EP1951528A1 - Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value - Google Patents

Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value

Info

Publication number
EP1951528A1
EP1951528A1 EP06831348A EP06831348A EP1951528A1 EP 1951528 A1 EP1951528 A1 EP 1951528A1 EP 06831348 A EP06831348 A EP 06831348A EP 06831348 A EP06831348 A EP 06831348A EP 1951528 A1 EP1951528 A1 EP 1951528A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
structure according
microreliefs
interface
refractive index
observed
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP06831348A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1951528B1 (en
EP1951528B2 (en
Inventor
Michel Camus
Henri Rosset
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ArjoWiggins Security SAS
Original Assignee
ArjoWiggins SAS
ArjoWiggins Security SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=36764044&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP1951528(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by ArjoWiggins SAS, ArjoWiggins Security SAS filed Critical ArjoWiggins SAS
Publication of EP1951528A1 publication Critical patent/EP1951528A1/en
Publication of EP1951528B1 publication Critical patent/EP1951528B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1951528B2 publication Critical patent/EP1951528B2/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
    • B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
    • B42D25/00—Information-bearing cards or sheet-like structures characterised by identification or security features; Manufacture thereof
    • B42D25/30—Identification or security features, e.g. for preventing forgery
    • B42D25/324—Reliefs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
    • B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
    • B42D25/00—Information-bearing cards or sheet-like structures characterised by identification or security features; Manufacture thereof
    • B42D25/20—Information-bearing cards or sheet-like structures characterised by identification or security features; Manufacture thereof characterised by a particular use or purpose
    • B42D25/29—Securities; Bank notes
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07D—HANDLING OF COINS OR VALUABLE PAPERS, e.g. TESTING, SORTING BY DENOMINATIONS, COUNTING, DISPENSING, CHANGING OR DEPOSITING
    • G07D7/00—Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of valuable papers or for segregating those which are unacceptable, e.g. banknotes that are alien to a currency
    • G07D7/003—Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of valuable papers or for segregating those which are unacceptable, e.g. banknotes that are alien to a currency using security elements
    • B42D2035/20—

Definitions

  • Optical structure in particular for a security document and / or of value
  • the present invention relates to an optical structure, in particular for a security document and / or value.
  • US Pat. No. 5,301,981 describes a ribbon comprising, on a first face, microreliefs forming a lenticular network.
  • the ribbon has, on a second face opposite to the first, a succession of parallel black strips arranged so that, when the ribbon is observed in a direction perpendicular to its plane, the light beams are directed by the microreliefs on the strips. black.
  • This gives a black image forming a screen to hide information on a document on which the ribbon is affixed.
  • the international application WO 02/03104 discloses an optical structure capable of creating a first image, for example a holographic image, in reflection and a second image in transmission.
  • WO 03/055692 discloses a document on which is applied a prismatic relief structure which is totally reflective at a certain angle of observation so as to mask information on the document, and transparent from another angle. in order to make this information visible.
  • the invention aims to provide an optical structure, particularly for a security document and / or value, to create new optical effects in particular to enhance the security of the document against a possible attempt to counterfeit.
  • an optical structure in particular for a security and / or value document, comprising: first and second opposite outer faces, - at least one first interface comprising a first network of microreliefs and arranged so that, when it passes through this first interface in the direction of the first outer face to the second outer face, one passes from one first medium having a first refractive index to a second medium having a second refractive index greater than the first, at least a second interface having a second microrelief array and arranged so that, when passing through this second interface in the direction of the first outer face to the second outer face, passing from a third medium having a third refractive index to a fourth medium having a fourth index of refraction less than the third, each interface having at least one portion shifted relative to at the other interface when the structure is observed in a direction substantially perpendicular to at least one of the outer faces.
  • the interfaces may for example generate optical effects, possibly variable depending on the angle of observation, which are different from one interface to another.
  • the invention thus makes it possible to create, in visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet light, new visual effects in order, for example, to improve the aesthetics of a document and / or the security thereof against an attempt to infringement.
  • the interfaces may, if necessary, be entirely offset relative to each other, that is to say without overlapping portions.
  • this pattern may have a different visual appearance of the visual appearance of an area surrounding it.
  • the pattern may comprise for example an alphanumeric character, a symbol, a logo or a drawing.
  • At least one of the microrelief arrays is superimposed at least partially, in particular exactly, on a substantially smooth zone, devoid of microrelief, of one of the outer faces.
  • At least one of the interfaces may be formed for example on one of the outer faces of the structure.
  • At least one of the first and fourth media may be formed by the ambient air.
  • the second and third media may be formed for example by the same material and have the same refractive index, especially a material having a refractive index greater than 1, especially 1.5, for example 2.
  • the second and third media may be formed by different materials and / or having different refractive indices.
  • the first medium may be formed for example by a first material on which the first micro-relief array is made and the second medium by a second deposited material, in particular by vacuum deposition, on the first material.
  • the second material may partially or wholly cover the first material and form, if desired, at least one pattern.
  • the second material may form, if necessary, an outer protection of the optical structure and have a refractive index, for example greater than 1.8.
  • the second material can be obtained for example by vaporization, for example zinc sulphide having a refractive index of about 2.3.
  • the difference between the second refractive index and the first refractive index is greater than 0.1, more preferably 0.15, preferably 0.2 or 0.3 or 0.4. Preferably, this difference is between 0.4 and 0.6.
  • the difference between the third refractive index and the fourth refractive index is greater than 0.1, more preferably 0.15, preferably 0.2 or 0.3 or 0.4. Preferably, this difference is between 0.4 and 0.6.
  • At least one of the interfaces is arranged so that, for at least a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from one of the first and second outer laces, especially in visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet.
  • At least one of the interfaces may be arranged so that, for at least a second range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from a face outside, especially in visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet.
  • At least one of the interfaces is arranged in such a way that, for a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from an outside face. predetermined and, for a second range of viewing angles, this portion of the structure appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from said outer face.
  • the interface or interfaces when the interface or interfaces have a contour defining a pattern, it may appear, in visible light, with a reflective or transparent appearance depending on the viewing angle of the structure.
  • the invention can, if necessary, allow, by varying the angle of observation, to see the pattern successively positive, with a reflective appearance and surrounded by a transparent zone and, in negative, with a transparent appearance surrounded by a reflective area.
  • at least one of the microreliefs has substantially a triangular prism shape.
  • the network of microreliefs may be arranged for example so as to restore a metallized appearance, especially reflecting, when the optical structure is observed in a predetermined range of angles.
  • the microrelief array (s) may be similar to that present on the film marketed by 3M under the name Scotch TM Optical Lighting Film.
  • At least one of the microreliefs comprises at least one curved, concave or convex surface, each curved surface being able to create a lens effect.
  • the curved surface may for example be a half-cylindrical surface or spherical cap, in particular half-spherical, this list not being limiting.
  • the microreliefs have a thickness greater than the wavelengths of visible light, possibly near-infrared or ultraviolet radiation.
  • the microreliefs may have a thickness, for example, greater than 1 ⁇ m.
  • the thickness of the microreliefs is preferably less than 10 mm, especially 1 mm. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, at least a portion of the microreliefs extends in a longitudinal direction, the microreliefs being substantially parallel to each other.
  • the microreliefs respectively of the first and second networks may be identical or, alternatively, different, for example having different shapes and / or dimensions.
  • the microreliefs of the first and second networks can be made on a common support, on the same face of this support or on two opposite faces thereof.
  • the optical structure may comprise, for example, a support with at least one micro-relief array on one side, the microrelief network being partially covered with a coating layer having a refractive index higher than that of the support, so that the first interface is formed between the support and the ambient air and the second interface between the support and the coating layer, the first and second interfaces being in particular adjacent.
  • the coating layer may comprise, for example, zinc sulphide.
  • optical structure according to the invention can thus be made relatively easily because a single set of microreliefs can be used to form the two interfaces.
  • the first and second microrelief networks can be made on separate supports.
  • the structure may comprise, if desired, at least one electrically conductive material.
  • the authentication and / or the identification of the structure can thus be based on a measurement of the electrical conductivity of the latter, in addition to its visual observation.
  • the structure comprises at least one support on which at least a portion of the microreliefs is made, the support being in particular made of a substantially transparent polymer material, such as polyester or PMMA ( polymethylmethacrylate).
  • a substantially transparent polymer material such as polyester or PMMA ( polymethylmethacrylate).
  • the support may comprise an electrically conductive layer, for example based on a conductive polymer such as polythiophene or its derivatives or based on an indium tin oxide composite.
  • the structure may be devoid of metal, in particular a metallized layer.
  • the optical structure may have a strip shape with a width in particular between 1.5 mm and 100 mm, in particular between 2 mm and 45 mm.
  • the structure may alternatively have a shape chosen from: a polygonal shape, for example rectangular or square, an oval shape, a circular shape, this list not being limiting.
  • the structure may be arranged to be able to be transferred at least partially to a face of a document, the structure may comprise at least one layer of adhesive.
  • the structure may comprise, in addition to the microrelief network, at least one authentication and / or identification element chosen from at least one of the following elements: an element for highlighting a falsification, in particular visible and or detectable by means of a specific detection device, an element with variable, interferential and / or diffractive, iridescent or liquid crystal optical effect, a magnetic coating, tracers detectable by X-ray fluorescence, biomarkers, a varnish or an ink, luminescent, fluorescent or phosphorescent tracers, photochromic, thermochromic, electroluminescent and / or piezochromic compounds and / or which change color in contact with one or more predetermined products.
