EP3655254B1 - Security element with optically variable embossed structure - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a security element with an optically variable embossed structure, an object with the security element and a method for producing the security element.

Security elements are known from the prior art to protect against counterfeiting in order to protect documents of value, such as banknotes, securities, credit or ID cards, passports, certificates, etc., labels, packaging from forgery. In the case of open security elements, protection against counterfeiting is based on the fact that there is an optical effect that is easily and clearly recognizable visually, which would not be reproduced or would only be reproduced insufficiently with conventional reproduction devices, such as color copiers.

From the WO 2013/045055 A1 a security element of the type mentioned is known, which has an embossed structure of longitudinally extending grooves, the roof surfaces of which have flared partial surfaces. The sub-areas are arranged geometrically in such a way that the motif can only be recognized from a given viewing angle. When the security element is rotated and/or tilted, a motif tilting effect occurs—the motif appears or disappears for the viewer.

Optically variable colors are used to create a printed motif with a color shift effect. Depending on the viewing angle, the hue in which the motif is visible to the viewer changes.

From the WO 2013/045054 A1 a security element is known in which honeycomb-shaped cells are arranged in a grid-like manner, which have facets with differently inclined surfaces as a result of embossing. The facets have a reflective coating, and the different surface inclinations in the 2D pattern of the honeycomb structure are distributed in such a way that a motif is also only visible in a predetermined viewing area when the security element is rotated and/or tilted.

In DE 100 44 465 A1 the embossing structure is designed differently in sub-areas in which there is a uniform print that a motif tilting effect or a movement effect is created.

the WO 2016/020066 A2 proposes a security element that also has a plurality of cells arranged in a 2D pattern. The cells are each hemispherical, so that each cell acts as a convex mirror. Line-shaped pressure elements are arranged over this 2D pattern of convex mirrors, which extend over a large number of convex mirrors. The position of the lines on the convex mirrors varies along the 2D pattern, so that overall an image or motif is created that has a movement effect when the security element is tilted or rotated. In one embodiment, the printing elements are selected in another sub-area in such a way that a motif tilting effect is created.

Such differently optically variable effects are particularly noticeable to an observer and are therefore particularly suitable as an authenticity feature.

It is known to provide motifs which react differently depending on the viewing angle on a document of value, for example with the aid of a plurality of security elements.

DE 10 2007 035 161 A1 relates to a security element with a first embossed structure made of embossed elements, which is combined with a coating in such a way that partial areas of the coating are visible when viewed from a first viewing angle range and are covered from a second viewing angle range. A first tilting effect occurs when the security element is tilted. A second embossing structure disposed within the first embossing structure creates a second tilting effect. If the pattern of coating and embossing is not the same but similar, a beating can occur.

DE 10 2007 035161 A1 shows the preamble of claim 1.

The invention is based on the object of developing a security element of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that the variable optical effect is more striking and thus protection against counterfeiting is further increased, with production in particular still being possible in a cost-optimized manner.

The invention is defined in the independent claims. Developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

The security element has an optically variable embossed structure which has a large number of cells which are arranged in a pattern. The cells have a surface that is not aligned parallel to the base plane of the security element. At least one group of surface elements is provided in the embossed structure. Each group of surface elements presents its own motif, which is visible in its own viewing angle range. The embossed structure thus provides a motif tilting effect. Depending on the viewing angle, the motif is visible or not visible to the viewer. The embossed structure is also provided with a coating that includes at least one imprint in the form of a grid with grid elements, in particular lines, dots or symbols. The imprint forms a second motif recognizable to the viewer. The coating and the embossed structure are in particular combined in such a way that each cell is covered—at least partially—by at least one grid element, such as a line of the line grid. The position of the grid element, such as line, point, or symbol, on the cell, the orientation of the grid element, such as line or symbol, on the cell, or the shape of the grid element, such as line, point, or symbol, on the cell, or several of these three parameters vary depending on the location over the extent of the embossed structure in such a way that the tilting effect of the first motif is supplemented by a movement effect. This movement effect may be a linear motion effect, but is preferably a pumping or a rotating effect.

The cells of the embossed structure preferably have a uniform shape (or outer contour), ie in particular contour and size. The cells of the embossed structure differ from one another in the orientation of the surface elements and/or the presence of the surface elements.

The movement effect and the motif tilting effect each have a color contrast of the chromatic-chromatic, chromatic-achromatic or achromatic-achromatic type. In a preferred embodiment, the color contrast type of the movement effect differs from the color contrast type of the tilting effect. The color contrast in the movement effect and/or in the motif tilting effect is selected in such a way that the viewer can clearly perceive the effect. A light-to-dark contrast for a chromatic or achromatic color is preferably used. Complementary colors can also be used for a colorful-colorful color contrast. The motif tilting effect of the motley-motley or achromatic-achromatic type is particularly preferred. A light or dark motif appears instead of a darker or lighter background - with unchanged color - if the surface elements reflect or shade, for example. The movement effect is then preferably of the chromatic-achromatic color contrast type. This type of contrast can be achieved in particular by an imprint in chromatic colors and an achromatic, in particular metallically reflecting, base area. Alternatively, the motif tilting effect is of the chromatic-achromatic type. The color contrast of the tilting effect is given by the (chromatic or achromatic) color of the recognizable (presented) motif in contrast to the (chromatic or achromatic) color without a motif. The color contrast of the movement effect is given by the (chromatic or achromatic) color of the moving motif in contrast to the stationary background color (chromatic or achromatic). As usual, white, black and all gray tones, including gray tones with a metallic appearance, are referred to as achromatic.

A printed grid is arranged above the embossed structure, which is designed in particular in such a way that each cell is covered (partially or completely) by at least one grid element, such as a line, point or symbol. By varying the position of the grid element on the cell, the orientation of the grid element on the cell and the shape of the grid element over the extent of the embossed structure in a location-dependent manner, the grid produces a movement effect when the security element is tilted. The tilting effect, which is produced by the embossed structure, is thus complemented by the movement effect.

In configurations, a further group of surface elements can be provided, which presents a third motif with a motif tilting effect in such a way that a motif change from the first motif to the third motif occurs. Each motif is visible in its own viewing angle range, since the groups of partial areas of the optically variable embossed structure are only effective in a specific viewing angle range. The motif displayed changes when the security element is tilted. This is called subject switching. The first motif and the third motif can be arranged at a distance from one another, adjoining one another or at least partially overlapping, in particular overlapping to an area proportion of 20% to 100% of the smaller of the two motifs. The surface elements of the two groups are preferably aligned along a common preferred direction.

The tilting effect can be achieved, for example, by shading, covering or reflection. The surface elements modulate in their assigned viewing angle range the incoming light so that the subject of their group becomes visible. Thus, the non-parallel aligned surface of the cells can shade or cover the non-effective group of sub-areas--in the viewing angle range assigned to one group. The surface elements are preferably aligned with one another in such a way that the surface elements of at least two groups are each visible from viewing angle ranges that are separate from one another. In this way, each group is only visible in the angular range assigned to it. If you tilt the security element, a previously effective surface element group is covered and another group becomes visible and thus its motif.

The cells can be designed as continuous channels lying next to one another, with a large number of surface elements lying on their flanks. The surface elements of one of the groups are located on one of the flanks of the channels. Tilting the security element transversely to the longitudinal direction of the channels creates the motif tilting effect. The surface elements of an optional other group on the opposite side, so that the motif change is realized when the security element is tilted transversely to the longitudinal direction of the grooves. In particular, the cells can comprise elongated ridge lines with roof surfaces, the partial surfaces being arranged on the roof surfaces. The surface elements of one group then lie on a roof surface. The surface elements of the other optional group on the opposite roof surface. The sub-areas can essentially be the inverse of the geometry of that flank of the gutter or roof area on which they lie. Inversely means that the geometry of the partial surface corresponds to the mirrored geometry of the flank of the gutter or roof surface, with a mirror plane perpendicular to the surface of the security element in the middle of the flank (e.g. roof surface) and parallel to the baseline of the Flank are aligned. The mirroring corresponds to a rotation of 180° about an axis that is perpendicular to the surface of the security element. With simultaneous, symmetrical flanks of the gutters, for example with an equilateral pyramid shape or an equilateral prism, as is the case with roof surfaces, the geometry of the sub-surfaces corresponds to the geometry of the roof surfaces on the opposite flank. In this context, almost inverse means that the vertical edge of the partial surfaces resulting from the reflection cannot in reality be aligned completely vertically for technical reasons. Rather, this flank preferably has an angle of between 60 and 90° to the plane of the security element. This is due to the fact that the depressions in an embossing plate, which produce embossed structures of the security element, generally cannot be produced with an exactly vertical flank.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the groups is provided in an outline form that encodes a first piece of information that is optically recognizable to the viewer only in a first viewing angle range. This first piece of information is not visible when the security element is viewed perpendicularly. The first group of surface elements thus generates additional information in addition to the outline that the embossed structure can have, which of course can encode other information. The first piece of information is only visible in the assigned viewing angle of the surface elements of the first group; it remains hidden at other viewing angles and in particular when viewed directly from above.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the second group has a different outline, so that second information is encoded from the viewing direction assigned to the second group. The geometry of the surface elements of the second group corresponds in embodiments on the principle of the geometry of the surface elements of the first group, ie they are in turn designed almost inversely to the geometry of the opposite flank.

In these embodiments, the cells are formed by sections of the embossed structure in which the respective surface elements are provided. The surface elements are preferably arranged in a two-dimensional grid, with not all grid positions having to be filled. Rather, in embodiments, they act as pixels which, depending on the motif to be generated, are or are not covered with surface elements that change the contrast.

