EP2590822B1 - Value document with a transparent ink-accepting layer and with an opaque ink-accepting layer - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a security element for the production of value documents as well as a value document comprising such a security element.

Value documents within the meaning of the present invention are, for example, banknotes, stocks, bonds, certificates, vouchers, checks, lottery tickets, high-quality admission tickets, passports, identity cards, credit cards and other flat valuables. Such flat valuables can be, for example, packaging for optionally high-quality products. For the purposes of the present invention, the term value document also encompasses all precursors of finished value documents which, for example, are not yet fit for circulation, such as, among others, security paper, film or film composites. Such a value document can also only be part of a valuable item.

For reasons of design or security reasons, such value documents are provided with security elements which, by virtue of their presence or their design, permit an examination of the authenticity of the value documents and at the same time serve as protection against unauthorized reproduction. A security element in the sense of the present invention can be, for example, a window or see-through window which is formed, for example, by a transparent film, a security thread, a feature produced by printing technology, for example a microprint, a film strip, a patch or a label. A security element, in particular a security element in the form of a security thread or a foil strip, can be considered optically variable In the context of the present invention, an optically variable security element is understood to be an optical element whose visual impression generated by an observer depends on the viewing direction, that is to say the viewer's viewing angle on the optical element and optionally also on the direction of incidence illumination light beam. Examples of such optically variable security elements are diffraction structures that produce a viewing angle-dependent visual impression, in particular by reconstruction of optically perceivable patterns, such as embossing or volume holograms and other kinegrams, such as achromatic matte structures. Another example of such optically variable elements are optical elements that exhibit a so-called color shift effect, such as single or multi-layer thin-layer interference layers or liquid crystal layers, which can be present as a continuous layer or in pigment form (so-called effect pigments such as iriodines). Further examples are lens or micromirror structures within an optically variable security element. Such optical elements have in common that they are usually based on a polymer layer, such as a plastic film, constructed or at least comprise a polymer layer as a cover or protective layer. For the purposes of the present invention, such elements are generally referred to as security elements. In the specific case that the optical element is constructed on the basis of a plastic film, the element may be referred to as an optical film element.

To increase the security against counterfeiting, that is, to make it more difficult to imitate, to verify the authenticity or as an additional design element, it is desirable to include such security elements or value documents that comprise such security elements with a to overprint additional imprint in addition to an optionally already applied imprint. However, the ink acceptance when overprinting such security elements is usually unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is known to provide printing or ink-receiving layers (hereinafter referred to simply as ink-accepting layers) on such security elements. However, the suitable for such security elements ink receiving layers are opaque at the necessary layer thicknesses or as a result of fillers or have at least an undesirable clouding effect. This adversely affects the visual perceptibility or machine detectability of the security element. For example, then a good, undisturbed viewing through a window is no longer possible. If the security element is an optically variable element, its optically variable effect can be impaired or completely prevented.

On the other hand, one measure would be to provide the ink receiving layer with a reduced layer thickness or with a filler content such that the opacity and / or the clouding effect of the ink receiving layer is reduced so as to ensure improved perceptibility of a security element. However, this has the disadvantage that thereby deteriorates the adhesion and drying of the ink of the applied additional imprint. If the requirement for a good ink acceptance, a more or less pronounced turbidity above the security element must be accepted. If, on the other hand, there is a requirement, for example, to produce a clear inspection window, then a satisfactory ink acceptance of the printing ink of the additional imprint on the window has hitherto not been possible.

US 5,387,013 discloses a value document according to the preamble of claim 1.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a security element, e.g. specify an optical film element, for the production of documents of value, which allows a good ink acceptance, adhesion and drying of a printing ink to be applied further imprint, without causing a matting or haze of the security element. It is a further object of the invention to specify a value document with such a security element.

This object is achieved by a security element and a value document having the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention.

Ink receiving layers have the task of ink acceptance, that is, the removal of the ink of another imprint or certain ingredients of such printing inks, such as oils, and thus to ensure the adhesion and drying of the ink of the other imprint. For the purposes of the present invention, the term ink-accepting layer is also understood as meaning layers which impart improved adhesion to a surface, in particular to a polymer, plastic or film surface. The ink-accepting layer can be single-layered or multi-layered, that is to say composed of a plurality of partial layers, the individual layers each being homogeneous. For example, a first partial layer of the ink-accepting layer which is optionally arranged directly on the surface of the security element primarily imparts increased adhesion another sub-layer of the ink receiving layer on the security element, while the other part of the layer primarily ensures the ink receptivity of the ink of another imprint. In this case, the directly on the surface of the security element arranged, an adhesiveness having first partial layer is also referred to as primer or adhesive layer.

