Security Feature Using Scattered Luminescent Fibers for Anti-Counterfeiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a constant need for new, individualizing security features that are secure against counterfeiting and falsification, particularly in value and security documents, which should be cost-effective, simple, and quick to implement, while also enhancing the security level compared to conventional documents.
Innovation Solution
A security feature is created using scattered fibers of different types on a substrate, forming a gradient structure that can be perceived visually or by machine, where the fibers emit distinct colors under visible light and potentially luminesce under UV radiation, providing a unique and complex pattern that is difficult to counterfeit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional security features (watermarks, holograms, embossing) are used, then the security level is maintained at current standards, but the security features can be counterfeited or falsified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using fibers with different luminescent properties that emit different colors under UV radiation. The first fibers emit a first color and the second fibers emit a second color, creating a variable color security feature that is difficult to counterfeit. This resolves the contradiction by providing enhanced security through color variation without requiring complex structural arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining different types of luminescent fibers (first fibers and second fibers with different luminescent properties) within the same security feature. This composite approach enables multiple luminescent colors and patterns that are difficult to replicate, thereby improving security against counterfeiting while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If individualizing security features with coded information are implemented, then the security level increases, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by allowing the luminescent fibers to automatically form patterns and provide coded information through their inherent luminescent properties when exposed to UV radiation. The fibers themselves carry the security information through their color and distribution patterns, eliminating the need for additional encoding steps or complex manufacturing processes. This resolves the contradiction by providing individualizing capability without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity or reducing productivity.
3Productivity
If multiple printing inks are used side by side in a single printing unit, then the security feature can be printed in one pass, but the inks may mix uncontrollably in the inking unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by employing a scattering element (such as a scatterer or diffuser) between the inking unit and the substrate. This intermediary component allows multiple printing inks to be applied side by side in a single printing pass while controlling their distribution and preventing unwanted mixing. The scattering element modulates the ink placement, enabling precise control over the final pattern while maintaining high printing efficiency.
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 feature enhances the authenticity and coding capabilities of value and security products, offering improved detectability and security against counterfeiting due to its unique color gradient and luminescent properties, making it harder to falsify or manipulate.
Implementation Method 1
The scattering material of the first type appears in a first color to the human eye, in that the scattering material emits or remits electromagnetic radiation in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum
Implementation Method 2
the second type of grit appears to the human eye in a second color that differs from the first color of the first type of grit
Implementation Method 3
These inks are separated from one another in an ink fountain by so-called fountain separators, but they mix in the inking unit
Data Source
Figure 1(A)~1(C)
Figure 2~3B
Figure 4A~4B2
AI summary
A novel security feature (200) for a value and/or security product (100) is formed by scattered material of at least a first type (210) and a second type (220) fixed to at least one surface (401) of at least one substrate (400). The scattered material of the first type (210) appears in a first colour to the human eye, and the scattered material of the second type (220) appears in a second colour. The scattered material of the first type (210) and the scattered material of the second type (220) form a colour progression structure (208) of colours running together on the at least one substrate surface (401).