DE102008053099A1 - Security element with pressure-sensitive appearance - Google Patents

Abstract

A security element for a data carrier comprises an elastically deformable, preferably compressible region and a functional structure that creates a visual impression in a viewer, wherein the elastically deformable region and the functional structure interact with one another in such a way that in an undeformed state of the elastically deformable region Gives an impression of the functional structure that differs from the visual impression in a deformed state of the elastically deformable region.

Description

The Invention relates to a security element for a data carrier, the visual impression created by observation through mechanical pressure on the security element is reversibly changeable, a Data carrier with such a security element, a transfer element with such a security element for application to a disk and a method for producing such a security element.

disk, such as documents of value or identity, or other valuables, such as branded goods, are hedged with security features provided a verification of the authenticity of the Object and at the same time as protection against unauthorized Serve reproduction. Furthermore, security elements often generate one highly visible visual impression, why such security elements in addition to their function as a security agent sometimes also exclusively as decorative elements for such data carriers or used for their packaging. A security element can in such disk, for example, in a banknote or in a smart card, be embedded or self-supporting or not self-supporting transfer element may be formed, for example as a non-self-supporting patch or as a self-supporting label, after its production on a data medium to be backed up or other object, for example over a window area of the data carrier, is applied.

disk For the purposes of the present invention, bank notes, Shares, bonds, certificates, vouchers, checks, high-quality tickets, but also other counterfeit papers, like passport or other identification documents, and also card-shaped Data carriers, in particular chip cards, and product security elements, such as labels, seals, packaging and the like. The term "data carrier" includes also non-executable precursors of such data carriers, for example, in the case of security paper in quasi endless Form and processed at a later date such as banknotes, checks, stocks and the like.

To prevent counterfeiting or replication of security elements, for example with high-quality color photocopiers, security elements can have optically variable elements which convey different visual impressions to the viewer from different viewing angles. For producing functional or effect layers exhibiting such optically variable effects, various techniques are known. For example, optical interference layers can be present either over the entire surface or in pigment form. Such interference layers typically have a thin-film structure and comprise a reflective layer, an absorber layer and one or more intervening dielectric spacer layers and are based, for example, on mica, on SiO ₂ or on Al ₂ O ₃ . Printing inks with pigments of such single or multilayer interference thin layers are also available. Instead of interference layers or interference layer pigments, it is also possible to use cholesteric liquid crystals, which are present, for example, as liquid-crystalline silicone polymers. Furthermore, holograms, which include metallic layers typically formed by vacuum deposition, or diffraction gratings, at different viewing angles, also exhibit a different visual impression to an observer.

The different visual impressions for a viewer can convey a so-called color-shift effect for the viewer under different viewing angles different shades are recognizable.

Various optical impressions can also arise from that under a certain viewing angle the effect layer completely transparent and thus for a viewer is invisible while looking under a different viewing angle (Effect angle) shows a hue.

Interference layers, consisting of a single dielectric layer, inks with pigments from such interference layers or printing inks with liquid crystalline pigments are common highly translucent at all viewing angles, so that at Viewing the effect layer under the effect angle for the viewer recognizable color impression is relatively weak. Such Effect layers with strong translucence are Therefore, to improve the visibility of the color change preferably over applied to dark or black backgrounds. In contrast this is demonstrated by multilayer interference layers and multilayer ones Interfacial pigments have a lower translucency and are sometimes completely opaque.

In the US 5 712 731 A the use of a moiré magnification arrangement is described as a security feature. This has a regular two-dimensional arrangement of identical, printed microimages as well as a regular two-dimensional arrangement of identical, spherical microlenses. The microlens array has almost the same pitch as the microimage array. When the micro-image array is viewed through the microlens array, in the areas where the two arrays are nearly in register, one or more enlarged versions of the microimages are presented to the viewer testifies.

The principal operation of such moiré magnification arrangements is in the article "The moire magnifier", MC Hutley, R. Hunt, RF Stevens and P. Savander, Pure Appl. Opt. 3 (1994), pp. 133-142 , described. In short, moiré magnification thereafter refers to a phenomenon that occurs when viewing a raster of identical image objects through a lenticular of approximately the same pitch. As with any pair of similar rasters, this results in a moiré pattern, which in this case appears as an enlarged and possibly rotated image of the repeated elements of the image raster. Further design variants and effects based on this mechanism are, for example, in the article "Properties of moire magnifiers", Kamal et al., Optical Engineering 37 (11), pp. 3007-3014 (November 1998) described.

Regular microlens arrays can also be used as verification elements for security elements, as described in US Pat EP 1 147 912 B1 is described. Certain structures of a security element are only visible to the user when viewed through such a verification element, so that the function of the security element can be hidden for an unbiased viewer.

From the WO 2007/079851 A1 For example, an optically variable security element with an achromatically reflecting microstructure in the form of a mosaic is known. The mosaic shows a predetermined motif, which is composed of a number of pixels, wherein the pixels are each constructed from a plurality of achromatically reflecting micromirrors. The micromirrors are formed, for example, from metallized flanks of a sawtooth structure. In the simplest case, the flanks of the micromirrors of one pixel have the same angle of inclination, while the angles of inclination of the flanks of the different pixels differ.

Thereby show the pixels under different viewing angles different visual impressions in the viewer.

From the WO 2008/049533 A2 is a see-through security element with a blind image known. The venetian blind has raised, line-shaped, opaque areas, which have a characteristic size and a distance from each other that can not be resolved with the naked eye. When viewed vertically, the shutter image is therefore substantially transparent. On the other hand, if the observer tilts the blind image perpendicular to the line-shaped, opaque areas, these areas obstruct the view and the blind image appears opaque to the observer. The height-to-width ratio of the opaque regions is typically in the range of 2: 1. The space between the raised areas can also be filled with a translucent, ie semi-transparent, or even completely transparent lacquer. In an alternative embodiment, the raised areas are transparent and obliquely evaporated with an opaque coating, thereby providing an asymmetric, opaque coating of the raised areas. Accordingly, at a given viewing angle, there is also an asymmetric view, which depends on the orientation of the blind image relative to the observer.

Furthermore, from the patent application EP 08004395 the Applicant known photonic crystals which show a change in color under mechanical pressure. Such photonic crystals often have the structure of inverse opals. They typically have cavities which are produced, for example, by dissolving SiO ₂ nanoparticles with dilute hydrofluoric acid. On the one hand, because of the necessary use of hydrofluoric acid, the production of such photonic crystals is complex; on the other hand, a significant period of time is required for the dissolution of the SiO ₂ nanoparticles in the hydrofluoric acid, which precludes the rapid production of such photonic crystals and security elements with such photonic crystals , Furthermore, it is also known to embed such photonic crystals in the form of spherical nanoparticles in a compressible matrix.

task The present invention is an easy-to-test Security element to create, which preferably in a swift Method can be produced, so for example, on the use of can dispense with the aforementioned photonic crystals.

These The task is performed by a security element, a data carrier, a transfer element and a manufacturing method with the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention.

The basic idea of the present invention is to provide an elastically deformable, in particular compressible, region which can assume a deformed and an undeformed state and thus different spatial positions or preferably also different spatial expansions. In this case, by external mechanical pressure macroscopic rearrangements of the elastically deformable region or other with the elastically deformable region of mechanically connected elements of the security elements are achieved. This results in a variety of ways to change the visual appearance and thus the visual impression in the viewer due to mechanical pressure. The change in the visual impression can be recognized by the viewer with the naked eye.

The Security element according to the invention comprises a elastically deformable and optionally also compressible, Area and a functional structure that gives a visual impression generated by the viewer. The elastically deformable region and the functional structure interact mechanically with each other, that in an undeformed state of the elastically deformable Area gives a visual impression of the functional structure that from the visual impression in a deformed state of the elastically deformable region is different.