However, the embossed structure is not restricted to the sub-areas being formed on a basic structure running over the cells, for example on channels or ridge lines. Rather, it is also possible to design the cells individually with regard to their surface inclination in such a way that the illumination is reflected in a specific way in a specific viewing angle range, so that the viewer sees a tilting effect for the information. Each cell in this context acts as a pixel that is light or dark depending on the cell's surface tilt at a particular viewing angle. This will display the information. The information can be seen in a specific viewing angle range, where it optionally changes when the viewing angle varies within the specific viewing angle range, ie when the security element is tilted accordingly. The information that changes as a result of the tilting can include motifs, images, logos, etc. Due to the tilting effect, the security element presents at least two different items of information that can be recognized in different viewing angle ranges. If there are two pieces of information, there is a first piece of information seen in a first viewing angle range and second information in a second viewing angle range. Each piece of information is assigned to a group. This is understood as a group of cells that together form the pixels that represent the respective information. The cells of the group typically have the same value for one of several surface orientation parameters, such as the same direction of the line of descent. The groups then differ in this parameter; the distinguishing parameter, in that they differ (and for their part have a constant value), causes the separation of the range of viewing angles for the two pieces of information. In the example of the viewing angle ranges in the azimuth angle with which one looks at the security element. In embodiments, variation of another surface orientation parameter, e.g. B. an angle of inclination, the tilting effect within a group, ie the change in the information displayed.

Motifs or images—preferably at least two—can be represented in the security element by the tilting effect by providing a corresponding number of groups of cells. They differ by a surface orientation parameter, e.g. B. Angle of inclination (local trend or constant for the entire surface), surface elevation difference or direction of the line of fall. This one parameter is preferably constant within each group (but unlike in the other groups). In this way, the information encoded by the groups is separated from each other. In embodiments, a different parameter may be varied within each group to impart the tipping effect. For example, it is possible to distinguish the groups from each other by the direction of the fall line. The viewing angle areas are then differentiated by the rotational position of the security element in a plane that is spanned by the security element. The information is recognizable at different azimuth angles. Within each group z. B. the surface inclination of the surface elements can be varied, so that when changing the elevation angle of viewing, the corresponding information, which is encoded by the group to the appropriate azimuth angle, changes according to the tilting effect.

The cells divide the two-dimensional ground plane of the security element according to a 2D pattern. Regular cells are preferred, but this is not the only possibility. Honeycomb-shaped cells are known. Equally possible are triangular or square cells. There is no restriction to point-symmetrical cells. Pentagonal cells or rectangular cells are also possible.

Likewise, it is possible that the cells are slightly spaced apart. A distance is considered insignificant if it is smaller than the minimum lateral dimensions of the cells. Spaced cells have short sections in the unembossed substrate between the cells. The base area of a cell is understood to mean the area that results from a vertical plan view of the base plane of the security element, for example the plane of a substrate into which the embossed structure is embossed. It is irrelevant for the surface elements whether they are designed as raised structures or as recessed structures. In the case of recessed structures, they do not protrude, but form indentations. Mixed forms are possible.

The security element contains at least two groups of cells that differ in terms of the surface structure of their surface elements. The term is used for flat facets on the angle of inclination and also related to the direction of the surface slope. However, it is not limited to a flat inclined surface, but also includes angled and non-linear, ie curved surfaces. The surface orientation is characterized, for example, by the difference in surface height, ie the difference in height between the highest point and the lowest point, or by the course or position of the fall line. In the case of planar facets, this information can be expressed by the azimuth angle, ie the angle information for the line of fall, and the inclination angle, ie the (possibly mean) gradient of the inclined surface. The basic height, ie the distance to a reference plane, is not relevant per se for the optical effect of the surface elements. Rather, it depends on relative heights. Depending on the tool production and stamping process, you can choose them freely.

Within the scope of the present description, "the line screen" is often referred to for the sake of simplicity. It goes without saying that this should not rule out the coating having more than one line grid or having a grid with other grid elements. The statements made then apply to at least one, but typically even to all line screens of the coating or to other screen elements. In particular, in the case of several line grids, the coating and the embossed structure are combined in such a way that in the area covered with the line grid, essentially every cell is covered with a line for at least one line grid, but preferably for all line grids. In exactly the same way, at least one of the parameters mentioned varies over the extent of the optically variable structure, depending on the location, such that the additional movement effect is produced by at least one, but preferably all of the line grids when the security element is tilted. The same also applies to the configurations described below with at least one further line grid below the background layer or with a second coating with at least one printed line grid. Here, too, "the" line grid is used for short, even if several or all line grids are meant. The line grid can be printed onto the contrasting background layer, which in this case is preferably applied over the entire area in the area of the optically variable structure. Alternatively, the line grid can be printed on first and the contrasting background layer can then be applied with corresponding gaps, or the line grid can be uncovered after the contrasting background layer has been applied by removing it in some areas, thereby revealing the line grid. The background layer and the line screen can also be applied end-to-end next to one another. In all cases, the background layer provides a visual backdrop to the motion effect created by the line screen. The contrasting background layer is advantageously formed by a highly reflective background layer/in particular by a shiny silver, gold or copper-colored foil or a metallic-looking printed layer, for example a silver, gold-colored or copper-colored printed layer, but there are also metallized, in particular metallic vaporized foil strips or patches as a background layer. Aluminum in particular can be used as the metallic coating material. Optionally, the printed layer with a metallic effect and the vapor-deposited metal layer can be provided on an adhesion-promoting layer, for example a glossy adhesion-promoting layer (primer) applied by screen printing. The silver, gold or copper-colored print layer can be applied in particular by screen printing or flexographic printing or as an offset ink. Likewise, the metal layer can be transferred by means of a (cold or hot) transfer process, in particular together with (or without) a carrier layer that is also transferred, such as a carrier film, or can be laminated on with a carrier film.

The effects described are particularly visible when a reflective background layer with a high reflectance or gloss value is used. Due to the highly reflective background layer, each cell acts as a small mirror with a structured surface. In other, likewise advantageous configurations, the contrasting background layer is replaced by a colored, in particular monochromatic (e.g. white) background layer, a glossy background layer, such as a glossy adhesion-promoting layer applied by screen printing with or without pigment(s) or filler(s), or the opaque or glossy surface of the substrate of the security element itself. If the contrasting background layer is not a highly reflective layer, the line screen is advantageously printed with a high areal density.

The substrate can be opaque or also transparent or at least translucent in the area of the embossed structure. If the substrate is transparent or translucent there, the optically variable structure can be viewed from both the front and the back. The security element then advantageously has a two-sided design in which a movement effect becomes visible when viewed from opposite sides. This can be the same movement effect, possibly with a different colored appearance, but also different types of movement effects.

A transparent or translucent area in the substrate can be formed, for example, by a transparent polymer area in an otherwise opaque polymer substrate, by a hybrid substrate with a transparent hybrid window, by a transparent polymer substrate with partial opaque ink-accepting layers, or by a continuous opening in any substrate, in particular one paper substrate, which is covered with a transparent, printable foil strip or patch.

If the substrate is transparent or translucent at least in the region of the optically variable embossed structure, then in an advantageous embodiment the coating comprises the line grid already mentioned as the first line grid, which in this embodiment is arranged on the background layer. On the other hand, the coating comprises at least one further grid of lines which is arranged below the background layer and contrasts with the background layer. At least one line segment of a line of the further line grid lies essentially on each embossing element, and for the further line grid at least one of the parameters 'position of the line segment on the cell, orientation of the line segment on the cell' and 'shape of the line segment' varies over the extent of the optically variable structure is location-dependent, so that the movement effect, in particular a pumping or rotation effect, is produced by the additional line grid when the security element is tilted.

In this configuration, the line screens arranged on the background layer and the line screens arranged below the background layer use the same embossed structure and the same background layer. The background layer is advantageously opaque, in particular designed to be highly reflective, and contains no gaps, at least in the areas of the line grid applied, in order to avoid crosstalk of the information visible on opposite sides.

The cells are preferably arranged in a square lattice, rectangular lattice, diamond lattice, hexagonal lattice or parallelogram lattice. The grid width or grid widths Wp of the cell grid result from the Distance ap between centers of adjacent cells. The cell size dp is advantageously between 50 μm and 1000 μm, in particular between 200 μm and 500 μm. The cell size and thus also the grid width Wp can be constant or location-dependent. Grids with the symmetry of a square, rectangular or hexagonal grid and with a constant grid width W _P , ie a constant cell size, are particularly preferred. A location-dependent screen ruling can arise in particular through a juxtaposition of sub-frames with different screen rulings that are constant within a sub-frame. For example, sub-grids of rotationally symmetrical cells can alternate with sub-grids of elongated cells, which advantageously have different grid widths simply because of the different shape of the cells. In particular, the partial grids of elongated cells can also be only one-dimensional in each case, ie consist of n×1 elements arranged parallel to one another. In advantageous configurations, the partial grids of elongated cells can also be in the form of a pattern, of characters or of a code.

The line screen of the coating advantageously contains a large number of non-intersecting and preferably almost, but not completely, parallel lines. Optionally, the lines have a spacing that is largely, but not completely, constant along the length of the lines. Since the lines are then not completely parallel, the line grid does not have an exact grid width, but an average grid width WL of the line grid can be specified by averaging the distance between adjacent lines over the longitudinal extent of the lines and the lines present in the line grid. The statement that the lines have a largely constant distance then means that the distance between two adjacent lines along more than 90% of the longitudinal extension of the two lines by less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, from the mean distance between the two lines.

