EP1609619A2 - Security element with inserted patterns - Google Patents

Abstract

A security mark for paper products, e.g. banknotes or passports, contains a pattern, character or code that is visible from both sides. The appearance of the security mark is different when viewed from the first side, to that which is visible on the second side. When viewed from the first side the security mark appears to have cutouts in an opaque cover layer. When viewed from the second side the view is essentially a transparent or translucent optically variable effect-layer.

Description

The invention relates to a security element for security papers, documents of value and the like, in the motifs in the form of patterns, characters or Codings are introduced. The invention also relates to a security paper, a value document and a method for producing such Security element.

Value documents are often equipped with security elements for protection, which allow a verification of the authenticity of the value document and at the same time serve as protection against unauthorized reproduction. value documents For the purposes of the present invention, bank notes, Shares, bonds, certificates, vouchers, checks, high-quality tickets, but also other forgery-prone papers, such as passports and other Identity documents, as well as product securing elements, such as labels, seals, Packaging and the like. The term "value document" closes in the following, all such documents and product securing means. Under "security paper", however, is the not yet workable precursor understood to the value document.

To increase security and as counterfeit protection are the security elements often provided with a so-called negative font. This negative font is through metal-free areas in an otherwise continuous formed metallic coating of the carrier material of the security element.

For the preparation of such metal-free areas is in the document WO 99/13157 describes a washing process in which a translucent Carrier film using a high pigment ink printed with a desired pattern. Due to the high pigment content forms the ink after drying a porous, raised Paint. On the printed carrier film is then a thin Cover layer formed in the area of the paint application because of the color body its large surface and the porous structure only partially covers. The paint application and the overlying cover layer can then removed by washing with a suitable solvent, so that in the Abdecksclücht in the originally printed areas the carrier film recesses are generated. By the achievable Sharp contours can be achieved by printing a lettering, for example a clearly legible negative writing be introduced into the cover layer.

Based on this, the invention has the object, a security element to propose the type mentioned, which is a high security against counterfeiting and at the same time easy to manufacture.

This task is performed by the security element with the characteristics of Main claim solved. A method for its production, a security paper and a value document with such a security element are given in the independent claims. Further developments of Invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

According to the invention, the introduced motifs are when considering the security element from opposite sides with different optical appearance recognizable. The motives are of a first Viewed as recesses in an opaque cover layer, and seen from the second, opposite side by a substantially transparent or translucent optically variable Effect layer with an optically variable effect in appearance.

Such a security element can, for example, as a window security thread be introduced into the paper of a banknote. The optically variable Effect of the security thread then appears in partial areas on the surface of the paper, while the opaque, especially metallic cover layer reduces the visibility of the thread on the back of the paper.

The introduced motifs, such as a lettering or a number sequence, appear on both sides of the banknote congruent, but with different visual impression, so that the effect is easy to recognize and to check, but hard to imitate.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, the opaque comprises Top layer two superimposed color layers, one of which first color layer is soluble in a liquid and the second color layer in the liquid is insoluble. In particular, the first color layer may be water-soluble and the second color layer be waterproof. It can, however, in the Other liquids can be used within the scope of the invention. Essential It's just that the two inks are placed on top of each other are that the liquid for the first color layer is a solvent, however, the second color layer in the liquid is insoluble.

Preferably, the first color layer has a high pigment content, so that it forms a porous structure with a large surface after drying. The pigment content is suitably between 10% and 80%, preferably at about 60%, each based on the dry weight of the paint. As pigments For example, natural resources such as chalk, bentonite, Aerosil or titanium dioxide, are used.

The first color layer is typically a uniform ink educated. However, it can also be provided that the first color layer Partial areas with different color impression has to different colored Create areas on the security element.

The second color layer is preferably nitrocellulose, polyamide or PVC base made or based on a UV-curable varnish.

In addition, the second color layer may also contain machine-readable feature substances, in particular luminescent, magnetic and / or electrical contain conductive feature substances, so that in addition an invisible, only machine-coded coding incorporated into the security element can be. The second color layer can also be uniform, or partial areas with different color impression and / or partial areas with different have machine-readable feature substances.

In some embodiments, it is expedient if the first and / or second color layer have a dark hue, such as black. However, other shades of the two color layers are in the frame the invention. For example, in the first color layer usually no high order quantity required, so that this entire surface also in one lighter, not opaque shade can be applied.

According to the invention, the first and second color layer advantageously have congruent Cutouts on, at least part of the security element make up motives. Another part of the motives can be formed by additional print layers or optical effect layers be, where the two subject parts can be independent of each other, but also work together and, for example, to a total motive can complement.

In an advantageous embodiment of the security element according to the invention For example, the opaque cover layer comprises a metal layer. The metal layer can be made of aluminum, but also of other metal, such as such as copper, gold, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, titanium, another non-ferrous metal, or an alloy of these metals. The Metal layer is preferably applied by vacuum vapor deposition.