The Use of the elastically deformable region in conjunction with a functional structure, which according to the invention a easily verifiable, changeable creates a visual impression, ensures that such a security element not by a simple copy, for example by a color copier, can be imitated. Such elastically deformable areas are only with much higher effort to produce. additionally is the variable visual impression of the functional structure, which has a well-defined mechanical interaction between the elastically deformable region and the functional structure requires not easily imitated by a forger User but easily verifiable.

The mechanical interaction between the elastically deformable Area and the functional structure for generating a variable visual impression can be realized in different ways become. Likewise, the function structure itself can be different Way be realized.

in the the simplest case may be the functional structure that gives the visual impression generated by the viewer, from one or more simple elements, like a printed image. However, it can also be optically variable Own properties and then produces in the viewer under different Viewing angles different optical impressions. In this case, the functional structure includes, for example, a Interference thin film, a layer of interference thin-film pigments, a layer of liquid crystal pigments or diffractive structures, such as holograms. The functional structure may alternatively also include a metallization.

In a first preferred embodiment of the invention the spatial position of a part of the functional structure differs or the entire functional structure in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable area of the spatial position within the security element in the deformed state of the elastic deformable area. The functional structure is designed in this way that this change in the visual impression, which creates the functional structure in the viewer changed becomes. Upon deformation of the elastically deformable region is In addition, the location of at least part of the functional structure within of the security element macroscopically changed. The change The spatial position can be the spatial position within the security element and / or alignment the at least part of the functional structure within the security element. In other words, an angle changes in the latter case the functional structure and thus also the observation angle, under a viewer the at least part of the functional structure sees. Thus, a security element is created in the because of the mechanical interaction between elastically deformable Area and functional structure, the observation angle, under the functional structure is seen by the mechanical pressure on the security element changes without the outer Change perspective of the viewer to the security element as a whole got to. Does the functional structure include an optically variable layer, for example, can not be tilted because of their attachment Security elements observed the corresponding optically variable effect without the viewer for the necessary change the observation angle its position relative to the security element must change.

In a first embodiment of the first embodiment form the elastically deformable region and the functional structure common area. The elastically deformable region contains thus the functional structure and it is in the elastically deformable Integrated area. Furthermore contains the function structure an optically variable element, whereby a security element is created, in the optically variable elements in one otherwise preferably translucent, elastically deformable area are introduced. The optically variable element of the functional structure undergoes upon deformation of the elastically deformable region, therefore same macroscopic position change and / or change the orientation as the elastically deformable area.

In a second embodiment of the first embodiment, the functional structure is with the surface of the elastically deformable region firmly connected and also comprises an optically variable element. In the simplest case, the functional structure is arranged directly on the elastically deformable region. This can be done by flocking the elastically deformable region with, for example, uniform layer thickness with fibers which exhibit a color shift effect, for example due to cholesteric liquid crystal pigments or interference thin-film pigments contained therein. With mechanical pressure on the substrate, the viewing angle of the fibers changes, resulting in a color shift effect.

In A first variant of this second embodiment is another Intermediate layer between the elastically deformable region and the functional structure, which is made up of an inflexible, rigid material, but due to their structuring but still a spatial change in the position of the functional structure allowed upon deformation of the elastically deformable region. For this purpose, the intermediate layer is made of a rigid, inflexible material, For example, as a broken layer, formed, thereby mechanically independent and thus individually tiltable elements arise. The elastically deformable region can then advantageously as a flat, compressible layer with a uniform layer thickness be designed, which is a simple and inexpensive Ensures production of the elastically deformable region.

In a second variant of the second embodiment of the first embodiment the invention is the functional structure with the surface the elastically deformable, preferably compressible, area firmly connected, this area is structured and structure having spatially varying layer thickness. Thereby can under the functional structure on the elastically deformable area be arranged at a suitable angle, under which a variable optically variable impression, such as a color shift effect, even with a slight deformation of the elastically deformable Range and thus already exercising a small amount mechanical pressure on the security element are perceived can. For this purpose, the elastically deformable region can be a sawtooth or lamellar structure, wherein the functional structure on the edges of the saw teeth or slats arranged is.

• – Bereitstellen einer Kunststoffschicht, insbesondere einer Klebstoff- oder Prägelackschicht,
• – Prägen der Kunststoffschicht mithilfe eines Prägestempels zur Erzeugung einer Prägestruktur in der Kunststoffschicht, und
• – Einstellen der Elastizität und vorzugsweise des Kompressionsverhaltens der Kunststoffschicht, vorzugsweise durch Vernetzen, so dass die Prägestruktur elastisch deformierbar und vorzugsweise kompressibel wird.

Such an elastically deformable region with spatially varying layer thickness can be produced by embossing. The underlying manufacturing process for the elastically deformable region comprises the steps:

• Providing a plastic layer, in particular an adhesive or embossing lacquer layer,
• Embossing of the plastic layer by means of a stamping die for producing an embossed structure in the plastic layer, and
• - Adjusting the elasticity and preferably the compression behavior of the plastic layer, preferably by crosslinking, so that the embossed structure is elastically deformable and preferably compressible.

The Order of these steps is arbitrary and depends on the desired result and the materials used from.

The used plastic layer may for example consist of an adhesive, consist of a resin or an embossing lacquer. The elastic Parameters of the plastic layer, for example, by networking adjusted so that an elastomer with suitable elasticity and optionally suitable compression behavior arises. The Crosslinking can be effected, for example, via (UV) irradiation or the effect of temperature happen. The networking can also be done after a given Time run independently, for example, when using a two-component plastic.

The Networking can take place in a separate process step following the embossing of the plastic layer happened. The networking can also in a procedural step together with the embossing done, for example, by embossing with increased Temperature. Networking can also be done before deploying the plastic layer can be done or completed, so that already before embossing an elastomer with the desired elastic and preferably compressible properties. requirement It is that such an elastomer is still in the desired Extent can be permanently imprinted.

By The embossing can thus be an elastically deformable and optionally compressible layer with spatially varying Layer thickness are created, taking for the concrete Design of the embossed structure many degrees of freedom exist.

Prefers has the elastically deformable embossed structure and also the die on a sawtooth structure, which is particularly preferred regularly. The functional structure, For example, in the form of an optically variable layer, then applied to the flanks of the saw teeth. at mechanical pressure, the saw teeth are reversibly folded, whereby the viewing angle changes and therefore a changed visual impression arises in the viewer, without, for example, tilting the entire security element or generally in its position needs to be changed.

Opposite the embossing of hard Prägela For example, when the embossing stamp is peeled off completely, further measures are necessary when embossing soft plastics and elastomers which may not yet be cross-linked since such soft plastic layers show, for example, increased adhesion to the embossing stamp, so that it does not appear arbitrary can be deducted from the embossed structure. For example, the adhesion of the embossed structure to the embossing stamp can be reduced by a suitable surface coating of the embossing stamp, for example in the form of a suitable release layer.

It is also possible, simultaneously with the embossing a coating of the die on the surface to transfer the embossed structure. This is the Adhesion of the coating on the stamper preferably less than the adhesion of the coating to that with the embossed structure to be provided surface. After embossing and the coating may optionally be removed from the stamping die be removed again from the embossed structure. In a advantageous embodiment of the invention, the coating remains however, on the embossed structure and forms at least one Part of the functional structure, for example, exclusively on the flanks of the sawtooth embossed structure and not arranged on the vertical edges of the sawtooth structure is. When the embossing stamp on the embossed Surface transferred coating is it preferably a metallization. It can, however also transfer other layers of a functional structure be such as the dielectric layer of an interference thin film or a layer of interference thin-film pigments or liquid crystal pigments.

at Deformation show the saw teeth of the sawtooth structure the elastically deformable region in the foot area generally a lower tilt than at the tips of the Saw teeth. As big as possible Proportion of the optically variable layer of the functional structure mechanical pressure is to be influenced and the area in which the optically variable effect is not affected by mechanical pressure is to be as small as possible, it is advantageous if the foot area of the saw teeth no shows optically variable effect. This is indicated by the functional structure in the foot area of the saw teeth, for example Recesses on. In the case of an interference thin film it is sufficient if only one of the layers containing the interference layer form, in the foot area has recesses, so that the remaining coatings in this area no interference thin film form more with interference effect. Alternatively, the functional structure covered in the foot of the saw teeth be.