The line grid and the cell grid are preferably matched to one another in such a way that the grid width Wp of the cell grid in a direction perpendicular to or at 60° to the line grid is essentially equal to the mean grid width W _L of the line grid. In this way it can be ensured that the line segments of the lines of the line grid come to rest essentially completely on the cells of the cell grid.

mit einer ganzen Zahl k ≠ 0 und einem Offsetwinkel α gegeben, wobei mod(x,y) die Modulofunktion und arg(z) das Argument einer komplexen Zahl darstellt. Das Linienraster erzeugt dann bei der Betrachtung den visuellen Eindruck einer sich beim Kippen um den Bezugspunkt drehenden Windmühlen-Struktur mit | k | Flügeln, wobei das Vorzeichen von k den Drehsinn der Flügel beim Kippen beschreibt.The position of a line segment on a cell is advantageously given by a phase function Φ(x,y) which depends on the position (x,y) of the cell in the optically variable structure and whose function value is the relative position of the line segment on the cell perpendicular to the length extent of the line segment, normalized to the unit interval [0,1]. The phase function Φ(x,y) varies depending on the location in such a way that the movement effect, in particular a pumping or rotation effect, occurs when the security element is tilted. In an advantageous embodiment, the phase function Φ(x,y) depends directly, in particular linearly, on the angle between the position (x,y) of the cell and a fixed reference point (x ₀ , y ₀ ) in the optically variable structure, so that when the security element is tilted, a rotation effect occurs around the reference point (xo, yo). In this case, the phase function is preferably through $$\mathrm{\Phi }\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{model}(\left(\mathrm{a}+\mathrm{k}*\mathrm{bad}\left(\left(\mathrm{x}-{\mathrm{x}}_0\right)+\mathrm{i}\left(\mathrm{y}-{\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="0"\; label="y"\; filenames="imgf0010.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">y</figure-callout>}}_0\right)\right)/\left(2\mathrm{\pi }\right),1\right)$$

with an integer k ≠ 0 and an offset angle α, where mod(x,y) is the modulo function and arg(z) is the argument of a complex number. The grid of lines then creates the visual one when viewed Impression of a windmill structure rotating around the reference point when tilted with | k | wings, where the sign of k describes the direction of rotation of the wings when tilting.

As mentioned, the invention is not limited to designs with a single line grid, rather the coating can advantageously also comprise two or more line grids, the parameters 'position of the line on the cell', 'orientation of the line on the cell' and 'shape of the line for the lines of each line grid vary independently.

Several line grids can produce different movement effects or the same movement effects in the same or different, in particular opposite, directions. The lines of different line grids are advantageously applied with different colors in order to visually distinguish the movement effects of the two line grids from one another. In principle, however, the lines of a line grid can already have locally different colors in order to generate differently colored areas of the movement effect.

If each line grid is assigned a preferred direction defined by the line direction, the preferred directions of two or more line grids then advantageously enclose an angle of approximately 60° or approximately 90° with one another.

The coating of a security element can have a number of partial areas in which the line grids each produce different movement effects. The sub-areas can be arranged in particular in the form of patterns, characters or a code, so that additional information is created by the movement effects that differ in areas. For example, a sub-area can be in the form of a value number and show the tilting effect, while the surrounding sub-area shows a rotating effect.

In an advantageous embodiment, the line grid or grids are cut out in the partial area, so that there are no line segments on the cells in the partial area.

According to a variant, the lines can be formed in the partial area without a location-dependent variation and run exactly parallel to one another at a certain distance. When the security element is tilted, the line grid can only be seen in the partial area from a specific viewing direction if the embossed structure is channel-shaped and the lines lie on a flank.

In an alternative embodiment, with a coating that comprises two or more line screens applied with different colors, only line segments of one color can be present on the embossed elements in the subarea, while the lines of the line screens applied in other colors are left blank in the subarea. Correspondingly, when the security element is tilted, the partial area only appears in the color of the non-recessed grid of lines, while the visual impression of the rest of the security element varies depending on the viewing direction.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the line segments in the partial area can be overprinted with a highly opaque color.

In a further configuration, the embossed structure can alternatively be recessed in the partial area, so that the line segments of the line grid no cells are assigned in the partition. When the security element is tilted, the visual impression of the partial area does not change due to the lack of spatial depth and the resulting lack of dependence on the viewing direction.

The line widths of the printed line screens are advantageously less than 0.5 times the screen width _WP of the cell screen. They are preferably in the range from 25 μm to 500 μm, preferably in the range from 25 μm to 250 μm and particularly preferably in the range from 25 μm to 150 μm. The lines can have a constant line width or the line width can change along the length of the lines, in particular increase or decrease or be modulated on one or two sides. The lines of the printed line grid can be shown both as positive (printed) and as negative (left out in the printed image) lines. In the case of positive lines, the specified line widths refer to the widths of the areas actually printed or covered with ink, or in the case of negative lines to the widths of left-out linear gaps without ink.

The (line or dot) screen can be applied, for example, using letterpress or gravure printing, offset, nyloprint, flexo, digital, inkjet or screen printing, with both oxidatively and UV-drying inks being usable.

In an advantageous embodiment, the color of the printed line grid or, if two or more line grids applied with different colors are provided, at least the color of one of the line grids has luminescent, in particular fluorescent, properties.

In configurations in which the contrasting background layer is omitted over a large area, the color of the printed line grid or, if two or more line grids applied with different colors are provided, at least the color of one of the line grids can consist of a color mixture that contains at least one laser-absorbing mixture component . Such a color in the recess can be changed in a targeted manner by applying a laser. The basic principle of such a procedure is in the WO 2016/020066 or EN102013000152 explained, the disclosure of which is included in the present description.

The shape of the cells can be varied locally. For example, it is possible to go from cells whose surface elements are lined up in a 2D pattern in such a way that they cover the surface of the embossed structure to cells that are arranged as surface elements on an elongated groove structure. It is also possible to move from cells that essentially have a rotationally symmetrical shape (i.e. cells that are either rotationally symmetrical or whose corners lie on a circle) to elongated cells, i.e. cells whose longitudinal dimension is significantly larger than their transverse dimension, in particular at least 2 or 3 times as big. In particular, it is possible to realize a transition from regular, essentially rotationally symmetrical cells to adjacent grooves extending along one direction by providing a transition section between the cells, which are essentially rotationally symmetrical, and the cells that are formed on a groove structure which causes a shape transition in the shape of the cells.

In embodiments, the imprint can be embodied in bright colors at least in certain areas, so that the movement effect and the tilting effect each have a color contrast of the motley-motley, motley-achromatic or achromatic-achromatic type. In particular, the color contrast types of motion effect and tilting effect can differ. Furthermore, it is possible in embodiments that the imprint in the partial area and the remaining areas of the embossed structure comprises different chromatic colors.

For its production, the security element requires the corresponding means for producing the embossed structure. It can therefore not be imitated using comparatively simple techniques such as those available to counterfeiters. On the one hand, you have to produce embossing plates with exact and comparatively strong indentations. On the other hand, the substrate to be embossed must be embossed with high mechanical pressure without damaging it with cuts or cuts. The embossed structures are preferably produced by means of the intaglio printing process, which is known from banknote printing and cannot be imitated by counterfeiters, or only with considerable technical effort. Alternatively, embossing can be produced using intaglio printing, flat printing, flat/round principle, round/round principle, flat/flat principle. Embossing machines suitable for the embossing can be provided separately, or the embossing can also take place in a lacquer or offset unit.

Particularly preferably, the embossed structures on the flanks smoothly merge into one another, ie flank angles of more than 70° should be avoided as far as possible so that the substrate cannot be damaged, such as the cuts or cuts mentioned in the case of a paper substrate. In particular, the steepness of the embossed structures or their flanks influences the tearing behavior of the substrate. In the case of linear, for example prism-shaped, embossed structures, the embossed structures are particularly preferably slight arranged rotated to the axis of the embossing cylinder, preferably by about 5 °, so that they do not run parallel to the axis of the embossing cylinder.

The engraving depth of the structures in an embossing plate for producing the embossed structures according to the invention is 5 μm to 500 μm, preferably 30 μm to 150 μm and particularly preferably 50 μm to 130 μm. The height of the raised embossed structures that can be produced with such an embossing plate depends on the substrate into which the embossed structures are embossed. In the case of a cotton substrate, for example, the height of the embossed structures can be approximately 90% of the engraving depth and in the case of a plastic substrate, for example, only 30%. In the case of pyramid-like embossed structures, the length of a pyramid edge is 20 μm to 4000 μm, preferably 100 μm to 1000 μm and particularly preferably 120 μm to 600 μm. The distance between individual embossed structures is 0 μm to 600 μm, preferably 0 μm to 300 μm and particularly preferably 2 μm to 100 μm.

Instead of raised embossed elements, recessed embossed elements are of course also possible. In this case, the embossed elements do not protrude out of the plane of the substrate surface, but rather form indentations in the substrate surface, the embossed elements thus protrude into the substrate. In this case, however, a corresponding embossing plate—especially in intaglio printing or intaglio printing—cannot have elevations compared to the level of the embossing plate, since this would impair the wiping process, for example by means of a squeegee. Rather, in this case, the elevations must be introduced in a recessed or sunken area of the embossing plate in such a way that the elevations do not protrude above the level of the embossing plate.