In a preferred variant of the invention, the metal layer is over the two Color layers arranged and has with these congruent recesses at least part of the introduced into the security element Make up motifs. The security element then points from the side of the Topcoat considered a metallic shiny appearance of the contrasting motives are clearly contrasting, especially in transmitted light take off.

In an alternative, likewise advantageous variant, the metal layer is arranged between the two color layers and has with these congruent Cutouts on, at least part of the security element make up motives. With particular advantage can the second, above the metal layer arranged color layer while a yellow, have a reddish brown or brown hue, so when viewed from the side of the top layer a gold-colored or copper-colored Color impression arises.

In all embodiments, the effect layer expediently optically variable Pigments, preferably liquid-crystal pigments or interference-layer pigments, on. The effect layer may also have thermochromic properties, So at a certain Umschlagtemperatur a reversible color change demonstrate. The turnover temperature is preferably above the Ambient temperature, in particular above 25 ° C. For example the effect layer may be opaque under normal conditions and when heated become colorless or translucent, and so on Make information recognizable. In a further advantageous embodiment the effect layer has a diffraction structure, in particular in FIG Shape of an embossed relief structure. In all variants, the effect layer over the entire surface or only partially in the form of patterns, signs or encodings applied.

The opaque cover layer and the optically variable effect layer are preferred on a support, in particular a transparent or translucent Carrier, wherein the cover layer and the effect layer preferably on opposite sides of the transparent or translucent carrier are arranged. In some embodiments, the carrier is only for Production needed and can after the completion of the security element be removed.

To protect against mechanical or chemical influences is the opaque Cover layer preferably with a transparent or translucent Provided protective layer. The protective layer can at the same time a carrier form for the cover layer and the effect layer.

In this connection, the carrier or the protective layer may be advantageous be provided with further layers, in particular with opaque, translucent or luminescent color layers or with feature layers which have machine-readable feature substances.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the security element in addition to the effect layer on a thermochromic layer on the below their envelope temperature the introduced motifs when viewed partially or completely concealed from one of the opposite sides. In In one variant, this thermochromic layer is on the first side of the security element arranged above the opaque cover layer. alternative can the thermochromic layer on the second side of the security element arranged between the opaque cover layer and the effect layer be.

In both cases, the thermochromic layer is preferably by a thermochromic liquid crystal layer formed, preferably with a Umschlagtemperatur in the range of 25 ° C to 60 ° C, more preferably in the range from 30 ° C to 60 ° C.

The security elements described can be in the form of a Security strip, a security thread, a security tape, one Label-shaped single element (patch) or a transfer element for Applied to a security paper, value document or the like be.

The invention also includes a security paper for the production of Security documents, such as banknotes, identity cards or the like, which is equipped with a security element described above. The Security paper may in particular at least one continuous window area or a hole covered with the security element is so that the two different optical appearances in the Window area or hole are visible. The security element can, for example in the form of a window security thread, also in the security paper be embedded, that the optically variable effect only in the subregions, in which the security element to the surface of the paper occurs, recognizable, while the recesses in the opaque cover layer emerge in transmitted light when viewing the security paper.

The invention further includes a security element as described above equipped value document, such as a banknote. The Value document can also be covered with the security element Window area or a hole covered with it.

The described security element, security paper or document of value can also be used to secure goods of any kind.

For producing a security element with incorporated motifs in Form of patterns, characters or codes becomes a security element with a superposed opaque cover layer and a substantially transparent or translucent optically variable effect layer produced, with the motifs introduced as recesses in the opaque cover layer so they look at the security element of opposite sides with different visual appearance are recognizable. Preferably, the opaque cover layer is included on a transparent or translucent support or on the optically variable Applied effect layer.

In a first preferred variant of the method is applied during application of the opaque topcoat a first, soluble in a liquid, preferably water-soluble ink layer printed, and on this first color layer in areas a second, insoluble in the liquid, preferably waterproof Color layer printed. The first color layer can be over the entire surface or even already printed in the form of a motif. The of the second color layer unprotected areas of the first color layer subsequently removed by a washing step with the liquid, so that corresponding recesses arise in the opaque cover layer. On the two color layers is preferred before the washing step a metal layer applied, in particular vapor-deposited.

In an alternative, also advantageous variant is when applying the opaque cover layer is a first, preferably soluble in a liquid water-soluble ink layer printed on the first color layer, a metal layer applied, in particular vapor-deposited, and then on the metal layer partially a second, insoluble in the liquid, preferably waterproof ink layer printed. The first color layer and the metal layer can be printed over the entire surface or in the form of motifs. Again, the unprotected areas of the first color layer and the Metal layer removed by the subsequent washing step, so that appropriate Recesses in the opaque cover layer arise.

