AU2009287037B2

AU2009287037B2 - Binary tilt image

Info

Publication number: AU2009287037B2
Application number: AU2009287037A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Christof Baldus; Klaus Habik
Original assignee: Giesecke and Devrient GmbH
Current assignee: Giesecke and Devrient GmbH
Priority date: 2008-08-28
Filing date: 2009-08-27
Publication date: 2013-08-29
Anticipated expiration: 2029-08-27
Also published as: ZA201100947B; WO2010022952A1; EP2318884A1; RU2011111586A; EP2318884B1; AU2009287037A1; CA2735297C; CA2735297A1; RU2538865C2; BRPI0917374A2; DE102008044809A1; PL2318884T3

Abstract

The invention relates to a security element for a data carrier, comprising a color layer (1) and an effect layer (2), which is substantially transparent when observed at a first angle (A) and shows a color shade when observed at at least a second, so-called effect angle (B), wherein the color shade of the effect layer produces a complementary contrast to the color shade of the color layer (1) at least in a first section (2a).

Description

Binary tilt image [0001] The application relates to a security element for a data carrier with an effect layer, a data carrier with such a security element as well as a manufacturing method for such a security element. [0002] Data carriers, such as documents of value or identification documents, in particular ID cards, credit cards or passports, or also other objects of value such as for example branded products, for the purpose of their protection are provided with security elements, which allow the object to be authenticity-checked and which at the same time serve as a protection against unauthorized reproduction. Furthermore, security elements often produce a well visible optical impression, for the reason of which such security elements, besides their function as a security means, sometimes are used exclusively as decorative elements for such data carriers or for their packaging. A security element can be embedded in such data carriers, for example in a bank note or in a chip card, or formed as a self-supporting transfer element, for example as a patch or as a label, which after its manufacturing is applied onto a data carrier or other object to be secured. Alternatively, the security element can also be integrated in the data carrier during the manufacturing. 100031 Data carriers within the meaning of the present invention are in particular bank notes, shares, bonds, deeds, vouchers, checks, high-quality admission tickets, but also other papers at risk of forgery, such as passports or other identification documents, and also card-shaped data carriers, in particular credit cards and chip cards, as well as product protection elements, such as labels, seals, packagings and the like. The term "data carrier" also comprises pre-stages of such data carriers which are unfit for circulation, which for example in the case of security paper are present in quasi-endless form and are further processed at a later time. 100041 To prevent a forging or imitation of security elements for example with high quality color photocopiers, security elements can have optically variable elements which, at different viewing angles, convey to the viewer different optical impressions. For producing effect layers which show such optically variable effects, various techniques are known. For example, optical interference layers can be present either 2 all-over or in pigment form. Such interference layers typically have a thin-film structure and comprise, for example in the case of a multi-layer thin-film structure, a reflection layer, an absorber layer and one or more dielectric spacer layers lying therebetween and are based for example on mica, on Si0 2 or on A1 2 0 2 . Such interference layers are referred to, corresponding to the number of dielectric layers, as single- or multi-layered. Printing inks with interference-layer pigments are distributed for example under the name Iriodin* (single-layer) or Colorcrypt* (multi-layer) by the Merck KGaA company. Further, printing inks with multi-layer interference-layer pigments are distributed under the name OVI* by the SICPA company. Instead of interference layers or interference-layer pigments there can also be used cholesteric liquid crystals. These are present for example as liquid crystalline silicon polymers or also as pigments in so-called STEP colors ("Shimmery Twin Effect Protection"). Furthermore, also holograms, which typically comprise metallic layers produced by vacuum vapor deposition, or diffraction gratings show, at different viewing angles, a different visual impression to a viewer. 100051 The different visual impressions for a viewer comprise for example a so called color shift effect, upon which, at different viewing angles, there are recognizable different color tones for the viewer. Different optical impressions may also result, when at a certain viewing angle the effect layer is completely transparent and thus invisible to a viewer, whereas at a different viewing angle (effect angle) it shows a color tone. Such effect layers often are iridescent, that is, they show a pearly luster, as it is known for example from sea shells or mica. Such pigments, which show a color change upon changing viewing direction, are generally referred to as goniochromatic pigments. [00061 Single-layer interference layers, printing inks with single-layer interference layer pigments or liquid crystalline pigments often are strongly translucent at all viewing angles, so that the color impression, which is recognizable for the viewer upon viewing the effect layer from the effect angle, is relatively weak. Such effect layers with high light transmission are thus applied preferably over dark or black backgrounds so as to improve the recognizability of the color change. In contrast 3 thereto, multi-layer interference layers and multi-layer interference-layer pigments show a low translucency and sometimes are completely opaque. [0007] In EP 0 317 514 Al, the high translucency of an applied Iriodin ink layer is used as a forgery-proof authentication feature. The Iriodin ink layer is applied over a black background, so that upon viewing an unforged security feature from an effect angle, the color impression of the applied Iriodin ink layer can be perceived. A color photocopier cannot recognize this Iriodin ink due to the weak color intensity of said ink and also due to the image scanning in plan view in which the Iriodin layer is transparent, and thus copies merely the black background. Thus, the optically variable color impression is missing on the copy. 10008] To improve the visibility of the relatively weak color impression of an Iriodin ink layer, in EP 0 490 825 Al there is proposed the use of several strips of Iriodin ink lying side by side, which produce different color impressions, thus increasing the perceptibility of the color impressions altogether. [00091 From EP 0 863 815 there is further known the overprinting of printed-on information with an optically variable layer. The target therein is to show the optically variable effect in a finely structured area, for example only within a narrow line, which cannot be realized with the screen printing method typically used for optically variable inks, because of its low spatial resolution. For this, it is proposed to provide so finely structured areas such as guilloches in the printed-on information and to apply these for example by intaglio printing. The inks of the printed-on information and of the background are then chosen such that the optically variable effect of the all-over superjacent effect layer is perceived by a viewer for example only over the finely structured areas printed by intaglio printing. 100101 The optically variable inks usually used for security elements are not readily available to a forger. However, at least for an inexperienced or inattentive viewer, there can be achieved similar color impressions also with other substances, such as they are found for example in nail polish. Not only single-color prints from optically variable inks can be imitated thereby, but also two- and multi-color prints.

