MX2013000033A

MX2013000033A - Transparent ink-accepting layer.

Info

Publication number: MX2013000033A
Application number: MX2013000033A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Ralf Liebler; Markus Krombholz; Katharina Kugele; Patrick Renner; Rudolf Seidler
Original assignee: Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh
Priority date: 2010-07-05
Filing date: 2011-07-01
Publication date: 2013-02-01
Also published as: AU2011276149A1; AU2011276149B2; DE102010026071A1; EP2590822A1; EP2590822B1; EP2590822B2; WO2012003947A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a security element (2) for the production of valuable documents, comprising at least one transparent ink-accepting layer (5), which is arranged above a first surface of a substrate (1) over the entire area or in at least one sub-region. An opaque ink-accepting layer (9) is applied to a sub-region.

Description

TRANSPARENT LAYER INK RECEPTOR FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a security element for manufacturing valuable documents and a document of value comprising such a security element.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The documents of value for the purposes of the present invention are for example bank notes, stocks, bonds, deeds, vouchers, checks, lottery tickets, high value admission tickets, passports, identity cards, credit cards and other objects. plans of value. Such flat objects of value may for example also be packages for products that are of high value, where applicable. The term "document of value" also comprises for the purposes of the present invention all the precursors of finished value documents, which for example are not yet fixed for circulation, such as, among others, security paper, metallized paper or composites. of metallized paper. Such a value document can also be only a part within an object of value.

Such documents of value are provided for reasons of design or for security reasons with security elements which, only through their presence or their design, allow a verification of the authenticity of the documents of value and at the same time serve as protection of unauthorized reproduction. A security element for the purposes of the present invention can be for example, a transparent window or window which is formed for example, by a transparent metallized paper, a security thread, a characteristic produced by the printing technology such as by example, a microprint, a strip of foil, a patch or a label. A security element, in particular a security element in the form of a security thread or a strip of metallized paper, can be configured as an optically variable security element, an optically variable security element being understood for the purposes of present invention as an optical element whose visual impression produced in an observer depends on the direction of observation, that is, the angle of view of the optical element of the observer, and where applicable, also the direction of incidence of a light beam of illumination. Examples of such optically variable security elements are diffractive structures which produce a visual impression dependent on the angle of observation in particular through the reconstruction of optically perceptible patterns, such as for example volume holograms or embossed and other cinegrams, such as achromatic matt structures. A further example of such optically variable elements are the optical elements that show a so-called color change effect, such as for example single layer or multiple layer thin film interference layers, or liquid crystal layers, which can respectively, they are present as a continuous layer or in the form of a pigment (so-called pigment effects such as, for example, Iriodines). Additional examples are lenses or micromirror structures within an optically variable security element. Such optical elements have in common that they are usually constructed on the basis of a polymer layer, for example, a plastic foil, or at least they comprise a polymer layer as a cover layer or protective layer. For the purposes of the present invention, such elements are designed in a general manner as security elements. In the specific case that the optical element is constructed based on a plastic foil, the element can be designed as an optical foil element.

To increase counterfeiting without proof, that is, to make a more difficult imitation, to facilitate a verification of authenticity or as an additional design element, it is desirable to print such security elements, or valuable documents comprising such security elements, with additional printing in addition to an already applied print, where applied. However, ink reception is normally unsatisfactory when such security elements are overprinted. Therefore, it is known to provide in such security elements printing or ink receiving layers (subsequently designed as ink receiving layers for simplicity). However, the ink receptive layers suitable for such security elements are opaque, or at least have an undesired cloud effect, in the required layer thickness or as a result of fillers. This has an adverse effect on the visual perceptibility or the detectability machine of the security element. For example, it is no longer possible to have a good view unaltered through a window. When the security element is an optically variable element, its optically variable effect can be deteriorated or completely prevented.

A countermeasure could be to provide the ink receiving layer with a reduced layer thickness or with a content of filler, so that the opacity and / or the cloudy effect of the ink receiving layer is reduced, in order to guarantee a improved perceptibility of a security element. This has the disadvantage, however, of worsening the adhesion and drying of the printing ink of the additional printing to be applied. When there is a requirement for good ink reception, a cloudy effect more or less strongly pronounced above the security element must be accepted. When there is preferably a requirement to manufacture a clear transparent window for example, satisfactory ink reception of the printing ink from the additional printing in the window has not been possible so far.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a security element, for example, an element of optical foil, for the manufacture of valuable documents which allows a good reception of ink, adhesion and drying of a printing ink of an additional printing to be applied without in this way causing a cloudiness or clouding of the security element. It is a further object of the invention to provide a document of value having such a security element.

This object is achieved by a security element as well as a valuable document having the characteristics of the independent claims. The dependent claims refer to preferred configurations and developments of the invention.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a security element for the manufacture of valuable documents, comprising at least one transparent ink receiving layer which is disposed above a first surface of the security element over the entire area or in at least a partial region.

The transparent ink receiving layer may comprise a filler which is preferably chosen from the group consisting of boehmite, pseudobohemite, zeolite, A1203 and silica gel, and a binder, preferably polyvinyl alcohol. The filler to binder ratio preferably falls in the range of 6: 1 to 30: 1.

The security element can be configured, for example, as a window, security thread, metallized paper strip, as a characteristic produced by printing technology, patch or label.