According to the invention, the transparent ink-receiving layer is arranged above a first surface of the security element, that is to say the transparent ink-accepting layer is e.g. either directly applied to a film or polymer or plastic layer of the security element or separated by one or more further, preferably transparent intermediate layers thereof. When printing the security element with a further imprint, the transparent ink-receiving layer advantageously forms the uppermost layer and thus ensures the ink acceptance, the adhesion and the drying of the printing ink of the further imprint. The additional imprint can be applied by means of an offset method, a gravure printing method or another suitable printing method. This can be a background pressure.

The use according to the invention of a transparent ink-accepting layer allows, at least before the application of a further imprint, an undisturbed perception of the security element. In particular, there is no impairment of perceptibility due to matting or haze. If the security element is a simple window or see-through window, which is formed, for example, on the basis of a transparent film, the use of the transparent ink-accepting layer furthermore allows a clear view through the window. If the security element consists of an optically variable security element, thus, the transparent ink accepting layer allows a perception of undisturbed optically variable effect.

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

The filler used is preferably boehmite, pseudo-boehmite, zeolite, Al ₂ O ₃ or silica gel or a mixture of these substances. In view of the transparency of the transparent ink accepting layer, these fillers preferably have a particle size in a range of 1 nm to 1 μm, with the range of 5 nm to 200 nm being particularly preferred. The use of boehmite or pseudo-boehmite is preferred. Böhmit means loud " Römpp Lexikon der Chemie ", 10th edition, Georg Thieme Verlag, 1996 , the rhombic crystalline metahydroxide γ-AlO (OH), which is obtainable, for example, from crystalline Al (OH) ₃ by heating for 14 days at 150 ° C in a sealed tube with dehydration. Pseudo-boehmite is an agglomerate of aluminum oxide hydroxide of the formula Al ₂ O ₃ * n H ₂ O (n = 1 to 1.5).

As binders, for example, polyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyurethane dispersions, acrylate dispersions, as well as derivatives or mixtures thereof are used. Preferably, the filler to binder ratio is between 6: 1 and 30: 1, said ratio being by mass. Thus, the transparent ink receiving layer comprises significantly more filler than binder. The filler-to-binder ratio may be, for example, 6: 1, 8: 1, 10: 1.12: 1, 15: 1, 20: 1, 25: 1 or 30: 1, each of said ratios being a sub - or upper limit of the above range.

In addition to the stated filler and binder, the ink-accepting layer preferably comprises a crosslinker, in particular from the substance class isocyanate, aziridine, carbodiimide or glycidyl ether. Furthermore, the transparent ink accepting layer may comprise other additives such as deaerators or monoprotic acids.

A built-up ink receiving layer is characterized by good adhesion to plastic layers, in particular plastic films, and also ensures good ink receptivity of the applied ink of the other imprint and their drying and adhesion safely. This formulation can therefore also be used as a starting point for the development of non-transparent ink receiving layers. For this purpose, the formulation of the ink receiving layer further additives, such as pigments, are added, which produce the desired property. These may be, for example, pigments such as TiO ₂ , BaSO ₄ , CaCO ₃ , silicic acids or hollow ball pigments based on polymers such as "ROPAQUE" from Rohm & Haas, or also effect pigments which produce a pearlescent or a metallic luster, interference pigments, liquid crystal pigments, thermochromic or magnetic pigments, or pigments which produce phosphorescence or fluorescence or have an antistatic effect. If such a color accepting layer has, for example, a high opacity due to its additives, it is advisable, if appropriate, to realize a desired base color of the security element or of a substrate via the ink accepting layer.

The adhesion of the paint receiving layer according to the invention to plastic layers, in particular plastic films, can be improved by means of a primer layer serving as adhesion promoter.

In a preferred embodiment of the security element according to the invention this is designed as a see-through window or window, printing technology generated feature, security thread, film strip, patch or label and the transparent ink receiving layer is applied over the entire surface. The security element further preferably comprises a polymer layer, e.g. a plastic film on which the transparent ink-receiving layer is applied. Such a security element can be generated directly on a security document to be secured or prepared on a separate carrier as a transfer element. Such a separate carrier preferably has a plastic or polymer material and can be, for example, a film material, in particular a transfer material. Plastics such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PP (polypropylene), PA (polyamide) and PE (polyethylene) come into consideration for the film material. This sheet material may also be monoaxially or biaxially stretched.

