Hexagonal Micro-Mirror Security Element for Multi-Info Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements with optically variable structures are limited in displaying multiple pieces of information and providing effective protection against counterfeiting, as they primarily offer a single movement effect that is difficult to replicate but lacks versatility in information display.
Innovation Solution
A security element with a honeycomb-shaped embossed structure featuring regular hexagonal geometry and reflective surfaces, where embossed elements are arranged with varying flank angles and directions, allowing for multiple pieces of information to be displayed with high contrast and tactile detectability, produced using direct laser engraving and intaglio printing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a grid-like arrangement of mirror surfaces with varied inclination angles is used, then a movement effect is produced, but only a single piece of information can be displayed
Solution Approach 1:
The security element is divided into multiple groups of embossed elements, where each group displays a different piece of information. The hexagonal base is segmented into multiple triangular regions, each with mirrors oriented at different angles to reflect light in different directions, enabling multiple information pieces to be displayed simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional grid arrangement to a three-dimensional hexagonal structure with multiple facets. By utilizing the vertical dimension and angular orientation of mirror flanks on different faces of the hexagonal pyramid, multiple information pieces can be encoded in the same spatial footprint
2Ease of manufacture
If embossed elements are arranged with gaps between them, then manufacturing is easier, but space is wasted and contrast is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hierarchical embossing approach where the hexagonal base structure is first formed, then mirror flanks are created on its faces. This dynamic, multi-stage structure allows for complete surface coverage while maintaining manufacturability through sequential processing steps
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror flanks are nested on the faces of the hexagonal pyramid structure. Each flank is positioned on a specific face, and the flanks of adjacent faces are oriented at different angles. This nesting approach allows complete surface utilization without gaps while maintaining the structural integrity needed for manufacturing
3Ease of manufacture
If the security element uses a simple optically variable structure, then it is easy to manufacture, but protection against counterfeiting is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The security element combines multiple structural components (hexagonal base, mirror flanks with specific angles, reflective coating) into a composite optically variable structure. The combination of geometric precision, angular variations, and reflective properties creates a complex structure that is difficult to counterfeit while remaining manufacturable through established techniques
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 protection against counterfeiting by enabling the display of multiple pieces of information with varying viewing angles and rotation effects, providing high contrast and tactile recognition, thus increasing the complexity and difficulty of replication.
Implementation Method 1
the surface of the embossed elements being designed to be reflective
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a security element having an optically variable structure which comprises a plurality of embossed elements, each embossed element consisting of at least two flanks that extend toward one another in a specific angle and/or a specific direction. The surface of the embossed elements is designed to reflect light. Furthermore, the security element consists of at least two groups of embossed elements, wherein the at least two groups differ from each other only in the angle and/or the direction with which or by which the flanks of the embossed elements extend toward one another. According to the invention, each embossed element has a regular hexagonal base surface.