  • the structure may comprise, where appropriate, at least one fluorescent material under infrared and / or ultraviolet radiation, deposited for example in the form of a layer, in particular on one of the faces of the structure.
  • the invention can thus make it possible to observe, in visible light, under infrared and / or ultraviolet radiation excitations, an underlying fluorescent layer, through the portion of the structure appearing transparent for the first range of observation angles. .
  • the aforementioned portion of the structure being reflective, does not allow the observation of the fluorescence of the underlying layer.
  • the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to an optical structure comprising at least one array of microreliefs arranged so that, for a first range of angles of observation, the portion of the structure covered by the network appears substantially reflective when viewed from a predetermined face and, for a second range of observation angles, this portion appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from said face.
  • the structure is arranged so that, when viewed at a predetermined angle and from a predetermined face, the structure has both at least one substantially transparent zone and at least one less a substantially reflective zone.
  • the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, a sheet material comprising an optical structure as defined above.
  • sheet material may denote in the description and the claims a fibrous sheet based on cellulosic and / or synthetic fibers, having a monolayer or multilayer structure, composite or not.
  • a sheet material may for example have a relatively small thickness, especially less than or equal to 3 mm, for example equal to about 100 microns, and be flexible.
  • the sheet material can be packaged in a reel, especially before being cut to the desired format.
  • sheet material can also denote a flexible or rigid film with a monolithic or multilayer structure.
  • the optical structure advantageously comprises at least one apparent portion on one side of the sheet material.
  • the optical structure may be partially embedded in the mass of the sheet material, the latter including in particular at least one window leaving the optical structure unobstructed.
  • the optical structure may extend from a first edge of the sheet material to a second edge opposite the first.
  • the optical structure is disposed on one side of the sheet material, for example being glued to this face.
  • the sheet material comprises at least one piece of information such as an alphanumeric character, a symbol, a logo or a drawing, the optical structure being arranged so as to be able to mask substantially the information element when this structure is observed in a first range of angles and has a reflective appearance.
  • the sheet material may comprise at least one fibrous layer or, alternatively, a plastics material.
  • at least one of the first and second outer faces of the optical structure may be in contact with the ambient air or the fibrous material of the sheet material.
  • the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, a security document and / or value comprising a sheet material as defined above.
  • the document may be one of the following: a bank note, an identity document, a passport sheet or cover, a visa, a coupon, a document of value other than a bank note, for example a check or a credit card, a label of protection and / or authentication, a label of traceability.
  • a packaging device in particular a packaging, comprising a sheet material as defined above.
  • the subject of the invention is also a method of authentication and / or identification of an article, in particular a document, comprising an optical structure as defined above, the method comprising the following steps :
  • the process may comprise the following steps:
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 represent, schematically and partially, an optical structure according to the invention, respectively observed at two different angles
  • FIG. 3 schematically and partially illustrates an array of microreliefs of the optical structure of FIGS. 1 and 2
  • FIG. 4 very schematically illustrates the path of light beams in the structure of FIG. 3;
  • FIG. 1 and 2 represent, schematically and partially, an optical structure according to the invention, respectively observed at two different angles
  • FIG. 3 schematically and partially illustrates an array of microreliefs of the optical structure of FIGS. 1 and 2
  • FIG. 4 very schematically illustrates the path of light beams in the structure of FIG. 3
  • FIG. 1 and 2 represent, schematically and partially, an optical structure according to the invention, respectively observed at two different angles
  • FIG. 3 schematically and partially illustrates an array of microreliefs of the optical structure of FIGS. 1 and 2
  • FIG. 4 very schematically illustrates the path of light beams in the structure of FIG. 3
  • FIG. 1 and 2 represent, schematically
  • FIG. 5 represents, schematically and partially, in section, the optical structure of Figure 1
  • Figures 6 and 7 show, schematically and partially, two documents according to examples of the invention
  • Figure 8 shows, schematically and partially, in perspective, a packaging according to to the invention
  • Figures 9 to 16 show, schematically and partially, in section, different examples of optical structures according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 show an optical structure 1 according to an exemplary implementation of the invention, having first and second opposite outer faces 2 and 3.
  • the optical structure 1 comprises on each of the faces 2 and 3 at least one microrelief network 5 extending over a portion 4 only of the corresponding face 2 or 3, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
  • the structure 1 has a first interface 11, respectively a second interface 12, formed by the microrelief array or networks 5 of the first face 2, respectively the second face 3, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
  • Each network 5 comprises in the example in question microreliefs 6 shown in FIG. 3, in the form of a triangular prism each having dimensions, in cross-section, greater than the wavelengths of the visible light, and possibly near-infrared radiation.
  • These dimensions, in particular the thickness e of the microreliefs may for example be greater than 1 ⁇ m, especially 1.2 ⁇ m.
  • the distance d between the vertices of two adjacent prisms may be between 100 microns and 900 microns, being for example close to 350 microns.
  • the thickness e of a prism can be for example between 50 microns and 300 microns, for example being close to 170 microns.
  • the maximum thickness E of the optical structure 1 may be between 100 ⁇ m and 900 ⁇ m, being for example close to 500 ⁇ m.
  • the angle ⁇ between a local normal X to the optical structure 1 and a face of a microrelief 6 may be between 30 ° and 60 °, for example being close to 45 °.
  • microreliefs 6 are advantageously chosen as a function of the refractive index of the material or materials used in the structure 1.
  • the microreliefs 6 form parallel ridges in the example under consideration.
  • the microrelief network 5 may for example be similar to that present on the film marketed by the American company 3M under the name Scotch TM Optical Lighting Film.
  • the structure 1 is preferably flexible, for example being able to be foldable.
  • the microreliefs 6 are made of a material 15 having a refractive index greater than that of air, this material may be for example a transparent polymer such as polyester or PMMA.
  • the microreliefs 6 can be obtained for example by etching, mechanical or chemical. Alternatively, the microreliefs 6 can be obtained by printing an ink or by embossing.
  • the angles a 0, a 1 and a 2 may for example be substantially equal to 0 °, 45 ° and 90 °, respectively.
  • angles a 3 , su and a 5 may for example be substantially equal to 0 °, 45 ° and 90 °, respectively.
  • the at least one microrelief network 5 may define, in positive or in negative, at least one pattern 10 formed for example by a text, a symbol, a logo and / or a drawing.
  • the pattern 10 may appear substantially transparently surrounded by a substantially reflective zone, as illustrated in FIG.
  • the pattern 10 may appear with a substantially reflective appearance surrounded by a substantially transparent area, as illustrated in Figure 2.
  • the structure 1 may comprise, where appropriate, a succession of patterns 10 repeating regularly in one direction.
  • the network of microreliefs 5 may be arranged to restore a reflective metal appearance depending on the viewing angle.
  • the material on which the microrelief arrays 5 are formed may be based on a transparent polymer.
  • Authentication and / or identification using the structure 1 can thus include, where appropriate, the following steps: measuring the electrical conductivity of the structure 1, - conclude as to the authenticity and / or the identity of structure 1 at least through this measure.
  • the structure 1 may have a strip shape with a width in particular between 1.5 mm and 100 mm.
  • FIG. 6 shows a security and / or value document 20 constituted by a bank note, this document comprising a sheet material 21 formed by a fibrous layer in which the optical structure 1 is partially embedded.
  • the structure 1 extends from a first edge 23 of the sheet material 21 to a second edge 24 opposite to the first.
  • the sheet material 21 may comprise one or more windows 22 leaving the optical structure 1 unobstructed.
  • FIG. 7 shows an optical structure 1 having a shape, for example a substantially rectangular shape, this structure 1 being affixed to one face of the sheet material 21, without being embedded in the mass of this material 21 , for example being glued on with the aid of an adhesive layer, possibly under temperature and pressure.
  • the optical structure 1 may be arranged to mask at least one information element 25 present on the sheet material 21 when the structure 1 appears with a reflective appearance.
  • the information element 25 becomes visible through a portion 26 of the structure 1 when the latter is observed at an adequate viewing angle.
  • the information element 25 may for example be printed on one side of the sheet material 21.
  • Document 20 may alternatively be one of the following: an identity document, a passport sheet or cover, a visa, a coupon, a valuable document other than a banknote, for example a check or a credit card, a label of protection and / or authentication, a label of traceability.
  • FIG. 8 shows a packaging device 30 such as a package, for example a box, with an optical structure 1 affixed to a face 31 of the box 30.
  • the optical structure 1 may comprise, in addition to the one or more 5, at least one authentication and / or identification element chosen from at least one of the following elements: an element for highlighting a falsification, in particular visible and / or detectable by means of microreliefs 5; a specific detection device, an element with variable optical effect, interferential and / or diffractive, iridescent or liquid crystal, a magnetic coating, tracers detectable by X-ray fluorescence, biomarkers, a varnish or an ink, luminescent tracers fluorescent or phosphorescent, photochromic, thermochromic, electroluminescent and / or piezochromic compounds and / or which change color in contact with one or more predetermined products.