The attachment of the security element on a value document to be secured takes place with the aid of an adhesive layer, for which purpose preferably a hot-melt adhesive is used. After transferring the security element to a value document to be secured, the carrier material is optionally removed again so that the security element remains on the security document to be secured. The transparent ink receiving layer serves as a release layer or release layer.

On known security elements, in particular on transfer elements, a transparent UV coating is often used as a cover and protective layer. In the preferred embodiment, this UV lacquer layer is either coated with the transparent ink accepting layer or replaced by the transparent ink accepting layer.

The transparent ink receiving layer forms the top layer of the security element when printing the film strip or transfer element with the additional imprint, which increases the ink acceptability for the ink of the further imprint, since the transparent ink receiving layer has an improved compared to the known transparent UV ink printing ink receptivity.

In a preferred embodiment, the security element may be formed as a patch or label and, for example, have a flat shape with comparable length dimensions in all directions or have an elongated shape, for example in the form of a strip, as in security threads or film strips, such as so-called LEAD strip, the Case is. If such a security element is designed as a transfer element with an optionally transparent film as a carrier, it is also referred to as a film element, foil patch or film strip.

In the invention, a value document comprises a substrate as well as a security element according to the invention, which is arranged on the substrate of the value document such that the first surface of the security element forms a common surface with a first surface of the substrate. In this case, the transparent ink-accepting layer is arranged above the common surface either over the entire surface or at least in a first subregion of the common surface. The transparent ink receiving layer can thus also be arranged in an area outside the security element. By the phrase "outside the security element" is meant that the transparent ink accepting layer is not located above the security element when viewing the value document in incident light.

As a substrate of the value document one or more layers substrates can be used. In the case of single-ply substrates, any type of paper or paper-like material is considered, in particular cotton vellum paper. It is also possible to use paper which contains a certain proportion x of a polymer material in the range from 0 to 100% by weight. Furthermore, a plastic layer, for example a plastic film, or a film composite can be used as the substrate. Such a film may additionally be monoaxially or biaxially stretched. Such a stretching of the film leads inter alia to obtaining polarizing properties which can be used as a security feature in the value document.

As the multilayered substrate, a multilayer composite comprising, for example, a layer of paper or a paper-like material can be used. On this layer, for example, a transparent plastic or polymer layer is laminated from both sides, whereby such a multilayer composite has an extremely high stability and durability. In this case, security papers are used with plastic or polymer coated paper layers for the production of composite film banknotes. Conversely, the multilayer composite may also comprise a central layer of a plastic or polymeric material, which is coated on both sides with a respective layer of paper or a paper-like material. As a multilayer substrate material, a multilayer, paper-free composite material 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, for example, only partially contact the surface of the substrate, such as this is the case with security threads such as window or pendulum security threads. The security element can also fill a recess in the substrate, as is the case with windows, in particular see-through windows. In the case of a multi-layer composite, such as a laminated film banknote, the security element can also be arranged below a transparent layer, for example a plastic film, or be embedded within the transparent layer.

A trained as a transfer element security element with a full-surface transparent ink receiving layer is particularly suitable for application to a document of value, the substrate surface of paper or a paper-like material, in particular if the transparent ink receiving layer is realized such that they have the same or similar ink receptivity as the Paper or paper-like substrate surface of the value document, since thus a value document can be realized with a security element, which makes without further coating steps necessary to have a high ink receptivity on its entire surface.

The transparent ink accepting layer may be disposed directly on the common surface of the security element and the substrate. In a preferred embodiment, however, a further transparent layer, for example a plastic film, in particular a PET film or polyester film, is arranged between the common surface and the transparent ink-accepting layer. In this case, the transparent layer forms, for example, a cover or protective layer for the security element and the substrate. The transparent ink receiving layer then ensures printability with the ink of another print. Preferably, the further transparent layer is directly on the common Surface arranged and / or the transparent ink receiving layer directly on the other transparent layer, such as a plastic film arranged.

According to the invention, an opaque ink receiving layer is additionally arranged above the common surface in addition to the transparent ink-accepting layer. In a second subregion of the common surface, which lies outside, that is to say when the value document is not above the incident light, of the security element, the opaque ink acceptance layer has a first, preferably constant, layer thickness. A third portion of the common surface is located above the security element and is preferably defined by the extent of the security element. In this third subregion, the opaque ink-accepting layer has a recess, that is to say a layer thickness of zero or at least a layer thickness reduced in relation to the first layer thickness. As a result, the security element is completely covered only by the transparent ink receiving layer. The opaque ink receiving layer is located only in areas outside the security element.