In a preferred embodiment of the method, the first color layer from a water-soluble ink and the second color layer formed of a water-resistant ink, so that the washing step with water can be carried out.

Opposes generation of the recesses by means of etching technology the described method has several advantages. This is how it prepares for use an etching technique difficulties, a alkali-resistant resist to find, at the same time a good adhesion on the metallic coating having. Also, by the use of alkaline solutions for Demetallizing the risk of carryover of alkaline residues within the demetallization plant. In the production of Safety elements with a washing process, however, is not alkali-resistant Resist paint required. The demetallization is preferably carried out with water, so avoiding the use of alkaline solutions becomes. Overall, the method described is simple, inexpensive and environmentally friendly and delivers through the use of established printing techniques high quality and easy to control results.

Further embodiments and advantages of the invention will become apparent below explained with reference to the figures, in the representation thereof to a scale and proportioned reproduction has been omitted, for the sake of clarity to increase.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung einer Banknote mit einem eingebetteten Sicherheitsfaden und einem über einer gestanzten Öffnung aufgeklebten Transferelement, jeweils nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung,

Fig. 2

den Schichtaufbau eines Sicherheitselements nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung im Querschnitt,

Fig. 3

in (a) bis (f) sechs Zwischenschritte bei der Herstellung des Sicherheitselements von Fig. 2,

Fig. 4

eine teilweise aufgeschnittene Aufsicht auf die Vorderseite eines Sicherheitselements nach einem anderen Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung,

Fig. 5

einen Querschnitt einer Abwandlung des Sicherheitselements von Fig. 2,

Fig. 6

eine Aufsicht auf ein Sicherheitselement nach einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung,

Fig. 7

einen Querschnitt durch das Sicherheitselement der Fig. 6 entlang der Linie VII-VII,

Fig. 8

eine Aufsicht auf ein Sicherheitselement nach noch einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung,

Fig. 9

in (a) bis (d) Querschnitte durch das Sicherheitselement der Fig. 8 entlang der Linie IX-IX, die Zwischenschritte bei der Herstellung zeigen,

Fig. 10 - 12

Sicherheitselemente nach weiteren Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung im Querschnitt,

Fig. 13 - 14

weitere Ausführungsbeispiele erfindungsgemäßer Sicherheitselemente, bei denen die eingebrachten Motive mit weiteren Motiven kombiniert sind, die nur oberhalb oder unterhalb einer charakteristischen Umschlagtemperatur in Erscheinung treten,

Fig. 15

einen Querschnitt durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Sicherheitselement, und

Fig. 16

einen Querschnitt durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Sicherheitselement.

Show it:

Fig. 1

3 a schematic representation of a banknote with an embedded security thread and a transfer element glued over a punched opening, in each case according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 2

the layer structure of a security element according to an embodiment of the invention in cross-section,

Fig. 3

in (a) to (f) six intermediate steps in the production of the security element of Fig. 2,

Fig. 4

a partially cutaway view of the front of a security element according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 5

a cross section of a modification of the security element of Fig. 2,

Fig. 6

a plan view of a security element according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 7

a cross section through the security element of FIG. 6 along the line VII-VII,

Fig. 8

a plan view of a security element according to yet another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 9

in (a) to (d) cross sections through the security element of Fig. 8 along the line IX-IX showing intermediate steps in the production,

Fig. 10 - 12

Security elements according to further embodiments of the invention in cross section,

Fig. 13 - 14

further embodiments of security elements according to the invention, in which the introduced motifs are combined with further motifs which only appear above or below a characteristic turnover temperature,

Fig. 15

a cross section through a security element according to the invention, and

Fig. 16

a cross section through a security element according to the invention.

The invention will now be explained in more detail using the example of a banknote. Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a banknote 10, the two security elements 12 and 16, each according to an embodiment the invention are formed. The first security element represents one Security thread 12 which in certain window areas 14 on the surface the banknote 10 emerges while he is in the intervening Areas embedded inside the banknote 10. The banknote points a continuous punched opening 18 on the front the banknote completely covered by the glued transfer element 16 is.

The layer structure and the production of a security element according to the invention, like the security thread 12 or the transfer element 16, will now be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3, wherein Fig. 2 shows the layer structure of the security element in cross-section and Fig. 3 in (a) to (f) six Intermediate steps in the production of the security element shows.

Referring first to Fig. 3 (a), a transparent or translucent Plastic film 20 over its entire surface an opaque layer 22 of a water-soluble Printed ink. The printing ink of the opaque layer 22 has in Embodiment a black color with a high proportion of pigments, for example, to carbon black pigments, on. The ink has the property with the plastic film 20 does not anchor, so later can be removed again with water as solvent.

