Nested Embossed Security Structures for Banknotes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements for valuables, such as banknotes and packaging, face challenges in maintaining tactility and substrate stability during production and circulation, with sharp-edged features prone to damage and indistinguishable denominations of the same length and width.
Innovation Solution
A security element featuring a first embossed structure as a base surrounding a second embossed structure, where the second structure is significantly higher, enhancing tactility while minimizing substrate damage, and an embossing tool with corresponding engravings to produce these features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sharp-edged embossed structures are used to enhance tactility, then the tactile detectability is improved, but the substrate is more prone to damage during production and circulation
Solution Approach 1:
The embossed structure is segmented into two distinct parts: a first embossed structure serving as a base and a second embossed structure providing enhanced tactility. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function - the base provides structural support while the elevated second structure provides tactile detection without compromising the substrate
Solution Approach 2:
The second embossed structure is nested within or upon the first embossed structure, creating a hierarchical arrangement where the taller tactile features are supported by the broader base structure, distributing stress and preventing substrate damage
2Ease of operation
If larger embossing depth is used to improve tactile perception, then the tactile detectability is enhanced, but the risk of substrate damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the embossed structure have different heights and functions: the first embossed structure provides a moderate-height base for structural support, while the second embossed structure provides localized high-tactility features. This local differentiation allows deep embossing where needed for detection while maintaining substrate integrity through the distributed base structure
3Ease of operation
If multiple embossing processes are applied to create complex tactile structures, then the tactile detection capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple embossing functions into a single integrated embossed structure with two distinct levels. Rather than requiring separate embossing processes for different tactile features, the design merges the base structure and elevated tactile features into one cohesive element that can be produced in a single embossing operation
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a security feature for a valuable item made from a substrate, in particular a banknote, a product security label, or outer packaging, wherein a tactilely detectable structure is embossed into the substrate. The invention further relates to an embossing tool for producing a security feature for a valuable item made from a substrate, in particular a banknote, a label, or outer packaging, wherein an engraving for producing a tactilely detectable structure is incorporated into the surface of the embossing tool. According to the invention, the tactilely detectable structure consists of a first embossing structure and a second embossing structure, wherein the second embossing structure is arranged within the first embossing structure. The first embossing structure forms a base for the second embossing structure, on which the second embossing structure is arranged.The overall result is an embossing structure consisting of a base formed by the first embossing structure, with the base surrounding the second embossing structure, which in turn is arranged on the base.