The aforementioned recesses are in a first production variant produced by oblique vapor deposition of the embossed structure. The vapor deposition takes place in the direction of the flanks of the sawtooth structure the embossed structure, leaving the tips of the saw teeth the foot of the flank of the adjacent sawtooth shade. Also the vertical edges of the sawtooth structure are not coated in such oblique steaming. In this case, a metallization or an optically variable layer be evaporated.

In a second production variant of the generation of the recesses in the foot area of the sawtooth structure is in front of the Applying a coating on the embossed structure first a low-viscosity wash applied to the embossed structure. The wash color flows into the deepest places and covered thus only the foot areas of the flanks of the saw teeth. Advantageously, the low-viscosity wash paint wicks the tips the sawtooth structure, resulting in a suitable surface tension the wash color over the embossed structure achieved can be. Subsequently, the desired Coating all over the embossed structure and the washing paint applied. The wash color preferably has a highly porous surface, which is applied by the Coating is not completely covered, causing the Wash color despite the applied coating in another Process step can be washed out, so that the desired Recesses in the foot area of the sawtooth structure arise.

In a third production variant becomes the desired Coating all over the sawtooth structure applied to the embossed structure. Subsequently, will a low-viscosity topcoat on the coated embossed structure applied so that the foot areas of the flanks of the sawtooth structure of the Embossed structure are covered and thus no optically variable Create more effect.

In a fourth production variant is the production of the recesses in the foot area of the embossed structure with the previously already mentioned transferring a coating when embossing the embossed structure combined.

In a first embodiment of the fourth production variant, the desired coating to be transferred is applied over the entire surface of the stamp. Subsequently, the coating in the region of the tips of the sawtooth structure of the stamping die is removed again. Thereafter, an adhesive layer is applied over the entire surface of the die or on the applied coating on the die coating and then the plastic layer used in the finished Verfahrenspro Duct forms the elastically deformable region, embossed with the thus prepared embossing die, so that the desired embossed structure is formed and thereby the adhesive layer is transferred with the partially existing coating. Since the coating has been removed at the tips of the sawtooth structure of the stamping die prior to the stamping step, there is no coating as desired after transfer of the coating in the root area of the sawtooth structure of the stamping structure. The removal of the coating from the tips of the stamping die can be realized by mechanical scrubbing on the tips zen. It is advantageous if the applied coating is a slightly cleavable coating.

In a second embodiment of the fourth manufacturing variant is first again the desired coating applied over the entire surface of the stamp. Subsequently, a low-viscosity adhesive on the Sawtooth structure of the embossing stamp applied, so that this is in the foot areas of the sawtooth structure of the stamping dies collects before the embossing pattern is shaped. When removing the embossing stamp then the coating only remains on the embossed structure at the places where previously applied an adhesive layer has been. In other words, this results in an embossed structure which shows only at the tips of a coating and in the Foot areas have the desired recesses. It is advantageous if without adhesive layer adhesion the coating on the die is stronger as the adhesion of the coating to the embossed structure, so that when removing the embossing stamp from the embossed structure the coating in the foot area of the sawtooth structure the embossed structure is subtracted again.

Preferably If the die is made of a hard embossing lacquer, because in this case the desired adhesive strengths the various coatings and adhesive layers slightly on each other can be matched.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the manufacturing process the plastic layer to be embossed is constructed in two layers and comprises an upper and a lower layer, wherein the lower Layer can be removed after embossing. Coins To place a sawtooth structure in a central area of a such a two-layered substrate, the upper layer arrives the surface of the flanks of the saw teeth to lie while the lower layer below this Flanks lies and in the simplest case at the vertical edges of the Saw tooth structure is exposed. In a further process step then the lower layer is removed leaving only the upper one Layer, which previously had the flanks of the saw teeth had formed, remains as a lamellar structure. This lamellar Structure forms the elastically deformable region of the security element, which can be designed incompressible. Such slats have in contrast to a sawtooth structure has the advantage that the Slats elastic even at a lower mechanical pressure deformed, in particular completely folded, so that they are, for example, parallel to the surface of the Security element lie.

has in general, the security element, in particular its elastic deformable area, a sawtooth or lamellar structure on, as for example in the second variant of the second embodiment the first embodiment of the invention is described, so it may be beneficial if the tips of the saw teeth or lamellae are mechanically connected to one another on the Security element exerted mechanical pressure evenly distributed to the individual saw teeth or slats. The saw teeth or lamellae then show a uniform elastic deformation and possibly compression, resulting in a smooth change of the visual impression results in deformation of the elastically deformable region. This Mechanical bonding is preferably done by laminating an example, inflexible translucent foil on the tips the saw teeth or lamellas, being the translucent For example, film has a thin laminating adhesive layer.

In the various variants and embodiments of the first embodiment In the simplest case, the functional structure of the invention lies in the direction of observation before the elastically deformable area, so that the optical Properties of the elastically deformable region are irrelevant. The elastically deformable region can therefore be opaque, for example be.

In a second preferred embodiment of the invention differs the light path or the beam path within of the safety element in the undeformed state of the elastic deformable area of the light path in the deformed state the elastically deformable region. Also differentiates the spatial position of a part of the functional structure in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable region from the spatial position in the deformed state of the elastic deformable area.

In a first preferred embodiment of the second embodiment, the functional structure for this purpose comprises a first and a second element. The second element is arranged in the viewing direction in front of the first element and translucent. The elastically deformable region forms an Ab Stands for the first and second elements of the functional structure, and in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable region, the first and the second element of the functional structure are spaced apart, so that, for example, results in a gap, while in the deformed state of the elastically deformable region, the first and the second element of the functional structure are spatially in contact with each other. In the simplest case, the spacer is made compressible. However, due to its elastic properties alone, it can provide the necessary spatial relative movement of the first and second elements of the functional structure.

In a first variant of the first embodiment of the second embodiment is the second element on the back, d. H. on the surface opposite the first element totally reflective, in particular retroreflective. Im undeformed Condition of the elastically deformable region, d. H. if the first one and the second element are spaced from each other, there is no view on the first element lying in the direction of view behind the second element the functional structure possible. So the first element is not visible in this state of the security element. In spatial Contact of first and second element takes place at the back of the second element instead of a transition to air, which is in the gap between the first and second element, now a transition to the material of the first element of the Function structure instead. Because this material is one of a kind Refractive index, the refractive conditions change on the back of the second element of the functional structure such that the condition of total or retro reflection is canceled becomes. Thus, the light path or the beam path changes within the functional structure of the security element, and the first Element of the function structure becomes visible and can be considered become.

In a second variant of the first embodiment carries the second element on the back and the first element on the front a reflective or partially reflecting Coating. This allows interference effects, like them For example, in the form of Newtonian rings are known, targeted amplified and used as a visual effect. The shape of such Newtonian rings depends generally from the distance or the spatial variation of the distance from the first and second element of the functional structure. The distance, the can be adjusted at a given mechanical pressure rule, for example be adjusted by suitable spacers.

In a third variant is located on the back of the second element of the functional structure in addition to a partially reflecting layer, a dielectric layer with constant layer thickness, while on the opposite Front of the first element of the functional structure a complete reflective layer is located. This results in contact of first and second element through combination of different layers an interference thin film while this is at Spacing no longer represent interference thin film and create a distinctly different visual impression.

In a second preferred embodiment of the second embodiment The invention relates to the elastically deformable region and the functional structure each layered formed. Furthermore, the elastically deformable Area translucent and in viewing direction in front of the functional structure arranged. In the simplest case, the translucent replaces elastic deformable area the translucent first element of the functional structure the first embodiment of the second embodiment described above of the invention and thus forms part of the functional structure.

