Luminescent Security Element With Dual UV-A Verification Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements lack alternative properties and high forgery security, are difficult to detach nondestructively, and can be perceived as disruptive, while class 2 features are not easily readable and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovation Solution
A security element with two luminescent layers having different excitation wavelengths in the UV-A range, combined with a perforated metal layer and optically variable surface patterns, allowing for distinctive and machine-readable verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple luminescent layers with different excitation wavelengths are used, then forgery security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The security element is divided into multiple luminescent layers (at least two), each with different excitation wavelengths. This segmentation allows each layer to respond to specific UV wavelengths, creating a multi-layered verification system that significantly improves forgery security while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each luminescent layer serves multiple functions: it acts as both a security feature (visible under specific UV wavelengths) and an aesthetic element (visible under visible light). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate security and cosmetic components, thereby improving security without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If class 2 security features are added, then forgery security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different luminescent layers are assigned to specific regions or layers within the security element, each responding to specific UV wavelengths. This local differentiation allows verification systems to selectively activate specific layers based on the document type or security level required, making verification easier while maintaining high security through targeted class 2 features.
3Reliability
If the security element is made highly secure, then forgery security is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes variations in excitation wavelength parameters as the primary differentiator between security layers. This parameter-based differentiation is simpler to manufacture than structurally complex alternatives, as it relies on selecting luminescent materials with specific optical properties rather than creating complex geometric or mechanical structures, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving high security.
4Ease of operation
If visible luminescent features are added for verification, then ease of operation is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The security element incorporates luminescent features that are dynamically activated only under UV illumination. Under normal visible light conditions, these features remain invisible or minimally visible, preserving the aesthetic appearance. When UV light is applied for verification, the luminescent layers activate dynamically, providing clear visual feedback for easy verification without permanently altering the appearance.
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
Enhances forgery security, provides esthetically pleasing appearance, and ensures easy, non-destructive attachment to documents, while allowing reliable and visually appealing verification using UV-A light.
Implementation Method 1
a first concealed motif region having a first luminescent layer having at least a first excitation wavelength in the UV-A range
Implementation Method 2
a first concealed motif region having a first luminescent layer having at least a first excitation wavelength in the UV-A range
Implementation Method 3
a second concealed motif region having a second luminescent layer having at least a second excitation wavelength in the UV-A range that differs from the at least one first excitation wavelength
Implementation Method 4
a second concealed motif region having a second luminescent layer having at least a second excitation wavelength in the UV-A range that differs from the at least one first excitation wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
A security element for a value document includes: a first concealed motif region having a first luminescence layer with at least one first excitation wavelength in the UV-A range; and a second concealed motif region having a second luminescence layer with at least one second excitation wavelength in the UV-A range that is different from the at least one first excitation wavelength.