A second aspect of the invention relates to a document of value comprising a substrate and a security element in accordance with the first aspect of the invention which is arranged on or on the substrate so that the first surface of the security element forming a common surface with a first surface of the substrate, the transparent ink receiving layer is arranged above the common surface over the entire area or at least in a first partial region of the common surface.

In the value document, a transparent layer, preferably a plastic foil, can be arranged between the common surface and the transparent ink receiving layer.

In the value document, an opaque ink receptive layer may be disposed above the common surface in at least a partial region of the common surface, in which the region falls on or not on, ie, outwardly of the element of security after observation of the value document in the incident light.

The value document according to the invention can be characterized in that above the common surface an opaque ink receiving layer is arranged in at least a second partial region of the common surface, in which the region does not fall over, is say, falling out of the security element after observing the value document in the incident light, has here a first preferably invariable layer thickness, and has a slit or reduced layer thickness compared to the first layer thickness in a third partial region of the common surface, in which the region falls over the security element after observation of the value document in the incident light. The layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer within the third partial region and / or in a fourth partial region of the common surface, in which the region falls between the second and third partial regions, may preferably have a decreasing course in a ladder or continuous form, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from the first layer thickness in the second partial region ^ the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer decreasing down to zero or approximately zero in the third and / or fourth partial region and particularly preferably ascending to zero in the third complete partial region. The fourth partial region preferably abuts directly on the second partial region and the third partial region and completely surrounds the third partial region.

The transparent ink-receptive layer can preferably be disposed below or above the opaque ink receiving layer within the second, third and, where applicable, four partial regions and have a layer thickness invariable here or have a layer thickness high compared to the second partial region in the third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions, preferably such that the sum of the layer thickness of the transparent ink receiving layer and opaque ink receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions is invariable.

The transparent ink-receptive layer can preferably be disposed below or above the opaque ink receiving layer only within the third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions, and the layer thickness of the transparent ink receiving layer can have preferably a course increase in a ladder or continuous form, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from a layer thickness of zero in the second partial region, such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of the transparent ink receiving layer and opaque ink receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions is invariable.

The transparent ink receiving layer can have a first configuration in a first subregion of the transparent ink receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion of the transparent ink receiving layer, so that the two subregions optically produce an impression identical in an observer at least after observation from a predetermined direction, preferably after observation of all directions, the two different subregions in a technical property, in particular in its ink receiving behavior or its engraving behavior in relief.

The opaque ink receiving layer may have a first configuration in a first subregion of the opaque ink receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion of the opaque ink receiving layer, so that the two subregions produce an impression optically identical in an observer at least after observation from a predetermined direction, preferably after observation of all directions, the two different subregions in a technical property, in particular in its ink receiving behavior or its engraving behavior raised.

The subregions of the ink-receptive transparent layer and / or the subregions of the opaque ink receiving layer can form an information point recognizable to an observer.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a valuable document, comprising: a supply of a value document substrate and of a security element according to the first aspect of the invention, the security element additionally has a carrier of the security element applied on top of the transparent ink receiving layer; a connection of the security element to the substrate of the value document by means of an adhesive layer, so that the substrate of the value document is attached to the side of the security element facing away from the carrier of the security element, in order to thereby provide a construction of the security element of the value document; Y an additional step of removing the carrier from the security element from the construction of the security element of the document of value, the transparent ink receiving layer which serves as a separation layer or release layer.

The security element according to the invention, for example, an optical foil element for the manufacture of valuable documents comprises at least one transparent ink receiving layer which is arranged on top of a first surface of the security element on top of the other. the entire area or in at least a first partial region of the security element.

The ink receiving layers have the function of guaranteeing the reception of ink, that is, the absorption, of the printing ink of an additional printing or of certain ingredients of such printing inks, such as oils, and thus the adhesion and drying the printing ink for additional printing. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "ink-receiving layer" is also understood to include layers that promote improved adhesion to a surface, in particular to a polymer surface, plastic surface or foil surface. The ink receiving layer can be constructed in the form of a single layer or multiple layer form, that is, of several partial layers, the individual layers are respectively homogeneous. For example, a first partial layer of the ink-receiving layer disposed directly on the surface of the security element, where applicable, primarily promotes high adhesion of an additional partial layer of the ink-receiving layer to the security element, while the Additional partial layer mainly guarantees the ink receptivity of the printing ink of an additional printing. The first partial layer disposed directly on the surface of the security element and having an adhesiveness is also designed as a first adhesive layer or layer.

According to the invention, the transparent ink-receiving layer is arranged on top of a first surface of the security element, ie the transparent ink receiving layer is for example either directly applied to a foil or polymer layer or plastic layer of the security element or is separated from it by one or more intermediate layers, preferably transparent, additional. After printing the security element with additional printing, the transparent ink-receiving layer advantageously forms the highest layer and thus ensures ink reception, adhesion and drying of the printing ink of the additional printing. Additional printing can be applied using an offset or overprint process, a gravure printing process or another suitable printing method. It may involve a background impression.