The depressions in an embossing plate to produce the embossed structures are preferably removed with a laser from the embossing plate to a higher aspect ratio of depth t to width b of the steep flanks t/b of 1.5 to approx. 12, ie a flank angle of 48° to 85°, a greater variety of geometries and sharper, more detailed and clearly defined information content. As a result, the embossing is mechanically more stable and the information content on the sides is clearly separated from one another.

The embossing and the printing of the substrate are particularly preferably carried out in one operation, for example by using an ink-carrying intaglio printing process. In this case, the depressions of an intaglio printing plate are at least partially filled with one or more different colors, so that when the printing material is printed, the printing material is not only deformed or embossed, but also has ink applied to it.

The substrate preferably comprises paper and/or a film, in particular a translucent film. The substrate, in particular the translucent film, is preferably already provided with a reflective layer. In the simplest case, the substrate consists entirely of either paper or plastic. However, the substrate can also consist of different materials in certain areas, and in particular consist of paper in one area and at the same time of plastic in another area, preferably of a translucent film. This makes it possible to emboss different materials as a substrate in one operation. A translucent film is understood here to mean either a transparent or a semi-transparent film, for example a translucent film which contains, for example, polyamide, polyester, polyethylene or biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP).

According to a preferred embodiment, the embossed elements are incorporated into a translucent film. This translucent film can, for example, at least partially cover an opening in an opaque document of value. According to a preferred embodiment, at least some of the non-linear embossed elements are designed to be tactilely detectable, so that the viewer can not only recognize them visually, but can also feel them, for example, with the fingertips.

The embossed structure is advantageously provided with a transparent cover layer, for example a coating or filling, which levels the cells and thus, in particular, prevents the optically variable structure from being moldable. The transparent cover layer forms a planar surface or a more planar surface than the embossed structure.

In particular, carrier materials made of cotton fibers, wood fibers (paper, cardboard) or polymers come into consideration as the substrate of the security element. The substrate can be multi-layered. In particular, it can consist of only one material, for example several paper layers, cardboard layers or polymer layers, or have a hybrid structure made of different materials, such as polymer film and paper or cardboard layer layer. The security element can be part of a data carrier providing the substrate, so that the substrate of the security element represents part of the substrate of the data carrier. The security element can also be applied with its substrate to a data carrier or incorporated into a data carrier, so that the security element and the data carrier each have their own separate substrate.

The invention also includes a data carrier with a security element of the type described, the security element in advantageous configurations is arranged in or above a window area or a continuous opening of the data carrier. Such an arrangement is particularly advantageous in two-sided designs where one of the motion effects is visible in direct plan and the other is visible when viewed through the window area or through opening. The data carrier can in particular be a document of value, such as a banknote, in particular a paper banknote, a polymer banknote or a foil composite banknote, a share, a bond, a certificate, a voucher, a check, a high-quality admission ticket, but also an ID card , such as a credit card, bank card, cash card, authorization card, ID card, or passport personalization page.

In an advantageous embodiment, the data carrier or the product or packaging has a film element that is secured by the security element, in that the security element extends over at least a partial area of the film element and at least one area of the data carrier adjoining the film element. A possible manipulation or even removal of the film element is then immediately noticeable because of the overlapping security element. The foil element can be formed in particular by a security strip, a security thread or a patch.

In one embodiment of the invention, a document of value—for example a bank note, an identity document, a check, an electronically readable card—is provided with a security element of the type mentioned. The security element can be applied with its embossed structure to the corresponding object or formed in the object itself, ie in particular an embossed structure in the substrate of the object. In configurations, a product or product packaging is equipped with the security element for product protection or as protection against product counterfeiting.

In one embodiment of the invention, a document of value, for example a bank note, an identification document, a check, an electronically readable card, a product or product packaging is provided with a security element of the type mentioned. In other configurations, a product is equipped with the security element to protect against counterfeiting. The security element can be applied with its embossed structure to the corresponding object or formed in the object itself, ie in particular an embossed structure in the substrate of the object. In configurations, a product or product packaging is equipped with the security element for product protection or as protection against product counterfeiting. In particular, provision is made for the security element to be formed directly on an object, for example a housing or a structural element of an object, in that the embossing and coating takes place directly on the structural element of the object. It is equally possible to form the security element on product packaging or a product label. In this way, the authenticity of a product can be made recognizable to the buyer.

Fig. 1

eine Draufsicht auf eine Banknote mit einem Sicherheitselement,

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung der Struktur des Sicherheitselementes der Figur 1,

Fig. 3a-b

Darstellungen von Zellen des Sicherheitselementes der Figur 1 in verschiedenen Ansichten,

Fig. 4

eine Draufsicht auf ein Sicherheitselement gemäß Figur 1 mit einem Bereich, der zwei Informationen kodiert,

Fig. 5

eine Darstellung ähnlich der Figur 4, wobei die zwei Informationen vor einem Hintergrund angeordnet sind,

Fig. 6

eine Ausgestaltung einer Prägestruktur für plastisch erscheinende Informationen,

Fig. 7

eine Darstellung ähnlich der Figur 5 für die Erläuterung der Plastizität der Informationen,

Fig. 8a-b

eine prismenförmige Prägestruktur im Querschnitt mit einer (Figur 8a) oder zwei (Figur 8b) Flächenelementen,

Fig. 9

eine Anordnung von unterschiedlichen Prägestrukturen in einem Sicherheitselement,

Fig. 10a-b

zwei verschiedene Möglichkeiten, Flächenelemente in die Flanke einer prismenförmigen Prägestruktur einzubringen,

Fig. 11

eine vorteilhafte Ausführungsform der Prägestruktur der Figur 10b,

Fig. 12

ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Prägestruktur in Form einer Pyramide,

Fig. 13

eine Draufsicht auf ein Sicherheitselement mit verschiedenen Zellen einer Prägestruktur, die zwei Informationen kodiert,

Fig. 14

eine Darstellung ähnlich der Figur 13 für eine andere Ausführungsform,

Fig. 15

eine Darstellung ähnlich der Figur 13 zur Verdeutlichung der Anordnung eines Linienrasters in einem Aufdruck,

Fig. 16

eine Ausschnittvergrößerung der Figur 15 zur Verdeutlichung des Linienrasters und relevanter Größen, die das Linienraster beschreiben,

Fig. 17a-c

verschiedene Positionen in der Linie des Linienrasters auf den Zellen,

Fig. 18

eine weitere Darstellung eines Linienrasters auf einer Prägestruktur,

Fig. 19-21

Darstelllungen ähnlich der Figur 16 für andersartig ausgestaltete Linienraster bzw. Prägestrukturen,

Fig. 23

das Zusammenwirken eines Kippeffektes der Prägestrukturen und eines Bewegungseffektes des Linienrasters,

Fig. 24a-b

Darstellungen zur Lage des Linienrasters auf den Prägestrukturen,

Fig. 25

eine weitere Veranschaulichung der Lage unterschiedlicher Linienraster auf den Prägestrukturen,

Fig. 26

eine Darstellung zur Veranschaulichung strukturierter Linienraster auf den Prägestrukturen und

Fig. 27

eine Erläuterung zum Übergang zwischen verschieden geometrisch gestalteten Prägestrukturen.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, which can also reveal features that are essential to the invention. These embodiments are provided for illustration only and are not to be construed as limiting. For example, is a description of an embodiment having a variety of elements or components not to be construed as implying that all such elements or components are necessary for implementation. Rather, other embodiments may include alternative elements or components, fewer elements or components, or additional elements or components. Elements or components of different exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another unless otherwise stated. Modifications and variations described for one of the embodiments can also be applied to other embodiments. To avoid repetition, the same or functionally or structurally equivalent elements in different figures are denoted by the same reference symbols and are not explained more than once. In the figures show:

1

a top view of a banknote with a security element,

2

a schematic representation of the structure of the security element figure 1 ,

Fig. 3a-b

Representations of cells of the security element figure 1 in different views,

4

a plan view of a security element according to FIG figure 1 with an area that encodes two pieces of information,

figure 5

a representation similar to that figure 4 , where the two pieces of information are placed against a background,

6

a configuration of an embossed structure for plastic-appearing information,

7

a representation similar to that figure 5 for explaining the plasticity of the information,

Fig. 8a-b

a prismatic embossed structure in cross-section with a ( Figure 8a ) or two ( Figure 8b ) surface elements,

9

an arrangement of different embossed structures in a security element,

Fig. 10a-b

two different ways of introducing surface elements into the flank of a prism-shaped embossed structure,

11

an advantageous embodiment of the embossed structure Figure 10b ,

12

an embodiment of an embossed structure in the form of a pyramid,

13

a top view of a security element with different cells of an embossing structure that encodes two pieces of information,

14

a representation similar to that figure 13 for another embodiment,

15

a representation similar to that figure 13 to clarify the arrangement of a line grid in an overprint,

16

an enlargement of the figure 15 to clarify the line grid and relevant variables that describe the line grid,

Fig. 17a-c

different positions in the line of the line grid on the cells,

18

another representation of a line grid on an embossed structure,

19-21

representations similar to that figure 16 for differently designed line grids or embossed structures,

23

the interaction of a tilting effect of the embossed structures and a movement effect of the line grid,

Fig. 24a-b

Representations of the position of the line grid on the embossed structures,

25

a further illustration of the position of different line grids on the embossed structures,

26

a representation to illustrate structured line grids on the embossing structures and

27

an explanation of the transition between differently geometrically designed embossing structures.

figure 1 shows a bank note B, which has a security element S. The security element S can also be formed at other points on the bank note. It can also be formed on a product, ie an object, or its packaging.