4 [001 OA] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application. [0010B] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps. [00111 According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a security element for a data carrier, comprising an ink layer and an effect layer, wherein the effect layer, upon viewing from a first angle, is substantially transparent and, upon viewing from at least one second, so-called effect angle shows a color tone, and wherein the effect layer comprises single-layer or multi-layer interference pigments or cholesteric liquid crystal pigments, wherein the ink layer comprises at least two partial areas with different color impressions of the two partial areas contain the same primary color and thus are in harmony with each other and wherein the two partial areas preferably differ by the screening or by the color tone of the applied ink layer and that the color tone of the effect layer produces at least in a first partial area a complementary contrast to the color tones of the ink layer. [0011A] A related aspect provides a method for manufacturing a security element, comprising the steps: - providing a substrate; - applying an ink layer, which comprises at least two partial areas with different color impressions, wherein the color tones of the different color impressions of the two partial areas contain the same primary color and thus are in harmony with each other and wherein the two partial areas preferably differ by the screening or by the color tone of the applied ink layer; - applying an effect layer, which comprises single-layer or multi-layer interference pigments or cholesteric liquid crystal pigments and upon viewing from a first angle is substantially transparent and upon viewing from at least one second, so-called effect 4A - angle shows a color tone, which at least in a first partial area produces a complementary contrast to the color tone of the ink layer. [00121 Advantageously the present invention may provide a security element having an improved checkability as to authenticity and having an improved forgery proofness. [0013] The security element according to the invention comprises an ink layer and an effect layer. The ink layer has a color tone which can be visually perceived and which upon change of the viewing angle, for example by tilting the security element, does not show a change. The effect layer is substantially transparent at a first angle, for example in plan view, and is hardly, preferably not at all perceived by the viewer from this angle, if it lies, as assumed for the following description, in the viewing direction, above the ink layer. Thus, in plan view there results for the viewer a color impression which is determined preferably solely by the color tone of the subjacent ink layer. Substantially transparent in the context of the present application means that from a certain viewing angle the viewer does not at all perceive the effect layer or hardly perceives it due to its complete transparency or very high translucency. [0014] Upon viewing from a second angle, the so-called effect angle, the effect layer also conveys a color tone to the viewer, the two color impressions in principle overlapping each other. According to the invention, the effect layer here conveys a color tone which produces a complementary contrast to the color tone of the ink layer. Preferably, the color tone of the ink layer and that of the effect layer are complementary colors. [0015] The definition of complementary colors depends on the color space. For example, it is required that relative luminous efficiencies for photopic vision (vision in daylight) add up to 1 at each point of the visible spectrum. In this definition, the additive mixing of complementary colors thus results in white (see "Lexikon der Optik", published by: Harry Paul, Spektrum Akademischer Verlag GmbH, Heidelberg, 2003, page 360). Deviating from such a strict mathematical definition, the present 5 invention is based on the finding, that upon viewing a light-transmissive, colored layer, which is disposed on a subjacent for example opaque ink layer, the color impression resulting for the viewer is dominated by the color tone of the superjacent, light-transmissive layer especially when the color tones are substantially complementary color tones. The two color tones here may slightly deviate from the strict definition of complementary colors, which in the following is expressed by the term "complementary contrast". Upon viewing from the effect angle, an effect layer constitutes such a colored, light-transmissive layer. The viewer then perceives from the effect angle mainly the color tone of the effect layer. Here, the color tone of the subjacent ink layer largely, ideally completely steps back, and accordingly is hardly or not at all perceived. [0016] The use, of inks which produce a complementary contrast to each other thus supports the "hiding" of the color tone of the ink layer and the "unhiding" of the color tone of the effect layer upon the transition from the first viewing angle to the effect angle. In other words, the security element has a binary tilt effect, because upon viewing from a first angle there is visible, ideally, only the color tone of the ink layer and upon viewing from the effect angle, ideally, only the color tone of the effect layer. [0017] For obtaining a binary tilt effect, and thus for the maximum hiding of the color tone of the ink layer through the color tone of the effect layer, the choice of the inks according to the invention is advantageous also because at the effect angle the reflection spectrum of the subjacent ink layer is additionally hidden (absorbed) by the superjacent effect layer with the at least approximately complementary color tone and mixes with the harmonious color tone of the effect layer, so that the color tone (motif) of the hidden or mixed ink layer is no longer perceived by the human eye. The motif of the effect layer, however, is recognized by the viewer and then dominates over the color tone (motif) of the subjacent ink layer. [00181 As an effect layer there are suitable basically the majority of the optically variable layers known in the prior art. However, there are particularly preferred single layer interference layers, inks with single-layer interference-layer pigments for 6 example Merck Iriodin* inks, or multi-layer interference-layer pigments, e.g. Merck Colorcrypt* inks and inks with cholesteric liquid crystal pigments. For example the Iriodin pigments available at the Merck company normally are pigments with a core of mica, which has an interference layer, particularly from titanium dichloride, iron chloride or from a combination of titanium dichloride and iron chloride. [00191 The layer thicknesses of the interference layer here are selected such that they are in the wavelength range of the desired color (of the first order) or at a multiple of the desired wavelength (second, third, fourth, etc order). Pigments with an interference layer thickness in the range of the multiple of the desired wavelength, often also referred to as "pigments of higher order", are generally stronger in color than so-called "pigments of first order". Normally, only from a certain viewing angle the viewer can perceive one single characteristic color. For example the Colorcrypt* pigments available at the Merck company normally are pigments with a core of silicon oxide, which has an interference layer which comprises several layers, in particular intermediate layers. Depending on the layer thickness of the individual layers, the viewer thus perceives from different viewing angles different colors, but only at a relatively narrow wavelength range around a certain centroid wavelength. In contrast thereto, OVI* pigments or OVI* inks of the SICPA company show in a relatively wide wavelength range a viewing-angle-dependent color-shift effect. [0020] The Colorcrypt* pigments obtainable at Merck are much more elaborate to manufacture than the Iriodin® pigments also obtainable at Merck, so that Colorcrypt* pigments are much more expensive than Iriodin* pigments, which prevents forgers from using these pigments for cost reasons and thus additionally increases the protection from forgery for security elements according to the invention provided with Colorcrypt* pigments. Furthermore, Merck Colorcrypt pigments are clearly recognizable under the microscope, which, with suitable aids, can serve as a proof of authenticity. It goes without saying that the above-mentioned or preferably employed effect pigments are to be regarded as examples and not as restrictions. [0021] Single-layer interference layers, Iriodin* and Colorcrypt* inks from Merck and inks with cholesteric liquid crystal pigments are particularly preferred, in 7 particular because these show from all viewing angles a high light transmission, from the first viewing angle, for example in plan view, often are completely transparent, and upon viewing from the effect angle show, despite their translucency, a sufficiently intense color tone. 100221 So as to achieve a sufficiently intense color tone of the effect layer, a sufficient amount of e.g. Iriodin@ pigments must be applied. The coated surface should ideally be provided with a substantially closed Iriodin@ pigment layer. This is achieved by applying, on average, an application amount of approx. 9 g/m 2 (dry) of Iriodin@ effect ink, so that there results a pigment layer approx. 30 pLm thick. An additional increase in the intensity of the color tone is achieved by calendering the substrate, because the flat pigments thus even better align themselves in a plane. [00231 The subjacent ink layer preferably is an opaque layer, thus the color tone of the security element is independent of the substrate used. On the other hand, if such an interaction with the background, for example with a substrate different in color or a translucent substrate, is intended, there can also be used a translucent, that is, semi transparent ink layer. [0024] The effect layer is disposed on the ink layer preferably such that it directly adjoins the ink layer. On the other hand, it is also thinkable to provide further translucent or transparent layers between ink layer and effect layer. [00251 So as to ensure a good perceptibility of the binary tilt effect according to the invention and the above-described "hiding" and "unhiding", it is advantageous that the ink layer and the effect layer are separate layers and that there is not formed for example one substantially homogeneous layer which comprises a mixture of inks which according to the invention build-up the ink layer and the effect layer in each case. [0026] Preferably, the effect layer is spatially structured, i.e. applied in partial areas on the subjacent ink layer, so that it conveys information to the viewer. For this, there can be provided for example a gap in the effect layer, which is advantageous e.g. for a effect layer formed from cholesteric liquid crystal pigments. Thus, upon viewing from 8 the effect angle, the effect layer shows only in a first partial area a color tone complementary to the ink layer. Preferably, the effect layer has, besides or instead of a gap, a second partial area in which the effect layer shows, at the effect angle, a second color tone which is in harmony with the color tone of the ink layer. The effect angle of the first and second partial area is identical here, or there exists at least one viewing angle from which the first and the second partial areas at the same time show the above-described color tones; this angle is then referred to as effect angle. [00271 Color tones which are in harmony with each other, in this context refer to color tones which contain at least one equal primary color, in particular contain one equal primary color as main component and thus are similar. Furthermore, colors which are in harmony with each other normally have a comparable brightness and/or color saturation, which often is the case in particular with the ink layer according to the invention. [0028] Since the color tone in the second partial area of the effect layer preferably is in harmony with the color tone of the subjacent ink layer, the color tone of the second partial area of the effect layer and the color tone of the first partial area of the effect layer, upon viewing from the effect angle, also produce a complementary contrast. 10029] Since the second partial area of the effect layer, upon viewing from the effect angle, preferably shows a color tone being in harmony with the subjacent ink layer, in this partial area the color impression, which the viewer already gets by the subjacent ink layer, is amplified by the effect layer. [00301 In a variant, there is used for one of the partial areas of the effect layer, in particular for the first partial area, a strongly light-transmissive, optically variable ink layer, preferably an Iriodin ink layer, while for the other partial area, preferably for the second partial area, there is used a semi-transparent or, if appropriate, even opaque ink layer, preferably a strongly covering Colorcrypt or OVI ink layer. It is also possible that in the second partial area of the effect layer there is used gloss lacquer instead of an optically variable ink layer. Here, both partial areas of the effect layer ideally have an identical effect angle and an identical angle range in which the respective color impressions of the two partial areas of the effect layer are perceptible.

9 [00311 Preferably, the ink layer also has at least two partial areas which convey to a viewer different color impressions. Here, the color tones of the different partial areas of the ink layer advantageously are in harmony with each other. [0032] By using several differently colored partial areas in the ink layer, these are, at least from the first viewing angle, for example in plan view, clearly visible to the viewer. On the other hand, because of the requirement that the various partial areas of the ink layer are in harmony with each other, upon viewing the security element from the effect angle, all partial areas of the ink layer and thus the entire ink layer are covered by both the effect layer's first partial area producing a complementary contrast and also by the effect layer's second partial area which is in harmony. Here, in the effect layer's second partial area, whose color tone is in harmony with the color tones of the ink layer, the reflection spectrum of the ink layer is reinforced by the reflection spectrum of the effect layer. In other words, to the slightly different color tones of the various partial areas of the ink layer there is added a further, preferably much more intense color tone within the second partial area of the effect layer. Thus, the second partial area of the effect layer, upon viewing from the effect angle, outshines the small color tone difference of the various partial areas of the subjacent ink layer, so that a viewer perceives the various partial areas of the ink layer only hardly, preferably not at all to be different. Likewise, upon viewing from the effect angle, the color tone of the first partial area of the effect layer overshines differences in the reflection spectra of the various partial areas of the subjacent ink layer. The color tone of the first partial area of the effect layer here produces a complementary contrast with the several color tones of the various partial areas of the ink layer, which color tones are in harmony with each other. 100331 The differently colored partial areas of the ink layer can be produced for example by applying ink layers with different color tones or by applying an ink in different screenings, that is, in different screen patterns. For example, in a partial area there is provided a certain dot density of the screen dots, while in a different partial area there is provided a dot density different therefrom or the ink is applied all-over, so that in the case of screening there results for a viewer a color impression with a color tone which is a mixed color tone from the ink used for the screen dots and the 10 background ink, for example the substrate. The mixed color here depends on the surface portions, for example of the dot density and dot size of the applied ink. Accordingly, the differently colored partial areas of the ink layer being in harmony with each other can also be produced by using only one single ink. [00341 Preferably, in both the ink layer and in the effect layer, the various partial areas lie end to end in such a way that both the effect layer and the ink layer (except in the case of a screening, if any) are applied all-over. Preferably, for this, the various partial areas are applied in partial printing operations of one single printing operation, which ensures a low register tolerance of the partial areas. 100351 Through such an all-over printing, the various partial areas of effect layer and ink layer in each case are recognizable to a viewer only with the help of their different color tones. Thus, for example the perceptibility of the partial areas of the ink layer from the effect angle is further reduced for the viewer by the above-described overshining of the partial areas of the effect layer upon viewing from the effect angle. If the various partial areas of the ink layer form information for the viewer, thus by the tilting of the security element, this information can be hidden for the viewer at the effect angle. [00361 Preferably, the first and the second partial area of the effect layer also form second information different from the first information of the ink layer. Since thus the first information of the ink layer is recognizable well for example in plan view, and upon viewing under the effect angle is hidden and replaced by the second information of the effect layer, upon the tilting of the security element there results for the viewer a digital information change between the first and second information and preferably a complete transition from the first information to the second information. [00371 It is further advantageous, when both pieces of information are represented with similar design-related elements, for example are built-up of two colors in each case, for which both the effect layer and the ink layer each needs exactly only two partial areas. It is further advantageous, when both pieces of information are represented for example with similar stroke widths, i.e., with partial areas of similar spatial dimensions.