Such a configuration allows an arrangement of an opaque ink receiving layer on the document of value, without affecting the perceptibility of the security element, at the same time ensuring good printability of the document of value above the security element.

However, in the edge regions of the opaque ink-accepting layer, for example where the opaque ink-accepting layer directly adjoins the transparent ink-accepting layer, it can lead to undesired gloss edges (tesa effect). come. Such gloss edges are contrary to a desired uniform appearance of the surface of the document of value. In a preferred embodiment, therefore, the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer decreases within the third partial area and / or in a fourth partial area from the first layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer in the second partial area in a stepped or stepless manner, preferably down to zero or approximately zero. This decreasing course preferably shows a constant gradient. The fourth subregion of the common surface lies between the second and the third subregion and preferably directly adjoins the third subregion and surrounds it completely. In the simplest case, the third subregion defines the region of the security element, whereby the fourth subregion defines an edge region of the security element which lies outside the security element and directly surrounds it. In this case, the fourth subregion preferably has a constant width. The layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer decreases to zero or about zero in the third and / or fourth partial region. Particularly preferably, the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer is zero over the entire third subregion and the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer decreases to zero in the fourth subregion from the edge region to the second subregion up to the edge region to the third subregion from the first layer thickness.

As a result of such a gradual course of the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer, the edge region of the opaque ink-accepting layer can only be discerned slightly, and disruptive gloss edges, for example at the transition region between opaque and transparent ink-accepting layer, are avoided.

In a further preferred embodiment, the transparent ink-accepting layer is arranged within the second, third and optionally fourth subarea below or above the opaque ink-accepting layer, has a constant layer thickness there and is preferably formed as a coherent layer. In the simplest case, the transparent ink-receiving layer with the same thickness is applied to the document of value. Alternatively, the transparent ink-accepting layer in the third and possibly the fourth partial region may have a layer thickness which is increased in comparison to the second partial region in order to completely or at least partially compensate for the reduced layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer in this region. Particularly preferably, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-accepting layer is designed such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of transparent and opaque ink-accepting layer in the second, third and optionally fourth partial area, preferably over the entire surface of the value document, is constant. In this case, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-accepting layer in the third and / or fourth partial area, starting from the second partial area, has a course corresponding to the opaque ink-accepting layer, stepwise or continuously increasing in the direction of the third partial area, preferably with a constant gradient. Particularly preferably, the transparent ink-accepting layer has a constant layer thickness in the third partial region and exhibits a different layer thickness only in the fourth partial region.

Such embodiments of opaque and transparent ink receiving layer on the value document a completely flat common surface of opaque and transparent ink receiving layer is created.

In a further preferred refinement, the transparent ink-accepting layer is arranged only within the third and, if appropriate, the fourth partial region, that is to say the layer thickness of the transparent ink-accepting layer in the second partial region is zero. Within the third and / or possibly fourth subregion, the layer thickness of the transparent ink accepting layer, starting from the layer thickness zero at the edge region to the second subregion, again shows a stepwise or continuously increasing course in the direction of the third subregion, preferably with a constant gradient, such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of transparent and opaque ink receiving layer in the second, third and optionally fourth partial area, preferably over the entire surface of the entire document of value, is constant. If the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer is zero in the third subregion, then the layer thickness of the ink-accepting layer in the third sub-region is the same and equal to the layer thickness of the ink-accepting layer in the second subregion.

Such embodiments of opaque and transparent ink receiving layer on the value document a completely flat common surface of opaque and transparent ink receiving layer is created.

In a further preferred embodiment of the value document, the transparent ink-accepting layer has a first and a second sub-area, the transparent ink-receiving layer in the first and second sub-areas having a first and second configuration which are different from one another. The region in which the transparent ink-accepting layer is applied is thus subdivided into at least two subregions, which preferably adjoin one another. The design in the Both subregions are such that the two subregions generate an optically identical impression on a viewer, at least when viewed from a predetermined viewing direction and preferably when viewed from all viewing directions, while both subregions differ in a technical property. This can be, for example, the ink acceptance behavior with regard to the additional imprint to be applied or the behavior when embossing the value document and / or the security element.

Likewise, alternatively or additionally, the opaque ink accepting layer may include first and second subregions, wherein the opaque ink accepting layer in the first and second subregions has first and second configurations different from each other. The region in which the opaque ink-accepting layer is applied is thus subdivided into at least two subregions, which preferably adjoin one another. The configuration in the two subregions is such that the two subregions produce an optically identical impression on a viewer, at least when viewed from a predetermined viewing direction and preferably when viewed from all viewing directions, while both subregions differ in a technical property. This can be, for example, the ink acceptance behavior with regard to the additional imprint to be applied or the behavior when embossing the value document and / or the security element.