  • the optical structure 1 may comprise a monolithic support 29 based on the material 15, on the faces 2 and 3 of which are formed the
  • the optical structure 1 may comprise a monolithic support 30 such as a film, having a first completely smooth face 31 and, on a second face 32 opposite the first face 31, covered portions 4 by one or more networks 5 of microreliefs separated by zones 8 substantially smooth.
  • a monolithic support 30 such as a film, having a first completely smooth face 31 and, on a second face 32 opposite the first face 31, covered portions 4 by one or more networks 5 of microreliefs separated by zones 8 substantially smooth.
  • the structure 1 further comprises at least one element 33 of smaller area than the support 30 and fixed, for example by gluing, on the face 31 of the support 30, which element 33 comprises on one face an array of microreliefs 5 covering exactly a substantially smooth zone 8 of the face 32 of the support 30.
  • the outer face 2 of the structure 1 is formed both by the face 31 of the support 30 and the microrelief network 5 of the element 33.
  • the microreliefs 5 may, for example, initially be present on the entire face 32 of the support 30 and some of these microreliefs are subjected to a treatment to be eliminated, for example by etching or by mechanical action, in order to create the substantially smooth zones 8.
  • the optical structure 1 is formed of a plurality of elements 33 arranged on either side of an intermediate support 35 formed for example by a transparent film, so that an array of microreliefs 5 of an element 33 on one side of the support 35 is arranged in line with a zone 36 without element 33 on the other side of the support.
  • the elements 33 may be arranged on the same side of the support 35 formed for example by a transparent adhesive film. At least one of the elements 33 may come for example from the cutting of a monolithic support 30 with microreliefs, at least one of the elements 33 being returned and returned to the space left by the cut.
  • the optical structure 1 comprises two supports 30 with microreliefs, fixed on two opposite faces of an intermediate support 35.
  • the optical structure 1 is covered on each of its two opposite faces 2 and 3 of a layer of a coating 37 such as a transparent varnish.
  • the assembly 39 thus formed has substantially smooth outer faces.
  • the layers 37 on the faces 2 and 3 may have identical refractive indices or not.
  • FIG. 14 shows an optical structure 40 comprising a support 41 made of a transparent polymer material, optionally associated with an electrically conductive polymer, and having opposite faces 42 and 43.
  • the face 42 of the support 41 is entirely covered by a microrelief network 5.
  • the face 43 is completely smooth, devoid of microreliefs.
  • the optical structure 40 further comprises a coating layer 45 covering the microrelief network 5, on a portion of the face 42.
  • the coating layer 45 may be deposited for example by vacuum deposition, in particular by vaporization, of a material having a refractive index greater than that of the material of the support 41.
  • the coating layer 45 contains for example zinc sulphide having a refractive index of about 2.3, the support 41 being made for example based on a polymer having a refractive index of about 1.5.
  • the structure 40 thus has two interfaces formed by the microreliefs 5. One of the interfaces separates the material 15 from the ambient air, and the other of the interfaces separates the material 15 from the material of the coating layer 45, which allows to produce different optical effects depending on the angle of view.
  • the coating layer 45 may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the microrelief network 5, as illustrated in FIG. 14. As a variant, the coating layer 45 may have a maximum thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the microrelief networks. 5, as illustrated in FIG.
  • layer 45 may form a pattern.
  • the microreliefs may have a shape other than a prismatic shape.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates an optical structure 50 having, on each of the opposite faces 51 and 52, at least one microrelief network 53, each microrelief having substantially a half-cylinder shape.
  • Each microrelief network 53 extends opposite a substantially smooth portion 54 of the opposite face.
  • the microreliefs 53 form lenses producing different optical effects depending on whether the light beam first passes through the microrelief network 53 or the substantially smooth zone 54, as can be seen from the paths of the light beams F and G in FIG. 16.
  • the characteristics of the various embodiments described can be combined with each other within the variants that are not illustrated.

Abstract

An optical structure comprising first and second opposite outside faces, at least a first interface comprising a first screen of microreliefs and arranged in such a manner that travel through the first interface from the first outside face towards the second outside face, passes from a first medium having a first refractive index to a second medium having a second refractive index that is greater than the first, and at least one second interface comprising a second screen of microreliefs and arranged in such a manner that travel through the second interface from the first outside face towards the second outside face, passes from a third medium having a third refractive index to a fourth medium having a fourth refractive index less than the third.

Description

Structure optique, notamment pour un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur Optical structure, in particular for a security document and / or of value
La présente invention concerne une structure optique, notamment pour un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur.The present invention relates to an optical structure, in particular for a security document and / or value.
On connaît par la demande internationale WO 03/082598 un document avec, sur une face, un dispositif de sécurité comportant deux structures superposées, chacune pouvant générer une image holographique. Selon l'angle d'observation, l'image holographique de l'une ou l'autre des structures apparaît.International application WO 03/082598 discloses a document with, on one side, a security device comprising two superimposed structures, each of which can generate a holographic image. Depending on the angle of observation, the holographic image of one or other of the structures appears.
Le brevet US 5 301 981 décrit un ruban comprenant sur une première face des microreliefs formant un réseau lenticulaire. Le ruban présente, sur une deuxième face opposée à la première, une succession de bandes noires parallèles disposées de manière à ce que, lorsque le ruban est observé suivant une direction perpendiculaire à son plan, les faisceaux lumineux soient dirigés par les microreliefs sur les bandes noires. Ceci donne une image noire formant un écran pour masquer des informations figurant sur un document sur lequel le ruban est apposé. On connaît par la demande internationale WO 02/03104 une structure optique capable de créer une première image, par exemple holographique, en réflexion et une deuxième image en transmission.US Pat. No. 5,301,981 describes a ribbon comprising, on a first face, microreliefs forming a lenticular network. The ribbon has, on a second face opposite to the first, a succession of parallel black strips arranged so that, when the ribbon is observed in a direction perpendicular to its plane, the light beams are directed by the microreliefs on the strips. black. This gives a black image forming a screen to hide information on a document on which the ribbon is affixed. The international application WO 02/03104 discloses an optical structure capable of creating a first image, for example a holographic image, in reflection and a second image in transmission.
On connaît encore par la demande internationale WO 03/055692 un document sur lequel est appliquée une structure à reliefs prismatiques qui est totalement réfléchissante sous un certain angle d'observation de manière à masquer des informations figurant sur le document, et transparente sous un autre angle d'observation de manière à rendre apparentes ces informations.WO 03/055692 discloses a document on which is applied a prismatic relief structure which is totally reflective at a certain angle of observation so as to mask information on the document, and transparent from another angle. in order to make this information visible.
L'invention vise à proposer une structure optique, notamment pour un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur, permettant de créer de nouveaux effets optiques en vue notamment de renforcer la sécurité du document contre une éventuelle tentative de contrefaçon.The invention aims to provide an optical structure, particularly for a security document and / or value, to create new optical effects in particular to enhance the security of the document against a possible attempt to counterfeit.
L'invention a ainsi pour objet, selon l'un de ses aspects, une structure optique, notamment pour un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur, comportant : des première et deuxième faces extérieures opposées, - au moins une première interface comportant un premier réseau de microreliefs et agencée de manière à ce que, lorsque l'on traverse cette première interface dans le sens de la première face extérieure vers la deuxième face extérieure, on passe d'un premier milieu ayant un premier indice de réfraction à un deuxième milieu ayant un deuxième indice de réfraction supérieur au premier, au moins une deuxième interface comportant un deuxième réseau de microreliefs et agencée de manière à ce que, lorsque l'on traverse cette deuxième interface dans le sens de la première face extérieure vers la deuxième face extérieure, on passe d'un troisième milieu ayant un troisième indice de réfraction à un quatrième milieu ayant un quatrième indice de réfraction inférieur au troisième, chaque interface ayant au moins une portion décalée par rapport à l'autre interface lorsque la structure est observée suivant une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'une au moins des faces extérieures.The object of the invention is therefore, according to one of its aspects, an optical structure, in particular for a security and / or value document, comprising: first and second opposite outer faces, - at least one first interface comprising a first network of microreliefs and arranged so that, when it passes through this first interface in the direction of the first outer face to the second outer face, one passes from one first medium having a first refractive index to a second medium having a second refractive index greater than the first, at least a second interface having a second microrelief array and arranged so that, when passing through this second interface in the direction of the first outer face to the second outer face, passing from a third medium having a third refractive index to a fourth medium having a fourth index of refraction less than the third, each interface having at least one portion shifted relative to at the other interface when the structure is observed in a direction substantially perpendicular to at least one of the outer faces.
Les interfaces peuvent par exemple générer des effets optiques, éventuellement variables selon l'angle d'observation, qui sont différents d'une interface à l'autre.The interfaces may for example generate optical effects, possibly variable depending on the angle of observation, which are different from one interface to another.
L'invention permet ainsi de créer, en lumière visible et/ou infrarouge et/ou ultraviolette, de nouveaux effets visuels afin par exemple d'améliorer l'esthétique d'un document et/ou la sécurité de celui-ci contre une tentative de contrefaçon.The invention thus makes it possible to create, in visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet light, new visual effects in order, for example, to improve the aesthetics of a document and / or the security thereof against an attempt to infringement.