11 100381 The above-described binary tilt effect then leads to a digital information change. This, however, only takes place in case the color tones are chosen in a targeted fashion as described above. The lack of an information change or an information change present only incompletely can be easily detected also by an untrained viewer. For a forger, however, such a precise choice of the color tones can only be imitated with great difficulties, since the corresponding inks are not freely available, and the products otherwise used for imitating such optically variable effects, for example nail polish, cannot produce such a digital image change. 100391 It is further advantageous, when both the information of the effect layer and the information of the ink layer each have a semantic import and show in each case, for example instead of an abstract representation, a motif easily recognizable for a viewer. Advantageously, the two motifs are significantly different from each other and also have a significantly different semantic import. For example, one of the two motifs can show a simply depicted, stylized object such as a crown, an animal, an animal head, a plant, a famous landmark or the like, while the other motif shows for example a numerical value or individual letters, preferably one single letter. For the quick, easy perceptibility of such motifs it is further advantageous when these have no fine structure. In addition, around such motifs there can be provided a disturbance structure, which further reduces the perceptibility of the other motif to be hidden in each case. It is further advantageous, when both motifs have an approximately equal spatial size. [00401 Such a motif change supports the perceptibility of the digital information change upon tilting the security element between the first angle and the effect angle, since the viewer mentally "holds on" to such easily recognizable and easily interpretable motifs and thus mentally suppresses possibly still remaining, unintended color differences of the motif to be hidden. The reason for this is that upon tilting there also takes place, besides the color change, a for the viewer subjectively dominant change of the image motif. [0041] It is further advantageous, when the binary information change or motif change takes place upon tilting by only few angular degrees, for example upon tilting 12 by 10, 20, 50, 100 or 200. Such a sharp transition between the motifs is advantageous for an easy perceptibility of the tilt effect, and also for an easy perceptibility of the different pieces of information. 100421 The easy perceptibility and checkability of the motifs can be further enhanced in that these are additionally printed on one more time in the vicinity of the effect or ink layer, which permits a self-verification. In such a case, the viewer can thus easily check whether for example the effect layer shows from the effect angle the motif additionally printed on in the vicinity of the security element. 100431 According to a further advantageous embodiment, the ink layer and the effect layer are disposed congruently one above the other. Thus, there results to a viewer a clearly defined, easily perceptible area on the data carrier, which is concerned by the digital information change or image motif change. [0044] Preferably, effect and ink layer have a high register accuracy to each other, as it can be achieved in partial printing operations of one single printing operation. 100451 Preferably, the ink layer and the superjacent effect layer are at least partly surrounded by a further ink layer. For this, the surrounding ink layer contains a gap and the outer outlines of ink and effect layer are oriented by the outlines of the gap of the surrounding ink layer. Preferably, effect and/or ink layer and the surrounding ink layer lie end to end with high register accuracy. This creates two easily perceptible areas on the security element, which upon the tilting of the security element behave distinctly different. This enhances the perceptibility of the tilt effect and of the digital information or image motif change in the area of ink and effect layer. [00461 Preferably, the surrounding ink layer also has at least two partial areas, whose color tones are in harmony with each other in color and which preferably have design-related elements, such as for example stroke widths, similar to the information in ink layer and/or effect layer. [00471 Preferably, the design-related elements of the effect layer are continued in a targeted fashion in the surrounding ink layer, so that there exists a design-related connection between effect layer and surrounding ink layer. Thus, the other way round, 13 the information or the motif of the effect layer forms a continuation of the design of the surrounding ink layer visible from any viewing angle, which, due to the targeted continuation, promotes the perceptibility and recognizability of the motif of the effect layer for the viewer upon viewing from the effect angle. In contrast, the surrounding ink layer, due to its design, distinctly stands out against the ink layer disposed below the effect layer, that is, against its information or motif, which also increases its recognizability and perceptibility due to the contrast to the surrounding ink layer. On the whole, therefore, the perceptibility of the binary tilt effect according to the invention between the respective motifs of the ink layer and the effect layer is improved. 100481 In an alternative variant, in the surrounding ink layer there is continued the design of the ink layer lying below the effect layer, whereby the surrounding ink layer distinctly stands out against the motif of the effect layer. In this variant, too, there results a perceptibility of the binary tilt effect increased due to the surrounding ink layer. [00491 Advantageously, at least one color tone of the various partial areas of the ink layer has a secondary or tertiary color, that is, a mixture of two or three primary colors of a color space. This broadens the range of color tones which can produce a complementary contrast within the meaning of the present invention. This is advantageous, in particular when not every color tone of the color spectrum is available as color tone of the first partial area of the effect layer, for example in case of a limited choice of corresponding pigment printing inks. [00501 The digital information change described here does not require an embossing of the security element. Preferably, however, the security element is additionally embossed in the area of the effect ink, in particular blind-embossed, by means of which in the area of the flank angle of the embossing there results a different viewing angle and thus a viewing impression different from the other areas. In this way, there can be achieved further design-related degrees of freedom and further optically variable effects.