In a first variant of the second embodiment is the translucent, elastically deformable region on the functional structure opposite Totally reflective back, especially retro-reflective educated. By deformation of the elastically deformable region becomes the condition of total reflection or retro-reflection on the back of the elastically deformable area lifted, with which a sudden review of the underlying Layered functional structure is possible. The functional structure is in the simplest case of a printed image or metallized and demetallized areas. Particularly preferred is the functional structure is an optically variable layer, which, for example, shows a color shift effect. Likewise, the functional structure be spatially dependent in the form of a raster image For example, the absorber layer and the dielectric Layer are removed area by area. In addition, can also the reflection layer are removed in areas. alternative the functional structure may also be a diffraction grating, preferably in combination with a metallization and / or a high refractive index Layer, include.

Of course is instead of retro-reflection any other possibility applicable, in which by angle-dependent reflection the View of the underlying functional structure dependent on angle or not possible.

In a second variant of the second embodiment of the second embodiment of the invention, the security element comprises a moire magnification erungsanordnung. In this case, the functional structure forms the microimage arrangement of such a moiré magnification arrangement, while the elastically deformable region is arranged as a translucent intermediate layer between the microlens arrangement of the moiré magnification arrangement and the functional structure. The elastically deformable region is formed here as a flat, compressible layer with a substantially constant layer thickness. By mechanical pressure of the elastically deformable region can be compressed, whereby the distance between the microlens array and the microimage array is changed. Thus, the focusing condition within the moiré magnification arrangement is changed by mechanical pressure.

In a third variant of the second embodiment of the second embodiment of the invention, the elastically deformable region has a spatial varying layer thickness, and the functional structure comprises a optically variable layer. The elastically deformable region has for example, against the surface of the security element sloping flanks, causing the light path when viewed vertically broken and looking in the direction behind the elastically deformable area lying optically variable layer under an observation angle already seen in the undeformed state of the elastic deformable range significantly different from the actual one Angle under which the security element is considered, deviates. For example, when viewed vertically the security element the angle of view on the optically variable layer is clearly different from the surface normal the preferably planar optically variable layer differ. Of the elastically deformable region can in turn in the form of a Sawtooth structure and can, as already discussed above, be produced by an imprint. In contrast to the first embodiment of the invention described above is the elastically deformable region in this embodiment of second embodiment translucent, and instead of a change The spatial position of the functional structure becomes the point of view in the direction behind the elastically deformable area lying functional structure on the one hand by the spatially varying layer thickness and on the other by mechanical pressure on the elastically deformable region, such as a sawtooth structure changed. To get a uniform deformation of the individual To ensure saw teeth can, as already in connection with the first embodiment, turn the tips of the saw teeth mechanically get connected.

In addition to the functional structure lying behind the elastically deformable region in the direction of view, for example, the flanks of the sawtooth structure of the elastically deformable region can be provided with a further coating, preferably a metallization, in order for example to produce a louver effect. Furthermore, a combination of the from WO 2007/079851 A1 known tiltable achromatic micromirrors and from the WO 2008/049533 be known because the arranged behind the elastically deformable region function structure which shows, for example, a color shift effect, visible only by oblique viewing through the uncoated vertical edges of the sawtooth structure of the elastically deformable region because of the metallized, mirrored edge of the sawtooth structure of the elastically deformable region is. Preferably, the metallization on the flanks of the sawtooth structure in the foot of the saw teeth on recesses, which can be achieved for example by oblique vapor deposition or metallization. In the case of oblique evaporation, an opacity thus also results in the region of the vapor deposition angle, thus, in conjunction with the sawtooth structures, a louver effect. The angle range from which the element appears opaque can thus be set via the evaporation angle.

In a fourth variant of the second embodiment of the second embodiment the invention is the elastically deformable region as a planar layer with substantially spatially uniform layer thickness educated. In viewing direction before the elastically deformable Area is another translucent layer of a translucent Material arranged, which with the elastically deformable area is mechanically connected and comprises a plurality of elements, which are preferably individually tiltable.

In a third preferred embodiment of the second embodiment of the invention, microlenses are produced with a coating having a uniform layer thickness, in particular with an interference thin layer. In general, when coating an uneven surface by vapor deposition, uniform layer thicknesses can not be produced since the layer thickness depends on the orientation of the surface relative to the vapor deposition direction. Therefore, for example, on microlens arrays, no interference thin films having a uniform color shift effect can be provided yet, because in such interference thin films, the color shift effect depends on the film thickness of the dielectric film. In this preferred embodiment, vertical cylinders are arranged on a translucent, planar layer at the locations where a microlens is to be formed. Subsequently, by vertical vapor deposition, a reflective layer, a dielectric layer and a partially reflecting layer are vapor-deposited, so that on the flat surface and on the end faces of the cylinder, an interference thin layer with a uniform layer thickness of the various layers, in particular the dielectric layer is formed. Subsequently, the planar layer and the cylinders are for example heated or otherwise suitably treated, so that it comes to a running of, for example, thermoplastic material from which the flat layer and the cylinders are made. As a result, the cylinders and the planar structure connect and form microlenses at the locations of the cylinders below the interference thin-film. The material of which the planar layer and the cylinders are made may further be elastically deformable and then form an elastically deformable region in the security element. Thus, a security element is provided with an elastically deformable region with microlenses, which carry an optically variable coating, preferably in the form of an interference thin film as a functional structure. The lenses included can either be reversibly deformed directly by pressure or transferred to an elastomer including the interference thin film. When passing the cylinder to the microlenses and also when deforming the microlenses, the applied interference thin film may possibly break, which is irrelevant to the color impression.

Preferably shows the elastically deformable region under mechanical deformation a temporal hysteresis such that it after exercise a mechanical pressure for a predetermined period of time initially remains in the deformed state. Thereby can the visual impression of the functional structure in the deformed Condition of the elastically deformable region are considered without the security element by elements that are the mechanical Exert pressure, such as the viewer's finger, is covered. Does the security element have areas that are deformed and deformed? undeformed state of the elastically deformable region on the one hand spaced from each other and on the other hand in mechanical contact with each other stand, as for example in the first embodiment of second embodiment of the invention has been described, so can at least one of these contact surfaces with a be provided (translucent) adhesive layer, which is a temporally limited adherence of the two areas and a subsequent trouble-free detachment Both areas of each other guaranteed. Such layers For example, by radiation-crosslinkable silicones be created.

Further Embodiments and advantages of the invention will be explained below by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The examples represent preferred embodiments, which in no way limit the invention. The shown Figures are schematic representations showing the real proportions not reflect, but an improved clarity serve the various embodiments.

in the The figures show:

1 a banknote with a security feature;

2a - 2d four embodiments with a sawtooth structure;

3 an embodiment with a lamellar structure;

4 an embodiment with mechanically connected sawtooth tips;

5 an embodiment with Colorshift fibers;

6 an embodiment with a variable blind effect;

7 a totally reflective security element;

8th a retro-reflective security element as a special embodiment of a total reflective security element 7 ;

9 a security element with an interference thin film;

10a - 10d various embodiments of a moiré magnification arrangement with an elastically deformable intermediate layer;

11 - 13b three embodiments of manufacturing method for producing a coating of a sawtooth structure with recesses in the foot area;

14a - 15 two embodiments of manufacturing processes for producing a coating of a sawtooth structure with recesses in the foot area in an embossing; and

16a . 16b a manufacturing method for elastically deformable microlenses.

In 1 is a banknote as a data medium 1 shown. It includes a security element 2 in which schematically the line-shaped tips of a sawtooth structure are shown.

In 2a is a side view of a security element 2 with a sawtooth structure shown. On a carrier substrate 1a is a compressible, elastically deformable area 4 in the form of a layer with saw teeth 5 and thus arranged with spatially varying layer thickness. On the flanks of the saw teeth is a coating 3 arranged, which forms a functional structure. When coating 3 in the simplest case it is a metallization or also an optically variable layer. With mechanical pressure on the saw teeth 5 these are compressed, which changes their flank angle. The consideration takes place in 2a from above. The deformation of the saw teeth changes with the same angle of view on the security element 2 as a whole, the angle under which the coating 3 is seen, and thus the visual impression of the security element.