The security element S has an embossed structure that is coated with a line screen. First, based on the Figures 2 to 14 described how the embossing structure can be designed. Regarding figure 15 the arrangement of the line grid on the embossed structures is described. The following then explains the description based on the Figures 16 to 22 possible configurations of the line grid, before the remaining figures deal with the interaction and the resulting combination effect of embossed structure and line grid.

figure 2 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the embossed structure of the security element S, in which a plurality of honeycomb cells 1, 2 are provided, which differ in terms of information assigned to them. Cells 1 represent first information I and cells 2 represent second information II in a manner to be explained. figure 2 shows only two of the cells provided for this purpose; in fact, the cells are arranged in a two-dimensional pattern, as will be explained later. The height of a honeycomb cell z. B. was embossed by intaglio printing in a paper substrate is between 10 microns and 2 mm, preferably between 30 microns and 0.5 mm and particularly preferably between 50 microns and 0.3 mm. Each cell has a facet tilted in a specific direction that reflects light from one direction. Depending on the information I or II, the surface of the cell is oriented in a different direction, so that the cells 1 present the information I from a first viewing direction and make it visible, the cells 2 the information II from a different direction. Of course, this approach is not limited to two pieces of information; three, four, five, etc. Information is possible. Cells that are not assigned to any of the information are referred to as background cells and have, for example, a surface that is not designed as a facet, ie are not embossed, or have a specific, uniform facet orientation.

Figure 3a 1 shows an example of the orientation of the flat facets, symbolized by arrows 3, 4. The arrows 3, 4 indicate the direction of the line of fall along which a facet is inclined. Figure 3b shows a section through cell 1 along arrow 3, Figure 3c through the cell 2 along the arrow 4. The cell 1 producing the information I has a facet 7 with an inclination angle of α1 and a depth of t1. The angle of inclination is related to the plane E of the substrate or an embossing plate surface with which the substrate is embossed. The cell 2, which generates the information II, has a facet 9 with an inclination angle of a2 and a depth of t2. The depths t1, t2 indicate the surface height difference of the facet 7, 9. In the case of planar facets, depth t (and thus the difference in surface height) and angle of inclination α are linked by extent a. The angle of inclination is decisive for the reflection properties. The depth is an important parameter for manufacturing. In the case of intaglio printing, the depth can be set between 0 and 350 μm, with a range of 10 and 120 μm being preferred. Depending on the height a of the cell, this results in an angle of inclination α between 0 and 80°, preferably between 10 and 70°. Since cells of uniform extent and with planar facets are considered below, their surface orientation can be specified by the direction of the line of dip and the angle of inclination.

The contrast of the encoded information I or II depends, among other things, on the steepness of the return edge 8, 10 from the facet 7, 9 to the surface level E. The steeper the return edge 8, 10 is and the closer it comes to an angle of 90° in relation to the plane E, the more contrasting the information I or II stands out.

Cells 1, 2 fill a desired area. The outline shape of this area can be chosen arbitrarily. figure 4 shows an embodiment with a substantially rectangular area.

The cells can have a semi-transparent or opaque reflective layer. The reflective layer is preferably a metallic or high-index layer. The reflective layer can be applied before or after the embossed structure is introduced, in particular over the entire surface. The reflective layer is preferably created by printing an ink (or a lacquer) with metallic pigments. The metallic pigments are nanoscale pigments or flat pigments, in particular with an average length in the range from 0.5 to 10 μm. The planar pigments can be rigid or so flexible that they adapt to the embossing structure. It would be less cost-effective to vapor-deposit the reflective layer (CVD, PVD). The reflective layer is particularly preferably created by means of printing processes (eg offset, screen printing), then printed in color and then embossed. Alternatively, the reflective layer is first embossed and then printed in color. In further preferred configurations, the reflective layer is applied to the film as a film application (eg as a hot or cold transfer film) or as a laminated metallic layer. It is then printed in color using a printing process and embossed (before or after printing - optional).

The cells have a minimum size of more than 10 μm, preferably more than 30 μm, in particular more than 100 μm, but have a maximum size of 1 mm. The minimum size, for example a width, a diagonal, a diameter or an edge length of a cell, is measured laterally, i.e. in relation to the ground plane. The embossing height is at most 300 μm, preferably at most 150 μm, particularly preferably at most 100 μm, and is in particular in the range from 10 to 120 μm, preferably 25 to 100 μm, particularly preferably 25 to 50 μm. The aspect ratio (height to width) is preferably 1:1.3. The area of the cells is between 100 μm ² and 1 mm ² , preferably between 900 μm ² and 250,000 μm ² , in particular between 10,000 μm ² and 250,000 μm ² , more preferably between 90,000 μm ² and 250,000 μm ² .

figure 5 shows an exemplary 2D pattern of cells 1, 2 for representing the two pieces of information I and II. The area assigned to the information II corresponds to the capital letter "B" and is occupied by cells 2. The areas that do not belong to either of the two pieces of information I and II are filled with cells for a background H. Are the cells 1, 2 corresponding to the figure 3 executed, the information I or II appears depending on the azimuth angle of the viewing.

In the figure 5 Areas not filled with cells within the sections encoding the information in I and II can be filled with cells 1 or 2, so that there is a further increase in contrast for the information. They can also be filled with background H cells for a smoother appearance. However, more than two pieces of information can also be encoded in the embossed structure. figure 5 shows that the cells 1 and 2 have a specific orientation of the facets 7, 9, which ensures that the coded information I or II changes in a tilting effect.

Furthermore, each piece of information can optionally change within a viewing angle range when tilted. This property is in figure 6 shown. In the figure, the direction of the fall line is indicated by the direction of the arrow and the angle of inclination α1 by the indication of the angle. Different cells are thus provided for the information I; They are in figure 6 denoted by reference numerals 1a and 1b. The addition of the lower-case letter designates the individual design of the cells 1 for the first information I. The same applies to the cells 2, whose fall line 4 differs from the fall line 3 of the cells 1. Varying tilt angles for the cells 2 are in figure 6 Cells 2a and 2b shown. Background H cells have a uniform dip line and angle of inclination or are unstructured. In the exemplary embodiment, the cells 1 also have a uniform direction of the line of fall, but a varied angle of inclination α1. It fluctuates between -60° and +60° degrees. As a result of this variation, the information I can be recognized in a specific viewing angle range and changes in the sense of a three-dimensional appearance when the security element S is tilted in this viewing angle range. Information II differs from information I in that the fall line has a different direction. Information I and II can each be identified if the security element is rotated appropriately about the surface normal, which is perpendicular to the security element.

figure 7 shows an example of the variation in the angle of inclination for the information I. figure 7 shows no cells for the second information II. This is only for simplified explanation.

In figure 5 the areas for information I and II are arranged next to each other. This is optional. In terms of greater security against forgery, it is preferred that the areas overlap, i.e. cells 1 and 2, as is shown in figure 4 shown are nested within each other. This means that cells 1 and cells 2 border one another several times, i.e. not just at a border between two areas, as is shown in figure 5 is the case, but that cells 1 surround cells 2 and vice versa. Such a configuration has the advantage that the information I and II appear on the same surface of the security element, depending on the azimuth angle of the viewing.

Different ones of the at least two cell types can be arranged repeatedly in the 2D pattern—in a cell type pattern. A cell type pattern preferably contains a regularly repeating arrangement of cells of two, preferably three, more preferably four different cell types.

the Figures 8a to 12 relate to an alternative embodiment of the embossed structure. the Figures 8a and 8b 12 schematically show a substrate in cross section into which a pyramidal or prismatic embossed structure 11 is embossed, the embossed structure 11 presenting different information depending on the viewing angle. In Figure 8a the information is encoded on the left flank of the embossed structure 11 by an additional surface element 12, which has a left flank 14, which is aligned almost perpendicularly to the plane of the substrate, and a right flank 13, which is parallel or almost parallel to the right flank of the embossed structure 11 is aligned. In this context, parallel or almost parallel means that the angle between the right flank 13 and the substrate is equal or almost equal to the angle between the right flank of the embossed structure 11 and the substrate. The surface element 12 is thus inverse or almost inverse to the left flank of the embossed structure 11. In Figure 8b two pieces of information are encoded by two surface elements 12 and 12 ′ on the left and the right flank of the embossed structure 11 . The planar element 12' has a right flank 14', which is aligned almost perpendicular to the plane of the substrate, and a left flank 13', which is aligned parallel or almost parallel to the left flank of the embossed structure 11. The surface element 12' is thus inverse or almost inverse to the right flank of the embossed structure 11. A tilting effect results from the reflection of the light impinging on the differently inclined flanks in different angular ranges. In addition, there is a tilting effect due to shading of the left flank of the embossed structure 11 in Figure 8a or both flanks in Figure 8b . looks into Figure 8a an observer from above looking at the embossed structure 11 or at the right flank of the embossed structure 11, he sees the embossed structure 11 without shadowing by the surface element 12, whereas when looking at the left flank he sees this with a shadowing by the surface element 12 and this with it e.g. appears darker. The same applies to the surface element 12'. looks into Figure 8b an observer looking at the embossed structure 11 from above, he sees the embossed structure 11 without shading by surface elements 12 and 12', whereas when he looks at the left or right flank he sees this with a shading by the surface elements 12 or 12' and this with it e.g. appears darker. As a result, different information can be represented by the surface element 12 than by the surface element 12′ if the surface elements 12 and 12′ are arranged suitably repeated on the substrate (cf. also Figure 10a ).