14 [0051] In a further advantageous embodiment of the security element, at least one partial area of the ink layer or one partial area of the effect layer contains at least one further substance, for example a luminescent substance, an infrared absorber, a thermochromic ink, a marking substance, a cholesteric ink and/or a magnetic pigment. Here, the inks in the following referred to as "cholesteric inks" normally have cholesteric liquid crystal pigments as a substantial component. Thus it is possible for additional effects to be produced and/or for further authenticity features to be incorporated into the security element, which, as the case may be, can be recognized only under specific conditions and/or with aids. [0052] Preferably, such a further substance is present here in both a partial area of the ink layer and in a partial area of the effect layer. These two partial areas of the ink layer and the effect layer complement one another here to form a third information, for example a third motif. Thus, the security element contains additional information which is recognizable upon suitable viewing conditions, for example upon UV irradiation in the case of luminescent substances. [0053] In a further advantageous embodiment of the security element, at least one of the two partial areas of the ink layer is formed by two inks metameric to each other. The inks here can be chosen such that the two metameric inks, upon usual lighting, for example upon natural light, produce the same color impression for a viewer, while only upon lighting with an especial light source they produce a different color impression. By this means, there can be created a concealed security feature not perceptible upon usual handling. [0054] In the security element described so far it has been assumed that the effect layer is disposed spatially above the ink layer and thus the viewing of the ink layer is effected through the effect layer. In principle, however, a reverse layer structure is also thinkable. For this, there is used for example a in top view transparent, semi-transparent or opaque effect layer with a superjacent translucent, advantageously highly light-transmissive ink layer. If the security element according to the invention is disposed on a translucent, in particular transparent substrate, such as a foil element, there is suitable both the arrangement of the ink layer on the substrate with effect layer 15 applied thereabove and the arrangement of the effect layer on the substrate with ink layer applied thereabove. A security element with translucent, in particular transparent substrate, for example in the case of an arrangement above a gap (hole) of the document of value, can usually be viewed from two sides. As materials for the foil element there are suitable first of all the plastic materials PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PP (polypropylene), PA (polyamide), PE (polyethylene). Furthermore, the foil can be stretched in a monoaxial or biaxial fashion. [0055] In principle, it should be noted that as a substrate material for the application of the security element there is suitable any kind of paper, in particular cotton paper. Of course, there can also be used paper which contains a portion x of polymeric material in the range of 0 < x < 100 weight percent. [00561 Furthermore, it is generally thinkable, although currently not preferred, that the substrate material of the data carrier is a plastic foil, e.g. a polyester foil. Furthermore, the foil can be stretched in a monoaxial or biaxial fashion. The stretching of the foil leads to the fact, among other things, that it receives polarizing properties which can be used as further security feature. [0057] It may also be expedient when the substrate material is a multi-layer compound which has at least one layer made from paper or a paper-like material. Such a compound is characterized by an extraordinarily great stability which is of great advantage for the durability of the substrate or data carrier. [00581 But it is also thinkable to use a multi-layer, paper-free composite material as substrate material, which is very advantageous first of all with ID cards and credit cards. These materials can be advantageously used in particular in certain climate zones of the earth. [0059] For the effect layer there can be used not only one single ink producing a color impression, but there can also be used mixtures of different inks with, as the case may be, different pigments and pigment types. For example, there can be mixed various Iriodin pigments and thus set in a targeted fashion the desired color tone, effect 16 angle and effect angle range of the respective partial area of the effect layer. Likewise, there can also be mixed various Colorcrypt pigments, OVI pigments and STEP pigments in order to produce a desired color impression. Further, these different pigment types can also be mixed with each other so that in a partial area of the effect layer there is present a suitable mixture of two or more Iriodin, Colorcrypt, OVI and STEP pigments. Likewise, these pigments can also [sic] with other pigments. In particular, a mixture of Iriodin and silver pigments is advantageous. 100601 All materials employed for the substrate, the ink layer and the effect layer may have additives which serve for example as authenticity features. 100611 Here first of all luminescent substances are taken into consideration, which in the visible wavelength range are preferably not visible and for example transparent and in the not visible wavelength range can be excited by a suitable aid, e.g. a UV- or IR radiation emitting radiation source and then show a visible or at least with aids detectable luminescence. The luminescent substances have, depending on the desired effect, suitable luminescence properties. This relates in particular to the excitation and emission wavelengths or excitation and emission spectra and the temporal decay behavior (fluorescence or phosphorescence) after switching off the excitation radiation. If several different luminescent substances are used, they may differ in their luminescent properties depending on the desired effect. For example, in the various partial areas of ink layer and effect layer there can be used phosphorescent luminescent substances with different decay times of the emission. [00621 Other security features can also be advantageously used, provided that they do not or at least not substantially impair the viewing of the binary tilt effect of the security element according to the invention. For this, there are suitable, for example, infrared absorbers (with suitably, as the case may be, differently chosen absorption and/or emission properties), thermochromic inks, metameric inks, marking substances such as markers, hologram flakes and/or luminescent substances, which serve as authenticity feature, cholesteric inks or soft- and/or hard-magnetic magnetic pigments. These various additives can also be combined with each other and for this be provided in one or in various partial areas of the ink layer and/or of the effect layer. In the case 17 of metameric inks, a partial area of the ink layer or of the effect layer can be divided in two contiguous or non-contiguous subareas, in each of the two subareas being applied one ink in each case, which is metameric to the ink of the other subarea. Upon illumination with, for example, white standard illuminant (D65), inks in the two subareas produce an identical color impression, while upon suitable illumination, for example with a light bulb, they produce different color impressions. [0063] The effect layer can be formed in a glossy or matt fashion. For this, either the effect layer as such can be formed matt or glossy, which can be realized with suitable, for example UV crosslinked binders, such as monomers or prepolymers. Alternatively, over the effect layer there can be applied a gloss or matt lacquer, for example be printed on. [00641 Particularly preferably, a partial area of the effect layer is matt, while the other partial area of the effect layer is glossy. This increases the recognizability and perceptibility of the motif of the effect layer upon viewing from the effect angle, while the visual impression of the two partial areas of the effect layer in plan view hardly differs. This also improves the perceptibility of the binary tilt effect according to the invention between the information of the ink layer and the information of the effect layer. If for the production of this effect in certain areas there is used gloss or matt lacquer, this is printed preferably in exact register over the effect layer of the security element. An exemplary formulation for a (water-based) gloss lacquer, which can be applied by flexographic printing method, comprises approx. 10 to 20 weight per cent of a polyurethane dispersion, approx. I weight per cent defoamer, approx. I weight per cent wax and approx. 78 to 88 weight per cent of a polyacrylate dispersion. An exemplary formulation for a (water-based) matt lacquer, which can be applied by flexographic printing method, comprises approx. 10 to 20 weight per cent of a polyurethane dispersion, approx. 1 weight per cent defoamer, approx. I weight per cent wax, approx. 8 weight per cent matting agent based on silicic acid, approx. 2 weight per cent water and approx. 68 to 78 weight per cent of a polyacrylate dispersion.

18 10065] Advantageously, the security feature is used for securing goods, objects of value, data carriers and other objects, in particular for the protection against forgery. [0066] The various partial areas of the effect layer can be applied, in principle, with all common printing methods, such as screen printing, flexographic printing, gravure printing and intaglio printing method. However, a screen or flexographic printing method is preferred. Here, the flexographic printing method is preferred in particular for paper-based substrates, as it permits a higher processing speed and upon printing on the effect inks substantially achieves the quality of a screen printing method. Further, the gravure printing method is particularly preferred in particular for plastic foil-based substrates (with and without print-receiving layer). 100671 The various partial areas of the ink layer can also be applied, in principle, with nearly all common printing methods. The offset printing method, however, is preferably used, whereby the application of the ink layer can be effected by wet offset, dry offset and particularly preferably by indirect relief printing method. [00681 Likewise, the surrounding further ink layer can also be applied with all common printing methods. Preferably, however, for this there is used in a so-called super-simultaneous printing an indirect relief printing method. The super-simultaneous printing machines used make possible a very precisely fitting printing of all printing inks of a side and of all printing inks of front and back of the substrate/data carrier to be printed. [00691 Advantageously, the indirect relief printing method is used for the ink layer and the flexographic printing method for the effect layer in one printing operation, which then comprises for example four partial printing steps (two partial printing steps for each the ink layer and the effect layer). Further, the indirect relief printing method, implemented in a super-simultaneous printing machine, can also be combined with these printing steps for the surrounding further ink layer, so that for example the two partial areas of each the ink layer, effect layer and surrounding ink layer are printed in one printing operation in six partial printing operations.

19 [0070] Preferably, onto a substrate, for example a security paper as a pre-stage for a bank note, there is printed at first the surrounding further ink layer, then the ink layer and after that the effect layer. [00711 Further embodiment examples and advantages of the invention are explained in the following by way of example with reference to the accompanying Figures. [0072] Fig. 1 shows a bank note with a security element embodying the invention, [0073] Fig. 2 shows a layer structure of a security element embodying the invention in cross section, [0074] Fig. 3a and 3b show two motifs for a digital information change, [0075] Fig. 3c shows a variant of the effect layer of the security element embodying the invention, [00761 Fig. 4 shows a further variant of the effect layer of the security element embodying the invention, [0077] Fig. 5 shows a variant of the layer structure of the security element embodying the invention, [0078] Fig. 6 shows a variant of the ink layer with metameric inks, and [0079] Fig. 7 shows a variant of the motif of the ink layer. [0080 In Fig. 1, as a data carrier there is represented a bank note. This comprises an ink layer 1 and a congruently superjacent effect layer 2 and a surrounding further ink layer 3 (see Fig. 2). Furthermore, on the bank note there is applied the denomination in the form of the numerical value "50". [0081] Fig. 2 shows a schematic cross section through a security element. On a substrate 4 is applied an ink layer 1 with several abutting opaque partial areas la, lb. On the ink layer 1 there is disposed an effect layer 2 with a first partial area 2a and a 20 second abutting partial area 2b. Both the ink layer I and the effect layer 2 each carry information in the form of a motif (see Figures 3a and 3b), the motifs being different from each other. In plan view A (Fig. 3a; viewing angle of 00), both areas 2a, 2b of the effect layer 2 are transparent, so that the information of the subjacent ink layer I is visible, while the information of the effect layer 2 is not recognizable. The partial areas la and lb of the ink layer I are in harmony with each other in color. Upon viewing from the effect angle B (Fig. 3b) of e.g. 450, both partial areas 2a, 2b of the effect layer 2 show one color tone in each case, the color tone of the first partial area 2a producing for the viewer a complementary contrast to the color tones of the partial areas la, I b of the ink layer I and the color tone of the second partial area 2b being in harmony with the color tones of the partial areas I a, lb of the ink layer 1. [00821 In other words, upon a plan view of the security element, i.e. upon viewing along the surface normal of the security element, there predominates, due to the high transparency of the effect layer 2 from this angle of view, the color impression of the ink layer I lying under the effect layer 2. Thus, in the ideal case, upon a plan view of the security element, there is exclusively recognizable the motif of the ink layer 1, which is produced by two colors being in harmony with each other but still distinguishable by a viewer. In this case, the viewing can take place upon lighting with diffuse light. 100831 Upon observation from the "effect angle" (also referred to as "glancing angle"), in the ideal case, the color impression of the subjacent ink layer 1 is completely hidden, which is due to the transparent mirror gloss of the effect layer 2 or of the two effect inks used in the partial areas 2a and 2b, so that in the ideal case exclusively the motif of the superjacent effect layer 2 is perceived by a viewer. In other words, the matt/gloss effect is so dominant that the viewer mainly perceives and evaluates the information produced by the matt/gloss effect. In this case, for the lighting there is ideally used directional light and the viewing angle and lighting angle are symmetrical with respect to the surface normal of the security element. Lighting angle and viewing angle are, with respect to the surface normal, for example 300, 450, 600 or 750.