The use, according to the invention, of a transparent ink-receiving layer makes possible a non-deteriorated perception of the security element at least before the application of an additional printing. In particular, this does not cause deterioration of the perceptibility through a stere or cloudy effect. When the security element involves a simple window or transparent window which is, for example, formed with a transparent metallic foil base, the use of the transparent ink receiving layer also makes possible a clear view through the window. When the security element consists of an optically variable security element, the transparent ink receiving layer allows a perception of an optically variable non-deteriorated effect.

The transparent ink receiving layer according to the invention comprises at least one filler and a binder.

As a filler it is preferably employed boehmite, pseudobohemite, zeolite, AI2O3 or silica gel or a mixture of these substances. With respect to the transparency of the transparent ink-receptive layer, these fillers preferably have a particle size in a range of 1 nm to 1 μp ?, the range of 5 nm to 200 nm is particularly preferred. The use of boehmite or pseudobohemite is preferred. Boehmite is understood in accordance with "Roempp Lexikon der Chemie", 10th edition, Georg Thieme Verlag, 1996, being the crystalline rhombic metahydroxide? - ??? (??), which is obtainable for example from Al (OH) 3 crystalline by heating to 150 ° C in a sealed tube for 14 days with removal of water. The pseudobohemite is an agglomerate of aluminum oxide hydroxide having the formula AI2O3 * n H20 (n = 1 to 1.5).

Suitable binders are, for example, polyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyurethane dispersions, acrylate dispersions, as well as derivatives or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the filler to binder ratio falls between 6: 1 and 30: 1, the ratio stated with reference to the mass. In this way, the transparent ink receiving layer comprises considerably more filler than binder. The filler to binder ratio can amount to, for example, 6: 1, 8: 1, 10: 1, 12: 1, 15: 1, 20: 1, 25: 1 or 30: 1, where each of the declared relationships can be represent an upper or lower limit of the range mentioned above.

In addition to the declared binder and filler, the ink receptive layer preferably comprises a crosslinker, in particular of the isocyanate, aziridine, carbodiimide or glycidyl ether family. In addition, the transparent ink-receptive layer may comprise additional additives such as deaerators or monoprotic acids.

An ink receiving layer thus constructed is characterized by a good adhesion to plastic layers, in particular plasticized metallized papers, and also ensures a good ink receptivity of the printing ink to be applied for the additional printing as well as its drying and adhesion. Therefore, this formulation can also be used as the starting point for developing non-transparent ink receiving layers. For this purpose additional additives, such as, for example, pigments, which produce the desired property, are added to the formulation of the ink-receiving layer. These may be, for example, pigments such as Ti02, BaSO4, CaCO3, silicic acids, or hollow sphere pigments based on polymers such as, for example, "ROPAQUE" from the company Rohm & Haas, or also effects of pigments that produce a pearl luster or a metallic luster, interference pigments, liquid crystal pigments, thermochromic or magnetic pigments, or pigments that produce a phosphorescence or fluorescence or that have an antistatic effect. When such an ink receiving layer has for example a high opacity due to its additives, it is advisable to realize a desired basic color of the security element or of a substrate via the ink receiving layer, where applicable.

The adhesion of the ink receiving layer according to the invention to plastic layers, in particular plastics foil, can be improved by means of a primer layer which serves as an adhesion promoter.

In a preferred configuration of the security element according to the invention, the element is configured as a transparent window or window, characteristic produced by printing technology, security thread, metallized paper strip, patch or label, and the transparent receiving layer of ink is applied over the entire area. The security element further preferably comprises a polymer layer, for example, a plastic foil in which the transparent ink-receiving layer is applied. Such security element can be produced directly in a document of value to be protected, or be prepared in a separate carrier as a transfer element. Such a separate carrier preferably has a polymer or plastic material and can be, or have, for example a metallized paper material, in particular a transfer material. For the metallized paper material plastics such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PP (polypropylene), PA (polyamide) and PE (polyethylene) come into consideration. This metallized paper material can also be stretched uniaxially or biaxially.

The fixing of the security element in a document of value to be protected is effected here using an adhesive layer, preferably a hot melt adhesive is used for it. After the transfer of the security element to a document of value to be protected, the carrier material is removed again, where applicable, so that the security element remains in the document of value to be protected. The transparent ink receiving layer here serves as a separation layer or release layer.

In known security elements, in particular in transfer elements, a transparent UV lacquer is often used as a cover layer and protective layer. In the preferred configuration, this UV lacquer layer is either covered with the transparent ink receiving layer, or replaced by the transparent ink receiving layer.

The transparent ink receiving layer forms the highest layer of the security element after the printing of the metallized paper strip or transfer element with the additional printing, thereby increasing the ink receptibility for the printing ink of the ink. additional printing, because the transparent ink receiving layer has an improved printing ink receptivity compared to the known transparent UV coating.

In a preferred configuration, the security element can be configured as a patch or label and has for example a flat shape with dimensions of comparable length in all directions or have an elongated shape for example in the form of a strip, as is the case with security threads or metallic paper strips, for example so-called LEAD strips. When such a security element is configured as a transfer element with a metallized paper that is transparent, where applicable, as a carrier, it is also designed as a metallized paper element, metallized paper patch or metallized paper strip.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a document of value comprises a substrate as well as a security element according to the invention which is arranged on the substrate of the document of value so that the first surface of the security element forms a common surface with a first surface of the substrate. The transparent ink receiving layer here is disposed above the common surface either over the entire area or at least in a first partial region of the common surface. The transparent ink receiving layer can thus also be arranged in an outward region of the security element. The formulation "outwardly of the security element" is intended to mean that the transparent ink-receiving layer is not arranged on top of the security element after observation of the value document in the incident light.