Figure 9a shows two motifs by way of example, which are created by the arrangement of different surface elements on the prism-shaped in its basic form Embossing structures are shown. In Figure 9a , which shows the security element in plan view, the different information I and II are shown in different hatchings for better illustration. The embossed structures on the security element run as grooves from left to right in the exemplary embodiment.

Figures 9b to 9e show the cross section or the end face of the embossed structure in the different areas of the Figure 9a .

Figure 9b shows the embossed structure 21 in in Figure 9a The field displayed in white does not contain any additional information, ie the field appears as a background. This field is formed by a prismatic embossed structure 21 that has no surface elements.

Figure 9c shows the embossed structure 22 in in Figure 9a field hatched from bottom left to top right, the outline of which shows first information I in the form of a star, which can only be seen in a first viewing angle range. The star is encoded by surface elements located on the right flank of the prismatic basic shape. They lead to a changed reflection behavior of the embossed structure 22. Among other things, the surface elements cast a shadow on the right flank of the prismatic basic form, whereby the embossed structure 22 appears darker within the first viewing angle range at the points with surface element than in surrounding areas. When viewing the embossed structure from above, ie in an angular range around the perpendicular to the security element, the first piece of additional information, ie the star, disappears.

Figure 9d shows the embossing structure 23 for the field hatched from top left to top right, the outline of which contains second information II in the form of a shows the heart, which can only be seen under a second viewing angle range, which is different from the first viewing angle range and/or only partially overlaps it. The heart is shaped accordingly by the embossed structure 23 Figure 9c formed, which has one or more surface elements on the left flank of the prism-shaped basic structure. It also leads to a changed reflection behavior of the embossed structure 23, among other things due to the shadowing described. When viewing the embossed structure from above, ie in an angular range around the perpendicular to the security element, the second piece of additional information, ie the heart, disappears.

Figure 9e shows the area in which the first and the second information I and II overlap. In this area, the star can be seen in the first viewing angle area and the heart can be seen in the second viewing angle area, for which purpose the embossed structure 24 according to FIG Figure 9e is formed.

Figure 10a and b show two variants in an oblique view of how the surface element 12' can be arranged on or in the flank of the prism-shaped embossed structure 11. According to Figure 10a the surface element 12' is placed on the flank of the prism-shaped embossed structure 11; according to Figure 10b the flank has a recess 15 into which the surface element 12' is introduced. The explanations based on the surface element 12' in FIGS. 10a and 10b naturally also apply equally to the surface elements on the opposite flank, ie the surface elements 12. It is particularly advantageous if according to figure 11 the angle β of the left flank of the surface element 12' and the angle β of the left flank of the basic shape are the same, ie the two flanks are aligned parallel to one another.

the Figures 10a and 10b show surface elements 12 ', which are significantly shorter than the prismatic basic shape of the embossed structure 11. This can be used to encode information pixel-like by a variety of surface elements 12 or 12'. Each cell is then formed by the longitudinal extension of the surface elements 12 or 12 ′ along the extension of the roof-like prismatic structure 11 . This represents a modification to the construction of the Figures 9a to 9b are, in which the surface elements 12 and 12 'run through over the entire longitudinal extent of the prismatic structure 21 to 24. The embossed structure is not limited to a prismatic basic shape. Rather, it is equally possible to generate the cells, which act as pixels, by using a pyramid-shaped basic shape for the embossed structure. This embodiment is in figure 12 shown, which represents a pyramidal embossed structure 16, which has a rectangular or square base. The surface element 12 is formed on a roof surface of this pyramid 16, which essentially corresponds in its function to the surface element 12 of the pyramid-shaped basic structure 11, for example the surface element of FIG Figure 10a is equivalent to. An embodiment with a recess 15 as in Figure 10b is equally possible. The planar element 12 has the same effect as the planar element 12 in the representation of FIG Figure 8a . The size of a pixel is then automatically given by the base area of the pyramid 16 . The use of pyramids has the advantage that a pyramid provides four different alignments for the surface elements on the four roof surfaces and thus four different pieces of information can be encoded.

figure 13 shows a schematic arrangement for the representation of two pieces of information, here the capital letter "E" and a cross. In a first variant, a prismatic design of the roof surfaces and surface elements is used Figures 9b to 9e deployed. This is referred to by the reference numerals figure 13 . The different cross-sectional shapes are illustrated by different hatching. The dividing lines within the area are intended to illustrate that the channel-shaped embossed structure can be arranged both vertically and horizontally. If a trough-shaped prism structure is used, only one of the two arrangements is provided. figure 13 shows two options in this respect. In another embodiment, which is also based on the figure 13 to be explained, the channel-shaped embossing structure has a multiplicity of cells, each corresponding to Figure 10a or 10b are designed. Each cell then corresponds to a box of the figure 13 , wherein the corresponding reference numbers assigned to the hatching symbolize the arrangement of the surface element on the left, the right or on both flanks of the channel-shaped embossed structure.

In an embodiment according to figure 13 there are areas in which the cells, ie the embossed structure, carries both a surface element for displaying one piece of information and a surface element for displaying the other piece of information.

Another possible embodiment for the security element according to FIG figure 13 consists in corresponding to the cells with pyramids 16 figure 14 to design. The reference symbols assigned to the cells then correspond to the section view through the pyramid Figures 9b to 9d . figure 14 refers to an embodiment in which a single cell encodes only one of two pieces of information, for example because it is provided with an inclined surface according to the design of FIG figures 2 or because there is no need to provide two different surface elements 12 and 12' at the same time. In the overlap area, the information is therefore, as for this case in figure 5 also indicated, achieved by an interleaving of the cells associated with the different information. figure 14 uses the reference numerals 1 and 2 as an example in this regard to refer to the different cells according to FIG figure 2 to point out; this is purely an example.

The design of the embossed structure was explained above in various exemplary embodiments. The interaction with a coating arranged on the embossed structure in the form of an imprint of a line grid is described below. while showing figure 15 the two pieces of information encoded by the embossing structure in a representation according to figures 13 and 14 . In addition, lines of a line grid 30 are printed onto the cells 34 , each cell 34 being covered by a line of the line grid 30 . The properties of the line grid 30 are below based on the Figures 17 to 22 explained.

figure 16 illustrates how the conspicuous, e.g. colored, movement effect comes about. It shows a top view of a section of the security element figure 15 , the cells 34 being symbolized by round circles only as an example.

The security element S has an optically variable structure that is formed by a combination of the embossed structure and a coating. The coating comprises eg a highly reflective background layer, e.g a full-area reflective silver-colored print layer with a high gloss value, which is screen-printed The silver background layer 26 gives the security element 12 its basically shiny metallic appearance. It is provided with the information through the embossed structure.

A colored, for example gold-colored, line grid 30 consisting of a plurality of lines 32 oriented essentially in the same way is printed on the background layer. The lines 32 do not intersect one another and have a distance that is largely, but not completely constant along the length of the lines, and are therefore also referred to as almost parallel in the context of this description. As described in more detail below, the desired movement effects are created precisely by the deviation of the line grid according to the invention from line grids with completely parallel lines. The line width b of the lines 32 is the same for all lines 32 in the exemplary embodiment and is constant along the longitudinal extent of the lines. The line width b is advantageously between 50 μm and 200 μm, and in the exemplary embodiment specifically at about 80 μm. Since the lines 32 are not completely parallel, only an average grid width WL of the line grid can be specified, which in the exemplary embodiment is WL=300 μm.

The coating formed by the background layer and the line grid 30 is combined with the embossed structure, which consists of a two-dimensional square grid of cells 34 here. As in figure 16 As can be seen, the grid width Wp of the cell grid is slightly larger than the base area diameter dp and is 1.2*dp in the exemplary embodiment, so that the grid width Wp of the embossed element grid is also 300 μm and therefore corresponds to the mean screen width WL of the line screen.

The coating 24 and the embossed structure are combined with one another by the matching values of the grid widths Wp and WL such that a line segment 36 of a line 32 from the line grid 30 essentially lies on each cell 34 . As will become clear from the following description, each cell 34 should in principle carry a line segment 36, but due to the specific course of the lines 32 there can also be some cells 34 in the embossed structure on which no line segment 36 comes to rest, or a specific sub-area the embossed structure is deliberately not covered with line segments in order to create a static substructure within the dynamic movement effect of the optically variable structure.

The relative placement of a line segment 36 and the associated cell 34 on which that line segment 36 lies is indicated by the position of the line segment 36 on the cell 34 and by the orientation of the line segment 36 on the cell 34. If the shape of the line segment 36, in particular the line width b and the color of the line segment 36, is also specified, then the position and appearance of a specific line segment 36 are fully characterized.

Within the scope of the present invention, the parameter 'position of the line on the cell' is of particular importance. In particular, this line segment position can be specified by a location-dependent phase function φ (x,y), which depends on the position (x,y) of the cell 34 within the optically variable structure and whose function value is the relative position of the line segment 36 on the cell perpendicular to the length dimension of the line segment 36 normalized to the unit interval [0,1].

For example, if lines 32 are as in Figures 17a-c oriented substantially parallel to the x-axis, the phase function (|)(x,y) gives the y-position of the line segment 36 on the cell 34, with a value φ=0 indicating a bottom edge location and a value φ= 1 means a location at the top edge. In the Figures 17a to c is the position of a line segment 36 for the values ψ =0.25 ( Figure 17a ), ψ =0.5 ( Figure 17b ) and ψ =0.75 ( Figure 17c ) shown. Similarly, for lines 32 oriented substantially parallel to the y-axis, the phase function φ(x,y) indicates the x-position of a line segment on the embossing element, with a value φ=0 then indicating a left edge location and a Value ϕ = 1 means a position at the right edge.