21 [0084] The congruent ink and effect layers 1, 2 are surrounded by a directly abutting further ink layer 3. This ink layer 3 again comprises two partial areas 3a and 3b, whereby in the cross sectional view shown in Fig. 2 only partial area 3a abuts the effect and ink layers 1, 2. In another cross section, there would for example partial area 3b abut on the ink and effect layers 1, 2. [0085] The security feature schematically represented in Fig. 2 alternately shows, upon tilting between the plan view A and the effect angle B, the information of the ink layer 1 and the information of the effect layer 2, whereby for obtaining a binary, complete information change or image motif change there have to be chosen suitable inks with suitable color tones for the various partial areas la, Ib, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b of the ink layer 1, the effect layer 2 and the surrounding ink layer 3. [0086] In a first embodiment example, for the partial areas of the layers there are used inks as follows: - surrounding ink layer 3: P 214 (red) and P 326 (blue-green); - ink layer 1: P 658 (blue) and P 529 (violet); - partial area 2a: Iriodin copper (complementary contrast), and - partial area 2b: Colorcrypt lilac-green (in harmony). [00871 The designations of the various printing inks (e.g., P 214) refer to the PANTONE color spectrum. Other color systems, such as MKS and/or RAL, of course, are also possible for designating the colors. [0088] The exact allocation of the named colors to the various partial areas of the ink layers 1 and 3 is unimportant here. The color tones in the partial areas Ia, I b and 2b are in harmony with each other, while the color tone in partial area 2a produces a complementary contrast to the color tones of the partial areas la, lb and 2b. [0089] In a first variant of the embodiment example, for the partial area 2a there is used Colorcrypt gold-green (complementary contrast), while for the partial area 2b there is used the ink Iriodin lilac (in harmony). In a second variant of the first 22 embodiment example, in the partial area 2a there is used the ink Iriodin copper (complementary contrast), while in the partial area 2b there is used the ink STEP copper-green (in harmony). STEP inks generally are based on cholesteric liquid crystal pigments and show a color shift effect. The ink "STEP copper-green" shows the stated color tone. In a further variant of the first embodiment example, partial area 2a also contains such a STEP ink with a suitable complementary color tone. [0090] The sensation-appropriate color characteristic of the first variant of the first embodiment example was quantified in the Lab color space with a multi-angle measuring device (X-Rite MA 98 model of the manufacturer X-Rite). In the measurement set-up "plan view" a lighting takes place at an angle of 450 to the surface normal of the security element, while viewing is effected along the surface normal. In the measurement set-up "effect angle" there also takes place a lighting at an angle of 450 to the surface normal, while viewing takes place at 300 to the surface normal and therefore at a measurement angle shifted by 150 in relation to the glancing angle. [00911 The sensation-appropriate, subjectively perceived color distance of two colors results in a known manner from the Euclidean distance between two points in the Lab color space. In the following table the parameters FI and F2 as well as El and E2 each stand for the inks used in the partial areas of the ink layer and of the effect layer. In detail: Fl: P658 (blue) F2: P 529 (violet) El: Iriodine lilac E2: Colorcrypt gold-green "Plan view" "Effect angle" L a b L a b F1 81,58 -2,60 -7,75 85,64 -1,91 -6,91 Fl+EI 80,17 -2,68 -6,96 96,03 15,53 -19,78 F1+E2 81,24 -0,77 -7,06 107,18 -3,84 18,36 F2 75,36 17,38 -17,26 80,09 16,81 15,48 23 F2+El 74,87 16,43 -15,56 91,11 28,81 -25,34 F2+E2 76,00 17,29 -14,76 102,59 7,00 12,39 [00921 As it can be seen from the above table, the color impression in the measurement set-up "plan view" depends only slightly on the respective ink El or E2 of the effect layer. Conversely, the measured Lab color value in the measurement set up "effect angle" strongly depends on the ink of the effect layer. [00931 Ideally, as already described above, in the measurement set-up "effect angle" there would be not noticeable any dependence at all of the measured color value on the subjacent ink layer I (Fl and F2), whereas in the measurement set-up "plan view" there should be not noticeable any dependence at all on the ink of the effect layer 2. That such dependencies are still existing is to be attributed, on the one hand, to the fact that the measurements of the measurement set-up "effect angle", as described above, were not carried out from the so-called glancing angle, but with a deviation of 150 therefrom. Upon choosing optimal measurement conditions, however, improved color values are to be expected. Furthermore, the different color impression can be optimized when the degree of coverage of the inks El and E2 in the partial areas 2a and 2b of the effect layer 2 is optimized. In addition, there can be achieved a further optimization of the measured Lab color values by increasing the transparency of the effect layer 2 and an optimization of the orientation of the effect pigments in effect layer 2. [0094] In a second embodiment example the following inks are used: - surrounding ink layer 3: P 528 (violet) and P 659 (blue); - ink layer 1: P 611 (yellow) and P 466 (ocher); - partial area 2a: Iriodin blue (complementary contrast), and - partial area 2b: Colorcrypt gold-green (in harmony). [00951 In this embodiment example as well as in the embodiment examples stated above or in the following, not only the inks used for ink layer 1 are in harmony, but 24 also the inks used for the surrounding ink layer 3, which additionally supports the binary information change for the viewer. [0096] In a first variant of this second embodiment example, in the partial area 2a there is used the ink Iriodin lilac (complementary contrast) and in partial area 2b the ink Colorcrypt gold-green (in harmony). In a further variant, in partial area 2a and/or partial area 2b there are provided STEP inks each with suitable color tones. [0097] In the second embodiment example, too, the respective Lab color values of the various areas of the security element were quantified with the method described in connection with the first embodiment example: F1: P 611 (yellow) F2: P 466 (ocher) El: Iriodin blue E2: Colorcrypt gold-green "Plan view" "Effect angle" L a b L a b F1 83,52 -5,28 53,57 88,44 -5,11 46,57 F1+E1 81,91 -1,35 32,93 99,53 -0,35 -11,75 F1+E2 81,19 -4,17 49,02 109,89 -5,08 61,51 F2 80,08 1,90 18,89 84,54 1,89 17,93 F2+E1 78,76 3,10 12,00 96,06 2,84 -22,17 F2+E2 79,64 2,09 18,67 90,92 0,78 25,55 10098] In a third embodiment example the following inks are used: - surrounding ink layer 3: P 321 (turquoise-blue) and P 240 (red-violet); - ink layer 1: P 129 (yellow-ocher) and P 164 (orange-red); -- partial area 2a: Iriodin blue (complementary contrast); 25 - partial area 2b: Colorcrypt red-gold (in harmony). [00991 In a first variant of the third embodiment example, in the partial area 2a there is used the ink Iriodin blue (complementary contrast) and in the partial area 2b the ink Colorcrypt gold-green (in harmony). In a second and third variant, in the partial area 2a there is used the ink Iriodin lilac (complementary contrast) and in the partial area 2b the ink Colorcrypt gold-green (in harmony) or Iriodin gold (in harmony). In a further variant, in partial area 2a and/or partial area 2b there are provided STEP inks each with suitable color tones. [01001 In the first variant of the third embodiment example, too, the respective Lab color values of the various areas of the security element were quantified with the method described in connection with the first embodiment example: F1: P 164 (orange-red) F2: P 129 (yellow-ocher) El: Iriodin blue E2: Colorcrypt gold-green "Plan view" "Effect angle" L a b L a b F1 83,68 24,37 24,84 89,26 21,98 23,59 F1+E1 82,87 23,71 15,95 95,71 20,13 -6,70 FI+E2 81,86 21,66 22,79 109,97 10,98 44,31 F2 85,98 7,25 47,43 91,51 6,24 41,23 F2+E1 84,67 10,69 29,66 97,77 9,46 1,02 F2+E2 83,27 8,34 43,42 110,56 2,95 57,97 101011 In a fourth embodiment example the following inks are used: - surrounding ink layer 3: P 152 (dark orange) and P 186 (red); - ink layer 1: P 305 (blue) and P 319 (blue-green); 26 - partial area 2a: Colorcrypt gold-green (complementary contrast), and - partial area 2b: Iriodin blue (in harmony). [0102] In a first variant of the fourth embodiment example, in the partial area 2b there is used the ink Iriodin blue (in harmony) and in the partial area 2a the ink Colorcrypt red-gold (complementary contrast). In a second variant of the fourth embodiment example, in the partial area 2a there is used the ink Iriodin gold (complementary contrast) and in the partial area 2b the ink Colorcrypt lilac-green (in harmony). In a further variant, in partial area 2a and/or partial area 2b there are provided STEP inks each with suitable color tones. 101031 In the fourth embodiment example, too, the respective Lab color values of the various areas of the security element were quantified with the method described in connection with the first embodiment example: Fl: P 319 (blue-green) F2: P 305 (blue) El: Iriodin blue E2: Colorcrypt gold-green "Plan view" "Effect angle" L a b L a b F1 79,03 -23,97 -9,87 83,45 -20,99 -9,52 F1+El 78,47 -20,59 -6,71 94,72 -14,14 -30,06 F1+E2 80,75 -15,13 -5,33 104,17 -14,22 16,89 F2 82,33 -18,77 -14,42 85,88 -16,85 -13,55 F2+E1 80,81 -19,22 -12,37 96,94 -13,19 -32,98 F2+E2 81,95 -13,76 -12,98 105,52 -12,78 10,95 101041 In the following table there are represented the measured Lab values of the inks used in the effect layer.