Substrates of single or multiple layers can be used as the substrate of the value document. In the case of single layer substrates, any type of paper or paper-like material comes into consideration, in particular cotton parchment paper. Paper containing a certain content x of a polymer material in the range of 0 to 100% by weight can also be used. In addition, a plastic layer, for example a plastic foil, or a metallized paper compound can be used as the substrate. Such metallized paper can additionally be stretched uniaxially or biaxially. Such stretching of the metallized paper results, among others, in the acquisition of polarization properties, which can be used as a security feature in the document of value.

As a multi-layer substrate, a multilayer composite having for example a paper layer or a paper-like material can be employed. In this layer, a transparent polymer or plastic layer is laminated, for example, on both sides, thereby giving such multilayer composite an exceptionally higher stability and durability. Here, security papers with layers of paper coated with plastic or polymer are used for the manufacture of banknotes composed of metallized paper. Conversely, the multi-layer composite may also have a core layer of a polymer or plastic material which is coated on both sides with a respective layer of paper or paper-like material. As a multi-layer substrate material a multilayer, paper-free composite can also be used.

The security element can be arranged on the surface of the substrate. However, it can also be arranged within the substrate and pass to the surface of the substrate for example only in certain regions, as is the case with security threads such as window or pendulum security threads. The security element can also fill a slit in the substrate, as is the case with windows, in particular transparent windows. Also, in the case of a composite consisting of several layers, such as a banknote composed of metallized paper, the security element may also be disposed below a transparent layer, for example, a plastic foil, or be embedded therein. of the transparent layer.

A security element configured as a transfer element and having a transparent layer receiving area ink. complete is particularly suitable for application on a value document whose substrate surface consists of paper or a material similar to paper, in particular when the transparent ink receiving layer is made to have the same, or a similar ink receptivity as the surface of the paper substrate or similar to the paper of the document of value, because a value document having a security element which has a high ink receptivity in its entire surface without need of steps can be realized in this way. additional coating.

The transparent ink receiving layer can be disposed directly on the common surface of the security element and substrate. In a preferred configuration, however, an additional transparent layer, for example a plastic foil, in particular a PET foil or polyester foil, is disposed between the common surface and the transparent ink receiving layer. The transparent layer here forms, for example, a cover layer or protective layer for the security element and the substrate. The transparent ink receiving layer then ensures the printing capacity with the printing ink of an additional printing. Preferably, the additional transparent layer is disposed directly on the common surface, and / or the transparent ink-receiving layer is disposed directly on the additional transparent layer, for example, a plastic foil.

In a preferred configuration of the value document, an opaque ink receiving layer in addition to the transparent ink receiving layer is disposed above the common surface. In a second partial region of the common surface, in which the region falls out of the security element, ie not on top of the security element after observation of the value document in the incident light, the receiving opaque layer ink has a first, preferably invariant layer thickness. A third partial region of the common surface is located above the security element and is preferably defined by the extension of the security element. In this third partial region, the opaque ink receiving layer has a slit, ie a layer thickness of zero or at least a reduced layer thickness compared to the first layer thickness. Therefore, the security element is completely covered only by the transparent ink receiving layer. The opaque ink receiving layer is arranged only in regions facing away from the security element.

Such a configuration allows an arrangement of an opaque ink receiving layer on the value document without impairing the perceptibility of the security element, while simultaneously ensuring a good printability of the value document also on top of the security element.

In the edge regions of the opaque ink receiving layer, for example where the opaque ink receiving layer directly abuts on the transparent ink receiving layer, however, unwanted bright edges may occur (sticky tape effect). Such bright edges remain in the form of a desired uniform appearance of the surface of the document of value. In a preferred configuration, the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer within the third partial region and / or in a fourth partial region here decreases in a ladder or continuous manner, preferably down to zero or approximately zero, starting from of the first layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer in the second partial region. This decrease course preferably shows a constant gradient. The fourth partial region of the common surface falls between the second and third partial regions and preferably directly abuts on the third partial region and completely surrounds it. In the simplest case, the third partial region defines the region of the security element, by which the fourth partial region defines an edge region of the security element which falls out of the security element and directly surrounds it. The fourth partial region preferably has a constant width. The layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer decreases in the third and / or fourth partial region down to zero or approximately zero. Particularly preferably, the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer in the third complete partial region is zero, and the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer decreases in the fourth partial region of the first layer thickness to zero starting from from the edge region towards the second partial region to the edge region towards the third partial region.

Through such a gradual course of the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer, the edge region of the opaque ink receiving layer is only slightly recognizable and false shimmering edges are avoided for example in the transition region between the opaque layers and transparent ink receptors.

