Multilayer Security Element with Variable Opacity Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security elements in banknotes and documents lack effective mechanisms to prevent counterfeiting and ensure authentication, as they often rely on visually appealing but easily reproducible features that do not provide sufficient differentiation.
Innovation Solution
A multilayer security element comprising a support with first and second optically variable structures and a variable opacity structure, where the surface covered by zones of lesser opacity is less extensive than the surrounding zone of greater opacity, allowing for different visual appearances when observed from various angles, thereby enhancing authentication and preventing counterfeiting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If security elements use visually appealing features to create attractive appearance, then the visual appeal is improved, but the security against counterfeiting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct zones with different optical properties within the security element. The first zone has platelet-shaped pigments oriented to reflect light at specific angles, while the second zone has pigments oriented differently, creating locally differentiated visual characteristics that are difficult to replicate. This local differentiation provides both visual appeal and security differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry by designing the security element with non-uniform pigment orientation patterns. The first and second zones have different pigment orientations that create asymmetric optical responses depending on the viewing angle. This asymmetric structure is inherently more difficult to replicate symmetrically in counterfeiting attempts.
2Ease of manufacture
If security elements use simple visual features for easy reproduction, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the authentication capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the orientation parameters of platelet-shaped pigments in different zones. The first zone has a specific orientation range that reflects light at certain angles, while the second zone has a different orientation range creating distinct optical parameters. This parameter differentiation provides authentication capability while remaining manufacturable through controlled pigment deposition processes.
3Device complexity
If security elements use uniform pigment orientation for simple structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the visual effect and authentication deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the security element into distinct first and second zones, each with different pigment orientations. This segmentation creates multiple visual effects that can be observed simultaneously or sequentially depending on the viewing angle, enhancing the visual effect without requiring overly complex single-structure designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces another dimension by adding a third zone with different pigment orientation that becomes visible when the viewing angle changes relative to the first and second zones. This multi-dimensional optical effect creates a dynamic visual experience that enhances authentication capability while maintaining reasonable structural 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 security element provides an attractive visual effect and improved authentication by changing its appearance based on the viewing direction, making it difficult to reproduce and enhancing the security of documents.
Implementation Method 1
a first zone with platelet-shaped pigments oriented so as to reflect light in a first direction, a second zone with platelet-shaped pigments oriented so as to reflect light in a second direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a multilayer security element comprising: - a support, - an optically variable structure carried by the support, so as to be reflective in a first direction of observation, and transparent in a second direction of observation, - a pixelated image, superimposed on the optically variable structure, giving an impression of relief when observed in transmitted light in the second direction of observation, this impression of relief decreasing when observed in reflected light in the first direction of observation.