Laser Perforation Device for Security Documents

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for producing perforations in security documents, such as passports, are not cost-efficient and lack precision, which can compromise the security features against forgery.

Innovation Solution

A device utilizing a CO2 laser beam with a dual-matrix system that positions and fixes the security document, allowing for precise control of perforation shape and depth, and includes a pneumatic drive for accurate placement and suction system to manage perforation dust, enabling high-quality and cost-effective perforations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If existing methods for producing perforations are used, then the process is simpler, but the precision and quality of perforations deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperforation precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into two separate matrices: a first matrix for positioning and fixing the security document, and a second matrix for shaping the perforation. This segmentation allows each matrix to be optimized for its specific function, thereby improving perforation precision without requiring a single overly complex device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A laser beam is introduced as an intermediary between the matrices to create the perforation. The laser beam passes through recesses in both matrices to precisely remove material and form the security feature, enabling high-precision perforation without direct mechanical contact that would complicate the device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a laser beam is used to produce perforations, then the quality and security features are improved, but the cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity feature reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning function and perforation shaping function are merged into a single integrated device structure where the first matrix and second matrix work together in close proximity. This combination ensures that the security document is properly positioned and fixed while the laser beam creates the perforation, improving reliability without requiring separate complex systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical punching or drilling system is replaced with a laser beam system. The laser beam selectively removes material to create perforations with precise control over shape, size, and depth, thereby improving security feature reliability while avoiding the complexity of mechanical punching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If the security document is firmly fixed between matrices, then the perforation precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperforation positioning accuracyVSAvoidfixation mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first matrix serves multiple functions: it positions the security document, fixes it in place, and provides a reference surface for the laser beam. This multi-functionality improves perforation positioning accuracy without requiring separate positioning and fixation mechanisms, thereby avoiding increased device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using complex clamps or holders to fix the security document, the invention inverts the approach by having the security document rest on the first matrix surface, which provides the fixing function through its structure. This simplifies the fixation mechanism while maintaining high positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP3530481B1Device for producing a perforation in a security document
Publication Date: 2021.03.31 BUNDESDRUCKEREI GMBH
  • EP3530481B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3530481B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3530481B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device (10) and a method for producing a perforation in a security document (70), in particular in a book-like identification document such as a passport book. The device for producing a perforation (10) comprises at least one means for generating a laser beam to create the perforation or at least one connection device (12) for connecting at least one means for generating a laser beam. Furthermore, the device comprises at least one first die (20) configured to be placed against a security document (70) for positioning and/or fixing the security document (70). The die (20) has at least one recess (24) for the passage of a laser beam.