In a further preferred configuration, the transparent ink receiving layer is disposed within the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions below or above the opaque ink receiving layer, has an invariant layer thickness here, and it is preferably configured as a contiguous layer. In the simplest case, the transparent ink receiving layer is for this purpose applied to the value document with invariant layer thickness. Alternatively, the transparent ink receiving layer may have in the third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions a high layer thickness compared to the second partial region, to fully or at least partially compensate for the reduced layer thickness of the opaque layer receiving ink in this region. Particularly preferably, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-receptive layer is configured such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of the transparent and opaque ink-receiving layers in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions it is invariable, preferably over the entire area on the total surface of the value document. In this case, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-receptive layer in the third and / or fourth partial region has an increase in the course in a stairway shape or continuous in the direction of the third partial region, such a course corresponds to the opaque ink receiving layer, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from the second partial region. Particularly preferably, the transparent ink receiving layer has a constant layer thickness in. the third partial region and shows a different layer thickness only in the fourth partial region.

Through such configurations of the opaque and transparent ink receiving layers on the value document a completely flat common surface of the opaque and transparent ink receiving layers is created.

In a further preferred configuration, the transparent ink-receiving layer is disposed only within the third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions, i.e., the layer thickness of the transparent ink-receiving layer in the second partial region amounts to zero. Within the third and / or, where applicable, fourth partial region the layer thickness of the transparent ink-receiving layer again shows an increase in course in a stairway shape or continuous in the direction of the third partial region, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from the thickness of the zero layer to the edge region towards the second partial region, so that the sum of the layer thickness of the transparent and opaque ink receiving layers in the second, third and, where applicable , fourth partial regions is invariable, preferably over the entire area on the total value document. When the layer thickness of the opaque ink-receptive layer in the third partial region rises to zero, the layer thickness of the ink-receiving layer in the third partial region is invariable and equal to the layer thickness of the layer. receiving ink in the second partial region.

In a further preferred configuration of the value document, the transparent ink receiving layer has a first and a second subregion, the transparent ink receiving layer. it has in the first and second subregions a first and a second configuration which are mutually different. The region in which the transparent ink-receiving layer is applied is thus subdivided into at least two subregions which preferably adjoin each other. The configuration in the two subregions is such that the two subregions produce an optically identical print on an observer at least after observing from a predetermined direction of observation and preferably after observing from all directions of observation, while the two subregions differ in a technical property. This may be, for example, the ink receiving behavior with respect to the additional printing to be applied or the behavior after the embedding of the value document and / or of the security element.

Similarly, the opaque ink receiving layer can alternatively or additionally have a first and a second subregion, the opaque ink receiving layer possesses in the first and second subregions a first and a second configuration which are mutually different. The region in which the opaque ink-receiving layer is applied is thus subdivided into at least two subregions which preferably adjoin each other. The configuration in the two subregions is such that the two subregions produce an optically identical print on an observer at least after observing from a predetermined direction of observation and preferably after observing all directions of observation, while the two subregions differ in a technical property. This may be, for example, the ink receiving behavior with respect to the additional printing to be applied or the behavior after the embedding of the value document and / or of the security element.

Directly after the application of the opaque and / or transparent ink-receiving layer, the two respective subregions are indistinguishable from an observer at least after observing from a predetermined direction of observation and preferably after observing from all directions of observation. When the two respective subregions differ for example in their ink receiving behavior with respect to the printing ink of the additional print to be applied, the two subregions are indistinguishable in the non-printed state, as described above. After the application of the printing ink of the additional printed image to the respective two subregions of the transparent or opaque ink-receiving layer, they become distinguishable to an observer at least after observation from a predetermined direction, preferably after observing all the directions of observation, producing a different optical impression on the observer, for example a different color brightness. It is advantageous here when the printing ink of the additional printed image is applied to the respective two subregions as a background print on the entire area.

Alternatively or additionally, the two respective sub-regions may also differ in their behavior with respect to an embossing, that is to say, they have for example a mutually different mechanical stability.

The different necessary configuration of the respective two subregions of the opaque and / or transparent ink receiving layers can be obtained in the case of a multi-layer construction by a different layer construction or by different formulations for the ink receiving layers in the respective subregions. For example, additional pigments can be provided in a subregion in the ink receiving layer whose presence is recognizable only after observation in a predetermined direction of observation, as is the case for example with effect pigments such as interference pigments or pigments. of liquid crystal which show for example a color change effect. Alternatively, after the use of such effect pigments the same formulations can also be employed for the ink receiving layer in both subregions, the orientation of the effect pigments is mutually configured differently in these subregions. For the different sub-regions of an opaque ink receiving layer, different ingredients that change the transmission behavior can also be employed, thus causing the two sub-regions of the opaque ink receiving layer to produce an identical optical impression in the incident light but are mutually distinguishable in the transmitted light.

In a further preferred configuration, the respective subregions of the opaque and / or transparent ink receiving layer are arranged so that a recognizable information point results for the observer when these subregions are mutually distinguishable. The structure formed by the two respective sub-regions forms, for example, a pattern or a graphic or alphanumeric character.

In the security element according to the invention as well as the value document according to the invention, the transparent ink-receptive layer can additionally be provided with an overlaying, through which a stere and / or a film can be obtained. lengthening of life and fitness for circulation. A suitable lacquer layer is, for example, a lacquer system consisting of a lower and upper lacquer layer, which is described, for example, in WO 2004/072378 Al, the description of which is also incorporated herein by reference . The lower lacquer layer can be a water-based dispersion lacquer layer which is based, for example, on water-based dispersions of aliphatic polyester polyurethanes or styrene-acrylic polyurethanes. The top lacquer layer is preferably a layer of healing lacquer by radiation and / or physical drying. Suitable for a physical drying lacquer layer are water-based dispersions, preferably without polyurethane content, for example, based on acrylic styrene. However, the topcoat layer can also contain a hybrid lacquer which contains a radiation cure lacquer content as well as physical drying.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Examples and advantages of additional embodiments of the invention will be explained later by means of the example with reference to the accompanying figures. The examples represent preferred embodiments which in no way limit the invention. The figures shown are schematic representations which do not reflect the real proportions but preferably serve to improve the clarity of the different examples of modalities.