By varying the position of the line segments 36 on the cells 34 as a function of location, a large number of different movement effects can be implemented when the security element 12 is tilted. All of these different movement effects can be described by a corresponding location-dependent phase function ϕ(x,y).

Depending on the viewing direction, the line segments 36 arranged on the cells 34 produce a different color and brightness impression, which, given a location-dependent position of the lines on the cells 34, also depends on the position of the respective cell 34 within the optically variable structure. The line structure therefore already shows a predetermined motif when viewed from a fixed viewing direction, such as the figure 23 waveform 60 shown. If the security element S is tilted so that, for example, the viewing direction changes from the vertical direction to an oblique direction, the color and brightness of the motif change fluently, in particular differently locally, so that the impression of movement is created. Depending on the design of the line grid, linear movements, rotational movements or complex forms of movement, such as pump or "zoom" effects or movements that move in the opposite direction in certain areas can be generated. Rotational effects have proven to be particularly impressive, since the generation of a rotational movement by linearly tilting a security element is counterintuitive and therefore comes as a surprise to the viewer. Such rotation effects can be generated in that the parameter 'position of the lines on the cell depends directly, in particular linearly, on the angle between the position (x, y) of the embossing element and a fixed reference point (xo, yo) in the optically variable structure.

gewählt werden, wobei mod(x,y) die Modulofunktion und arg(z) das Argument einer komplexen Zahl darstellt.In order to generate the visual impression of four "windmill" blades rotating around a reference point lying in the middle of the optically variable structure in a square grid of cells through the line grid, the phase function can be used, for example $$\mathrm{\phi }\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="model"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0003.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">model</figure-callout>}\left(4*\mathrm{bad}\left(\mathrm{x}+\mathrm{iy}\right)/\left(2\mathrm{n}\right),1\right)$$

can be chosen, where mod(x,y) is the modulo function and arg(z) is the argument of a complex number.

figure 18 shows a two-dimensional projection of a section of the associated line grid 30 of the security element S with the line segments 36 arranged according to the phase function φ ₁ (x,y) and the cells 34 indicated in the outline. Because of the lack of spatial depth in the two-dimensional projection and the resulting lack Dependence of the visual impression on the viewing direction arises in the projection of the figure 18 the rotation effect described does not occur, it only occurs with one genuine three-dimensional, embossed security element S. When the security element S is viewed perpendicularly, the line segments 36 located in the center (φ ₁ =0.5) and thus the highest points of the cells 34 appear most clearly, while those located on the upper and lower flanks of the cells 34 Line segments recede visually.

This effect was originally developed for purely hemispherical elevations on the cells 34. However, it was surprising that the same effect with an embossed structure according to Figures 2 to 12 occurs because there, too, there are highest points of the embossed structure and lowest points of the embossed structure.

If the security element S is now tilted downwards (tilting 16), for example, the line segments 36 that were previously at the highest point reach the lower flanks of the cells 34 from the viewer's point of view due to the tilting and therefore recede visually. On the other hand, the line segments 36 previously lying on the upper flanks are tilted to the highest point, so that they now dominate the visual appearance. As in figure 18 As shown, the associated cells 34 all lie substantially along the diagonals 52 rotated counterclockwise through an angle 18 so that, after tilting 16, an appearance with four vanes rotated counterclockwise through an angle 18 results. Correspondingly, tilting the security element 12 upwards results in an apparent clockwise rotation of the wings. As in figure 18 It is further recognizable that small tiltings 16 result in a rotation through a small angle 18, larger tiltings result in a rotation through a larger angle, so that the apparent rotational movement of the wings during tilting runs smoothly as a movement effect. The movement effects described result directly from the selected phase function ϕ ₁ (x,y), since this depends only on the angle between the position of the embossing element and the reference point, so that the positions of the same line segment position each extend radially outwards from the reference point (lines 50, 52 in figure 18 ). By choosing a different prefactor in ϕ ₁ (x,y), any other number of vanes or the opposite direction of rotation can of course also be generated. The appearance of the vanes can also change in the radial direction, for example by varying the line width b with the distance from the reference point.

erhalten werden, wobei abs(z) den Betrag einer komplexen Zahl darstellt.For a square grid of cells 34 with a grid width Wp, a line grid 60 that creates the visual impression of pumping circular rings at a spacing of ten grid widths can be used, for example, by the phase function $${\mathrm{\phi }}_2\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{model}\left(\mathrm{Section}\left(\mathrm{x}+\mathrm{iy}\right)/10*\mathrm{Wp},1\right)$$

can be obtained, where abs(z) represents the absolute value of a complex number.

beschrieben. Das zweite Linienraster 74 besteht aus blauen Linien, die durch eine abgewandelte Phasenfunktion $${\mathrm{\phi }}_3\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{mod}\left(4*\left(\mathrm{n/4-arg}\left(\mathrm{x}+\mathrm{iy}\right)\right)/\left(2\mathrm{n}\right),1\right)$$

beschrieben wird. Das rote Linienraster 72 erzeugt im Zusammenspiel mit der Prägestruktur 22 eine rote Windmühlen-Struktur mit vier Flügeln, die sich beim Kippen des Sicherheitselements 70 nach unten gegen die Richtung des Uhrzeigersinns zu drehen. Die Phasenfunktion ϕ₃(x,y) ist gegenüber der Phasenfunktion ϕ₁(x,y) um 45° nach rechts gedreht und ihre Funktionswerte nehmen zudem mit zunehmendem Winkel ab. Das blaue Linienraster erzeugt daher im Zusammenspiel mit der Prägestruktur eine blaue Windmühlen-Struktur mit vier Flügeln, die in der Ausgangsstellung bei senkrechter Betrachtung um 45° gegen die Flügel der roten Windmühlen-Struktur gedreht sind, und die sich beim Kippen des Sicherheitselements 70 nach unten im Uhrzeigersinn zu drehen. Ein solches Sicherheitselement mit zwei gegenläufigen farbigen Rotationseffekten ist für den Betrachter sehr auffällig und hat daher einen hohen Aufmerksamkeits- und Wiedererkennungswert. Ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Sicherheitselements 90 mit verschiedenfarbigen Linienrastern 92, 94 ist in Figur 20 gezeigt, wobei der einfacheren Darstellung halber nur die Linienraster ohne die projizierten Zellen dargestellt sind. Die Linienraster 92, 94 sind mit unterschiedlichen Farben, beispielsweise Rot und Blau im Siebdruck aufgedruckt. Das mit einer hoch- reflektierenden Hintergrundschicht 26 und den zwei Linienrastern 92, 94 versehene Sicherheitselement 90 zeigt bei senkrechter Betrachtung abwechselnd senkrechte rote und blaue Streifen, die sich beim Kippen des Sicherheitselements in Kipprichtung 96 nach rechts bzw. links zu bewegen scheinen, also ein orthoparallaktisches Bewegungsverhalten, bei dem die Bewegungsrichtung senkrecht auf der Kipprichtung steht, zeigen. Wegen der gegensätzlichen Steigung der Linien in den beiden Teilbereichen 98-L und 98-R ist die scheinbare Bewegung in den beiden Teilbereichen spiegelbildlich zueinander, so dass beispielsweise beim Kippen des Sicherheitselements 90 nach unten die senkrechten roten und blauen Streifen im Teilbereich 98-L nach links und im Teilbereich 98-R nach rechts wandern.The principle described is not limited to configurations with a single line grid; rather, the coating of a security element can also contain two or more line grids, with the parameters 'position of the line on the cell, 'orientation of the line on the cell' and 'shape of the line' may vary independently. The line grids can therefore in particular also produce different movement effects or the same movement effects in different directions. Furthermore, the lines of the line grid are advantageously applied with different colors in order to differentiate the movement effects of the line grid in terms of color. For illustration shows figure 19 the security element with two line grids. In the case of this security element 70, the embossed structure already described above is combined with a coating which contains two line grids 72, 74 in addition to the highly reflective background layer. The first line grid 72 consists of red lines and is due to the phase function already explained $${\mathrm{\phi }}_1\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="model"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0003.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">model</figure-callout>}\left(4*\mathrm{bad}\left(\mathrm{x}+\mathrm{iy}\right)/\left(2\mathrm{n}\right),1\right)$$

described. The second line grid 74 consists of blue lines, which are determined by a modified phase function $${\mathrm{\phi }}_3\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y}\right)=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="model"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0003.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">model</figure-callout>}\left(4*\left(\mathrm{n/4-arg}\left(\mathrm{x}+\mathrm{iy}\right)\right)/\left(2\mathrm{n}\right),1\right)$$

is described. In interaction with the embossed structure 22, the red line grid 72 produces a red windmill structure with four wings, which rotate counterclockwise when the security element 70 is tilted downwards. The phase function φ ₃ (x,y) is rotated 45° to the right compared to the phase function φ ₁ (x,y) and its function values also decrease as the angle increases. The blue line grid, in combination with the embossed structure, therefore creates a blue windmill structure with four wings, which in the initial position are rotated 45° against the wings of the red windmill structure when viewed vertically, and which move downwards when the security element 70 is tilted to rotate clockwise. Such a security element with two opposing colored rotation effects is very noticeable to the viewer and therefore has a high attention and recognition value. A further exemplary embodiment of a security element 90 with line grids 92, 94 of different colors is shown in figure 20 shown, with only the line grids shown without the projected cells for the sake of simplicity are. The line grids 92, 94 are screen printed with different colors, for example red and blue. When viewed perpendicularly, the security element 90 provided with a highly reflective background layer 26 and the two line grids 92, 94 shows alternating vertical red and blue stripes, which appear to move to the right or left when the security element is tilted in the tilting direction 96, i.e. orthoparallax Show movement behavior in which the direction of movement is perpendicular to the direction of tilt. Because of the opposite slope of the lines in the two sub-areas 98-L and 98-R, the apparent movement in the two sub-areas is a mirror image of one another, so that, for example, when the security element 90 is tilted downwards, the vertical red and blue stripes in the sub-area 98-L move downwards Walk to the left and then to the right in subarea 98-R.