Immediately after the application of the opaque and / or transparent ink-accepting layer, the respective two subregions are indistinguishable to a viewer, at least when viewing a predetermined viewing direction and preferably when viewed from all viewing directions. The two sub-areas are different For example, in their ink acceptance behavior with respect to the ink of the applied additional imprint, the two sub-areas in the unprinted state, as described above, indistinguishable. When applying the printing ink of the further printed image to the respective two subregions of transparent or opaque ink receiving layer, they are distinguishable to a viewer, at least when viewed from a predetermined direction preferably from all viewing directions, producing a different optical impression in the viewer, for example a different one Show color brilliance. It is advantageous if the printing ink of the further printed image is applied over the entire surface of the respective two subregions as background printing.

Alternatively or additionally, the respective two subregions can also differ in their behavior with respect to an embossment, that is to say they have, for example, a different mechanical stability from each other.

The necessary different embodiment of each of the two sub-areas of opaque and / or transparent ink-accepting layer can be achieved in the case of a multi-layer structure by a different layer structure or by different formulations for the ink receiving layers in the respective sub-areas. For example, in a sub-area, additional pigments may be provided in the ink-receiving layer, the presence of which is detectable only when viewed in a predetermined viewing direction, as is the case with effect pigments such as interference pigments or liquid crystal pigments, for example, showing a color-shift effect. Alternatively, when using such effect pigments, the same formulations for the Ink accepting layer can be used in both sub-areas, wherein the orientation of the effect pigments in these sub-areas are formed differently from each other. For the different subregions of an opaque ink-accepting layer, it is also possible to use different constituents which change the transmission behavior, with the result that the two subareas of the opaque ink-accepting layer produce an identical visual impression in incident light, but can be distinguished from one another in transmitted light.

In a further preferred embodiment, the respective subregions of opaque and / or transparent ink-accepting layer are arranged in such a way that recognizable information results for the observer when these subregions are distinguishable from one another. The substructure formed by the two respective subregions forms, for example, a motif or a graphic or alphanumeric character.

In the case of the security element according to the invention and the value document according to the invention, the transparent ink-accepting layer can additionally be provided with an overcoat, by means of which a matting and / or an extension of the service life and fitness for circulation can be achieved. As a lacquer layer, for example, is a consisting of a lower and an upper lacquer layer paint system, for example, in the WO 2004/072378 A1 is disclosed, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The lower lacquer layer may be a water-based dispersion lacquer layer based, for example, on water-based dispersions of aliphatic polyester-polyurethanes or acrylic-styrene-polyurethanes. The upper lacquer layer is preferably a radiation-curing and / or physically drying lacquer layer. As a physically drying lacquer layer are water-based dispersions, preferably without Polyurethane content, eg acrylic-styrene-based. The upper lacquer layer can also contain a hybrid lacquer which contains both physically drying and a radiation-curing lacquer component.

Further exemplary embodiments and advantages of the invention are 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 figures shown are schematic representations that do not reflect the real proportions but serve to improve the clarity of the various embodiments.

Figur 1a

eine Banknote mit einem Sicherheitselement in Draufsicht;

Figur 1b

einen Schnitt durch die Banknote aus Figur 1a;

Figur 2a bis 2f

Schnittansichten durch weitere Ausführungsbeispiele;

Figur 3a bis 3c

Draufsichten auf verschiedene Ausgestaltungen von Teilbereichen; und

Figur 4 eine

Draufsicht auf ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Wertdokumentes.

In detail, the figures show:

FIG. 1a

a banknote with a security element in plan view;

FIG. 1b

a cut through the banknote FIG. 1a ;

FIGS. 2a to 2f

Sectional views through further embodiments;

FIGS. 3a to 3c

Top views of various embodiments of sub-areas; and

Figure 4 a

Top view of a further embodiment of a value document.