Specifically, the figures show: There is a bank note that has a safety element in plain view; Figure Ib a section through the bank note of Figure la; Figures 2a to 2f sectional views through examples of additional mode; Figures 3a to 3c plan views of different partial regions configurations; Y 4 shows an exemplary plan view of additional mode of a value document.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In Figures la and Ib, a bank note having a substrate 1 is represented as a valuable document. In the substrate 1, the name "50" is printed. The substrate 1 of the document of value consists in this example of mode of a paper or a material similar to paper and therefore has a high ink receptivity and good printability for an additional printing to be applied, not shown in Figure 1. . In the substrate 1 there is further provided a security element 2, for example, an optical foil element, which is a transfer element in the example embodiment shown. The security element 2 comprises an adhesive layer 3 which comprises an activatable adhesive, for example a hot melt adhesive. By using the adhesive layer 3, the central foil component 4 of the optical foil element 2 is fixed on the surface of the substrate 1. To guarantee a good printability of the foil paper element 2 and in particular of the foil component central 4, the optical foil element 2 further comprises a transparent ink receiving layer 5. Accordingly, the resulting surface of the bank note consists of the transparent ink receiving layer 5 in the region of the optical foil paper element 2, and of the surface of substrate 1 in the remaining region. Accordingly, a high ink receptivity is created and thus a good printability on the document of total value over the entire area, ie, the receptivity of the ink of the substrate is not deteriorated by the application of the metallized paper element described optical configured as a transfer element.

In Figure 2a a second exemplary mode of a value document in the form of a banknote is shown. The value document again comprises a substrate 1 which may consist of paper or a material similar to paper or also of plastic or a foil. The substrate is typically opaque. In the case of a plastic bank note, however, the substrate is usually a transparent foil. In the substrate 1, a first optical metallized paper element is arranged in the form of a window 6 (through the window) and a second optical metallized paper element in the form of a security thread 7. The window 6 as well as also the security thread 7 passes to the surface in the substrate 1, whereby the common surface of the substrate 1, window 6 and security thread 7 generally consist of different materials. To ensure a uniform ink receptivity by the additional printing to be applied, a transparent ink receiving layer 5 can be disposed directly on this common surface. The embodiment example shown in Figure 2a, however, is a banknote composed of metallized paper in which the substrate 1 as well as the window 6 and security thread 7 are covered by a plastic layer 8, for example a paper Metallized PET. The transparent ink receiving layer 5 is in this case arranged directly on the plastic layer 8. In addition, the bank note shown in Figure 2a can also have layers not shown, such as, for example, adhesive or primers, which for example they guarantee sufficient adhesion of the different layers to each other. The transparent ink receiving layer 5 thus forms a uniform surface of the value document, thereby creating a uniform and high ink receptivity on the total value document.

The example of additional embodiment shown in Figure 2b in cross section differs from the embodiment example shown in Figure 2a by an additional ink receiving opaque layer 9. The transparent ink receiving layer 5 can be disposed on the value document on the entire area, as represented in this embodiment example, or otherwise only in a first partial region above the common surface of the substrate 1, window 6 and security thread 7, ie, above the surface of the document of value , the ink-receptive transparent layer 5 is disposed at least on top of the optical foil elements, that is, on top of the window 6 and security thread 7. The opaque ink receiving layer 9 is not applied over the entire area over the surface of the value document. The surface of the document of value is divided into one or several second partial regions B, B, third partial regions C and fourth regions D. The second partial regions B are completely outwardly of the optical foil elements, ie they are not overlap with the window 6 or security thread 7. In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2b, the third partial regions C correspond to the regions of the optical foil elements, that is, they are arranged above the window 6 and security thread 7. In this embodiment example, the third partial regions C have the dimensions of the optical foil elements, but can alternatively also cover a larger or smaller region. The fourth partial regions D are transition regions between the second partial regions B and the third partial regions C and are directly adjacent to the second partial regions B and the third partial regions C. Because the third partial regions C correspond to the regions of the optical elements, the fourth partial regions D form an outer edge region around the optical foil elements. The fourth partial regions D preferably have a constant width.

In the second partial regions the opaque ink receiving layer 9 is applied with a first invariant layer thickness. In the third partial regions C the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 is zero, that is, in the third partial regions C no opaque ink receiving layer 9 is applied. In this way, the optical perceptibility of the elements of the optical foil is not deteriorated by the presence of the opaque ink receiving layer 9. In the fourth partial regions D the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 shows a course decreasing towards the third partial regions C, in which the course can be progressive, as represented in this example of modality, or it can also be configured in a ladder form. Through this decreasing course of the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 in the fourth partial regions D a transition region of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 is created, which for example prevents the incidence of so-called edges. bright and the incidence of the so-called sticky tape effect.

