Laser-Engraved Security Feature for Value Documents
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security features in value documents, such as passport and identification documents, are vulnerable to image manipulation by morphing, which cannot be checked with 100% certainty.
Innovation Solution
A security feature for value documents that includes a combination of a first identifier introduced through light-diffracting or light-refracting structures, dependent on the viewing angle, and a second identifier introduced from a different side, independent of the viewing angle, using laser-sensitive recording layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If only a single identifier is used in existing security features, then the structure is simple, but the protection against image manipulation by morphing is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The security feature is divided into two separate identifiers: a first identifier that is viewable from the front side and a second identifier that is viewable from the back side. This segmentation allows each identifier to serve a specific protective function, with the combination providing comprehensive protection against morphing attacks while maintaining structural organization through spatial separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional aspect by placing identifiers on opposite sides of the value document. The first identifier is positioned for front-side viewing while the second identifier is positioned for back-side viewing. This three-dimensional arrangement adds a new dimension to security verification, requiring observers to view the document from different angles to see different identifiers, thereby enhancing protection against image manipulation.
2Reliability
If laser-sensitive recording layers are used to introduce identifiers, then authenticity checking is enabled, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or chemical recording methods with laser-based writing technology. Laser-sensitive recording layers are used to introduce identifiers through laser irradiation, which provides precise control over the recording process. This substitution enables authentic verification while the laser writing process itself can be integrated into existing manufacturing workflows, balancing complexity with capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light-diffracting or light-refracting structures are used for the first identifier, then viewing angle dependence is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes optical property changes in response to viewing angle for the first identifier. Light-diffracting or light-refracting structures are incorporated to create viewing angle dependence, where the appearance or visibility of the identifier changes as the viewing angle changes. This provides adaptability in security verification while the structures are integrated into the existing layer architecture, managing complexity through functional integration.
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 solution simplifies the identification and authenticity checking of security features by allowing easy overlap of dynamic and static images, enabling 100% certainty in verification and providing enhanced counterfeit protection.
Implementation Method 1
identifiers are introduced into the recording layer by at least one laser beam
Implementation Method 2
light-diffracting or light-refracting structures arranged on a first side of the recording layer
Implementation Method 3
light-diffracting or light-refracting structures arranged on a first side of the recording layer
Implementation Method 4
a luminescent substance is introduced between the first identifier and the second identifier. This allows the security feature to be highlighted. In particular, the photoluminescence in the form of fluorescence or phosphorescence is viewed here
Implementation Method 5
the photoluminescence in the form of fluorescence or phosphorescence is viewed here
Data Source
AI summary
A security feature for a value document, into which markings are introduced by at least one laser beam, includes at least one laser-sensitive recording layer which is transparent in the visible spectral range, light-diffracting or light-refracting structures arranged on a first side of the recording layer, at least one first marking which is introduced into the at least one recording layer by a laser beam from at least one direction through the light-diffracting or light-refracting structures into the at least one recording layer and is visible when viewed from the same direction from a second side, at least one second marking which is introduced into the at least one recording layer with a laser beam from the second side of the recording layer and is visible when viewed from the first and the second side.