27 "Plan view" "Effect angle" L a b L a b Iriodin blue 93,43 -0,07 7,40 106,52 0,63 -17,45 Colorcrypt gold-green 93,62 -0,11 3,38 112,89 -2,68 21,00 Fl+E2 93,60 -1,19 6,05 106,82 13,47 -6,26 [01051 As to the structure of the flexographic printing ink for the effect layer of the embodiment examples 1 to 4 it is to be noted that this is a water-based ink, the solids of which are composed of polyacrylates and polyurethane (portion of approx. 40 weight per cent). Approx. 20 weight per cent pigments are mixed in. As a diluting agent there is used water and as a solvent there is used I -methoxy-propane-2-ol (together approx. 40 weight per cent). With this composition there is achieved a very high gloss. Additionally, normally several aids (additives) are used, their portion being less than 1 weight per cent (e.g., wetting agents, pH neutralizers, thickeners, defoamers). The high gloss achieved for the security element with this lacquers, in general, also lasts longer than other color areas of the document of value, for example of the bank note, which has a positive effect on the check of the security element and therefore on the forgery proofness. [0106] In the following, there is stated by way of example the composition of a printing ink suitable for the ink layer or the surrounding ink layer: approx. 1 to 20 % organic color pigments approx. 0 to 20 % linseed oil alkyd approx. 20 to 98% binder based on hydrocarbon-modified colophony resins and mineral oil/linseed oil approx. 0 to 2% wax, e.g. micronized PE wax approx. 1 to 2% drier based on cobalt/manganese octoate approx. 0 to 4% mineral oil.

28 101071 Furthermore, there can be contained further aids and solvents, in particular water, in the printing inks. [01081 The application of the effect layer is effected with an especial screen roll, which was manufactured in an ART method. In the ART (Anilox Reverse Technology) method of the company Praxair, an especial screen geometry of the screen roll is realized by means of an especial engraving technology, so that relatively large pigments of up to about 40 im can be processed. [01091 In Fig. 3a there is shown the image motif which is incorporated as information into the ink layer 1. In Fig. 3b there is represented the image motif which is incorporated as information into the effect layer 2. The motif of the ink layer 1 represents a stylized crown and thus an easily recognizable motif with a semantic import for the viewer. The motif of the effect layer 2 is the numerical value "50", around this numerical value there additionally being a disturbance structure in the form of strips. The image motifs in both layers thus each are composed of two color tones, namely the color tones of the partial areas Ia and lb of the ink layer I and the color tones of the partial areas 2a and 2b of the effect layer 2. It is obvious, that instead of the crown shown in Fig. 3a, there can also be chosen other motifs, such as e.g. a (stylized) animal (swan, rhinoceros, etc), a (stylized) animal head (lion, bear, etc), a (stylized) plant (palm tree, flower, etc), a famous landmark (Eiffel Tower, the Brandenburg Gate, etc) or the like. Further, it is irrelevant for the image motif of the effect layer 2, in which of the two partial areas 2a, 2b of the Fig. 3b the complementary color is printed, that is, a binary information change of course takes also place, when the effect ink with the complementary color tone fills the area referred to with the reference sign 2b in Fig. 3b. Accordingly, the area referred to with the reference sign 2a in Fig. 3b would then contain the harmonious color tone. Such an embodiment of the effect layer 2 is shown in Fig. 3c. The motif of the effect layer 2 in the form of the numerical value "50" and of the disturbance structure is formed by the partial area 2a (complementary contrast) and 2b (in harmony), the partial areas 2a, 2b according to Fig. 3c are just reversed compared to the partial areas 2a, 2b according to Fig. 3b. Corresponding considerations of course are also applicable for the allocation of the inks to the partial areas la and lb of the ink layer 1.

29 [0110] In a variant of the layer structure shown in Fig. 2, the effect layer 2 is applied directly on the substrate 4 and the ink layer 1 above the effect layer 2. This is shown in Fig. 5. In a first embodiment of this variant, the substrate 4 is transparent or at least translucent and the viewing of the security feature takes place through the substrate 4, as this is represented by the arrows A' and B'. In a second embodiment of this variant, for the effect layer 2 in the partial areas 2a and 2b there are used semi-transparent or opaque effect inks in each case, whereas for the then superjacent ink layer 1 there are used highly light-transmissive printing inks in each case. In this embodiment, the viewing takes place, as before, directly onto the security feature, and the substrate 4 can be opaque. [01111 In a further variant of the shown embodiment examples, the partial areas Ia and I b of the ink layer 1 and/or the partial areas 2a and 2b of the effect layer 2 are not printed end to end, but are spaced apart from each another. Thus, it is possible that for example also the color tone of the subjacent substrate 4 can be used for producing color impressions. [01121 Finally, in Figure 4 there is shown a further variant, in which the effect layer of partial area 2a (complementary contrast) and 2b (in harmony) in the form of the further partial area 20a (complementary contrast) is disposed in the surrounding ink layer 3 (of the data carrier 4), preferably in exact register to the ink layer 3. In the shown example, the individual lines of the partial area 20a continue in the area of the surrounding ink 3 which is also formed as a line pattern. It is obvious, that the lines of the partial area 20a for example can also be disposed in exact register on the surrounding ink layer. In principle, very different arrangements of effect layer 2 and surrounding ink layer 3 are thinkable, in order to enhance the binary tilt effect in the perception of the viewer. So there is also thinkable, for example, an embodiment in which the motif of the effect layer 2 is in a context of meaning with the surrounding ink layer 3, e.g. the motif of the effect layer is a sun and the rays of the sun are formed at least partly by the surrounding ink layer. In any case, also in the embodiment according to Figure 4 the binary tilt effect of the security element according to the invention is amplified in the perception of the viewer and thus the forgery-proofness is increased.

30 101131 In a fifth embodiment example, at least one of the partial areas of the ink layer 1 and/or of the effect layer 2 shows a luminescence. This can be fluorescence or phosphorescence, in the latter case the decay time of the emission being suitably chosen. Furthermore, the emission and absorption behavior of the one or more luminescent substances is suitably chosen, so that a desired effect is achieved. 10114] In a first variant of the fifth embodiment example, only one of the two partial areas of the ink layer 1 contains a fluorescent luminescent substance. Upon excitation of the luminescent substance, the motif of the ink layer is reproduced and is then visible independently of the viewing angle. In this variant the excitation light for the luminescent substance must not be weakened by the superjacent effect layer 2. Since luminescent substances are typically excited by UV radiation, the superjacent effect layer 2 thus must not contain any UV absorbers. Such UV absorbers based on titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) for example are contained in the Iriodin pigment rutile fine yellow or fine blue or Colorcrypt gold of the Merck company. Suitable effect pigments for the effect layer 2 are for example liquid crystal pigments or Iriodin 4504 lava red or Colorstream F 10 autum mystery also from the Merck company. 101151 In a second variant of the fifth embodiment example, both partial areas of the ink layer 1 contain luminescent substances. These differ in their emission wavelengths or emission spectra and upon emission produce different color impressions. Here, the first part fluoresces for example in the red wavelength range, while the second partial area fluoresces in the blue wavelength range. Thus, in the second variant, as already in the first variant, the motif of the ink layer I is reproduced and for the superjacent effect layer 2 there must be chosen suitable effect pigments, which do not absorb the excitation radiation of the luminescent substances of the ink layer 1. 101161 In the first and second variant of the fifth embodiment example, the effect layer 2 has no luminescent substances. 101171 In a third variant of the fifth embodiment example, exactly one of the two partial areas of the effect layer 2 has a fluorescent luminescent substance. Upon excitation of the luminescent substance, thus the motif of the effect layer 2 is reproduced, and is visible during the emission not only from the effect angle, but from 31 all viewing angles. The luminescent substance or the employed luminescent ink as such ideally is completely transparent and has no body color of its own, at least in the visible spectral range. The luminescent substance is thus not visually recognizable and as long as the luminescent substance does not emit, the visual perceptibility of the effect layer 2 does not change. If the luminescent substance or the employed fluorescent ink, however, is not completely transparent, it must be ensured, by suitably choosing the ingredients in the other partial area of the effect layer 2, that the two partial areas of the effect layer 2 produce a sufficiently similar visual impression outside the effect angle, so that these partial areas cannot be distinguished. It is advantageous here to use a luminescent substance that is non-covering if possible, so as to weaken the perceptibility of the motif of the subjacent ink layer I as little as possible. This variant of the fifth embodiment example has the advantage that the effect pigments of the effect layer 2 can be UV absorbing and therefrom result fewer restrictions for the choice of the effect pigments than in the first and second variant of the fifth embodiment example. [0118] In a fourth variant of the fifth embodiment example, in both partial areas 2a and 2b of the effect layer 2 there are provided luminescent substances. These again differ in their emission wavelengths or emission spectra. Here, one partial area may fluoresce in the red wavelength range, while the other partial area of the effect layer 2 fluoresces in the blue wavelength range. Without excitation, both luminescent substances or luminescent inks, as already described, in the ideal case have no body color on their own, and thus are not visible, as a result of which the perceptibility of the motif of the subjacent ink layer 1 is maintained. If, however, a certain perceptibility of the luminescent substance in the effect layer is given even without excitation, it must at least be ensured that both partial areas of the effect layer, outside the effect angle, produce a visual impression as uniform as possible and are as little covering as possible. [01191 In the third and fourth variant of the fifth embodiment example, the ink layer I has no luminescent substances.