In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2b, the opaque ink receiving layer 9 is disposed above the transparent ink receiving layer 5. However, it is also possible to arrange the transparent ink receiving layer 5 on top of the receiving opaque layer. of ink 9, as represented in the embodiment example shown in Figure 2c. This has the advantage of this way of creating a surface of the document of value that is uniform with respect to the receptibility of the ink.

In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2c, the layer thickness of the ink-receptive transparent layer 5 is invariable on the total value document and thus on the second B, third C and fourth D partial regions. In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2d, the layer thickness of the ink-receiving transparent layer 5 in the third partial regions C and fourth partial regions D is high compared to the layer thickness in the second partial regions B, so that the reduced layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 in these regions is compensated, so that the total layer thickness of the opaque 9 and transparent ink receiving layers 5 is invariable and thus a surface results completely flat of the value document.

In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2e, the layer thickness of the ink-receptive transparent layer 5 is zero in the second partial regions B and is only non-zero in the third partial regions C and fourth partial regions D. The layer transparent ink receiving 5 thereby fills the slits in the opaque ink receiving layer 9, thereby creating a completely flat surface of the value document in this way as well.

In the example of embodiments shown in Figures 2c, 2d and 2e, the transparent ink receiving layer 5 is disposed above the opaque ink receiving layer 9, ie, the transparent ink receiving layer 5 is applied in a step of subsequent method than the ink receiving opaque layer 9. In the embodiment example shown in Figure 2f, however, the ink-receptive transparent layer 5 is applied to the value document in a previous method step than the receiving opaque layer of the method. ink 9, whereby the transparent ink receiving layer 5 falls below the opaque ink receiving layer 9. It is possible to provide a completely flat surface of the value document in this case also.

In a variant, not shown, of the embodiment example shown in FIG. 2f, the transparent ink-receiving layer 5 is arranged on the document of value over the entire area and has a high layer thickness in the third partial regions C and fourth partial regions D, so that the total layer thickness of the opaque 9 and transparent ink receiving layers 5 is again invariant.

In Figure 3a the window 6 shown in Figures 2a to 2f is shown in plan view. It is of circular configuration and the third partial region C is arranged exactly above the window 6, thus the same being of circular configuration. The fourth partial region D forms a ring of constant amplitude around the third partial region C, the fourth partial region D is directly adjacent to the third partial region C. The second partial region B is directly adjacent to the fourth partial region D. this mode, the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 shows a gradual course in the radial direction starting from the center of the circular window 6 in a ring region which is directly adjacent to the window 6 externally in the radial direction .

The third partial region C can also form a region that deviates from the region of the optical foil element, however, as represented by the example in Figure 3b, where the third partial region C is a region in the form of strip in which the circular window 6 comes to fall completely. The fourth partial regions D and second partial regions B also form strip-shaped regions which are directly adjacent.

Such a third partial region C in strip form is suitable in particular for elongated optical foil elements, such as for example the security thread 7 already shown in Figures 2a to 2f. In the embodiment example shown in Figure 3c, the third partial region C is wider than the security thread 7, the fourth partial regions D are again adjacent to the third partial region C as additional strip-shaped regions, and directly adjacent to these in addition to the second partial regions B.

In this way, the configuration of the third partial regions C, of the fourth partial regions D and of the second partial regions B can be adapted to the method of application of the opaque and transparent ink receiving layers. These can be applied by common printing methods such as gravure printing, screen printing or flexographic printing, but also by coating methods in which the clear and / or opaque ink receiving layer is poured or sprayed on the surface or Applies with rollers. A strip-shaped configuration of the third C, fourth D and second B partial regions as depicted in Figures 3b and 3c is particularly suitable when the opaque and / or transparent ink receiving layer is applied to the value document using rolls of impression.

In the embodiment example shown in FIG. 4, it is arranged on an optical foil paper element 2, which can be configured as a transfer element, a transparent ink receiving layer 5 which has different configurations in subregions 5a and 5b . Prior to overprinting with additional printing, subregions 5a and 5b are not recognizable to an observer. However, the configurations of the ink-receiving transparent layer 5 in the subregions 5a and 5b differ in their ink-receiving behavior. Therefore, the additional printing applied appears for example with a different brightness in subregions 5a and 5b. In this way, an additional structure formed by the subregions 5a and 5b can be created in the transparent ink receiving layer, which become recognizable only after overprinting with additional printing. Alternatively or additionally, the configurations of the transparent ink-receiving layer in subregions 5a and 5b may also differ in other properties. For example, the effect pigments can be provided in one of the two subregions in the ink-receiving transparent layer 5, thereby causing the subregions to be distinguishable only after observing from a predetermined observation direction. In addition, the transparent ink receiving layer may differ in its embossing behavior in subregions 5a and 5b, thereby causing the different subregions 5a and 5b to become recognizable only after an embossing of the value document .

The subregions 5a and 5b can, by doing so, form a substructure which transports to the observer an information point, for example a motif or a graphic or alphanumeric symbol.