On the opaque color layer 22 is partially a second, waterproof Ink layer 24 printed as shown in Fig. 3 (b). The color layer 24 covers in the applied areas, the color layer 22 from good, so that there can not be washed off anymore. For example, the printing ink the second color layers 24 partially penetrate the first ink and anchor with the plastic film. The color layer 24 is not full-surface, but applied with recesses 26 in the form of the desired motifs.

For better distinctness, the printing ink of the second color layer 24 have a different color than the first ink. For example The first ink may be black and the second Printing ink have a blue hue. However, first and second Ink also have the same color, for example black, from which However, in the assessment of print quality, a lower distinctiveness the two color layers 22 and 24 results. The printing ink the second color layer 24 may also contain machine-readable feature substances, in particular magnetic and / or electrically conductive feature substances.

On the two color layers 22, 24 then a metallic coating 28, in the embodiment aluminum, applied, as shown in Fig. 3 (c). Also other, preferably vapor-deposited metals or alloys come for the coating 28 in question. After metallization, the first color layer 22 and the metal layer 28 in the recesses 26 with a suitable solvent, in the embodiment of water removed.

It is exploited that the first ink due to the high pigment content after drying a sublime application of paint on the plastic film 20 forms. The metal layer 28 therefore covers the recesses 26 in the dried color body of the first ink only partially off, so they remains accessible to the solvent in these areas. The paint job in the recesses 26 becomes so together with the overlying metal layer 28 washed out. The washing step can also be done with mechanical Support done.

Outside the recesses 26 remains the first color layer 22 during washing, protected by the waterproof second color layer 24, obtained as in Fig. 3 (d). The two color layers 22, 24 now form together with the metal layer 28 an opaque cover layer 30, in which the desired motifs are introduced in the form of patterns, characters or codes. In At this stage of production, the motifs are already on both sides of the coated plastic film to recognize, depending on the viewing direction as negative information in an otherwise metallic appearance or an otherwise black appearance.

To protect the structured cover layer 30, the coated side of the Plastic film 20 with a transparent or translucent plastic carrier 32 and a laminating adhesive 34 laminated, as shown in Fig. 3 (e). The metallic coating 28 is characterized against mechanical and chemical Protected influences.

On the non-printed or uncoated side is the plastic film 20 then with another plastic carrier 36, previously with a in the Substantially transparent or translucent optically variable effect layer 38 was provided, laminated. In the embodiment, the effect layer 38 by a liquid crystal layer, such as a cholesteric Liquid crystal layer with color shift effect, formed. Subsequently For example, as shown in FIG. 3 (f), the plastic carrier 36 is separated from the effect layer 38 separated, and the security element tailored to suit the application and post-processed. When used as a security thread in one For example, banknote becomes the security element for better liability in the paper on both sides with a heat seal adhesive.

Overall, results from the illustrated in Fig. 3 (a) to (f) process steps the security element of Fig. 2, wherein the introduced motifs recognizable from both sides with different optical impression are. The security element of Fig. 2, for example, as a security thread 12 in the right direction in a document material, here the paper of the banknote 10, are introduced so that the optically variable effect of the security thread appears in the subregions 14 on the surface of the banknote. The Metallic side of the security thread 12 is completely in the paper embedded to the visibility of the security thread on the back of the paper to reduce.

In this, as well as the following embodiments is in Printing the water-soluble ink 22 no high order quantity required, so that this entire surface even in a lighter, not opaque Color tone can be applied. The insoluble ink 24 is against preferably dark, especially black used, so a review the quality of areas printed with the insoluble ink 24 is easily possible. This is especially true when printing lettering or number sequences of importance.

For some types of security thread is a sidelong thread insertion in the paper for the purpose of thread visibility, so that on one side of the film an opaque white layer is printed. The recesses appear due the opaque white layer compared with demetallised threads that are not require a laterally correct insertion, rather opaque. Used as water-soluble ink 22 a white wash color, this is the security element transparent relief patterns on this page. For the insoluble Ink 24 is then a color to choose the white wash color in the color not too much affected.

Fig. 4 shows a partially cutaway plan view of the front of a Security element 40 according to a further embodiment of the invention, in which between the recesses 26 in the cover layer 30 a additional printing ink is printed with machine-readable properties. For example, as schematically shown in Fig. 4, with an ink with magnetic properties a visually unrecognizable, machine-readable Sticke code 42 may be printed between the recesses 26 to to further increase the counterfeit security of the element.

In a modification of the security element explained with reference to FIG of Fig. 2 is a transparent or translucent plastic film 220th provided with an opaque cover layer 230, which consists of a sequence of a first full-surface applied water-soluble ink 222, a full surface on the ink 222 vapor-deposited aluminum layer 228 and a partially printed on the aluminum layer 228 water-insoluble Printing ink 224 exists. The water-insoluble ink 224 has doing so, a yellow or reddish brown hue, so in interaction with the aluminum layer 228 viewed from the metallized side here a gold-colored or copper-colored color impression arises.