32 [0120] In a fifth variant of the fifth embodiment example, exactly one partial area of ink layer I and effect layer 2 in each case has a luminescent substance. Both luminescent substances have the same emission color and in the simplest case in both partial areas can be provided the same luminescent substance. Upon excitation of the fluorescent luminescent substance, thus there results an additional third information, possibly in the form of a motif, which is composed of the two fluorescent partial areas. [01211 In a variation of the fifth variant, the two partial areas have different emission wavelengths or emission spectra and produce a color impression different from each other. [01221 In further variations of the fifth variant-of the fifth embodiment example, there can be provided luminescent substances fluorescent in different wavelength ranges in both partial areas of the ink layer 1 and/or effect layer 2. In these variants, there have to be taken into consideration, where applicable, the already discussed restrictions regarding the choice of the ingredients of the effect layer. [01231 In a sixth variant of the fifth embodiment example, in a partial area of the ink layer I there is provided a fluorescent luminescent substance, while in the other partial area of the ink layer 1 there is provided a phosphorescent luminescent substance. The effect layer 2 contains no luminescent substances. Both luminescent substances of the ink layer 1 are chosen such that upon excitation they produce an identical color impression and in particular show the same emission color at the same intensity, so that the ink layer 1 during the excitation appears as a closed surface. After the switching off of the excitation, during the decay time of the phosphorescent luminescent substance, the corresponding partial area of the ink layer is visible. In other words, the motif of the ink layer I is recognizable during the decay time of the phosphorescent luminescent substance. Here, the one partial area of the ink layer 1, for example, is yellow fluorescent, while the other partial area of the ink layer I is yellow phosphorescent. Also in this case, the superjacent effect layer 2 in the ideal case contains no substances which absorb the excitation radiation for the luminescent substances of the ink layer 1.

33 [0124] Phosphorescent luminescent substances have the advantage that they are particularly suitable for a machine selection, whereas in particular Iriodin inks, due to their color change, i.e. due to the tilt effect between ideally complete transparency upon plan view and the iridescent color impression upon viewing from the effect angle, are less suitable for a machine selection. [0125] In a seventh variant of the fifth embodiment example, the fluorescent and phosphorescent luminescent substances are provided in the two partial areas of the effect layer 2. The ink layer 1 contains no luminescent substances. In this seventh variant, there can be achieved substantially the same effects as with the above described sixth variant, whereby here, too, there result fewer restrictions for the choice of the effect pigments of the effect layer 2 (as already described before). [01261 In an eighth variant of the fifth embodiment example, in a partial area of the ink layer 1 there is provided a fluorescent luminescent substance and in a partial area of the effect layer 2 a phosphorescent luminescent substance. The other partial areas of ink layer I and effect layer 2 have no luminescent substances. The intensity of the fluorescent luminescent substance in the ink layer 1 is significantly higher than the intensity of the phosphorescence of the luminescent substance in the effect layer 2. During the excitation there dominates thus the emission of the fluorescent partial area of the ink layer 1. Thus, during the excitation the motif of the ink layer 1 is recognizable. After the switching off of the excitation, during the decay time of the phosphorescence in the effect layer 2, the motif of the effect layer 2 is recognizable. Thus, upon the switching off of the excitation, there takes place a motif change from the motif of the ink layer I to the motif of the effect layer 2. [01271 Alternatively, the fluorescent luminescent substance emitting with high intensity can also be provided in the effect layer 2, while the phosphorescent luminescent substance emitting with lower intensity is provided in the ink layer 1. 101281 Further, alternatively, instead of a fluorescent and phosphorescent luminescent substance, there can also be provided two phosphorescent luminescent substances, which have decay times significantly different from each other. Thus, after the switching off of the excitation, in a first phase, there is recognizable the motif of 34 that layer in which is located the stronger emitting phosphorescent luminescent substance with shorter decay time, while in a later phase, there is recognizable the motif of that layer in which is located the phosphorescent luminescent substance with the longer decay time, as a result of which, also in this case, there takes place a motif change between ink layer 1 and effect layer 2. [01291 In a ninth variation of the fifth embodiment example, there is provided a first luminescent substance in a partial area of the ink layer I and a second luminescent substance in a partial area of the effect layer 2. Both luminescent substances differ in their excitation spectra such that they can be selectively excited. For example, one of the luminescent substances can be excited with short-wave light, while the second luminescent substance can be excited with long-wave light. Nevertheless, both excitation spectra may be in the UV range. Depending on the chosen excitation, thus, the motif of the ink layer 1 or the motif of the effect layer 2 can be made selectively perceptible. 101301 The various represented variants of the fifth embodiment example of course can be combined in a suitable way with each other so as to produce a desired effect. [0131] In a sixth embodiment example, at least one partial area of ink layer 1 or effect layer 2 contains a substance absorbing and emitting in the infrared (hereinafter referred to as infrared absorber). This infrared absorber, in the ideal case, is not visually recognizable in the visible spectral range. [01321 In a first variant of the sixth embodiment example, one partial area of the ink layer 1 contains such an infrared absorber. The other partial area of the ink layer and the effect layer 2 do not contain an infrared absorber. Accordingly, upon suitable infrared excitation, the motif of the ink layer 1 can be recognized and evaluated by means of an infrared camera (for example an infrared converter camera). Alternatively, the infrared absorber may also be provided only in a partial area of the effect layer 2 and then the motif of the effect layer 2 is made recognizable. [01331 For choosing the substances for the infrared absorber there are applicable, mutatis mutandis, the same considerations as for choosing the luminescent substances 35 in the fifth embodiment example, according to which the optical perceptibility of ink layer 1 and effect layer 2 shall not be impaired or only slightly be impaired. [0134] In a second variant of the sixth embodiment example, in a partial area of the ink layer 1 there is provided a first infrared absorber and in a partial area of the effect layer 2 there is provided a second infrared absorber. In the other partial areas of ink layer I and effect layer 2 there are provided no infrared absorbers. The two infrared absorbers differ in their excitation wavelength. Accordingly, by a suitable choice of the excitation wavelength, with an infrared camera there can be selectively detected the motif of the ink layer I or the motif of the effect layer 2. For the selective excitation there can be used an infrared blocking filter, which is adjusted to the respective excitation wavelength of the infrared absorber to be excited. Alternatively, there can also be chosen two infrared absorbers with different emission wavelengths, so that with the help of for example an infrared blocking filter, which is adjusted to the respective emission wavelength of the motif to be selected, with an infrared camera there can be made visible selectively the motif of the ink layer I or of the effect layer 2. [0135] Furthermore, the variation possibilities discussed in connection with the fifth embodiment example can be also applied, mutatis mutandis, to the sixth embodiment example. [01361 In a seventh embodiment example, in ink layer 1 and/or effect layer 2 there are provided thermochromic inks, which in a predetermined temperature range become clear or invisible and outside this temperature range have a body color. [01371 In a first variant of the seventh embodiment example, one of the two partial areas of the ink layer consists of a thermochromic ink. The other partial area of the ink layer and the effect layer 2 have no thermochromic inks. In the predetermined temperature range of the thermochromic inks, thus, the one part of the ink layer 1 becomes clear, and in this partial area the color impression is determined by the subjacent substrate.