In the FIGS. 1a and 1b is shown as a document of value a banknote with a substrate 1. On the substrate 1, the denomination "50" is printed. The substrate 1 of the document of value consists in the embodiment of a paper or a paper-like material and has a correspondingly high ink receptivity and good printability for an applied, in FIG. 1a not shown, further imprint. On the substrate 1, a security element 2, for example, an optical film element, further arranged, which is a transfer element in the illustrated embodiment. The security element 2 comprises an adhesive layer 3, which comprises an activatable adhesive, for example a hot melt adhesive. With the aid of the adhesive layer 3, the central film constituent 4 of the optical film element 2 is fixed on the surface of the substrate 1. In order to ensure good printability of the optical film element 2 and in particular the central film component 4, the optical film element 2 further comprises a transparent ink accepting layer 5. Accordingly, the resulting surface of the bill in the region of the optical film element 2 from the transparent ink receiving layer 5 and in the remaining area from the surface of the substrate 1. Accordingly, a high ink receptivity and thus a good printability is created on the entire document of value over the entire surface, that is, the ink receptivity of the substrate is not affected by the application of the described, designed as a transfer element optical film element.

In FIG. 2a a second, unclaimed embodiment of a value document is shown in the form of a banknote. The value document in turn comprises a substrate 1, which may consist of paper or a paper-like material or else of plastic or a film. The substrate is typically opaque. In the case of a plastic banknote, however, the substrate is usually a transparent film. In the substrate 1 is a first optical film element in the form of a window 6 (passage window) and a second optical film element arranged in the form of a security thread 7. Both window 6 and security thread 7 occur in the substrate 1 to the surface, whereby the common surface of substrate 1, window 6 and security thread 7 is generally made of different materials. In order to ensure uniform ink receptivity for the further imprint to be applied, a transparent ink receiving layer 5 can be arranged directly on this common surface. This in FIG. 2a illustrated embodiment, however, is a composite film banknote, in which substrate 1, as well as window 6 and security thread 7 of a plastic layer 8, for example a PET film, are coated. The transparent ink-receiving layer 5 is arranged directly on the plastic layer 8 in this case. Furthermore, the in FIG. 2a Bank note shown further layers, not shown, such as adhesive or primer layers, which ensure, for example, sufficient adhesion of the various layers to each other. The transparent ink receiving layer 5 thus forms a uniform surface of the document of value and thus provides a uniform and high ink receptivity to the entire document of value.

This in FIG. 2b shown in section, embodiment of the invention differs from that in FIG. 2a As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, the transparent ink-accepting layer 5 can be arranged over the entire surface of the document of value or only in a first subarea above the common surface of substrate 1, window 6 and security thread 7, ie above the surface of the document of value, wherein the transparent ink receiving layer 5 at least above the optical film elements, that is above the window 6 and security thread 7 is arranged. The opaque ink receiving layer 9 is not over the entire surface applied to the surface of the value document. The surface of the value document is subdivided into one or more second subareas B, third subareas C and fourth subareas D. The second subareas B are completely outside the optical film elements, ie they do not overlap with window 6 or security thread 7. The third subareas C correspond in the in FIG. 2b illustrated embodiment, the areas of the optical film elements, that is, they are located above window 6 and security thread 7. The third portions C have in the embodiment, the dimensions of the optical film elements, but they can alternatively cover a larger or a smaller area. The fourth partial regions D are transition regions between the second partial regions B and the third partial regions C and adjoin the second partial regions B and the third partial regions C directly. Since 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 film elements. The fourth partial regions D preferably have a constant width.

In the second partial areas, the opaque ink receiving layer 9 is applied with a first, uniform layer thickness. In the third subregions C, the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer 9 is zero, that is, in the third subregions C, no opaque ink-accepting layer 9 is applied. Thus, the optical perceptibility of the optical film elements is not affected by the presence of the opaque ink receiving layer 9. In the fourth subregions D, the layer thickness of the opaque ink-accepting layer 9 shows a course decreasing towards the third subregions C, which, as shown in the exemplary embodiment, can be stepless or can also be configured as a staircase. Due to this decreasing course of the layer thickness of the opaque ink receiving layer 9 in FIG The fourth subregions D are provided with a transition region of the opaque ink-accepting layer 9 which prevents, for example, the occurrence of so-called glossy edges and the occurrence of the so-called tesa effect.

In the in FIG. 2b illustrated embodiment, 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 above the opaque ink-receiving layer 9, as shown in the embodiment shown in Figure 2c. This has the advantage that it creates a uniform surface of the value document with regard to the ink acceptability.

In the in Figure 2c illustrated embodiment, the layer thickness of the transparent ink receiving layer 5 on the entire document of value and thus in the second B, third C and fourth D sections remains the same. In the in Figure 2d In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-accepting layer 5 in the third subregions C and fourth subregions D is increased in comparison with the layer thickness in the second subregions B, so that the layer thickness of the opaque ink accepting layer 9 reduced in these regions is compensated so that the total layer thickness of opaque 9 and transparent 5 ink receiving layer is consistent and thus results in a completely flat surface of the value document.