Les interfaces peuvent, le cas échéant, être entièrement décalées l'une par rapport à l'autre, c'est-à-dire sans portions se superposant.The interfaces may, if necessary, be entirely offset relative to each other, that is to say without overlapping portions.
Lorsque l'une au moins des interfaces présente un contour définissant un motif, en positif ou en négatif, ce motif peut présenter un aspect visuel différent de l'aspect visuel d'une zone l'entourant.When at least one of the interfaces has a contour defining a pattern, positive or negative, this pattern may have a different visual appearance of the visual appearance of an area surrounding it.
Le motif peut comporter par exemple un caractère alphanumérique, un symbole, un logo ou un dessin.The pattern may comprise for example an alphanumeric character, a symbol, a logo or a drawing.
Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, l'un au moins des réseaux de microreliefs se superpose au moins partiellement, notamment exactement, à une zone sensiblement lisse, dépourvue de microrelief, de l'une des faces extérieures.In an exemplary implementation of the invention, at least one of the microrelief arrays is superimposed at least partially, in particular exactly, on a substantially smooth zone, devoid of microrelief, of one of the outer faces.
L'une au moins des interfaces peut être formée par exemple sur l'une des faces extérieures de la structure.At least one of the interfaces may be formed for example on one of the outer faces of the structure.
L'un au moins des premier et quatrième milieux peut être formé par l'air ambiant. Les deuxième et troisième milieux peuvent être formés par exemple par un même matériau et avoir le même indice de réfraction, notamment un matériau ayant un indice de réfraction supérieur à 1, notamment 1,5, par exemple 2. En variante, les deuxième et troisième milieux peuvent être formés par des matériaux différents et/ou ayant des indices de réfraction différents.At least one of the first and fourth media may be formed by the ambient air. The second and third media may be formed for example by the same material and have the same refractive index, especially a material having a refractive index greater than 1, especially 1.5, for example 2. Alternatively, the second and third media may be formed by different materials and / or having different refractive indices.
Le premier milieu peut être formé par exemple par un premier matériau sur lequel est réalisé le premier réseau de microreliefs et le deuxième milieu par un deuxième matériau déposé, notamment par dépôt sous vide, sur le premier matériau.The first medium may be formed for example by a first material on which the first micro-relief array is made and the second medium by a second deposited material, in particular by vacuum deposition, on the first material.
Le deuxième matériau peut recouvrir partiellement ou entièrement le premier matériau et former, si on le souhaite, au moins un motif. Le deuxième matériau peut former, le cas échéant, une protection extérieure de la structure optique et présenter un indice de réfraction par exemple supérieur à 1,8. Le deuxième matériau peut être obtenu par exemple par vaporisation, par exemple de sulfure de zinc ayant un indice de réfraction d'environ 2,3.The second material may partially or wholly cover the first material and form, if desired, at least one pattern. The second material may form, if necessary, an outer protection of the optical structure and have a refractive index, for example greater than 1.8. The second material can be obtained for example by vaporization, for example zinc sulphide having a refractive index of about 2.3.
De préférence, la différence entre le deuxième indice de réfraction et le premier indice de réfraction est supérieure à 0,1, de préférence encore à 0,15, de préférence à 0,2 ou 0,3 ou 0,4. De préférence, cette différence est comprise entre 0,4 et 0,6. De préférence, la différence entre le troisième indice de réfraction et le quatrième indice de réfraction est supérieure à 0,1, de préférence encore à 0,15, de préférence à 0,2 ou 0,3 ou 0,4. De préférence, cette différence est comprise entre 0,4 et 0,6.Preferably, the difference between the second refractive index and the first refractive index is greater than 0.1, more preferably 0.15, preferably 0.2 or 0.3 or 0.4. Preferably, this difference is between 0.4 and 0.6. Preferably, the difference between the third refractive index and the fourth refractive index is greater than 0.1, more preferably 0.15, preferably 0.2 or 0.3 or 0.4. Preferably, this difference is between 0.4 and 0.6.
Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, l'une au moins des interfaces est agencée de manière à ce que, pour au moins une première plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement transparente lorsque la structure est observée depuis l'une des première et deuxième laces extérieures, notamment en lumière visible et/ou infrarouge et/ou ultraviolette.In an exemplary implementation of the invention, at least one of the interfaces is arranged so that, for at least a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from one of the first and second outer laces, especially in visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet.
L'une au moins des interfaces peut être agencée de manière à ce que, pour au moins une deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement réfléchissante lorsque la structure est observée depuis une face extérieure, notamment en lumière visible et/ou infrarouge et/ou ultraviolette.At least one of the interfaces may be arranged so that, for at least a second range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from a face outside, especially in visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet.
Avantageusement, l'une au moins des interfaces est agencée de manière à ce que, pour une première plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement transparente lorsque la structure est observée depuis une face extérieure prédéterminée et, pour une deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, cette portion de la structure apparaisse sensiblement réfléchissante lorsque la structure est observée depuis ladite face extérieure.Advantageously, at least one of the interfaces is arranged in such a way that, for a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from an outside face. predetermined and, for a second range of viewing angles, this portion of the structure appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from said outer face.
Ainsi, lorsque la ou les interfaces présentent un contour définissant un motif, celui-ci peut apparaître, en lumière visible, avec un aspect réfléchissant ou transparent selon l'angle d'observation de la structure.Thus, when the interface or interfaces have a contour defining a pattern, it may appear, in visible light, with a reflective or transparent appearance depending on the viewing angle of the structure.
L'invention peut, le cas échéant, permettre, en faisant varier l'angle d'observation, d'apercevoir le motif successivement en positif, avec un aspect réfléchissant et entouré d'une zone transparente et, en négatif, avec un aspect transparent, entouré d'une zone réfléchissante. Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, l'un au moins des microreliefs présente sensiblement une forme en prisme triangulaire.The invention can, if necessary, allow, by varying the angle of observation, to see the pattern successively positive, with a reflective appearance and surrounded by a transparent zone and, in negative, with a transparent appearance surrounded by a reflective area. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, at least one of the microreliefs has substantially a triangular prism shape.
Le réseau de microreliefs peut être agencé par exemple de manière à restituer un aspect métallisé, notamment réfléchissant, lorsque la structure optique est observée suivant une plage d'angles prédéterminée. Le ou les réseaux de microreliefs peuvent par exemple être analogues à celui présent sur le film commercialisé par la société 3M sous la dénomination Scotch™ Optical Lighting Film.The network of microreliefs may be arranged for example so as to restore a metallized appearance, especially reflecting, when the optical structure is observed in a predetermined range of angles. For example, the microrelief array (s) may be similar to that present on the film marketed by 3M under the name Scotch ™ Optical Lighting Film.
Dans un autre exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, l'un au moins des microreliefs comporte au moins une surface courbe, concave ou convexe, chaque surface courbe pouvant créer un effet de lentille.In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one of the microreliefs comprises at least one curved, concave or convex surface, each curved surface being able to create a lens effect.
La surface courbe peut par exemple être une surface demi-cylindrique ou en calotte sphérique, notamment demi-sphérique, cette liste n'étant pas limitative.The curved surface may for example be a half-cylindrical surface or spherical cap, in particular half-spherical, this list not being limiting.
De préférence, les microreliefs présentent une épaisseur supérieure aux longueurs d'onde de la lumière visible, éventuellement du rayonnement proche infrarouge ou ultraviolet.Preferably, the microreliefs have a thickness greater than the wavelengths of visible light, possibly near-infrared or ultraviolet radiation.
Les microreliefs peuvent présenter une épaisseur par exemple supérieure à 1 μm.The microreliefs may have a thickness, for example, greater than 1 μm.
L'épaisseur des microreliefs est de préférence inférieure à 10 mm, notamment 1 mm. Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, une partie au moins des microreliefs s'étend suivant une direction longitudinale, les microreliefs étant sensiblement parallèles les uns aux autres. Les microreliefs respectivement des premier et deuxième réseaux peuvent être identiques ou, en variante, différents, par exemple ayant des formes et/ou des dimensions différentes.The thickness of the microreliefs is preferably less than 10 mm, especially 1 mm. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, at least a portion of the microreliefs extends in a longitudinal direction, the microreliefs being substantially parallel to each other. The microreliefs respectively of the first and second networks may be identical or, alternatively, different, for example having different shapes and / or dimensions.
Les microreliefs des premier et deuxième réseaux peuvent être réalisés sur un support commun, sur une même face de ce support ou sur deux faces opposées de celui-ci.The microreliefs of the first and second networks can be made on a common support, on the same face of this support or on two opposite faces thereof.
La structure optique peut comporter par exemple un support avec sur une face au moins un réseau de microreliefs, le réseau de microreliefs étant recouvert partiellement d'une couche de revêtement ayant un indice de réfraction plus élevé que celui du support de manière à ce que la première interface soit formée entre le support et l'air ambiant et la deuxième interface entre le support et la couche de revêtement, les première et deuxième interfaces étant notamment adjacentes. La couche de revêtement peut comporter par exemple du sulfure de zinc.The optical structure may comprise, for example, a support with at least one micro-relief array on one side, the microrelief network being partially covered with a coating layer having a refractive index higher than that of the support, so that the first interface is formed between the support and the ambient air and the second interface between the support and the coating layer, the first and second interfaces being in particular adjacent. The coating layer may comprise, for example, zinc sulphide.