As described in connection with FIGS. 2 and 3, the cover layer becomes 230 after partial demetallization by washing out the Ink 222 with a translucent plastic substrate 232 laminated, around the printed metal layer 228 against mechanical and chemical influences to protect. Also, the non-printed side of the film 220 with a Effect layer 238 provided.

Another embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to FIG Figures 6 and 7 explained, wherein Fig. 6 is a plan view and Fig. 7 is a cross section by the security element along the line VII-VII of FIG. 6 shows.

The security element 50 comprises a translucent plastic layer 52, on which, as described above, a structured cover layer 54 is applied. The cover layer 54 consists of identically or differently colored washable and preferably water-soluble inks 56 and 58, thereon printed identically or dissimilar insoluble inks 60 and 62 and a metallic coating 64.

For example, the inks 56 and 58 may be in different colors be arranged so that in supervision a security element with different colors Blocks 66 and 68 (Fig. 6), which are different transparent recesses in the form of characters, patterns or codes can have. Also, the insoluble inks 60 and 62 can be the same or different. For example, the printing ink 60 Machine-readable properties in the form of magnetic and / or electrical have conductive properties while the ink 62 no has machine-readable properties. In other designs exhibit the insoluble inks 60, 62 both magnetic properties, the However, they differ, for example, in remanence or coercivity. Also, one hard-magnetic ink, the other printing ink have soft magnetic properties.

The security element 50 further includes a primer layer 70, referred to in the Area of left-standing areas of the cover layer 54 more inks 72 and 74 are applied. The inks 72 and 74 can also have the same or different properties and, for example, opaque or be translucent. They can also be the same or different fluorescent Have feature substances, so that the recesses in the cover layer 54 when illuminated with UV radiation in the corresponding colors fluoresce.

On the opposite side of the plastic layer 52 is the security element 50 is provided with an optically variable effect layer 76. in the Embodiment is the effect layer through a thermochromic layer formed below a certain envelope temperature, for example 30 ° C, is opaque. Above the turnover temperature, the thermochromic Layer 76 colorless or translucent, so that only the underlying Information becomes recognizable.

Alternatively, the effect layer 76 may be in the form of a directionally reflective Layer be formed, for example, a translucent layer, the at Change of the viewing angle in reflection different color impressions generated. Such optically variable properties can be, for example obtained with interference layer pigments or liquid crystal pigments be a transparent binder or a transparent Plastic film are mixed. In a further variant of the optical variable effect of the effect layer 76 produced by a relief structure, that of a transparent lacquer or plastic layer in the form of diffraction structures is impressed.

The translucent plastic layer 52 may also be provided with a metal layer be either over the entire surface or at least partially in shape a grid executed with a predetermined grid size and screen ruling can be. The grid elements can be made of points, lines or other, also irregular, geometric shapes exist.

From layer edge to layer edge of the security element can further enter transparent area arranged with electrically conductive properties be, which offers another coding option. In such a transparent Area can, for example in inset process, also more Printing inks, such as flag colors.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate another embodiment of the invention, wherein Fig. 8 is a plan view and Fig. 9 in (a) to (d) are cross-sections through the Safety element along the line IX-IX for intermediate steps in the production of the security element. The security element 80 has first regions 82 with diffraction structures and transparent recesses 84 and second colored areas 86 with transparent recesses 88.

To make the different areas is on a substrate or Transfer material from a plastic layer 90, a stamping layer 92 applied. In the embossing layer 92 a relief structure is imprinted, the interaction with the subsequently applied metallization in reflection a diffraction-optical image, for example a hologram or a lattice structure, like a kinegram or a pixelgram.

Over the embossing layer 92 is then in individual blocks a water-soluble Ink 94 applied in the form of patterns, characters or codes. The water-soluble ink 94 is both in the colored areas 86 including their recess areas 88 as well as in the recess areas 84 of the diffractive structure regions 82 applied, as shown in FIG. 9 (a).

Subsequently, as shown in Fig. 9 (b), the waterproof ink 96 in the colored areas 86 in the register on the blocks of water-soluble Printing ink 94 printed, wherein the recess areas 88 of the colored Areas 86 are released. In the diffractive structure regions 82 becomes no waterproof ink applied. Then the whole structure coated with a metal layer 98, preferably aluminum, as shown in FIG. 9 (c). Instead of aluminum, other metals, such as Copper, gold, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, titanium, others Non-ferrous metals, or suitable alloys for the coating into consideration.

By washing out the water-soluble ink 94 becomes the security element partially demetallized to form the structure shown in Fig. 9 (d). In the diffraction pattern regions 82, diffraction patterns are in reflection the metallized relief structure recognizable, wherein the recessed areas 84 appear transparent. The recesses 88 in the colored areas 86 are visible from both sides.