In the in FIG. 2e In the embodiment shown, the layer thickness of the transparent ink-accepting layer 5 in the second partial regions B is zero and is only zero in the third partial regions C and fourth partial regions D. The transparent ink-receiving layer 5 thus fills the recesses in the opaque ink-receiving layer 9, which also causes this way, a completely flat surface of the value document is created.

In the in the Figures 2c, 2d and 2e illustrated embodiments, the transparent ink receiving layer 5 is disposed above the opaque ink receiving layer 9, that is, the transparent ink receiving layer 5 is applied in a later process step than the opaque ink receiving layer 9. In the in FIG. 2f However, the transparent ink-receiving layer 5 is applied to the document of value in an earlier method step than the opaque ink-receiving layer 9, whereby the transparent ink-accepting layer 5 lies below the opaque ink-accepting layer 9. Also in this case, it is possible to provide a completely flat surface of the document of value.

In a variant, not shown, of the in FIG. 2f In the embodiment shown, the transparent ink-receiving layer 5 is arranged over the whole surface of the document of value and has an increased layer thickness in the third subregions C and fourth subregions D, so that in turn the total layer thickness of opaque 9 and transparent ink-accepting layer remains constant.

In FIG. 3a is that in the FIGS. 2a to 2f shown window 6 shown in plan view. It is circular and the third portion C is located exactly above the window 6 and thus formed even circular. The fourth subregion D forms a ring of constant width around the third subregion C, wherein the fourth subregion D adjoins the third subregion C directly. The second subregion B adjoins the fourth subregion D directly. Thus, 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 an annular region which adjoins the window 6 directly in the radial direction outwards.

However, the third subregion C can also form a region deviating from the region of the optical film element, as shown by way of example in FIG FIG. 3b is shown, where the third portion C is a strip-shaped area in which the circular window 6 comes to rest completely. The fourth subregions D and second subregions B form further strip-shaped regions which join directly.

Such a strip-shaped third subarea C is particularly suitable for elongated optical film elements, such as the security thread 7 already shown in FIGS. 2a to 2f Figure 3c In the embodiment shown, the third subregion C is wider than the security thread 7, with the fourth subregions D in turn joining the third subregion C as further strip-shaped regions, and the second subregions B immediately adjoin it.

Thus, the configuration of the third subregions C, the fourth subregions D and the second subregions B can be adapted to the application method of the opaque and the transparent ink accepting layer. These can be applied by conventional printing methods such as gravure printing, screen printing or flexographic printing but also by coating methods in which the transparent and / or opaque ink receiving layer is poured or sprayed onto the surface or applied with rollers. A like in the FIGS. 3b and 3c shown strip-shaped configuration of the third C, fourth D and second B sections is particularly suitable when the opaque and / or transparent ink receiving layer is applied to the document of value by means of pressure rollers.

In the in FIG. 4 illustrated embodiment, a transparent ink receiving layer 5 is disposed over an optical film element 2, which may be formed as a transfer element, which has different configurations in the sub-regions 5a and 5b. Before the overprint with a further imprint, the subregions 5a and 5b are not recognizable to a viewer. However, the configurations of the transparent ink accepting layer 5 in the subregions 5a and 5b differ in their ink acceptance performance. As a result, the applied additional imprint appears in the subregions 5a and 5b, for example, with different brilliance. Thus, an additional, formed by the sub-regions 5a and 5b substructure in the transparent ink-receiving layer can be created, which is recognizable only after overprinting with a further imprint. Alternatively or additionally, the configurations of the transparent ink-accepting layer in the subregions 5a and 5b may also differ in other properties. For example, effect pigments may be provided in the transparent ink accepting layer 5 in one of the two sub-areas, whereby the sub-areas are distinguishable only when viewed from a predetermined viewing direction. Furthermore, the transparent ink acceptance layer in the subregions 5a and 5b may differ in their embossing behavior, as a result of which the various subregions 5a and 5b become recognizable only after embossing the value document.

The subregions 5a and 5b can form a substructure which conveys information to the viewer, for example a motif or a graphic or alphanumeric symbol.

Likewise, the opaque ink-receiving layer 9 may also have a subregions 9a in which the opaque ink-receiving layer has a configuration which results in a different color acceptance behavior from the remaining region of the opaque ink-accepting layer 9, or in a different embossing behavior. Likewise, only in a subregion 9a of the opaque ink-accepting layer can effect pigments be provided or effect pigments which differ in their composition and / or orientation from the effect pigments in the remaining ink-accepting layer. In the case of the opaque ink receiving layer, it is also possible by using, for example, different fillers in the lower region 9a to produce a transmitted light behavior which differs from the remaining opaque ink acceptance layer 9. The sub-area 9a is then not visible in reflected light, but perceptible in transmitted light.

