Identification Document Laser Engraving OVI Patch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification documents with optical security features are vulnerable to counterfeiting and costly due to the use of metal foils, and the integration of optically variable printing ink (OVI) patches inside the document body is not feasible as they bubble and become unreadable under engraving processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a see-through portion in the identification document body with an optically variable printing ink patch laminated to transparent layers, where the surface is engraved using a low-power laser beam to create a secure second visual marking without fully penetrating the ink layer, preventing bubbling and maintaining readability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If OVI printed patch is engraved inside the document body, then security is improved, but the OVI bubbles and becomes unreadable
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent lamination layer is introduced as an intermediary between the laser beam and the OVI patch. This mediator allows the laser to engrave the transparent layer for security marking while protecting the OVI patch from direct laser exposure that would cause bubbling and unreadability.
Solution Approach 2:
The engraving process is segmented into two distinct stages: first engraving the transparent lamination layer, then separately treating the OVI patch. This segmentation allows each layer to be processed with appropriate parameters that prevent damage while achieving the desired security features.
2Reliability
If metal foil is used for second visual marking, then security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive metal foil with a cost-effective transparent lamination layer that can be easily manufactured and applied. This substitution maintains the security function while significantly reducing material costs and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The material parameter is changed from metal foil to transparent lamination material. This parameter change maintains the optical and security properties needed for the second visual marking while reducing cost and improving ease of manufacture.
3Manufacturing precision
If laser power is increased to engrave OVI patch, then visual marking is improved, but OVI bubbles and becomes unreadable
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent lamination layer serves as a mediator that absorbs the laser energy required for engraving, preventing the laser from directly heating the OVI patch. This allows high-power laser engraving to be performed on the transparent layer without causing bubbling in the OVI layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent lamination layer is prepared and positioned over the OVI patch before the laser engraving process. This preliminary action ensures that the OVI patch is protected from laser damage before the engraving begins, preventing bubbling and maintaining readability.
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 approach enhances security by creating distinct and secure visual markings within the document body while reducing costs by avoiding metal foils and preventing counterfeiting, with the ability to personalize identification data on both sides of the OVI patch without interference.
Implementation Method 1
engraving the surface of the laminated optically variable printing ink patch through the see-through portion with a first laser beam for obtaining the first visual marking
Implementation Method 2
the special optically variable ink named OVI ®... whose colour changes with the observation angle and in particular an ink provided with suitable pigments changes from a dark colour to a light colour upon laser irradiation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
The invention concerns a method for manufacturing an identification document (100) comprising a body (150) with a first visual marking (140) and a second visual marking (130), the first and the second visual markings depicting same identification data. The method comprises the following steps of: - engraving a first area of the identification document (100) with a first laser beam for obtaining the first visual marking (140); - providing at least one see-through portion (120) in a second area of the identification document; - providing an optically variable printing ink patch (131), laminated to at least one first transparent layer (101) located in the see-through portion; and - engraving the surface of the laminated optically variable printing ink patch (132) with a second laser beam for obtaining the second visual marking (130), said second laser beam having a lower power than the first laser beam. The invention concerns also the identification document (100) obtained by this method.