La structure optique selon l'invention peut ainsi être réalisée de manière relativement aisée du fait qu'un unique ensemble de microreliefs peut servir pour former les deux interfaces.The optical structure according to the invention can thus be made relatively easily because a single set of microreliefs can be used to form the two interfaces.
Dans un autre exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, les premier et deuxième réseaux de microreliefs peuvent être réalisés sur des supports distincts.In another exemplary implementation of the invention, the first and second microrelief networks can be made on separate supports.
La structure peut comporter, si on le souhaite, au moins un matériau électriquement conducteur. L'authentification et/ou l'identification de la structure peut ainsi être basée sur une mesure de la conductivité électrique de celle-ci, en plus de son observation visuelle.The structure may comprise, if desired, at least one electrically conductive material. The authentication and / or the identification of the structure can thus be based on a measurement of the electrical conductivity of the latter, in addition to its visual observation.
Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, la structure comporte au moins un support sur lequel est réalisée une partie au moins des microreliefs, le support étant notamment réalisé en un matériau polymère sensiblement transparent, tel que le polyester ou le PMMA (polyméthacrylate de méthyle).In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the structure comprises at least one support on which at least a portion of the microreliefs is made, the support being in particular made of a substantially transparent polymer material, such as polyester or PMMA ( polymethylmethacrylate).
Le support peut comporter une couche électriquement conductrice, par exemple à base d'un polymère conducteur tel que le polythiophène ou ses dérivés ou à base d'un composite d'oxyde d'indium étain.The support may comprise an electrically conductive layer, for example based on a conductive polymer such as polythiophene or its derivatives or based on an indium tin oxide composite.
La structure peut être dépourvue de métal, notamment d'une couche métallisée. Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, la structure optique peut présenter une forme en bande avec une largeur comprise notamment entre 1,5 mm et 100 mm, notamment entre 2 mm et 45 mm. La structure peut présenter, en variante, sensiblement une forme choisie parmi : une forme polygonale, par exemple rectangulaire ou carrée, une forme ovale, une forme circulaire, cette liste n'étant pas limitative.The structure may be devoid of metal, in particular a metallized layer. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the optical structure may have a strip shape with a width in particular between 1.5 mm and 100 mm, in particular between 2 mm and 45 mm. The structure may alternatively have a shape chosen from: a polygonal shape, for example rectangular or square, an oval shape, a circular shape, this list not being limiting.
Le cas échéant, la structure peut être agencée pour pouvoir être transférée au moins partiellement sur une face d'un document, la structure pouvant comporter au moins une couche d'adhésif.Where appropriate, the structure may be arranged to be able to be transferred at least partially to a face of a document, the structure may comprise at least one layer of adhesive.
La structure peut comporter, en plus du réseau de microreliefs, au moins un élément d'authentification et/ou d'identification choisi parmi au moins l'un des éléments suivants : un élément de mise en évidence d'une falsification, notamment visible et/ou détectable à l'aide d'un dispositif spécifique de détection, un élément à effet optique variable, interférentiel et/ou diffractif, iridescent ou à cristaux liquides, un revêtement magnétique, des traceurs détectables par fluorescence X, des biomarqueurs, un vernis ou une encre, des traceurs luminescents, fluorescents ou phosphorescents, des composés photochromiques, thermochromiques, électroluminescents et/ou piézochromiques et/ou qui changent de couleur au contact d'un ou de plusieurs produits prédéterminés.The structure may comprise, in addition to the microrelief network, at least one authentication and / or identification element chosen from at least one of the following elements: an element for highlighting a falsification, in particular visible and or detectable by means of a specific detection device, an element with variable, interferential and / or diffractive, iridescent or liquid crystal optical effect, a magnetic coating, tracers detectable by X-ray fluorescence, biomarkers, a varnish or an ink, luminescent, fluorescent or phosphorescent tracers, photochromic, thermochromic, electroluminescent and / or piezochromic compounds and / or which change color in contact with one or more predetermined products.
La structure peut comporter, le cas échéant, au moins un matériau fluorescent sous rayonnement infrarouge et/ou ultraviolet, déposé par exemple sous la forme d'une couche, notamment sur l'une des faces de la structure.The structure may comprise, where appropriate, at least one fluorescent material under infrared and / or ultraviolet radiation, deposited for example in the form of a layer, in particular on one of the faces of the structure.
L'invention peut ainsi permettre d'observer, en lumière visible, sous excitations en rayonnement infrarouge et/ou ultraviolet, une couche fluorescente sous- jacente, à travers la portion de la structure apparaissant transparente pour la première plage d'angles d'observation.The invention can thus make it possible to observe, in visible light, under infrared and / or ultraviolet radiation excitations, an underlying fluorescent layer, through the portion of the structure appearing transparent for the first range of observation angles. .
Pour la deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, la portion précitée de la structure, étant réfléchissante, ne permet pas l'observation de la fluorescence de la couche sous-jacente.For the second range of observation angles, the aforementioned portion of the structure, being reflective, does not allow the observation of the fluorescence of the underlying layer.
L'invention a encore pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, indépendamment ou en combinaison avec ce qui précède, une structure optique comportant au moins un réseau de microreliefs agencé de manière à ce que, pour une première plage d'angles d'observation, la portion de la structure couverte par le réseau apparaisse sensiblement réfléchissante lorsqu'elle est observée depuis une face prédéterminée et, pour une deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, cette portion apparaisse sensiblement transparente lorsque la structure est observée depuis ladite face. Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, la structure est agencée de manière à ce que, lorsqu'elle est observée sous un angle et depuis une face prédéterminés, la structure présente à la fois au moins une zone sensiblement transparente et au moins une zone sensiblement réfléchissante. L'invention a encore pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, un matériau en feuille comprenant une structure optique telle que définie ci-dessus.The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to an optical structure comprising at least one array of microreliefs arranged so that, for a first range of angles of observation, the portion of the structure covered by the network appears substantially reflective when viewed from a predetermined face and, for a second range of observation angles, this portion appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from said face. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the structure is arranged so that, when viewed at a predetermined angle and from a predetermined face, the structure has both at least one substantially transparent zone and at least one less a substantially reflective zone. The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, a sheet material comprising an optical structure as defined above.
L'expression « matériau en feuille » peut désigner dans la description et les revendications une feuille fibreuse à base de fibres cellulosiques et/ou synthétiques, présentant une structure monocouche ou multicouche, composite ou non. Un matériau en feuille peut par exemple présenter une épaisseur relativement faible, notamment inférieure ou égale à 3 mm, par exemple égale à 100 μm environ, et être flexible. Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, le matériau en feuille peut être conditionné en bobine, notamment avant d'être découpé au format souhaité. L'expression « matériau en feuille » peut également désigner un film souple ou rigide, à structure monolithique ou multicouche. La structure optique comporte avantageusement au moins une portion apparente sur une face du matériau en feuille.The term "sheet material" may denote in the description and the claims a fibrous sheet based on cellulosic and / or synthetic fibers, having a monolayer or multilayer structure, composite or not. A sheet material may for example have a relatively small thickness, especially less than or equal to 3 mm, for example equal to about 100 microns, and be flexible. In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the sheet material can be packaged in a reel, especially before being cut to the desired format. The expression "sheet material" can also denote a flexible or rigid film with a monolithic or multilayer structure. The optical structure advantageously comprises at least one apparent portion on one side of the sheet material.
La structure optique peut être partiellement noyée dans la masse du matériau en feuille, celui-ci comportant notamment au moins une fenêtre laissant dégagée la structure optique. Lorsque la structure optique présente une forme en bande, celle-ci peut s'étendre d'un premier bord du matériau en feuille à un deuxième bord, opposé au premier.The optical structure may be partially embedded in the mass of the sheet material, the latter including in particular at least one window leaving the optical structure unobstructed. When the optical structure has a strip shape, it may extend from a first edge of the sheet material to a second edge opposite the first.
En variante, la structure optique est disposée sur une face du matériau en feuille, en étant par exemple collée sur cette face.Alternatively, the optical structure is disposed on one side of the sheet material, for example being glued to this face.
Dans un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, le matériau en feuille comporte au moins un élément d'information tel qu'un caractère alphanumérique, un symbole, un logo ou un dessin, la structure optique étant agencée de manière à pouvoir masquer sensiblement l'élément d'information lorsque cette structure est observée suivant une première plage d'angles et présente un aspect réfléchissant.In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the sheet material comprises at least one piece of information such as an alphanumeric character, a symbol, a logo or a drawing, the optical structure being arranged so as to be able to mask substantially the information element when this structure is observed in a first range of angles and has a reflective appearance.
Le matériau en feuille peut comporter au moins une couche fibreuse ou, en variante, une matière plastique. Selon le cas, l'une au moins des première et deuxième faces extérieures de la structure optique peut être au contact de l'air ambiant ou de la matière fibreuse du matériau en feuille.The sheet material may comprise at least one fibrous layer or, alternatively, a plastics material. Depending on the case, at least one of the first and second outer faces of the optical structure may be in contact with the ambient air or the fibrous material of the sheet material.
L'invention a encore pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur comportant un matériau en feuille tel que défini ci-dessus.The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, a security document and / or value comprising a sheet material as defined above.
