Optically Variable Security Element via Inverted Embossing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements against counterfeiting, such as those used in banknotes and identification documents, are vulnerable to reproduction using color copiers and lack efficient methods for high-speed production that combine optically variable structures with colored covers.
Innovation Solution
A security element with an embossed structure of indentations on one main surface and a coating, where the embossed structure is composed of elevations on the opposite side, creating a negative deformation that forms an independent optically variable structure without additional embossing processes, utilizing laser engraving for milling special printing plates to produce linear or non-linear depressions and coatings that change appearance with viewing angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If embossed elevations are created on the upper side of the data carrier, then the optically variable structure can be formed, but additional embossing processes are required increasing production complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by creating the optically variable structure through embossing elevations on the reverse side of the data carrier rather than on the front side. This causes negative deformations (depressions) to appear on the front side, which is sufficient to create the desired optical effect. This approach eliminates the need for additional embossing processes on the front side, reducing production complexity while maintaining the reliability of the optically variable structure.
2Productivity
If traditional embossing methods are used, then production speed is limited, but laser engraving enables high-speed production of special printing plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical embossing methods with laser engraving technology for producing printing plates. The laser engraving system uses optical energy instead of mechanical force to create the embossed elevations on the reverse side of the data carrier. This substitution enables high-speed production while maintaining manufacturing precision, as the laser can quickly and accurately create the required micro-structures without the limitations of mechanical tooling.
3Reliability
If coating is applied to embossed elevations, then optically variable effect is enhanced, but reproduction devices cannot replicate it from multiple viewing directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a dimensional aspect to the security feature by creating embossed elevations on the reverse side of the data carrier. This three-dimensional structure, when combined with the coating, produces optically variable effects that change with viewing angle. The negative deformations on the front side create depth and spatial variation that standard two-dimensional copiers cannot replicate, enhancing counterfeiting protection while remaining visually verifiable through多角度 observation.
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 effectively prevents counterfeiting by creating a visually distinctive optically variable effect that cannot be replicated with current reproduction techniques, while enabling high-speed production and integration with other security features, enhancing the security and design of data carriers.
Implementation Method 1
an embossed structure of indentations is used, such as is produced in particular when the opposite second main area of the security element is embossed on the first main area. The fact that the embossing of elevations on the upper side of a data carrier leads to the generation of negative deformations on the underside of the data carrier
Implementation Method 2
direct embossing of negative structures, which could not be achieved with the hitherto customary printing plates, can be ensured by means of a new type of milling of special printing plates by means of laser engraving
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a security element having a carrier (14) having opposite first and second main surfaces and having an optically variable structure (16) present on the first main structure (18) and comprising an embossed structure (20) and a coating (24), wherein the embossed structure (20) and the coating (24) are combined so that at least partial areas of the coating (24) are completely visible when viewed perpendicularly (30), but are covered when viewed at an angle (32, 34), wherein the embossed structure (20) is formed as depressions (22) in the first main surface (18) of the carrier (14), and at least partial areas of the coating (24) are disposed in the depressions (22).