The flank angle of the saw teeth 5 is chosen so that when deformed, the perceptibility of the changing visual impression of the coating 3 is supported. Is it the coating 3 For example, around an optical variable layer, which shows a color shift effect, so this is within the security element 2 arranged such that when viewed perpendicularly the security element 2 the color shift effect even with little deformation of the elastically deformable region 4 occurs.

It comes because of the deformation of the saw teeth 5 the elastically deformable region 4 for tearing the coating 3 , so this plays only a minor role for the visual impression, since the typical size of such a crack is below the resolution of the eye and the mechanical deformation is elastic and thus reversible, so that after completion of the mechanical pressure of the elastically deformable region 4 again assumes its original position and thus possibly occurring cracks are closed.

In 2 B is a variant of in 1 shown security element 2 shown. There are the saw teeth 2 made of a rigid, inflexible material and are on an elastically deformable, compressible area 4 arranged in the form of a flat layer with a uniform layer thickness. The saw teeth 5 are not connected to each other mechanically, which is due to the broken lines 6 is indicated. This allows the rigid saw teeth 5 on the elastically deformable layer 4 be individually tilted and immerse in this partially. The flanks of the saw teeth 5 in turn wear the desired coating 3 , The elastically deformable area 4 is formed in this embodiment as a flat, compressible layer with uniform layer thickness, which can be easily and inexpensively created.

Such mechanically not connected rigid sawtooth 5 can form a cracked layer which can be obtained by intentionally tearing a hard lacquer, such as by pulling the support substrate over an edge, or by stretching, pressing, or stressing the support foil. Here are the foot areas of the saw teeth 5 because of the small or zero thickness of the layer thickness, such areas are preferred for such a crack. The cracks or fractures may be induced before or after the hard layer is brought into contact with the flexible layer.

For producing such a security element 2 For example, on a carrier foil such a sawtooth structure is produced from a hard lacquer. The sawtooth structure is laminated with a laminating adhesive whose elasticity can be suitably adjusted, for example, by crosslinking, so that the laminating adhesive has the desired, elastically deformable region 4 forms. Subsequently, the carrier film is peeled off in a separation winding process and at the same time or at a later time, the sawtooth structure of the inflexible, rigid paint is broken, whereby individual saw teeth 5 on the elastically deformable area 4 arise.

In 2c is another variant of in 2a shown embodiment shown. This is the compressible, elastically deformable area 4 again in the form of a layer with saw teeth 5 in front. However, the functional structure lies here as a flat layer 7 in the direction behind the elastically deformable area 4 , The saw teeth 5 of the elastically deformable region 4 are therefore translucent. The functional structure is characterized by the sloping flanks of the saw teeth 5 through which the light path is refracted and the angle at which the functional structure 7 viewed clearly from the viewer's perspective on the security element 2 differs.

By mechanical pressure on the saw teeth 5 in turn changes their flank angle, which in addition the angle under which the functional structure 7 is seen changes. The flank angle of the saw teeth 5 is set so that a variable visual impression, such as a color shift effect, even with a small deformation of the saw teeth 5 occurs.

In 2d is a variant of in 2 B shown embodiment shown. It is like in the 2c embodiment shown instead of a coating 3 the functional structure as a flat layer 7 provided, which in Blickrich behind the saw teeth 5 made of rigid, inflexible material and the elastically deformable area 4 lies. Here are the saw teeth 5 and the elastically deformable region 4 translucent to a consideration of the functional structure, mainly by the oblique edges of the saw teeth 5 to allow. With mechanical pressure on the saw teeth 5 tilt them and partially dive into the elastically deformable area 4 which changes the angle at which the functional structure is viewed.

In 3 is another variant of in 2a shown embodiment shown. In this case, the elastically deformable region is in the form of lamellae 9 in front. The slats 9 In this case, they may themselves form the functional structure or a functional structure in the form of the coating 3 exhibit.

Such slats 9 For example, they can be made by embossing a sawtooth structure into a two-layer embossed structure. This is done on the carrier substrate 1a a layer 1a and applied thereon an intermediate layer, wherein the material of the layer 1b a lower or no solubility with respect to a proposed solvent than the intermediate layer. Thereupon, in the two layers, the layer 1b and the intermediate layer, the sawtooth structure impressed, the intermediate layer being complete and the layer 1b still partially structured. Subsequently, the elastically deformable region 4 and, provided the elastically deformable region 4 not already forms the functional layer, the coating 3 each of which is almost insoluble with respect to the intermediate layer with the intended solvent. In the following step, the soluble intermediate layer is removed with the proposed solvent, so that the lamellae 9 stay and in the shift 1b are anchored. Alternatively, the material of the intermediate layer can also be chosen such that the intermediate layer can be removed in another way, for example by thermal melting, evaporation or blowing off.

The slats 9 form the elastically deformable area 4 which has suitable mechanical elasticity and may be incompressible. The slats 9 may be provided with another thin, flexible layer for protection against mechanical breakage.

In 4 is an embodiment of a security element 2 shown with a sawtooth structure. Here are the tips of the saw teeth 5 by an at least partially rigid layer 8th mechanically connected. The layer 8th is designed so rigid that they at least in the appropriate area a uniform distribution of mechanical pressure on the saw teeth 5 guaranteed. Make the saw teeth 5 as in the in 2a illustrated embodiment, the elastically deformable region 4 , so ensures the layer 8th a uniform deformation and compression of the saw teeth 5 , In contrast, the saw teeth form 5 as in the in 2 B illustrated embodiment, individually tiltable elements of a rigid material, so ensures the layer 8th their partially uniform tilting. Similarly, the tips of in 3 shown lamellae 9 through such a layer 8th mechanically connected, resulting in a uniform deformation of the slats 9 guaranteed. The layer 8th thus ensures an at least partially uniform change in the visual impression of the functional structure when mechanical pressure is exerted on the security element 2 , The layer 8th is translucent. It is, for example, by laminating an inflexible translucent foil on the tips of the saw teeth 5 or lamellae 9 created, wherein the translucent film, for example, has a thin laminating adhesive layer. For the purposes of this invention, the layer 8th thus, to call them rigid if they apply a local mechanical pressure on their surface over a large area to a specific area of the saw teeth 5 distributed. For example, even the stiffness of a conventional PET film may be sufficient to meet this condition.

In the case of slats 9 provides the rigid layer 8th In addition, a protection for the individual slats 9 against a mechanical breakage.

This in 5 shown embodiment shows a functional structure, which of the elastically deformable region 4 is included. The functional structure is thus part of the elastically deformable region 4 , The functional structure comprises optically variable elements in the form of liquid crystal or interference thin-film pigments.

The elastically deformable region is in the form of fibers 10 which then show a color shift effect. Such fibers 10 are also referred to as Colorshift fibers. With mechanical pressure on such Colorshift fibers 10 the spatial position of the fibers changes 10 within the security element 2 and thus the viewing angle under which the viewer sees the in the Colorshift fibers 10 sees optically variable elements contained, which is for a viewer with mechanical pressure on such a security element 2 gives a changed visual impression. Such Colorshift fibers 10 are preferably not compressible. Preferably, then, a plurality of such Colorshift fibers 10 in the security element ne arranged side by side, for example in the manner of a velvet fabric. This results in an area of the security element that produces a uniform visual impression under mechanical pressure. If the optically variable elements have only a low color intensity, as is the case, for example, with liquid-crystal or interference thin-film pigments, then a dark background may result for the Colorshift fibers 10 be provided by the substrate 1a created or covered in dark or black color.

Alternatively, the elastically deformable region comprising the functional structure becomes 4 not in the form of fibers 10 provided, but in the form of slats 9 like this in 3 is shown, or in the form of saw teeth 5 like this in 2a is shown. It can then each in the 2a and 3 illustrated coating 3 omitted.