As described in detail above, the backside of the plastic layer 90 becomes below with an optically variable effect layer not shown in FIG. 9 provided so that the motifs formed by the recesses 88 viewed from the back with an optically variable effect in appearance to step.

10 shows a security element 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment the invention. The security element 100 is a transparent one Plastic carrier 116 with an optically variable effect layer 102, for example in the form of a directionally reflecting layer with liquid crystal pigments, coated. On this optically variable effect layer 102 is a structured cover layer 104, which, as in connection with Figures 2 and 3, from a sequence of a first full surface applied water-soluble ink 106, a regional imprinted water-insoluble ink 108 and a vapor-deposited metal layer 110, in particular aluminum.

After partial demetalization by washing out the ink 106 in the unprotected areas, the cover layer 104 becomes translucent Laminated plastic carrier 112 by means of a laminating adhesive 114, so the metal layer 110 is protected against mechanical and chemical influences is. Finally, the carrier film 116 is peeled off and optically variable effect layer 102 separated. Depending on the application and more concrete Embodiment of the effect layer 102, it may be advantageous, these below also to protect against mechanical and chemical influences.

The embodiment of FIG. 10 has in particular for the consideration of the Rear side opposite to the embodiments described above the advantage that between the optically variable effect layer 102 and the no intermediate layers formed by the printing inks 106 and 108, such as an adhesive layer or a film. The optical variable effect therefore appears particularly clear in appearance.

Over the effect layer 102, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10 may be arranged a stamping layer. Lies the Prägeschicht between the Effect layer 102 and the carrier foil 116, a release layer is used, for a trouble-free separation of carrier film 116 and effect layer 102 to allow. Even within the effect layer 102 can embossed motifs be provided.

The security element 120 of FIG. 11 is a translucent plastic carrier 122 equipped with a stamping layer 124, as indicated above can be trained. On the embossing layer 124 is a structured cover layer 126 arranged, in turn, from a sequence of an initially complete area applied water-soluble ink 128, a region by area printed water-insoluble ink 130 and an aluminum layer 132 exists. After partial demetalization by washing printing ink 128 and laminating the cover layer 126 with a translucent Plastic carrier 134 by means of laminating adhesive 136 is the aluminum layer 132 protected against mechanical and chemical influences.

Subsequently, a further carrier film 140 with an optically variable Effect layer 142, for example, a directionally reflective layer Liquid crystal pigments, on the side facing away from the cover layer 126 of the Plastic carrier 122 applied by means of laminating adhesive 144. Then the additional carrier film 140 separated from the effect layer 142. The security element 100 then shows next to the visible from the back color shift effect the liquid crystal layer 142 also from the front side one optically variable effect formed by the embossing motif of the embossing layer 124 becomes. This embossed motif is in front of the dark background of the printing inks 128 and 130, depending on the angle, and therefore can be recognized as serve additional authenticity feature.

Another security element according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 12. The security element 150 is initially on a translucent plastic support 152 over its entire surface a water-soluble Printing ink 154 printed on the printing ink 154, also over the entire surface, a metal layer 156 evaporated. After that is on the metal layer 156 a waterproof ink 158 with recesses 160 in the form of Patterns, characters or codes printed. The ink 158 can with machine-readable feature substances, for example magnetic and / or electrically conductive particles.

In the embodiment, an additional printing layer 162 is additionally provided with machine-readable Properties provided between the recesses 160 of the waterproof printing layer 158 is applied. After the partial Demetallization by the washing step becomes one on a carrier sheet present optically variable effect layer 164 with a laminating adhesive 166th transferred to the security element 150. Finally, the carrier film is peeled off and reaches the situation shown in FIG.

When using a water-soluble ink 154 with a white Hue, is the security element when embedding in paper from the Reverse side less visible. An additional opaque white layer, so far is required for some thread types, can therefore be omitted.

Figures 13 and 14 show further embodiments according to the invention Safety elements in which the as recesses in the opaque cover layer introduced motifs are combined with other motifs, which only above or below a characteristic turnover temperature in Appear appearance. The other motifs can be above or below the turnover temperature also the visibility or the background of the affect recessed motifs of the cover layer.

FIG. 13 shows a security element 170 according to the invention with a translucent plastic layer 172 on which a thermochromic liquid-crystalline Color 174 over the entire surface or, as in the embodiment, only partially arranged in the form of a motif.

The thermochromic liquid crystalline color shows when heated over the Umschlagpunkt a color change that the subject on the security element becomes visible. When cooled, the motif disappears again. The process is reversible and can be repeated as often as desired. Thermochrome Liquid crystalline colors are with a color change area available between -30 ° C and 120 ° C with a bandwidth of 0.5 ° C to 30 ° C. For the application in security elements lies the envelope area preferably above the ambient temperature, in particular in the range from 25 ° C to 60 ° C, preferably between 30 ° C and 60 ° C.