36 101381 In a second variant of the seventh embodiment example, both partial areas of the ink layer I consist of different thermochromic inks in each case, whereby the predetermined temperature ranges of the two thermochromic inks, in which these become clear, at least overlap each other and in the ideal case are alike. When setting a temperature of this overlapping range, the whole ink layer 1 thus becomes clear and in this area, outside the effect angle of the superjacent effect layer 2, a uniform color impression is produced by the subjacent substrate 4. At such a temperature, the perceptibility of the information of the effect layer 2, upon viewing from the effect angle, is also improved because of the now uniform background. [0139] If thermochromic inks are provided in the ink layer 1, as it is the case in the first and second variant of the seventh embodiment example, the thermochromic inks ideally have body colors which have a sufficiently high luminosity, in order to render the motif of the ink layer 1 recognizable. 10140] In a third variant of the seventh embodiment example, one or both partial areas of the effect layer 2 additionally have one or various thermochromic inks. Only upon setting a temperature at which the thermochromic inks of the effect layer 2 become clear, there is possible the observation of the previously described binary tilt effect, i.e., the motif change between the motif of the ink layer 1 and the motif of the effect layer 2 by changing the viewing angle. In other words, outside the predetermined temperature range the effect of the effect layer 2 is covered. If both partial areas of the effect layer 2 have the same thermochromic ink, outside the predetermined range the security element appears as a uniform, continuous surface. If for the two partial areas of the effect layer 2 there are chosen different thermochromic inks, outside the predetermined range of the thermochromic colors the motif of the effect layer 2 can be detected from all viewing angles. 10141] In a fourth variant of the seventh embodiment example, one partial area of the ink layer 1 and one partial area of the effect layer 2 is provided with thermochromic inks in each case. In this case, too, the binary tilt effect is visible only upon setting a suitable temperature. In other words, the corresponding partial area of the ink layer 1 is clear in the predetermined temperature range and is opaque outside 37 the predetermined temperature range of the thermochromic ink, while in the partial area of the effect layer 2 outside the predetermined temperature range of the thermochromic ink of the effect layer 2 the body color of the thermochromic ink is visible and within the predetermined temperature range is clear and thus the viewing angle-dependent effect of the effect layer 2 is visible. [01421 In an eighth embodiment example, one partial area of the ink layer consists of two subareas laa and lab, as this is shown in Fig. 6. The two areas add up to the partial area la, as it is known from the other embodiment examples. Both subareas laa and lab consist of two metameric colors. These produce, upon illumination by a first light source, for example with white standard illuminant D65, an identical color impression and thus are recognized as uniform area. Upon viewing with a second light source, for example with light of light bulbs, the two subareas laa and lab produce different color impressions. This feature can be used as an authenticity feature whose presence is not readily recognizable. 101431 In a ninth embodiment example, only one of the partial areas or both partial areas of the effect layer 2 are charged with a marking substance, whereby, for example, the mere presence of it may serve as a proof of authenticity. Such marking substances or marking pigments are, for example, markers, hologram flakes or luminescent substances. [0144] In a tenth embodiment example, at least one of the partial areas of the ink layer 1 or of the effect layer 2 contains a cholesteric ink. This at least one partial area becomes recognizable upon viewing with a suitable polarization filter, as the case may be in dependence on the orientation of the polarization filter. [0145] In a first variant of the tenth embodiment example, both partial areas of the ink layer I consist of cholesteric inks, which in each case produce different polarizations. The effect layer 2 contains no cholesteric ink. Upon viewing with the naked eye, this difference in the polarization of the light radiated by the ink layer I is not visible. Only upon viewing with a suitable polarization filter, it becomes visible.

38 10146] In a second variant of the tenth embodiment example, both partial areas of the effect layer 2 contain a cholesteric ink in each case. The two inks are composed of cholesteric liquid crystal pigments, the helix of the two cholesteric inks being different. Upon viewing the effect layer 2 with the help of a suitable polarization filter or a so-called STEP watcher, the partial areas of the effect layer 2 become visible or invisible. [0147] In an eleventh embodiment example, in the effect layer 2 there are provided magnetic pigments. [01481 In a first variant of the eleventh embodiment example, only one of the two partial areas of the effect layer 2 is provided with a machine-readable magnetic pigment. [01491 In a second variant of the eleventh embodiment example, both partial areas of the effect layer 2 are provided with the same magnetic pigment. Thus, altogether, there results, corresponding to the surface of the effect layer 2, a large, machine readable area. [0150] In a third variant of the eleventh embodiment example, a partial area of the effect layer 2 is provided with a soft-magnetic magnetic pigment, while the other partial area of the effect layer 2 is provided with a hard-magnetic magnetic pigment. This results in a machine-readable coding or a machine-readable pattern. 101511 Magnetic pigments generally have a slightly covering body color, that is, an inherent coloring. In order to get, upon viewing the security element outside the effect angle of the effect layer 2, a color impression of the subjacent ink layer I uninfluenced by the superjacent effect layer 2, on both areas of the effect layer 2 there is provided an identical inherent coloring. This is necessary in particular when, as in the first variant of the eleventh embodiment example, only one partial area of the effect layer 2 is provided with magnetic pigments or when, as in the third variant of the eleventh embodiment example, various magnetic pigments are provided in the two partial areas of the effect layer 2. A possibility to adjust the inherent coloring is to additionally 39 provide in one of the partial areas suitable organic pigments. Alternatively, this can also be achieved with TiO 2 pigments. [01521 As already mentioned, in at least one of the two partial areas of the effect layer 2 there can be present a mixture of a pigment showing an optically variable effect and for example an Iriodin silver pigment. Such a mixture can have, for example, the composition stated hereinabove for the effect layer of the embodiment examples 1 to 4. [01531 The motif of the ink layer 1 represented in Fig. 3a is only one of many possible motifs which can be used for both ink layer I and effect layer 2. In Fig. 7 there is represented a star as a further example for a motif of the ink layer 1, which can be combined with advantage with the motif of the effect layer 2 shown in Fig. 3b. Accordingly, all effects and advantages described so far in connection with the motif of Fig. 3a are also achieved by an ink layer 1 with a motif as shown in Figure 7. [0154] The various embodiment example and their variants can all be combined with each other. Thus, for example it is possible to provide in ink layer 1 and effect layer 2 magnetic pigments and luminescent substances at the same time.

Claims

1. A security element for a data carrier, comprising an ink layer and an effect layer, wherein the effect layer, upon viewing from a first angle, is substantially transparent and, upon viewing from at least one second, so-called effect angle shows a color tone, and wherein the effect layer comprises single-layer or multi-layer interference pigments or cholesteric liquid crystal pigments, wherein the ink layer comprises at least two partial areas with different color impressions, wherein the color tones of the different color impressions of the two partial areas contain the same primary color and thus are in harmony with each other and wherein the two partial areas preferably differ by the screening or by the color tone of the applied ink layer and that the color tone of the effect layer produces at least in a first partial area a complementary contrast to the color tones of the ink layer.

2. The security element according to claim 1, wherein at the effect angle, the effect layer shows in a second partial area a color tone, which contains the same primary color as the color tone of the ink layer and thus is in harmony with the color tone of the ink layer.

3. The security element according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the ink layer and/or the effect layer are applied all-over.

4. The security element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ink layer comprises first information, in particular a first motif, which comprises the at least two partial areas of the ink layer, and that the effect layer comprises second information, in particular a second motif, which comprises at least the first and second partial area of the effect layer.

5. The security element according to claim 4, wherein the ink layer and the effect layer are disposed congruently one above the other.

6. The security element according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein an outline of the ink layer, of the effect layer and/or of partial areas of the ink layer or effect layer at least partly corresponds to a gap in a surrounding further ink layer and preferably abuts the surrounding ink layer.

7. The security element according to claim 6, wherein the surrounding further ink layer comprises at least two partial areas with different color impressions, 41 wherein the color tones of the different color impressions of the at least two partial areas contain the same primary color and thus are in harmony with each other.

8. The security element according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one color tone of the ink layer is a secondary or tertiary color.

9. The security element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, including an embossing in the area of the effect layer.

10. The security element according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one partial area of ink layer or effect layer contains at least one further substance, in particular a luminescent substance, an infrared absorber, a thermochromic ink, a marking substance, a cholesteric ink and/or a magnetic pigment.

11. The security element according to claim 10, wherein one partial area of ink layer and effect layer in each case contains one further substance and the two partial areas complement each other to third information, in particular a third motif.

12. The security element according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the partial areas of the ink layer is formed by two inks metameric to each other.

13. The security element according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein one partial area of the effect layer appears matt and the other partial area of the effect layer glossy.

14. A data carrier comprising a security element according to any one of claims I to 13.

15. A method for manufacturing a security element, comprising the steps: - providing a substrate; - applying an ink layer, which comprises at least two partial areas with different color impressions, wherein the color tones of the different color impressions of the two partial areas contain the same primary color and thus are in harmony with each other and wherein the two partial areas preferably differ by the screening or by the color tone of the applied ink layer; 42 - applying an effect layer, which comprises single-layer or multi-layer interference pigments or cholesteric liquid crystal pigments and upon viewing from a first angle is substantially transparent and upon viewing from at least one second, so-called effect angle shows a color tone, which at least in a first partial area produces a complementary contrast to the color tones of the ink layer.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the application of the ink layer and the application of the effect layer are in each case partial operations in one joint printing operation.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the application of the ink layer is effected by offset printing or indirect relief printing and the application of the effect layer by flexographic printing.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, including the step of applying a further surrounding ink layer, preferably by offset printing or indirect relief printing method in a super-simultaneous printing apparatus.

19. A security element for a data carrier substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 1 to 3, or Figure 4, or Figure 5, or Figure 6, or Figure 7 of the accompanying drawings.

20. A method for manufacturing a security element substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 1 to 3, or Figure 4, or Figure 5, or Figure 6, or Figure 7 of the accompanying drawings.