Micro-optic Device Multi-Channel Imagery via 2D Lens Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional micro-optic security devices with 1D arrays of micro-lenses limit the number of image channels, making them easier to copy and authenticating them difficult when tilted, as the image does not change with orientation.
Innovation Solution
A micro-optic device with a 2D array of focusing elements and image elements, where each image element includes sub-elements with attributes that change brightness with viewing angle, allowing multiple image channels to be projected regardless of tilt axis, enhancing authentication and manufacturing ease.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 1D array of micro-lenses is used, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is easier, but the number of image channels is limited making authentication difficult when tilted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional 1D array of micro-lenses to a 2D array of micro-lens-lets, adding a spatial dimension to the optical element arrangement. This dimensional change enables multiple image channels to be projected simultaneously in different directions, allowing the security feature to display different images when viewed from different angles or when the banknote is tilted, thereby resolving the limitation of limited image channels in 1D arrays
2Reliability
If the number of image channels is increased to improve security, then copy resistance increases, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into multiple small micro-lens-lets arranged in a 2D array, where each lens-let corresponds to a specific image channel. This segmentation allows the complex multi-channel optical function to be achieved through simple repetition of identical or similar lens elements, making the device easier to manufacture while maintaining high copy resistance through the multiple image channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the key parameter from 1D linear arrangement to 2D planar arrangement of the micro-lens array. This parameter change fundamentally increases the number of available image channels without requiring proportionally more complex manufacturing processes, as the 2D array can be fabricated using standard printing and lamination techniques applied to flat substrates
3Ease of operation
If conventional 1D micro-lens arrays are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but authentication becomes difficult when the banknote is tilted as the image does not change
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging micro-lens-lets in a 2D array rather than a 1D array, the patent creates optical paths that respond to tilting in multiple directions. When the banknote is tilted, different subsets of the 2D lens array become visible at different angles, dynamically changing the projected image and enabling easy visual authentication through simple tilting motion
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
Enables easier authentication by projecting an optically variable image when the device is tilted about any axis, while being cost-effectively manufactured using standard printing methods like gravure, flexographic, or offset techniques.
Implementation Method 1
each focusing element focusing light to a focal point on the image plane and magnifying any portion of an image element falling within the focal point to thereby produce a projected image pixel projected to a user at a plurality of viewing angles
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-optic device, including: a substrate; a plurality of image elements in an image plane; and a plurality of focusing elements, each focusing element focusing light to a focal point on the image plane and magnifying any portion of an image element falling within the focal point to thereby produce an image pixel projected to a user at one or more viewing angles, the focal point having an extent smaller than the image element, wherein each image element includes an image sub-element having a different discernible level of brightness to elsewhere in the image element, the brightness of each projected image pixel being dependent on the proportion of the focal point filled with the image sub-element, and wherein each image sub-element has one or more attributes in the image plane, such that, from a given viewing angle, the brightness of each projected image pixel is dependent on each attribute of each image sub-element.