On the thermochromic liquid-crystalline ink layer 174 is a black Printing ink 176 with recesses in the form of characters, patterns or codes attached, with or without machine-readable feature substances can be trained. On the ink 176 is a second liquid crystalline Layer 178 arranged as an effect layer, which by means of a laminating adhesive 180 is applied. As already described, the carrier film, on the effect layer 178 is first applied after lamination withdrawn again.

A further embodiment of a security element according to the invention 190 is shown in FIG. On the front of the transparent plastic carrier 192 is a cover layer 194 arranged in the manner described above and by laminating with another transparent, not shown Carrier protected. On the non-printed side of the plastic carrier 192 is a thermochromic liquid-crystalline ink layer 196 over its entire surface or only partially arranged. In addition, a second liquid crystalline Layer 198 as an effect layer over the thermochromic liquid crystal layer 196 arranged, which vary depending on the viewing angle Color impression produced.

In addition to the visible in transmitted light recesses of the cover layer 194 thus shows the security element 190 viewed from the underside in the incident light a color shift effect. When heating the security element about the turnover temperature of the thermochromic ink layer 196 becomes a motif recognizable, through the recesses of the cover layer 194 given is. From the other side, the security element shows a metallization to the back cover.

The security elements of Figures 13 and 14 can of course also provided with luminescent and / or machine-readable properties be, for example, using magnetic and / or electrically conductive Feature substances. A combination of visually auditable, machine-readable and thermochromic properties gives the security element additional counterfeit security. The latter security elements can also be combined with pre-stories.

Fig. 15 shows a further embodiment of a security element according to the invention 250 in cross section. On the plastic carrier 239 is a waterproof ink 240 applied with recesses. The waterproof Ink 240 is preferably a high gloss, silver-colored ink. About this ink 240 is the entire surface during the manufacturing process a water-soluble ink 241 arranged on the water-resistant Ink 240 well anchored, but not on the plastic support 239. Over the color layer 241 a further ink 242 is arranged over the entire surface. The second color layer 242 may additionally contain machine-readable feature substances contain. Over the color layers 240, 241 and 242 is a metallic Coating 243, preferably aluminum, applied over the entire surface. If now the corresponding structure is treated with water, the remain Layers 241, 242 and 243 adhere only to the areas with the color 240 are printed. In the not printed with the ink 240 places the color layers 241, 242 and 243 removed by the washing process. This gives a security element with machine-readable properties and transparent recesses, which are usually by the machine-readable feature substance dark-colored print layer for the eye is not visible. In a further variant, between the printing ink 240 and 241 another layer (not shown) may be arranged, the fluorescent Features. This layer can be both full-surface as well as partially arranged. If the layer is arranged over the entire surface, it receives one a security element in which the recesses are fluorescent appear with appropriate lighting.

Layer 245 is an optically variable effect layer.

16 describes a security element 260 according to the invention in the form of FIG a transfer element in which a translucent plastic support 262 with a stamping layer 264 is equipped. In the embossing layer 264 is a relief structure impressed (not shown), in conjunction with the following applied metallization in reflection a diffractive image generated. On the embossing layer 264 is a water-soluble ink 266th (not shown) with recesses applied. About the printing ink 266 is a metal layer 268 over the entire surface, preferably made of aluminum applied. By washing out the water-soluble ink 266 becomes the security element partially demetallized so that the structure shown in FIG arises. On the now partially existing metal layer is a black ink applied 270. The now printed and metallized Film side is using a laminating adhesive 272 with another carrier film 276, previously applied to the optically variable effect layer 274 was laminated together. The carrier film 276 may after the lamination process be deducted again. Over the effect layer 274, a paint be applied with the later liability on a value document is achieved. After the transfer to the value document may optionally the plastic carrier 262 are deducted. The invention Security element 260 shows a diffraction effect on one side of the film with recesses and on the other side of the film with an effect layer congruent recesses. This security element is preferably applied over a hole on a value document, so that both described slide pages are visible to the viewer. Of course The security element 260 may also be in the form of a window security thread be introduced into the paper during paper production. In this Case, the two carrier sheets 262 and 276 are not deducted.

