Anti-counterfeiting Element with Non-periodic Micro Graphics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microlens array security technologies are vulnerable to counterfeiting as the micro and macro graphic/text elements are easily reproducible, and the use of larger microlenses in printing processes results in thick anti-counterfeiting elements unsuitable for batch production, such as banknotes.
Innovation Solution
An optical anti-counterfeiting element with micro graphic and text units arranged in a non-periodic and non-fixed-geometry manner on a substrate, utilizing micro-sampling tools to create a stereoscopic animated feature, making reproduction difficult and enhancing anti-counterfeiting performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If micro graphic and text are arranged in a periodic or fixed-geometry manner, then manufacturing is easier, but anti-counterfeiting performance deteriorates because counterfeiters can easily reproduce them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging micro graphic and text elements in a non-periodic, random pattern rather than a regular periodic structure. This asymmetric arrangement makes it extremely difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce the exact pattern, as there is no repeating unit to copy. Each micro element's position, orientation, and shape varies randomly, creating a unique fingerprint that cannot be easily replicated by standard printing or copying processes.
2Ease of manufacture
If larger microlenses (diameter 50 μm or more) are used in printing processes, then micro words can be produced by general printing processes, but the overall thickness of the anti-counterfeiting element increases making it unsuitable for banknotes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using microlenses with diameters in the range of 1-50 μm, which is significantly smaller than conventional microlenses (50 μm or more). This parameter change in lens size allows the anti-counterfeiting element to achieve sufficient optical effect while maintaining a thin profile suitable for banknote integration. The smaller lens diameter directly reduces the thickness requirement while still enabling general printing processes to produce the micro words.
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 non-periodic arrangement of micro graphic and text strokes prevents counterfeiting and creates a visually appealing, stereoscopic animated feature when observed through micro-sampling tools, thereby improving the anti-counterfeiting performance and allowing for thinner, more suitable elements for banknotes.
Implementation Method 1
The microlens array security technology uses the microlens array as a sampling tool to sample the micro graphic and text array and can realize various animation effects
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an optical anti-counterfeiting element and an optical anti-counterfeiting product utilizing the same, the optical anti-counterfeiting element comprising: a substrate (12) including a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; micro-sampling tools (11) on the first surface; and one or more micro graphic and text units formed on the second surface, wherein the micro graphic and text unit includes micro graphic and text strokes, the micro graphic and text strokes are arranged in a non-periodic and non-fixed-geometry manner, and when the second surface is observed through the micro-sampling tools, a stereoscopic animated anti-counterfeiting feature can be seen.