Le document peut constituer l'un des éléments suivants : un billet de banque, un document d'identité, une feuille ou une couverture de passeport, un visa, un coupon, un document de valeur autre qu'un billet de banque, par exemple un chèque ou une carte de crédit, une étiquette de protection et/ou d'authentification, une étiquette de traçabilité. L'invention a également pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, un dispositif de conditionnement, notamment un emballage, comportant un matériau en feuille tel que défini ci-dessus.The document may be one of the following: a bank note, an identity document, a passport sheet or cover, a visa, a coupon, a document of value other than a bank note, for example a check or a credit card, a label of protection and / or authentication, a label of traceability. The subject of the invention is also, in another of its aspects, a packaging device, in particular a packaging, comprising a sheet material as defined above.
L'invention a encore pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, un procédé d'authentification et/ou d'identification d'un article, notamment un document, comportant une structure optique telle que définie ci-dessus, le procédé comportant les étapes suivantes :According to another of its aspects, the subject of the invention is also a method of authentication and / or identification of an article, in particular a document, comprising an optical structure as defined above, the method comprising the following steps :
- observer les effets visuels, notamment un aspect transparent et/ou réfléchissant, de la structure optique, notamment sous au moins deux angles différents,to observe the visual effects, in particular a transparent and / or reflective aspect, of the optical structure, in particular under at least two different angles,
- conclure quant à l'authenticité et/ou l'identité de l'article au moins grâce à cette observation.- conclude as to the authenticity and / or the identity of the article at least through this observation.
Lorsque la structure optique comporte au moins un matériau électriquement conducteur, notamment non métallique, par exemple un polymère conducteur, le procédé peut comporter les étapes suivantes :When the optical structure comprises at least one electrically conductive material, in particular a non-metallic material, for example a conductive polymer, the process may comprise the following steps:
- mesurer la conductivité électrique de la structure, - conclure quant à l'authenticité et/ou l'identité de l'article au moins grâce à cette mesure.- measure the electrical conductivity of the structure, - conclude as to the authenticity and / or the identity of the article at least through this measure.
L'invention pourra être mieux comprise à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, d'exemples de mise en œuvre non limitatifs de l'invention, et à l'examen du dessin annexé, sur lequel : - les figures 1 et 2 représentent, schématiquement et partiellement, une structure optique conforme à l'invention, observée respectivement suivant deux angles différents, la figure 3 illustre, schématiquement et partiellement, un réseau de microreliefs de la structure optique des figures 1 et 2, la figure 4 illustre très schématiquement le trajet de faisceaux lumineux dans la structure de la figure 3, - la figure 5 représente, schématiquement et partiellement, en coupe, la structure optique de la figure 1, les figures 6 et 7 représentent, schématiquement et partiellement, deux documents conformes à des exemples de l'invention, la figure 8 représente, schématiquement et partiellement, en perspective, un emballage conforme à l'invention, et les figures 9 à 16 représentent, schématiquement et partiellement, en coupe, différents exemples de structures optiques conformes à l'invention.The invention can be better understood on reading the following detailed description of examples of non-limiting implementation of the invention, and on examining the appended drawing, in which: FIGS. 1 and 2 represent, schematically and partially, an optical structure according to the invention, respectively observed at two different angles, FIG. 3 schematically and partially illustrates an array of microreliefs of the optical structure of FIGS. 1 and 2, FIG. 4 very schematically illustrates the path of light beams in the structure of FIG. 3; FIG. 5 represents, schematically and partially, in section, the optical structure of Figure 1, Figures 6 and 7 show, schematically and partially, two documents according to examples of the invention, Figure 8 shows, schematically and partially, in perspective, a packaging according to to the invention, and Figures 9 to 16 show, schematically and partially, in section, different examples of optical structures according to the invention.
Sur le dessin, dans un souci de clarté, les proportions relatives des différents éléments représentés n'ont pas toujours été respectées, les vues étant schématiques. On a représenté sur les figures 1, 2 et 5 une structure optique 1 conforme à un exemple de mise en œuvre de l'invention, présentant des première et deuxième faces extérieures opposées 2 et 3.In the drawing, for the sake of clarity, the relative proportions of the various elements represented have not always been respected, the views being schematic. FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 show an optical structure 1 according to an exemplary implementation of the invention, having first and second opposite outer faces 2 and 3.
La structure optique 1 comporte sur chacune des faces 2 et 3 au moins un réseau de microreliefs 5 s 'étendant sur une portion 4 seulement de la face 2 ou 3 correspondante, comme illustré sur la figure 5.The optical structure 1 comprises on each of the faces 2 and 3 at least one microrelief network 5 extending over a portion 4 only of the corresponding face 2 or 3, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
La structure 1 présente une première interface 11, respectivement une deuxième interface 12, formée par le ou les réseaux 5 de microreliefs de la première face 2, respectivement la deuxième face 3, comme illustré sur la figure 5.The structure 1 has a first interface 11, respectively a second interface 12, formed by the microrelief array or networks 5 of the first face 2, respectively the second face 3, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
Chaque réseau 5 comporte dans l'exemple considéré des microreliefs 6 représentés à la figure 3, en forme de prisme triangulaire présentant chacun des dimensions, en section transversale, supérieures aux longueurs d'onde de la lumière visible, et éventuellement du rayonnement proche infrarouge. Ces dimensions, notamment l'épaisseur e des microreliefs, peuvent par exemple être supérieures à 1 μm, notamment à 1,2 μm. Par exemple, la distance d entre les sommets de deux prismes adjacents peut être comprise entre 100 μm et 900 μm, étant par exemple voisine de 350 μm. L'épaisseur e d'un prisme peut être comprise par exemple entre 50 μm et 300 μm, étant par exemple voisine de 170 μm.Each network 5 comprises in the example in question microreliefs 6 shown in FIG. 3, in the form of a triangular prism each having dimensions, in cross-section, greater than the wavelengths of the visible light, and possibly near-infrared radiation. These dimensions, in particular the thickness e of the microreliefs, may for example be greater than 1 μm, especially 1.2 μm. For example, the distance d between the vertices of two adjacent prisms may be between 100 microns and 900 microns, being for example close to 350 microns. The thickness e of a prism can be for example between 50 microns and 300 microns, for example being close to 170 microns.
L'épaisseur maximale E de la structure optique 1 peut être comprise entre 100 μm et 900 μm, étant par exemple voisine de 500 μm. Comme illustré sur la figure 3, l'angle a entre une normale locale X à la structure optique 1 et une face d'un microrelief 6 peut être compris entre 30° et 60°, étant par exemple voisin de 45°.The maximum thickness E of the optical structure 1 may be between 100 μm and 900 μm, being for example close to 500 μm. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the angle α between a local normal X to the optical structure 1 and a face of a microrelief 6 may be between 30 ° and 60 °, for example being close to 45 °.
Les dimensions et les angles des microreliefs 6 sont avantageusement choisis en fonction de l'indice de réfraction du ou des matériaux utilisés dans la structure 1. Les microreliefs 6 forment des stries parallèles dans l'exemple considéré.The dimensions and the angles of the microreliefs 6 are advantageously chosen as a function of the refractive index of the material or materials used in the structure 1. The microreliefs 6 form parallel ridges in the example under consideration.
Le réseau de microreliefs 5 peut par exemple être analogue à celui présent sur le film commercialisé par la société américaine 3M sous la dénomination Scotch™ Optical Lighting Film.The microrelief network 5 may for example be similar to that present on the film marketed by the American company 3M under the name Scotch ™ Optical Lighting Film.
La structure 1 est de préférence flexible, pouvant par exemple être pliable. Les microreliefs 6 sont réalisés sur un matériau 15 ayant un indice de réfraction supérieur à celui de l'air, ce matériau pouvant être par exemple un polymère transparent tel que le polyester ou le PMMA.The structure 1 is preferably flexible, for example being able to be foldable. The microreliefs 6 are made of a material 15 having a refractive index greater than that of air, this material may be for example a transparent polymer such as polyester or PMMA.
Les microreliefs 6 peuvent être obtenus par exemple par gravure, mécanique ou chimique. En variante, les microreliefs 6 peuvent être obtenus par impression d'une encre ou par embossage.The microreliefs 6 can be obtained for example by etching, mechanical or chemical. Alternatively, the microreliefs 6 can be obtained by printing an ink or by embossing.
Lorsque l'on traverse la première interface 11 dans le sens de la première face 2 vers la deuxième face 3, on passe d'un premier milieu d'indice de réfraction ni (formé par l'air ambiant) à un deuxième milieu (formé par le matériau 15) d'indice de réfraction n2 plus élevé que U1.When crossing the first interface 11 in the direction of the first face 2 to the second face 3, passing from a first refractive index medium ni (formed by the ambient air) to a second medium (formed by the material 15) of refractive index n 2 higher than U 1 .