Claims (41)

A security element for security papers, documents of value and the like having motifs, characters or codes incorporated into the security element, characterized in that the motives can be seen from opposite sides with different visual appearance when viewing the security element, the motifs being from a first side seen as recesses in an opaque cover layer can be seen, and seen from the second, opposite side through a substantially transparent or translucent optically variable effect layer with an optically variable effect in appearance. A security element according to claim 1, characterized in that the opaque cover layer comprises two superposed color layers, of which a first color layer is soluble in a liquid, and the second color layer is insoluble in the liquid. Security element according to claim 2, characterized in that the first color layer is water-soluble and the second color layer is waterproof. Security element according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first color layer has a high pigment content. Security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the first color layer has partial areas with different color impression. Security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the second color layer is formed on nitrocellulose, polyamide or PVC base or based on a UV-curable lacquer. Security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the second color layer contains machine-readable feature substances, in particular luminescent, magnetic and / or electrically conductive feature substances. A security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the second color layer has partial areas with different color impression and / or partial areas with different machine-readable feature substances. A security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the first and / or second color layer has a dark hue, in particular black. Security element according to at least one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that the first and second color layer have congruent recesses which form at least a part of the introduced into the security element motifs. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the opaque cover layer comprises a metal layer. Security element according to claim 10 and 11, characterized in that the metal layer is disposed over the two color layers and having congruent recesses with them, which form at least a part of the introduced into the security element motifs. A security element according to claim 10 and 11, characterized in that the metal layer is arranged between the two color layers and has congruent recesses with these, which form at least a part of the introduced into the security element motifs. Security element according to claim 13, characterized in that the second color layer arranged above the metal layer has a yellow, reddish brown or brown color tone. A security element according to at least one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the metal layer consists of aluminum, copper, gold, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, titanium, another non-ferrous metal, or an alloy of these metals. Security element according to at least one of Claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the effect layer has optically variable pigments, preferably liquid-crystal pigments or interference-layer pigments. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the effect layer is thermochromic, preferably with a transition temperature above 25 ° C. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the effect layer contains a diffraction structure, in particular in the form of an embossed relief structure. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the effect layer is in the form of patterns, characters or codes. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the opaque cover layer and the optically variable effect layer are present on a support, in particular a transparent or translucent support. Security element according to claim 20, characterized in that the cover layer and the effect layer are arranged on opposite sides of the transparent or translucent carrier. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the opaque cover layer is provided with a transparent or translucent protective layer. Security element according to claim 22, characterized in that the protective layer also forms a support for the cover layer and the effect layer. A security element according to at least one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that the carrier or the protective layer are provided with further layers, in particular with opaque, translucent or luminescent color layers or with feature layers which have machine-readable feature substances. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the security element in addition to the effect layer has a thermochromic layer which conceals below their envelope temperature the introduced motifs when viewed from one of the opposite sides. Security element according to claim 25, characterized in that the thermochromic layer is arranged on the first side of the security element above the opaque cover layer. A security element according to claim 25, characterized in that the thermochromic layer is arranged on the second side of the security element between the opaque cover layer and the effect layer. Security element according to at least one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that the thermochromic layer is formed by a thermochromic liquid crystal layer, preferably with a turnover temperature in the range of 25 ° C to 60 ° C, particularly preferably in the range of 30 ° C to 60 ° C. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 28, characterized in that the security element forms a security strip, a security thread, a security tape, a patch or a transfer element for application to a security paper, document of value and the like. Security paper for the production of security documents, such as Banknotes, ID cards or the like, with a security element is equipped according to at least one of claims 1 to 29. Security paper according to claim 30 with at least one with the Security element covered window area or hole. Value document, such as banknote, ID card or the like, the with a security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 29 Is provided. Document of value according to claim 32, with at least one with the security element covered window area or hole. Use of a security element according to at least one of Claims 1 to 29, a security paper according to claim 30 or 31, or a value document according to claim 32 or 33 for securing goods of any kind. A method for producing a security element with introduced motifs in the form of patterns, characters or codes, characterized in that a security element is produced with a superimposed opaque cover layer and a substantially transparent or translucent optically variable effect layer, wherein the motifs as recesses in the opaque Cover layer are introduced so that they are recognizable when viewing the security element from opposite sides with different visual appearance. A method according to claim 35, characterized in that the opaque cover layer is applied to a transparent or translucent support or to the optically variable effect layer. A method according to claim 36, characterized in that during application of the opaque cover layer, a first, soluble in a liquid, preferably water-soluble ink layer is printed, and on the first ink layer partially a second, insoluble in the liquid, preferably waterproof ink layer is printed. A method according to claim 37, characterized in that applied to the two color layers, a metal layer, in particular vapor-deposited. A method according to claim 36, characterized in that during application of the opaque cover layer, a first, soluble in a liquid, preferably water-soluble ink layer is applied to the first ink layer, a metal layer, in particular vapor-deposited, and then on the metal layer partially a second, in the liquid insoluble, preferably waterproof color layer is printed. Method according to at least one of claims 37 to 39, characterized in that in a washing step the first color layer and the overlying metal layer are removed in the areas not protected with the second color layer, whereby recesses in the form of the motifs are formed in the opaque cover layer. A method according to claim 40, characterized in that the first color layer of a water-soluble ink and the second ink layer of a water-resistant ink is formed, and that the washing step is carried out with water.

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