicularly, but are obscured when viewed obliquely, so that different information becomes visible when the viewing direction changes
Data Source
Figure 1A~2D
Figure 3E~4H
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a security element made of a substrate with an optically variable structure comprising an embossed structure and a coating, wherein the embossed structure and the coating are combined such that at least parts of the coating are fully visible when viewed perpendicularly, but are obscured when viewed obliquely, so that different information becomes visible when the viewing direction changes, wherein the embossed structure consists of adjacent non-linear embossed elements, each non-linear embossed element essentially consisting of a flank. The invention further relates to an embossing tool for producing such a security element. According to the invention, a flat area or plateau is arranged between adjacent embossed elements, which is arranged essentially parallel to the surface of the substrate surrounding the embossed element.