In the in 6 shown embodiment is on a carrier substrate 1a an interference thin film 11 arranged. This consists of a partially reflecting layer 11.1 (Absorber) made of Cr, from a dielectric layer 11.2 of SiO ₂ and of a reflective layer 11.3 (Reflector) made of Al. This interference thin film 11 generates depending on the viewing angle a different color impression in the viewer and in particular a color shift effect. On this interference thin film 11 is an elastically deformable, compressible area 4 in the form of a structure with saw teeth 5 arranged. On the flanks of the saw teeth 5 is a metallic coating 3 evaporated. The metallic coating 3 can be applied by oblique evaporation, so that in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 recesses 12 be created in the metallic coating. The metallic coating 3 consists of Al. Through the metallic coating 3 the flanks of the saw teeth 5 achromatic micromirrors are created, their alignment by mechanical pressure on the saw teeth 5 can be changed. Furthermore, prevents the metallic coating 3 that the interference thin film 11 through the flanks of the saw teeth 5 can be observed through. On the other hand, the vertical edges 13 not coated and allow viewing of the interference thin film 11 in a restricted angular range. By compression of the saw teeth 5 the area of the vertical edges changes or decreases 13 and thus the angular range under which the interference thin film 11 can be viewed. As a result, a blind effect is generated, which is the consideration of the interference thin film 11 in the undeformed state of the saw teeth 5 of the elastically deformable region 4 allowed in a different form than in the deformed state. In the deformed state of the saw teeth 5 the security element appears as a substantially continuous metallized surface. Since the flank angle of the saw teeth in the foot region under mechanical pressure because of the low layer height of the elastically deformable region 4 only slightly changes, are in this area recesses 12 intended. The elastically deformable layer 4 is translucent in this embodiment.

A non-illustrated variant of this embodiment represents a further development of the WO 2006/049533 In this case, the disclosed there, raised, opaque or coated areas and possibly also the intervening transparent areas of an elastically deformable material are generated. This visually different impressions can be generated not only by tilting the security element, but also by mechanical pressure, preferably in the form of a shear force.

In the in 7 illustrated embodiment is again an interference thin film 11 on a carrier substrate 1a arranged. Above is a translucent, rigid embossing lacquer layer 15 , Above this is a translucent, compressible, elastically deformable area 4 , Embossing lacquer layer 15 and elastically deformable layer 4 each have spatially varying layer thicknesses. In the undeformed state of the elastically deformable region 4 are the embossing lacquer layer 15 and the elastically deformable layer 4 spaced apart and have an intermediate cavity 16 in the form of a gap. Embossing lacquer layer 15 and elastically deformable region 4 have at the opposite surfaces on a corresponding sawtooth structure. The elastically deformable layer 4 is formed so that results in the edges of the sawtooth structure total reflection for in the figure from above coming light rays. This can be achieved by a sufficiently high refractive index, by a suitable backside interface coating, and / or by a suitable choice of the ramp angle of the saw teeth. The elastically deformable area 4 extends laterally over the embossing lacquer layer 15 Beyond and forms at these locations spacers to the cavity in the undeformed state 16 to accomplish. In the deformed state of the elastically deformable region 4 grip the opposing surfaces of embossing lacquer layer 15 and elastically deformable region 4 into one another, leaving the cavity 16 disappears. As a result, the optical conditions at the back surface of the elastically deformable region change 4 , whereby the condition of total reflection is canceled. Thus, upon deformation of the elastically deformable region, there is a view of the underlying interference thin film 11 possible.

The contact surface between elastically deformable area 4 and embossing lacquer layer 15 that is, the back of the elastically deformable region 4 and the front of the embossing lacquer layer 15 , thus have corresponding surfaces, which ensure a good mechanical contact. In this case, the mechanical, spatial contact between elastically deformable area 4 and embossing lacquer layer 15 by another, not shown, thin, soft, translucent layer on the back of the elastically deformable region 4 and / or on the front side of the embossing lacquer layer 15 be favored. In the simplest case, both surfaces can be even.

In order to provide the largest possible area in which the visual impression differs in the deformed and undeformed state of the elastically deformable region, the contact surface comprises the entire opposing surfaces of elastically deformable region 4 and embossing lacquer layer 15 , The elastically deformable area 4 and the embossing lacquer layer 15 can thus each be constructed as a film whose distance can be changed reversibly.

In 8th an embodiment is shown in which in turn an interference thin film 11 on a carrier substrate 1a located. On the interference thin film 11 is a compressible, elastically deformable area 4 formed, which consists of two superimposed, directly adjacent, translucent, compressible, elastically deformable layers 4a and 4b is constructed. The two translucent, elastically deformable layers 4a and 4b have a serrated interface 14 at right angles. The two elastically deformable, translucent layers 4a and 4b differ in their refractive indices and / or have a suitable coating at the interface 9 on, so that in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable layer 4 at the interface 14 the condition for retro-reflection for light rays coming from above in the figure is fulfilled. Alternatively, the layer 4b be formed of air, between the layers 4a and 11 is included, so that there is a large difference in the optical refractive index to the layer 4a results. With mechanical pressure on the elastically deformable layer 4 the shape of the interface changes 14 , so that in the deformed state, the condition of retro-reflection is no longer satisfied. By mechanical pressure on the security element is the review of the underlying interference thin film 11 possible.

In the in 9 illustrated embodiment is on a carrier substrate 1a an elastically deformable region 4 in the form of a flat layer with spacers 4c intended. The flat layer of the elastically defor mable range 4 is with a reflective layer 11.3 coated. Through a cavity 16 spaced apart, there is a dielectric layer over it 11.2 and a partially reflecting layer 11.1 , Above is a rigid, translucent layer 17 , Is the partially reflecting layer 11.1 and the dielectric layer 11.2 over the cavity 16 from the reflective layer 11.3 spaced, it results in a viewer who looks in the figure from above to the embodiment, a visual impression, which essentially by the metallic, reflective layer 11.3 is determined. In contrast, lie the partially reflecting layer 11.1 , the dielectric layer 11.2 and the reflective layer 11.3 directly to each other, they form an interference thin film 11 , and the visual impression changes significantly. In addition, this interference thin film shows 11 a color shift effect so that the visual impression changes at different viewing angles. The spacing of the partially reflecting layer 11.1 and the dielectric layer 11.2 from the reflective layer 11.3 is about spacers 4c set, which are also elastically deformable. On top of the spacers 4c is again a reflective layer 11.3 and additionally an adhesive layer 18 intended. The adhesive layer 18 also acts as a dielectric layer, which is why even in the undeformed state of the spacer 4c on top of which results in an interference thin film. The spacers 4c are arranged in the form of graphic motifs, symbols or characters, so that a viewer in plan view corresponding information results. In the undeformed state of the elastically deformable spacers 4c Thus, this information appears as an optically variable layer in front of a metallic background, through the reflective layer 11.3 on the flat layer of the elastically deformable area 4 outside the spacers 4c is produced. With mechanical pressure on the rigid, translucent layer 12 become the spacers 4c compressed, so that in the security element 2 over the entire surface results in an optically variable layer. Due to the on the top of the spacers 4c attached adhesive layer 18 arises in the areas of the spacers 4c however, a different layer thickness of the dielectric layer than in the remaining areas. Thus, even in the deformed state of the spacer 4c the information formed by them, in the form of an optically variable layer against the background of a different optically variable layer 11 , recognizable.

Alternatively, the adhesive layer 18 also be opaque and / or colored, resulting in a corresponding visual impression of the spacers 4c results. Likewise, the spacers can 4c be located outside the range, which under mechanical pressure, the interference thin film 11 forms.

