Optically Variable Security Elements with Electrically Active Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optically variable security elements are vulnerable to counterfeiting due to their reliance on optical effects that can be replicated through color copying processes, and there is a need for enhanced forgery-proof solutions that integrate electronic components securely with optical effects.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an electrically active layer into the optically variable device, which forms an inseparable unit with electronic components, such as RFID transponders, to create a secure and tamper-evident security element. This integration includes microstructuring of the electrically active layers to enhance optical effects and electrical properties, making manipulation visible and altering the resonance frequency of oscillator circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optically variable devices use only optical effects (diffraction, interference), then they can be manufactured with simple processes, but they are vulnerable to counterfeiting through color copying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optically variable devices with electronic components (RFID transponders, antennas, circuits) into a single integrated security element. The electrically active layer serves dual purposes: as an electronic component and as part of the optically variable structure, creating an inseparable unit that prevents counterfeiting while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through integrated production processes
Solution Approach 2:
The security element uses composite structures combining transparent substrates, optically active layers (diffraction gratings, holograms), and electrically active layers (conductive materials for RFID antennas). This composite approach integrates optical and electronic functions in a single element, enhancing security against counterfeiting while allowing standardized manufacturing processes
2Reliability
If electronic components are integrated into optically variable devices, then forgery-proof security is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates electronic components and optically variable structures into a single manufactured unit, eliminating the need for separate positioning steps. The electrically active layer is formed simultaneously with or integrated into the optically variable layers during the same manufacturing process, ensuring precise alignment without requiring additional tolerance control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates electronic components and circuits into the substrate before applying the optically variable layers. This preliminary integration ensures that subsequent optical layers are automatically aligned with the electronic components, reducing positioning tolerance requirements and simplifying the overall manufacturing process
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 provides a high level of forgery-proof security by ensuring that any manipulation of the optically variable device or electronic component results in visible changes to the optical properties, enhancing the security and authenticity of the element.
Implementation Method 1
As their optical effect is based for example on light refraction or light diffraction at optical microstructures
Implementation Method 2
As their optical effect is based for example on light refraction or light diffraction at optical microstructures
Implementation Method 3
That diffraction pattern acts as a diffraction grating so that for example the illusion of a three-dimensional image can be created
Implementation Method 4
A thin film which produces a perceptible colour shift in dependence on the viewing angle of the person viewing it
Data Source
AI summary
There is described a security element having at least one optically variable device, in which at least one layer of the optically variable device is in the form of an electrically active layer (13, 14) of an electronic component and/or an electronic circuit.