Lorsque l'on traverse la deuxième interface 12 dans le sens de la première face 2 vers la deuxième face 3, on passe d'un troisième milieu d'indice n3 (formé par le matériau 15, avec n3 = n2) à un quatrième milieu (formé par l'air ambiant) d'indice de réfraction 1I4 plus faible. On a donc 1I4= U1. Chaque réseau de microreliefs 5 sur la face 2, respectivement sur la face 3, se superpose exactement à une zone sensiblement lisse 8 de l'autre face. Comme illustré sur la figure 4, un faisceau lumineux A pénétrant dans la structure optique 1, au niveau d'une portion 4 de la deuxième face 3 ayant un réseau de microreliefs 5, avec un angle compris dans l'intervalle [ai ; a2] par rapport à la normale X, est réfléchi par la face opposée 2, de sorte que la portion de la structure 1 au droit du réseau 5 apparaisse avec un aspect réfléchissant.When crossing the second interface 12 in the direction of the first face 2 to the second face 3, passing from a third medium of index n 3 (formed by the material 15, with n 3 = n 2 ) to a fourth medium (formed by the ambient air) of refractive index 1I 4 weaker. We have 1I 4 = U 1 . Each array of microreliefs 5 on the face 2, respectively on the face 3, is superimposed exactly on a substantially smooth zone 8 of the other face. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a light beam A entering the optical structure 1, at a portion 4 of the second face 3 having a microrelief network 5, with an angle lying in the interval [ai; a 2 ] relative to the normal X, is reflected by the opposite face 2, so that the portion of the structure 1 to the right of the network 5 appears with a reflective appearance.
Un faisceau lumineux B pénétrant dans la structure optique, au niveau de la portion 4, avec un angle compris dans l'intervalle ]ao ; a^ par rapport à la normale X, ressort par la face 2 opposée de sorte que la portion de la structure 1 au droit du réseau 5 apparaisse avec un aspect transparent. Les angles ao, a^ et a2 peuvent par exemple être sensiblement égaux à respectivement 0°, 45° et 90°.A light beam B entering the optical structure, at the portion 4, with an angle in the interval] ao; a ^ with respect to the normal X, emerges from the opposite face 2 so that the portion of the structure 1 at the right of the grating 5 appears with a transparent appearance. The angles a 0, a 1 and a 2 may for example be substantially equal to 0 °, 45 ° and 90 °, respectively.
Un faisceau lumineux C pénétrant dans la structure optique 1, au niveau d'une zone 8 sensiblement lisse de la première face 2, avec un angle compris dans l'intervalleA light beam C entering the optical structure 1, at a substantially smooth zone 8 of the first face 2, with an angle in the range
[a3 ; su] par rapport à la normale X, est réfléchi par le réseau de microreliefs 5 sur la face opposée 3 de sorte que la portion de la structure au droit du réseau 5 apparaisse avec un aspect sensiblement réfléchissant.[a 3 ; su] with respect to the normal X, is reflected by the microrelief network 5 on the opposite face 3 so that the portion of the structure at the right of the grating 5 appears with a substantially reflective appearance.
Un faisceau lumineux D pénétrant dans la structure optique 1 par la zone 8 avec un angle compris dans l'intervalle [su ; a5] par rapport à la normale X, ressort par la face opposée 3 de sorte que la portion de la structure 1 au droit du réseau 5 apparaisse avec un aspect sensiblement transparent.A light beam D penetrating into the optical structure 1 by the zone 8 with an angle included in the interval [su; 5 ] relative to the normal X, spring by the opposite face 3 so that the portion of the structure 1 to the right of the network 5 appears with a substantially transparent appearance.
Les angles a3, su et a5 peuvent par exemple être sensiblement égaux à respectivement 0°, 45° et 90°.The angles a 3 , su and a 5 may for example be substantially equal to 0 °, 45 ° and 90 °, respectively.
Le ou les réseaux de microreliefs 5 peuvent définir, en positif ou en négatif, au moins un motif 10 formé par exemple par un texte, un symbole, un logo et/ou un dessin. Lorsque la structure optique 1 est observée depuis la face 2 suivant une première plage d'angles, correspondant par exemple à l'intervalle [su ; a5], le motif 10 peut apparaître de manière sensiblement transparente entouré d'une zone sensiblement réfléchissante, comme illustré sur la figure 1.The at least one microrelief network 5 may define, in positive or in negative, at least one pattern 10 formed for example by a text, a symbol, a logo and / or a drawing. When the optical structure 1 is observed from the face 2 according to a first range of angles, corresponding for example to the interval [su; 5 ], the pattern 10 may appear substantially transparently surrounded by a substantially reflective zone, as illustrated in FIG.
Lorsque la structure 1 est observée depuis la face 2 suivant une deuxième plage d'angles, correspondant par exemple à l'intervalle [a3 ; aj, le motif 10 peut apparaître avec un aspect sensiblement réfléchissant entouré d'une zone sensiblement transparente, comme illustré sur la figure 2. La structure 1 peut comporter, le cas échéant, une succession de motifs 10 se répétant de manière régulière suivant une direction.When the structure 1 is observed from the face 2 according to a second range of angles, corresponding for example to the interval [a 3 ; aj, the pattern 10 may appear with a substantially reflective appearance surrounded by a substantially transparent area, as illustrated in Figure 2. The structure 1 may comprise, where appropriate, a succession of patterns 10 repeating regularly in one direction.
Le réseau de microreliefs 5 peut être agencé de manière à restituer un aspect métallique réfléchissant en fonction de l'angle d'observation. Le matériau 15 sur lequel sont formés les réseaux de microreliefs 5 peut être à base d'un polymère transparent.The network of microreliefs 5 may be arranged to restore a reflective metal appearance depending on the viewing angle. The material on which the microrelief arrays 5 are formed may be based on a transparent polymer.
L'authentification et/ou l'identification à l'aide de la structure 1 peut ainsi comporter, le cas échéant, les étapes suivantes : mesurer la conductivité électrique de la structure 1, - conclure quant à l'authenticité et/ou l'identité de la structure 1 au moins grâce à cette mesure.Authentication and / or identification using the structure 1 can thus include, where appropriate, the following steps: measuring the electrical conductivity of the structure 1, - conclude as to the authenticity and / or the identity of structure 1 at least through this measure.
La structure 1 peut présenter une forme en bande avec une largeur comprise notamment entre 1,5 mm et 100 mm.The structure 1 may have a strip shape with a width in particular between 1.5 mm and 100 mm.
On a représenté sur la figure 6 un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur 20 constitué par un billet de banque, ce document comprenant un matériau en feuille 21 formé par une couche fibreuse dans laquelle est partiellement noyée la structure optique 1.FIG. 6 shows a security and / or value document 20 constituted by a bank note, this document comprising a sheet material 21 formed by a fibrous layer in which the optical structure 1 is partially embedded.
La structure 1 s'étend d'un premier bord 23 du matériau en feuille 21 à un deuxième bord 24 opposé au premier.The structure 1 extends from a first edge 23 of the sheet material 21 to a second edge 24 opposite to the first.
Le matériau en feuille 21 peut comporter une ou plusieurs fenêtres 22 laissant dégagée la structure optique 1.The sheet material 21 may comprise one or more windows 22 leaving the optical structure 1 unobstructed.
La ou les fenêtres peuvent être réalisées par exemple à l'aide de reliefs présents sur un cylindre de toile rotatif d'une machine à papier servant à fabriquer le matériau en feuille, comme cela est décrit par exemple dans les demandes de brevet EP 0 860 298 et EP 0 625 431. On a représenté sur la figure 7 une structure optique 1 présentant une forme par exemple sensiblement rectangulaire, cette structure 1 étant apposée sur une face du matériau en feuille 21, sans être noyée dans la masse de ce matériau 21, étant par exemple collée dessus à l'aide d'une couche d'adhésif, éventuellement sous température et pression.The window or windows may be made for example using reliefs present on a rotary roll of a paper machine used to manufacture the sheet material, as described for example in EP 0 860 patent applications. 298 and EP 0 625 431. FIG. 7 shows an optical structure 1 having a shape, for example a substantially rectangular shape, this structure 1 being affixed to one face of the sheet material 21, without being embedded in the mass of this material 21 , for example being glued on with the aid of an adhesive layer, possibly under temperature and pressure.
La structure optique 1 peut être agencée pour masquer au moins un élément d'information 25 présent sur le matériau en feuille 21 lorsque la structure 1 apparaît avec un aspect réfléchissant. L'élément d'information 25 devient visible à travers une portion 26 de la structure 1 lorsque cette dernière est observée suivant un angle d'observation adéquat. L'élément d'information 25 peut être par exemple imprimé sur une face du matériau en feuille 21.The optical structure 1 may be arranged to mask at least one information element 25 present on the sheet material 21 when the structure 1 appears with a reflective appearance. The information element 25 becomes visible through a portion 26 of the structure 1 when the latter is observed at an adequate viewing angle. The information element 25 may for example be printed on one side of the sheet material 21.
Le document 20 peut constituer, en variante, l'un des éléments suivants : un document d'identité, une feuille ou une couverture de passeport, un visa, un coupon, un document de valeur autre qu'un billet de banque, par exemple un chèque ou une carte de crédit, une étiquette de protection et/ou d'authentification, une étiquette de traçabilité.Document 20 may alternatively be one of the following: an identity document, a passport sheet or cover, a visa, a coupon, a valuable document other than a banknote, for example a check or a credit card, a label of protection and / or authentication, a label of traceability.