10a shows a schematic side view of a variant of a moiré magnification arrangement and / or a Modulo Mapper, as it PCT / EP 2008/005171 or PCT / EP 2008/005172 is known, the disclosure of which is included in this regard in this patent. The magnification arrangement has a microlens array 19 on top of a microimage array 20 with microimages 20a focused. In addition to translucent, rigid layers 17 The enlargement unit also has a translucent, compressible, elastically deformable region 4 in the form of an intermediate layer 21 on. Im in 10a shown undeformed state of the elastically deformable intermediate layer 21 focus the microlenses 19a the microlens array 19 to the level of microimages 20a the microimage array 20 , Im in 10b shown deformed, compressed state of the elastically deformable intermediate layer 21 is the distance between the microlens array 19 and the Mikrobildan order 20 decreased, so the microlenses 19a no longer on the level of microimages 20a focus. Thus, the enlargement effect resulting in undeformed state becomes deformed state of the elastically deformable intermediate layer 21 picked up by the resulting blurred picture.

In 10c Fig. 10 is an alternative construction of a moire magnification arrangement and / or a modulo mapper in an undeformed state of the elastically deformable interlayer 21 shown. In this undeformed state, the microlenses focus 19a not on the associated levels of microimages 20a , On the other hand, such focusing takes place in a deformed state of the elastically deformable intermediate layer 21 instead, whereby the magnification effect in this embodiment only in the deformed state, and thus at and possibly briefly after exercise of a mechanical pressure, recognizable.

In 10d another embodiment of a moiré magnification arrangement and / or a modulo mapper is shown. This comprises two consecutive microimage arrays 20 and 20 ' , In the undeformed state of the elastically deformable, compressible intermediate layer 21 focus the microlenses 19a the microlens array 19 on the levels of microimages 20a the viewing direction in front and in the figure above lying micro-image arrangement 20 , In the deformed state of the elastically deformable intermediate layer 21 focus the microlenses 19a the microlens array 19 on the levels of microimages 20a ' the viewing direction behind micro-image arrangement 20 ' ,

In 11 is a first embodiment of a manufacturing method for producing a coating 3 on an example embossed saw tooth structure with recesses 12 in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 outlined. Thereby the coating becomes 3 by oblique steaming in the direction of the flanks of the saw teeth 5 applied, as indicated by the arrows in the figure. As a result, the tips of the saw teeth shadow respectively the foot of the sawtooth behind it in the evaporation direction 5 off, creating recesses 12 arise. When coating 3 it can be a layer of metal or other material.

In the 12a to 12c is a second embodiment of a manufacturing process for producing a coating 3 on an example embossed sawtooth structure with recesses 12 in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 outlined. In the in 12a shown first process step is a wash color 22 applied to the sawtooth structure. The washing color 22 is low viscous and therefore deposits only in the foot area of the saw teeth within the sawtooth structure. Furthermore has the wash color 22 a suitable surface tension against the material of the saw teeth, the attachment of the wash color 22 supported in only the foot areas. In the in 12b shown second process step is the desired coating 3 fully applied by vertical vapor deposition. However, the application of the coating can also be done otherwise. The washing color 22 has a highly porous surface, resulting in a subsequent washing out of the wash color 22 together with the overlying coating 3 allowed. As a result, the in 12c illustrated coating 3 with recess 12 in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 generated. The use of washing paint 22 allows in this embodiment a first full-surface application of the desired coating 3 which is easy to realize.

In the 13a to 13b is a third embodiment of a manufacturing method for producing a coating 3 on an example embossed sawtooth structure with recesses 12 in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 outlined. In the in 13a The first process step shown is the desired coating 3 applied over the entire surface. In the in 13b shown second process step is a low-viscosity top coat 23 applied, which only in the foot areas of the saw teeth 5 attaches, resulting in a suitable surface tension of the body color 23 opposite the coating 3 can be additionally supported. The cover color 23 is opaque and covers the coating 3 in the foot areas, whereby their optical effect of the coating 3 is suppressed there, resulting in the same or at least similar effect as the recesses 12 in the embodiments described above.

In the 14a to 14c and 15 are two embodiments of a manufacturing process for producing a coating 3 on an embossed sawtooth structure with recesses 12 in the foot area of the saw teeth 5 outlines the coating 3 when embossing the sawtooth structure from the question mark 24 is transferred to the flanks of the saw teeth. This is the stamp 24 each treated suitably before embossing the sawtooth structure. This may be a metallization transfer in which the coating 3 a metallization layer. As embossing stamp 24 It is also possible with particular preference to use an embossing foil.

In the in the 14a to 14c shown first embodiment is in a first step ( 14a ) the desired coating 3 all over the embossing surface of the stamping die 24 applied. Subsequently, in a second, in 14b illustrated process step the coating 3 from the tips of the saw teeth of the embossing surface of the embossing punch 24 removed again. These tips are easily accessible, so the removal can be done by mechanical brushing, as by the brush 25 in the 14b is indicated. Removing the coating 3 from the tips is facilitated if it is a slightly splitting coating. As material for the stamp 24 Often a hard lacquer layer is used. Since, for example, a metallization layer adheres better to such a hard lacquer layer than to the optionally uncrosslinked or elastic layer to be embossed, an additional adhesive layer is formed 26 on the stamp 24 applied. After embossing, the adhesive layer remains 26 along with the coating 3 on the embossed structure, that is, the embossed sawtooth structure back. Because the tips of the stamping die when embossing in the foot areas of the saw teeth 5 come to lie the embossed structure, there arise the desired recesses 12 like this in 12c already shown.

In the in 15 shown second embodiment, the desired coating 3 again, first full area on the die 24 applied. Subsequently, a low-viscosity adhesive 27 applied, which in the foot areas of the sawtooth structure of the stamping die 24 attaches. The stamp 24 consists of a hard paint on which the coating 3 , which is a metallization layer, adheres better than on the material of the structure to be embossed. This will when removing the stamping die 24 from the embossed structure also the coating 3 subtracted again in the simplest case. In the area of the adhesive 27 the coating stays 3 however, stick to the embossed structure. Since the foot areas of the sawtooth structure of the stamping die 24 To come to rest on the tips of the embossed sawtooth structure, the coating remains 3 on the tips of the embossed sawtooth structure, while the coating 3 is subtracted again in the foot areas of the embossed sawtooth structure, whereby the desired recesses 12 arise, as in 12c is shown.

In the 16a and 16b is an embodiment of a manufacturing process for producing microlenses 4e in an elastically deformable area 4 with a coating 11 shown with uniform layer thickness.

In a first process step ( 16a ) are on a translucent, planar layer of an elastically deformable region 4 vertical cylinder 4d arranged at the locations where a microlens is to be generated. Subsequently, by perpendicular evaporation on the flat surface of the elastically deformable region 4 and on the faces of the cylinders 4d an interference thin film 11 applied. Because the flat surface and the end faces of the cylinder 4d have parallel surfaces and during vapor deposition no area is shadowed, arise during vapor deposition layers each having uniform layer thicknesses and thus an interference thin film 11 with a uniform optically variable effect. The flat layer of the elastically deformable region 4 and the cylinders 4d , which are also part of the elastically deformable region, form a continuous region of the same material.

In a second process step ( 16b ) become the even layer and the cylinders 4d heated, causing a bleeding of the elastically deformable region 4 comes. The elastically deformable area 4 consists of a thermoplastic material. This connects the cylinders 4d and the plane structure and form in the places where the cylinders 4d were arranged below the interference thin film 11 microlenses 4e out. Thus, a security element with an elastically deformable region with microlenses 4e which is an optically variable coating in the form of a uniform interference thin film 11 wear. When passing the cylinder to the microlenses and also when deforming the microlenses, the applied interference thin film break if necessary, which is irrelevant to the color impression.

Such bleeding of already coated cylinders 4d to coated microlenses 4e can also be realized in materials that are not elastically deformable.

Generally, the elastically deformable regions 4 in the various embodiments contain additional particles, not shown, which are filled with a gas or a liquid and thus a deformation and optionally compression of the respective elastically deformable region 4 a lower mechanical resistance oppose than the remaining material of the elastically deformable region 4 , The elastically deformable areas 4 each can also be foamed, whereby the volume of such an elastically deformable region 4 can be additionally increased and this then elastically deformed to a greater extent, in particular can be compressed.

