Tamper-Evident Security Element With Deformable Adhesive Layer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing security labels and adhesive tapes face challenges in achieving a balance between strong adhesive strength and residue-free removal, particularly on different surfaces, making it difficult to develop a universally applicable solution.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a deformable layer between the carrier substrate and the self-adhesive layer, along with a partial separating layer, which allows for high adhesive strength while enabling residue-free removal and evidence of tampering detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If strong adhesives are used to ensure high adhesive strength, then the adhesive strength is improved, but residue-free removal becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive strengthVSAvoidresidue
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive system is segmented into multiple functional layers: a self-adhesive layer (3) providing strong adhesion to the substrate, a deformable layer (6) that deforms during removal to prevent adhesive transfer, and a partial release layer (5) that facilitates clean separation. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function without compromising the others.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The deformable layer (6) acts as an intermediary between the self-adhesive layer (3) and the carrier substrate (2). During removal, this layer deforms and absorbs the stress, preventing the adhesive from transferring to the carrier substrate and ensuring residue-free removal while maintaining strong initial adhesion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If weak adhesives are used to ensure residue-free removal, then residue-free removal is improved, but adhesive strength becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveresidueVSAvoidadhesive strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive system is divided into specialized layers with distinct functions. The self-adhesive layer (3) is optimized for strong bonding, while the deformable layer (6) and partial release layer (5) are optimized for clean removal. This segmentation allows the use of strong adhesives without compromising residue-free removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The deformable layer (6) changes its physical parameters during the removal process. It transitions from a compliant state during application to a deforming state during removal, absorbing stress and preventing adhesive transfer. This dynamic parameter change enables both strong adhesion and clean removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-generated harmful factors

If specialized adhesives are adjusted to match specific substrates, then residue-free removal is improved, but universality is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveresidueVSAvoiduniversal applicability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The security element employs a multi-layer adhesive system that functions universally across different substrate types. The self-adhesive layer (3) provides broad substrate compatibility, while the deformable layer (6) and partial release layer (5) ensure consistent residue-free removal performance regardless of the substrate material.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The deformable layer (6) adapts its deformation characteristics based on the removal conditions and substrate type, providing a universal solution that works across different applications without requiring substrate-specific adhesive formulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 security element with consistent adhesive performance across various surfaces, allowing for reliable removal without residue and visible evidence of manipulation, enhancing the security and authenticity verification of products.

Implementation Method 1

The deformable layer (6) has a greater elasticity than the partial release layer (5) and/or greater elasticity than the carrier substrate (2)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3971872B1Tamper evident security element
Publication Date: 2024.10.30 HUECK FOLIEN GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3971872B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3971872B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3971872B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a security element (1), in particular a security label or security tape, with tamper detection, comprising a carrier substrate (2) and a self-adhesive layer (3) arranged on the carrier substrate (2). It is provided that a partial release layer (5) is formed on the side (4) of the carrier substrate (2) facing the self-adhesive layer (3), and that a deformable layer (6) is formed between the carrier substrate (2) and the self-adhesive layer (3) and between the partial release layer (5) and the self-adhesive layer (3). The deformable layer (6) has greater elasticity compared to the partial release layer (5) and/or compared to the carrier substrate (2). Furthermore, the security element (1) can be attached to a surface (7) of an object (8) by means of the self-adhesive layer (3).