Nested Security Layers in Data Carriers for Forgery Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for graphical personalization of security documents lack sufficient security, particularly in surface printing solutions, which can be modified by scratching or opaque overprinting, and multicolor laser-marked images within polycarbonate bodies lack first-level verification means.
Innovation Solution
A data carrier comprising a carrier body with a printing layer and a marking layer, where both layers interact with electromagnetic radiation to generate reactive elements, creating a secure security element that is intrinsically linked, providing additional security through unique alignment and tactile features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If surface printing solutions are used for color personalization, then image quality and color reproduction are improved, but security level deteriorates because the print can be modified by scratching or opaque overprinting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds a marking layer containing laser-marked security elements within the polycarbonate document body, nesting this secure layer inside the surface structure. This nested configuration allows the security elements to be protected within the document body while the printing layer on the surface provides high-quality visual reproduction, resolving the contradiction between image quality and security.
2Reliability
If multicolor laser-marked images are placed inside polycarbonate body, then security level is improved, but first-level verification means are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs laser-marked elements that exhibit optically variable properties, including color changes and iridescent effects, within the polycarbonate body. These color-changing features provide immediate visual verification capabilities, allowing first-level authentication without requiring specialized equipment, thus resolving the contradiction between enhanced security and verification difficulty.
3Reliability
If separate laser-engraved layer is added inside document body, then security against forgery is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the printing layer and marking layer into an integrated personalization system where both layers are applied to the same document body and can be processed in a coordinated manner. This merging approach maintains high security through the layered structure while simplifying manufacturing by eliminating the need for completely separate processing lines, thus resolving the contradiction between forgery resistance and manufacturing complexity.
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
The solution enhances security by ensuring that any modification attempts affect only one layer, making forgery recognizable, and adds a tactile element detectable by touch or equipment, while maintaining high-quality image reproduction.
Implementation Method 1
The marking layer is configured to interact with impinging electromagnetic radiation such, that a marking element is generated in the marking layer upon the irradiation of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
The printing layer comprises at least one reactive element that is configured to interact with impinging electromagnetic radiation such, that a reacted element is generated in the printing layer upon the irradiation of electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a data carrier of significantly improved level of security that introduces only a minor modification into their manufacturing process. Other embodiments disclosed. In a first aspect a data carrier is provided, wherein the data carrier comprises at least one carrier body, at least one printing layer, at least one marking layer, and at least one security element. The carrier body comprises a top surface, wherein the printing layer is arranged on the top surface of the carrier body. The printing layer and the marking layer are arranged at least partially above one another with respect to an extension direction. The marking layer is configured to interact with impinging electromagnetic radiation such, that a marking element is generated in the marking layer upon the irradiation of electromagnetic radiation.