Particularly pronounced lens structures are advantageous if the cylinder 4d made of a different elastically deformable material than the elastically deformable region 4 , Alternatively, the cylinders can also 4d or the area 4 consist of a non-deformable material. The material of the cylinder 4d in this case has a lower melting temperature than the range 4 so that when heating up only the cylinders 4d melt. Due to the surface tension, the cylinders form 4d similar to a drop of water on a plate in lenticular structures.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 5712731 A [0008]
• - EP 1147912 B1 [0010]
• WO 2007/079851 A1 [0011, 0056]
• WO 2008/049533 A2 [0013]
• - EP 08004395 [0014]
• - WO 2008/049533 [0056]
• WO 2006/049533 [0094]
• - EP 2008/005171 [0101]
• - EP 2008/005172 [0101]

Cited non-patent literature

• "The Moire Magnifier", MC Hutley, R. Hunt, RF Stevens and P. Savander, Pure Appl. Opt. 3 (1994), pp. 133-142 [0009]
• - "Properties of moire magnifiers", Kamal et al., Optical Engineering 37 (11), p. 3007-3014 (November 1998) [0009]

Claims (26)

Security element for a volume, full - An elastically deformable area and - a functional structure that is a visual Impression created by a viewer, being the elastic deformable region and the functional structure in such a way Interacting that in an undeformed state of the elastic deformable area a visual impression of the functional structure which differs from the visual impression in a deformed one Condition of the elastically deformable area is different. Security element according to claim 1, characterized in that that in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable Area the spatial location and / or the orientation of at least one Part of the functional structure of the spatial position and / or the orientation in the deformed state of the elastically deformable Area differs and the functional structure preferably an optical contains variable element. Security element according to claim 2, characterized in that the elastically deformable region comprises the functional structure. Security element according to claim 2, characterized in that the functional structure is an optically variable element, preferably an interference thin film, interference thin film pigments or Liquid crystal pigments, comprising, having a surface the elastically deformable region is firmly connected. Security element according to claim 4, characterized in that the elastically deformable region is a layered structure has a layer on the elastically deformable region is arranged from a rigid material, which with the elastic deformable region is mechanically connected, and the functional structure is arranged on a surface of the layer of rigid material, this layer preferably comprises a plurality of elements, which are individually tiltable. Security element according to claim 3 or 4, characterized characterized in that the elastically deformable region is a layered one Having structure with spatially varying layer thickness, preferably a sawtooth or lamellar structure, on whose flanks the functional structure, preferably layered, is arranged, with particularly preferred the functional structure in the foot of the sawtooth structure recesses or concealed and / or the tips of the sawtooth or lamellar structure by a translucent layer firmly together are connected. Security element according to claim 1, characterized in that that when looking at the functional structure undeformed Condition of the elastically deformable region within the security element gives a light path that differs from the light path in the deformed state of the elastically deformable region. Security element according to claim 7, characterized that the functional structure is a first element and a second, in Viewing direction arranged in front of the first element, translucent element comprising, wherein the first and the second element in undeformed Condition of the elastically deformable portion are spaced apart and in the de formed state of the elastically deformable region in contact with each other. Security element according to claim 8, characterized in that that the second element at spaced from the first element the surface opposite the first element totally reflective especially retro-reflective and in contact with the first element allows review of the first element. Security element according to claim 8, characterized in that that the second element is a partially reflective and a dielectric Layer and the first element comprises a reflective layer or that the second element is a partially reflecting layer and the first element is a dielectric layer and a reflective one Layer comprises, which are arranged to each other such that upon contact of the first and second element an interference thin film is present. Security element according to claim 7, characterized that the elastically deformable region and the functional structure are formed as a respective layer and the elastically deformable Area is translucent and in viewing direction in front of the functional structure is arranged. Security element according to claim 11, characterized in that that the elastically deformable region in the undeformed state meets the condition for a retro-reflection and in the deformed state the condition for the retro-reflection not fulfilled. A security element according to claim 11, characterized in that the security element comprises a moiré magnification arrangement or a modulo mapper with a microlens array and a microimage array, the functional structure comprising the microimage array and the elastically deformable area being an interposed microlens array and microimage array forms layer so that the spatial distance of the microlens array from the microimage array in the undeformed state of the elastically deformable region of the distance in the deformed state of the elastically deformable region is different. Security element according to claim 11, characterized in that that the elastically deformable region is a spatial has varying layer thickness and the functional structure a forms optically variable layer, wherein preferably the elastically deformable Area has a sawtooth structure and / or the tips the sawtooth structure by another translucent layer are firmly connected. Security element according to claim 14, characterized in that that the elastically deformable region on the flanks of the sawtooth structure at least partially carries a coating, which preferably in the foot of the sawtooth structure recesses has or is hidden. Security element according to claim 11, characterized in that that in the viewing direction in front of the elastically deformable region another translucent layer of a rigid material arranged which is mechanical with the elastically deformable region is connected and preferably comprises a plurality of elements, which individually tiltable. Security element according to claim 7, characterized that the elastically deformable region and the functional structure are formed as a respective layer, the elastically deformable Area is translucent and includes microlenses, and the functional structure an optically variable coating of the microlenses. Security element according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the elastically deformable Range in deformation has a temporal hysteresis. Method for producing a security element for a disk, comprising the steps: - Provide an elastically deformable region, - Provide a functional structure and - Setting up elastic deformable region and functional region such that they interact with each other, so that in an undeformed state of the elastically deformable Area another visual impression of the function structure as in a deformed state of the elastically deformable portion results. The method of claim 19, wherein providing the elastically deformable region comprises the following steps: - Provide a plastic layer, in particular an adhesive, resin or Embossing lacquer layer, - embossing the plastic layer using an embossing stamp to create an embossed structure in the plastic layer, and - Adjust the elasticity and preferably the compression behavior of the plastic layer, preferably by crosslinking, so that the embossed structure elastically deformable and preferably compressible. The method of claim 20, wherein embossed structure and stamp a regular sawtooth structure exhibit. The method of claim 21, comprising the further Step: - Applying a visual impression generating coating on the embossed structure in the foot area the saw teeth of the sawtooth structure recesses or not optically active and which preferably Part of the functional structure is and preferably a metallization, Liquid crystal pigment or thin film interference pigment layer includes, - either by: - Apply the coating by oblique vapor deposition of the embossed structure towards the flanks of the sawtooth structure, so that the Tips of the saw teeth of the sawtooth structure the foot of the respective adjacent sawtooth shade, - or by: - Apply a low-viscosity wash paint on the embossed structure, - full-surface Apply the coating and Washing out the washing paint, - or by: - Full-surface application of the coating on the embossed structure and - applying a low viscosity top coat, - or by: - full-surface Applying the coating to the embossing stamp, - Remove the coating at the tips of the stamping die, - Instruct an adhesive layer on the stamper and - Transfer the coating on the embossed structure during embossing the plastic layer, - or by: - full-surface Applying the coating to the embossing stamp, - Instruct a low-viscosity adhesive on the coating of the stamping die and Transferring the coating to the Embossed structure when embossing the plastic layer. The method of claim 19, comprising the others Steps: - Providing a flat layer with vertically arranged cylinders to create the elastic deformable area, with layer and cylinder of the same or a different thermoplastic, translucent plastic, in particular consisting of an adhesive or a lacquer, - Instruct an interference thin film on the plane layer and the faces of the cylinders by vertical vapor deposition to create the functional structure, and - Set up of elastically deformable area and functional area Heating the flat layer and the cylinder so that this too Microlenses run. Data carrier, in particular value document, branded article and the like, comprising a security element according to any one of Claims 1 to 18. Transfer element comprising a security element according to one of claims 1 to 18, which is preferably detachably applied to a carrier layer. Use of an elastically deformable area in a security element such that it is undeformed Condition of elastically deformable area a visual impression resulting in a viewer who is different from the visual impression in a deformed state of the elastically deformable portion different.