Similarly, the opaque ink receiving layer 9 may also have a subregion 9a in which the opaque ink receiving layer has a configuration that results in an ink receiving behavior different from the remaining region of the ink receiving opaque layer 9. , or that results in a different embossing behavior. Likewise, the effect pigments can also be provided only in a sub region 9a of the opaque ink receiving layer, or different effect pigments in their composition and / or orientation of the effect pigments in the remaining ink receiving layer. In the case of the ink-receiving opaque layer, the possibility is also represented by producing in the sub-region 9a, through the use, for example, of different fillers, a different transmitted light behavior of the opaque transparent ink receiving layer 9. The subregion 9a is then not recognizable in the incident light, but perceptible in the transmitted light.

In the examples of embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4, the invention was described with reference to the security elements configured as optical foil elements and formed with a base in metallized paper. However, the present invention is not limited to the optical foil elements. Security elements that have a polymer layer instead of a plastic foil could also be employed. Similarly, the security element may be, for example, a feature produced by printing technology, for example, a microprint.

Claims

1. A security element for the manufacture of valuable documents, characterized in that it comprises at least one transparent ink receiving layer which is arranged above a first surface of the security element over the entire area or in at least one partial region.

2. The security element according to claim 1, characterized in that the transparent ink receiving layer comprises a filler which is preferably chosen from the group consisting of boehmite, pseudobohemite, zeolite, AI2O3 and silica gel, and a binder, preferably alcohol polyvinyl, and the filler to binder ratio preferably falls in the range of 6: 1 to 30: 1.

3. The security element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the security element is configured as a window, security thread, strip of metallized paper, characteristic produced by printing technology, patch or label.

4. A document of value characterized in that it comprises a substrate and a security element according to any of claims 1 to 3 which is arranged on or on the substrate so that the first surface of the security element forms a common surface with a first The surface of the substrate, the transparent ink receiving layer is arranged above the common surface over the entire area or at least in a first partial region of the common surface.

5. The value document according to claim 4, characterized in that a transparent layer, preferably a plastic foil, is disposed between the common surface and the transparent ink receiving layer.

6. The value document according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that above the common surface an opaque ink receiving layer is arranged in at least a partial region of the common surface, in which the region falls on or not on top, that is, outwardly, the security element after the observation of the value document in the incident light.

7. The value document according to claim 4, 5 or 6, characterized in that above the common surface an opaque ink receiving layer is arranged in at least a second partial region (B) of the common surface, in which the region does not fall up, that is, falls out, the security element after the observation of the value document in the incident light, has here a first layer thickness preferably invariable, and has a slit or a reduced layer thickness compared to the first layer thickness in a third partial region (C) of the common surface, in which the region falls over the security element after observation of the value document in the incident light.

8. The value document according to claim 7, characterized in that the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer within the third partial region (C) and / or in a fourth partial region (D) of the common surface, in wherein the region falls between the second (B) and third partial regions, has a decreasing course in a ladder or continuous form, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from the first layer thickness in the second partial region, the layer thickness of the ink receiving opaque layer which decreases down to zero or approximately zero in the third and / or fourth partial region and particularly preferably rising to zero in the third complete partial region.

9. The value document according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the fourth partial region (D) abuts directly on the second partial region (B) and the third partial region (C) and completely surrounds the third partial region.

10. The value document according to any of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the transparent ink receiving layer (5) is arranged below or above the opaque ink receiving layer within the second (B), third (C) and, where applicable, fourth (D) partial regions and has an invariant layer thickness here or has a high layer thickness compared to the second partial region in the third and, where applicable, fourth regions, preferably in such a way that the sum of the layer thicknesses of the transparent ink receiving layer and the opaque ink receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth regions is invariable.

11. The value document according to any of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the transparent ink receiving layer is disposed below or above the opaque ink receiving layer only within the third (C) and, where applicable , fourth (D) partial regions, and in which preferably the layer thickness of the transparent ink receiving layer has an increase in course in a stairway or continuous form, preferably with a constant gradient, starting from a layer thickness of zero in the second partial region (B), so that the sum of the layer thicknesses of the transparent ink receiving layer and the opaque ink receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth regions is invariable.

12. The document of value according to any of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that the transparent ink receiving layer has a first configuration in a first subregion of the transparent ink receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion of the ink. transparent ink receiving layer, so that the two subregions produce an optically identical print on an observer at least after observation from a predetermined direction, preferably after observation of all directions, the two different subregions on a property technical, in particular in its ink receptor behavior or its embossing behavior.

13. The document of value according to any of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that the opaque ink receiving layer has a first configuration in a first subregion of the opaque ink receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion of the opaque ink receiving layer, so that the two subregions produce an optically identical print on an observer at least after observation from a predetermined direction, preferably after observation of all directions, the two different subregions on a property technical, in particular in its ink receptor behavior or its embossing behavior.

14. The value document according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the subregions of the transparent ink receiving layer and / or the subregions of the opaque ink receiving layer form an information point recognizable to an observer.

15. A method for manufacturing a document of value, characterized in that it comprises: a supply of a value document substrate and of a security element according to any of claims 1 to 3, the security element additionally has a carrier of the security element. security applied on top of the transparent ink receiving layer; a connection of the security element to the substrate of the value document by means of an adhesive layer, so that the substrate of the value document is attached to the side of the security element facing away from the carrier of the security element, in order to thereby provide a construction of the security element of the value document; and an additional step of removing the carrier from the security element from the construction of the security element of the document of value, the transparent ink receiving layer which serves as a separation layer or release layer.