The plurality of line grids 102, 104 of a security element 100 can also be perpendicular to one another, for example in the case of a square cell grid, as in FIG figure 21 illustrated. The lines of the line grid 102 extend there essentially along the x-axis and therefore produce a movement effect when the security element 100 is tilted in the tilting direction 106, perpendicular to the x-axis. The lines of the line grid 104, on the other hand, extend essentially along the y-axis and therefore produce a movement effect when the security element 100 is tilted in the tilting direction 108, perpendicular to the y-axis.

figure 22 shows a plan view of a section of a security element 200. The embossed structure 202 of the security element 200 also has a partial area 204 with elongated cells 206 in addition to the two-dimensional grid of rotationally symmetrical cells. As already explained above, they can be embodied, for example, as elliptical, oval or channel-shaped.

In the exemplary embodiment, the elongated cells 206 lie with their longitudinal direction parallel to the x-axis and their transverse direction parallel to the y-axis. The different, elongated shape of the cells 206 leads to perceptible deviations in the appearance produced by the line grid 30 in the partial area 204 only when tilted about the y-axis.

Such combinations of essentially rotationally symmetrical and elongated cells give the security element additional counterfeit protection.

This has the advantage that a pyramid can display four different pieces of information on the four sides, compared to only two different pieces of information on a prism.

figure 23 shows that the motifs produced with the tilting effect, which are provided by the embossed structures, interact advantageously with the movement effect caused by the printed line grid, since both effects occur when the security element is tilted. In the embodiment of figure 23 the information I (and optionally also information II) is generated by the embossed structure. The depiction of a value number "50" as the first motif and a boat as the third motif. When tilted, the value number is only visible in the specified viewing angle range. Previously you only see the boat, which is optionally no longer visible even if you tilt it again. When tilting, the viewer preferably first sees the moving motif 60 and the boat II as a static motif. The moving motif is a blue wave movement in front of a metallic gray background (colorful-achromatic). The boat II is, for example, designed in black or in a dark hue, such as dark green. In the given Viewing angle range, the number I appears as a lighter area, i.e. grey, possibly metallic, or light green (achromatic-achromatic or chromatic-chromatic). Additionally, the line structure creates the wavy motion effect during tilting.

Figure 24a shows the imprint of the line structure 30 on the embossed structure 11, which is designed here as an example with a prism-shaped basic structure, in a perspective view, figure 24 the one in section. As Figure 24a can be seen, the position of the lines 30, which deviates from the exact parallelism as described, automatically ensures that there are higher and lower sections of the line structure along the embossed structures 11. Even with an elongated design of the embossed structure, there is a movement effect, for example in the form of a running effect, as shown in figure 23 is in the form of the moving wave structure.

figure 25 shows an example of a possible arrangement of differently colored lines 30a, 30b on an embossed honeycomb structure. The width of the lines 30a, 30b is greater than the height of a cell 34, so that they each cover several cells. The two right representations in figure 25 are a sectional view through the dot-dash line of the left-hand representation for two different variants. In a first variant, which is shown on the far right, the embossed structure is designed in a form like a blaze grating, which would have a different structure size, so that the lines 30a, 30b are stepped. Because of the size of the structure In another embodiment, which is shown in the cross-sectional view on the left, the embossed structures are arranged in the form of an inclined plane. Such embossed structures, which form contiguous cells with a common gradient in partial areas, can be overprinted with the line structure will. For this, only the tilting direction (north or south) has to be identical. The edge steepness of the individual cells 34 only influences the brilliance of the color appearance at the exact viewing angle. In this embodiment, the inner circle diameter of a cell 34 is smaller than the line width of a line 30a, 30b. In the representation of figure 25 When the grid is tilted, there is also a color change as a movement effect.

In the case of large cells 34, it can be advantageous, instead of large colored areas of the line structures, to build up the areas using finely distributed line structures, i.e. to form each line lattice structure with several sub-line lattice structures (see figure 26 ). Again, each cell 34 is covered by a line. As the middle row of cells shows, the overlap can only be very small (cf. overlap with the top line of the line grid structures 30b). figure 27 shows two optional aspects. On the one hand, it is possible to print only partial areas of the embossed structure with different line grids, as shown, for example, using the colored lines 30a and 30b of different lengths. In addition, it is possible to vary the shape of the cells 34 . figure 27 Figure 12 shows a first region of honeycomb cells 34, a further region of elongated cells 34 and a transition zone therebetween where the shape of the honeycomb structure is conformed to the elongated shape. These aspects of figure 27 can be used independently of each other.

Claims (14)

1. A security element, wherein

   - the security element (S) comprises an optically variable embossed structure having a plurality of cells (34) arranged in a pattern,

   - the cells (34) have at least one areal element (3, 4, 12, 12') aligned nonparallel to a ground plane of the security element, a group of areal elements (3, 4, 12, 12') being provided which present a motif (I) with a motif tilt effect, i.e., present or do not present the motif (I) depending on the viewing angle,

   - the embossed structure is provided with a coating,

   - the coating comprises an imprint in the shape of a grid (30) with grid elements,

   - the imprint forms a second motif (60) recognizable to the viewer,

   - the motif tilt effect has a color contrast of the type colored-colored, colorednoncolored or noncolored-noncolored,

   - at least one of the parameters of position of the grid element (32) on the cell (34), orientation of the grid element (32) on the cell (36) and shape of the grid element (32) varies in a location-dependent manner over the extent of the embossed structure, so that the motif tilt effect of the first motif (I) is supplemented by a kinetic effect of the second motif (60),

   - the kinetic effect has a color contrast of the type colored-colored, colorednoncolored or noncolored-noncolored, characterized in that

   - the color contrast type of the kinetic effect differs from the color contrast type of the tilt effect.
2. The security element according to claim 1, characterized in that the cells (34) of the embossed structure have a uniform outer contour, in particular contour and size, the cells of the embossed structure preferably differing from each other in the alignment of the areal elements and/or the presence of the areal elements.
3. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the kinetic effect of the second motif (60) is a linear kinetic effect, a pump effect or a rotation effect.
4. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the cells (34) are formed as a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves (11) and the areal elements (12) of the group are formed on a flank side of the grooves (11), optionally areal elements (12') of another group being formed on an opposite flank side of the grooves (11).
5. The security element according to claim 4, characterized in that the group of areal elements (3, 4, 12, 12') are provided only in a partial region of the embossed structure, so that the tilt effect arises only there.
6. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cells (34) are arranged in a 2D pattern and have the shape of a regular polygon and/or are rotationally symmetric.
7. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the group of areal elements (3, 4, 12, 12') have the same alignment.
8. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the cells (34) in a first portion of the embossed structure have the form of a regular polygon and/or are rotationally symmetric and are arranged in a 2D pattern, and in that the cells (34) in a second portion of the embossed structure are formed as grooves lying side by side and extending longitudinal to a direction.
9. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cells (34) in a first portion have a first shape and in a second portion have a second shape, in a third portion lying between the first and the second portion the cells having a transition in shape from the shape of the cells (34) of the first portion to the shape of the cells (34) of the second portion, in particular have the shape of a polygon extended longitudinal to the direction and/or of an oval or ellipse.
10. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a further group of areal elements (3, 4, 12, 12') is provided which presents a third motif (II) with a motif tilt effect in such a way that a motif change from the first motif (I) to the third motif (II) arises, the areal elements (12, 12') of the two groups preferably being aligned longitudinal to a common preferred direction and/or the first motif (I) and the third motif (II) being arranged at least partially overlapping.
11. The security element according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the coating comprises a reflective layer and/or the grid elements are dots, lines or symbols.
12. An object, such as a value document, an end product or product packaging, with a security element according to any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the security element is applied with its own substrate to the substrate of the object or the security element is formed with the embossed structure in the substrate of the object.
13. A method of manufacturing a security element (S) having optically variable embossed structure, wherein

    - an embossed structure is embossed into a substrate, the embossed structure having a plurality of cells (34) arranged in a pattern, the cells (34) having an areal element (3, 4, 12, 12') aligned nonparallel to a ground plane of the security element, the embossed structure having a coating,
    a group of areal elements (3, 4, 12, 12') being provided which present a first motif to the viewer only in a viewing angle range so that the embossed structure shows a motif tilt effect,

    - the coating is provided with an imprint in the shape of a grid (30) with grid elements (30),

    - the motif tilt effect has a color contrast of the type colored-colored, colorednoncolored or noncolored-noncolored,

    - at least one of the parameters of position of the grid element (32) on the cell (34), orientation of the grid element (32) on the cell (36) and shape of the grid element (32) varies in a location-dependent manner over the extent of the embossed structure, so that the motif tilt effect of the first motif is supplemented by a kinetic effect,

    - the kinetic effect has a color contrast of the type colored-colored, colorednoncolored or noncolored-noncolored, and

    - the color contrast type of the kinetic effect differs from the color contrast type of the tilt effect.
14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that a security element is manufactured in accordance with any of claims 1 to 11.

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