In the in FIGS. 1 to 4 In the embodiments shown, the invention has been described with reference to security elements formed as optical film elements, which are formed on the basis of a film. However, the present invention is not limited to optical film elements. It could just as security elements are used, which have a polymer film instead of a plastic film. Likewise, the security element may be, for example, a feature produced by printing technology, for example a microprint.

Claims (12)

1. A value document comprising a substrate (1) and a security element (2), the security element (2) comprising at least a transparent ink-receiving layer (5) which is arranged above a first surface of the security element over the full area or in at least a partial region, and is arranged in or on the substrate such that the first surface of the security element forms a common surface with a first surface of the substrate, the transparent ink-receiving layer (5) being arranged above the common surface over the full area or at least in a first partial region of the common surface, characterized in that above the common surface an opaque ink-receiving layer (9) is arranged in at least a partial region of the common surface, which region lies not above, i.e. outside, the security element (2) upon viewing of the value document in incident light.
2. The value document 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, pseudoboehmite, zeolite, Al₂O₃ and silica gel, and a binder, preferably polyvinyl alcohol, and the filler-to-binder ratio preferably lies in the range of 6:1 to 30:1.
3. The value document according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the security element is configured as a window, security thread, foil strip, feature produced by printing technology, patch or label.
4. The value document according to anyone of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a transparent layer (8), preferably a plastic foil, is arranged between the common surface and the transparent ink-receiving layer (5).
5. The value document according to anyone of claims 1 to 4, wherein above the common surface an opaque ink-receiving layer (9) is arranged in at least a second partial region (B) of the common surface, which region does not lie above, i.e. lies outside, the security element (2) upon viewing of the value document in incident light, has a first, unvarying layer thickness there, and has a gap in a third partial region (C) of the common surface, which region lies above the security element upon viewing of the value document in incident light.
6. The value document according to claim 5, wherein the layer thickness of the opaque ink-receiving layer (9) within a fourth partial region (D) of the common surface, which region lies between second (B) and third partial regions, has a course decreasing in a staircase shape or steplessly, preferably with a constant gradient, starting out 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 fourth partial region and amounting to zero in the entire third partial region.
7. The value document according to claim 6, wherein the fourth partial region (D) borders directly on the second partial region (B) and the third partial region (C) and completely surrounds the third partial region.
8. The value document according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherin the transparent ink-receiving layer (5) is arranged below or above the opaque ink-receiving layer (9) within the second (B), third (C) and, where applicable, fourth (D) partial regions and has an unvarying layer thickness there or has an elevated layer thickness compared with the second partial region in the third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions, preferably such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of transparent ink-receiving layer and opaque ink-receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions is unvarying.
9. The value document according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the transparent ink-receiving layer (5) is arranged below or above the opaque ink-receiving layer (9) only within the third (C) and, where applicable, fourth (D) partial regions, and in that preferably the layer thickness of the transparent ink-receiving layer has a course increasing in a staircase shape or steplessly, preferably with a constant gradient, starting out from a layer thickness of zero in the second partial region (B), such that the sum of the layer thicknesses of transparent ink-receiving layer and opaque ink-receiving layer in the second, third and, where applicable, fourth partial regions is unvarying.
10. The value document according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the transparent ink-receiving layer (5) has a first configuration in a first subregion (5a) of the transparent ink-receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion (5b) of the transparent ink-receiving layer, such that the two subregions produce an optically identical impression on a viewer at least upon viewing from a predetermined direction, preferably upon viewing from all directions, the two subregions differing in a technical property, in particular in their ink-receiving behavior or their embossing behavior.
11. The value document according to any of claims 4 to 10, wherein the opaque ink-receiving layer (9) has a first configuration in a first subregion (9a) of the opaque ink-receiving layer and a second configuration in at least a second subregion of the opaque ink-receiving layer, such that the two subregions produce an optically identical impression on a viewer at least upon viewing from a predetermined direction, preferably upon viewing from all directions, the two subregions differing in a technical property, in particular in their ink-receiving behavior or their embossing behavior.
12. The value document according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the subregions (5a, 5b) of the transparent ink-receiving layer (5) and/or the subregions (9a) of the opaque ink-receiving layer (9) form an information item recognizable to a viewer.

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