Security Element with Semi-Transparent Ink Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security elements with simple color-shift effects are often inconspicuous and easily overlooked, while combinations of multiple color-shift areas can be confusing, lacking effective counterfeit security.
Innovation Solution
A security element featuring a semi-transparent ink layer over an optically variable layer, where the color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer is coordinated with the optically variable layer under predefined viewing conditions, creating a combination of color-variable and color-constant areas that enhance optical conspicuousness and hinder reproduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple color-shift effect is used in a security element, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the security element is inconspicuous and easily overlooked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an optically variable layer with a semi-transparent ink layer to create a composite structure. The optically variable layer provides the color-shift effect while the semi-transparent ink layer adds a second color impression that is visible through the ink, creating a visually striking security element that is both conspicuous and manufacturable using existing materials and processes
2Reliability
If multiple color-shift areas are combined in a security element, then counterfeit security is improved, but the design becomes confusing and less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct areas with different optical properties: one area shows primarily the color-shift effect of the optically variable layer, while another area shows the coordinated color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer. This local differentiation provides clear visual cues for authentication without creating overall design confusion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes color changes by coordinating the color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer with the color-shift effect of the optically variable layer. As the viewing angle changes, the optically variable layer shifts color while the ink layer maintains its coordinated color impression, creating a dynamic yet controlled visual effect that enhances security without confusion
3Stability of the object's composition
If an opaque ink layer is used over an optically variable layer, then the color impression is stable, but the coordination between layers is limited and visual attraction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a semi-transparent ink layer with controlled transparency parameters rather than an opaque layer. This allows the ink layer to maintain color stability while simultaneously permitting the optically variable layer to contribute its color-shift effect, creating a coordinated visual appearance that is both stable and visually attractive
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 combination of semi-transparent and optically variable layers intensifies visual attention and provides high counterfeit security by appearing optically attractive and self-explanatory, while the semi-transparent ink layer adapts color impressions to match or complement the optically variable layer, making reproduction with freely available inks or foils impossible.
Implementation Method 1
the optically variable layer (20) imparts different color impressions at different viewing angles
Implementation Method 2
a semi-transparent ink layer (34) is imprinted on the optically variable layer (20) in a covering area (32), the color impression of which is coordinated with the color impression of the optically variable layer (20)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a security element for securing valuable articles, having an optically variable layer (20) that imparts different color impressions at different viewing angles. According to the present invention, in a covering area (32), a semi-transparent ink layer (34) is disposed on top of the optically variable layer (20), the color impression of the optically variable layer (20) being coordinated with the color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer (34) in the covering area (32) when viewed under predefined viewing conditions.