On a représenté sur la figure 8 un dispositif de conditionnement 30 tel qu'un emballage, par exemple une boîte, avec une structure optique 1 apposée sur une face 31 de la boîte 30. La structure optique 1 peut comporter, en plus du ou des réseaux de microreliefs 5, au moins un élément d'authentification et/ou d'identification choisi parmi au moins l'un des éléments suivants : un élément de mise en évidence d'une falsification, notamment visible et/ou détectable à l'aide d'un dispositif spécifique de détection, un élément à effet optique variable, interférentiel et/ou diffractif, iridescent ou à cristaux liquides, un revêtement magnétique, des traceurs détectables par fluorescence X, des biomarqueurs, un vernis ou une encre, des traceurs luminescents, fluorescents ou phosphorescents, des composés photochromiques, thermochromiques, électroluminescents et/ou piézochromiques et/ou qui changent de couleur au contact d'un ou de plusieurs produits prédéterminés. La structure optique 1 peut comporter un support monolithique 29 à base du matériau 15, sur les faces 2 et 3 duquel sont formés les réseaux de microreliefs 5, comme illustré sur la figure 5.FIG. 8 shows a packaging device 30 such as a package, for example a box, with an optical structure 1 affixed to a face 31 of the box 30. The optical structure 1 may comprise, in addition to the one or more 5, at least one authentication and / or identification element chosen from at least one of the following elements: an element for highlighting a falsification, in particular visible and / or detectable by means of microreliefs 5; a specific detection device, an element with variable optical effect, interferential and / or diffractive, iridescent or liquid crystal, a magnetic coating, tracers detectable by X-ray fluorescence, biomarkers, a varnish or an ink, luminescent tracers fluorescent or phosphorescent, photochromic, thermochromic, electroluminescent and / or piezochromic compounds and / or which change color in contact with one or more predetermined products. The optical structure 1 may comprise a monolithic support 29 based on the material 15, on the faces 2 and 3 of which are formed the microrelief arrays 5, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
En variante, comme illustré sur la figure 9, la structure optique 1 peut comporter un support monolithique 30 tel qu'un film, présentant une première face 31 entièrement lisse et, sur une deuxième face 32 opposée à la première 31, des portions 4 couvertes par un ou plusieurs réseaux 5 de microreliefs séparés par des zones 8 sensiblement lisses.Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the optical structure 1 may comprise a monolithic support 30 such as a film, having a first completely smooth face 31 and, on a second face 32 opposite the first face 31, covered portions 4 by one or more networks 5 of microreliefs separated by zones 8 substantially smooth.
La structure 1 comporte en outre au moins un élément 33 de superficie plus faible que le support 30 et fixé, par exemple par collage, sur la face 31 de ce support 30, lequel élément 33 comporte sur une face un réseau de microreliefs 5 recouvrant exactement une zone sensiblement lisse 8 de la face 32 du support 30. La face extérieure 2 de la structure 1 est formée à la fois par la face 31 du support 30 et le réseau 5 de microreliefs de l'élément 33.The structure 1 further comprises at least one element 33 of smaller area than the support 30 and fixed, for example by gluing, on the face 31 of the support 30, which element 33 comprises on one face an array of microreliefs 5 covering exactly a substantially smooth zone 8 of the face 32 of the support 30. The outer face 2 of the structure 1 is formed both by the face 31 of the support 30 and the microrelief network 5 of the element 33.
Les microreliefs 5 peuvent par exemple être présents initialement sur toute la face 32 du support 30 et certains de ces microreliefs sont soumis à un traitement pour être supprimés, par exemple par attaque chimique ou par action mécanique, afin de créer les zones sensiblement lisses 8.The microreliefs 5 may, for example, initially be present on the entire face 32 of the support 30 and some of these microreliefs are subjected to a treatment to be eliminated, for example by etching or by mechanical action, in order to create the substantially smooth zones 8.
Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 10, la structure optique 1 est formée d'une pluralité d'éléments 33 disposés de part et d'autre d'un support intermédiaire 35 formé par exemple par un film transparent, de manière à ce qu'un réseau de microreliefs 5 d'un élément 33 sur une face du support 35 soit disposé au droit d'une zone 36 dépourvue d'élément 33 de l'autre face du support.In the example illustrated in FIG. 10, the optical structure 1 is formed of a plurality of elements 33 arranged on either side of an intermediate support 35 formed for example by a transparent film, so that an array of microreliefs 5 of an element 33 on one side of the support 35 is arranged in line with a zone 36 without element 33 on the other side of the support.
En variante, comme illustré sur la figure 11, les éléments 33 peuvent être disposés sur un même côté du support 35 formé par exemple par un film adhésif transparent. L'un au moins des éléments 33 peut provenir par exemple de la découpe d'un support monolithique 30 avec des microreliefs, l'un au moins des éléments 33 étant retourné et remis dans l'espace laissé par la découpe.Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 11, the elements 33 may be arranged on the same side of the support 35 formed for example by a transparent adhesive film. At least one of the elements 33 may come for example from the cutting of a monolithic support 30 with microreliefs, at least one of the elements 33 being returned and returned to the space left by the cut.
Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 12, la structure optique 1 comporte deux supports 30 avec des microreliefs, fixés sur deux faces opposées d'un support intermédiaire 35. Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 13, la structure optique 1 est recouverte sur chacune de ses deux faces opposées 2 et 3 d'une couche d'un revêtement 37 telle qu'un vernis transparent. L'ensemble 39 ainsi formé présente des faces extérieures sensiblement lisses.In the example illustrated in FIG. 12, the optical structure 1 comprises two supports 30 with microreliefs, fixed on two opposite faces of an intermediate support 35. In the example illustrated in FIG. 13, the optical structure 1 is covered on each of its two opposite faces 2 and 3 of a layer of a coating 37 such as a transparent varnish. The assembly 39 thus formed has substantially smooth outer faces.
Les couches 37 sur les faces 2 et 3 peuvent avoir des indices de réfraction identiques ou non.The layers 37 on the faces 2 and 3 may have identical refractive indices or not.
On a représenté sur la figure 14 une structure optique 40 comportant un support 41 réalisé à base d'un matériau polymère transparent, associé éventuellement à un polymère électriquement conducteur, et présentant des faces opposées 42 et 43.FIG. 14 shows an optical structure 40 comprising a support 41 made of a transparent polymer material, optionally associated with an electrically conductive polymer, and having opposite faces 42 and 43.
Dans l'exemple illustré, la face 42 du support 41 est entièrement recouverte par un réseau de microreliefs 5.In the example illustrated, the face 42 of the support 41 is entirely covered by a microrelief network 5.
La face 43 est entièrement lisse, dépourvue de microreliefs. La structure optique 40 comporte en outre une couche de revêtement 45 recouvrant le réseau de microreliefs 5, sur une portion de la face 42.The face 43 is completely smooth, devoid of microreliefs. The optical structure 40 further comprises a coating layer 45 covering the microrelief network 5, on a portion of the face 42.
La couche de revêtement 45 peut être déposée par exemple par dépôt sous vide, notamment par vaporisation, d'un matériau ayant un indice de réfraction supérieur à celui du matériau du support 41.The coating layer 45 may be deposited for example by vacuum deposition, in particular by vaporization, of a material having a refractive index greater than that of the material of the support 41.
La couche de revêtement 45 contient par exemple du sulfure de zinc ayant un indice de réfraction d'environ 2,3, le support 41 étant réalisé par exemple à base d'un polymère ayant un indice de réfraction d'environ 1,5.The coating layer 45 contains for example zinc sulphide having a refractive index of about 2.3, the support 41 being made for example based on a polymer having a refractive index of about 1.5.
La structure 40 présente ainsi deux interfaces formées par les microreliefs 5. L'une des interfaces sépare le matériau 15 de l'air ambiant, et l'autre des interfaces sépare le matériau 15 du matériau de la couche de revêtement 45, ce qui permet de produire des effets optiques différents selon l'angle d'observation.The structure 40 thus has two interfaces formed by the microreliefs 5. One of the interfaces separates the material 15 from the ambient air, and the other of the interfaces separates the material 15 from the material of the coating layer 45, which allows to produce different optical effects depending on the angle of view.
La couche de revêtement 45 peut présenter une épaisseur supérieure à l'épaisseur du réseau de microreliefs 5, comme illustré sur la figure 14. En variante, la couche de revêtement 45 peut présenter une épaisseur maximale sensiblement égale à l'épaisseur des réseaux de microreliefs 5, comme illustré sur la figure 15.The coating layer 45 may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the microrelief network 5, as illustrated in FIG. 14. As a variant, the coating layer 45 may have a maximum thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the microrelief networks. 5, as illustrated in FIG.
Si on le souhaite, la couche 45 peut former un motif.If desired, layer 45 may form a pattern.
Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux exemples de mise en œuvre qui viennent d'être décrits.Of course, the invention is not limited to the implementation examples which have just been described.
Par exemple, les microreliefs peuvent présenter une forme autre qu'une forme prismatique.For example, the microreliefs may have a shape other than a prismatic shape.
On a illustré sur la figure 16 une structure optique 50 présentant, sur chacune des faces opposées 51 et 52, au moins un réseau de microreliefs 53, chaque microrelief ayant sensiblement une forme de demi-cylindre.FIG. 16 illustrates an optical structure 50 having, on each of the opposite faces 51 and 52, at least one microrelief network 53, each microrelief having substantially a half-cylinder shape.
Chaque réseau de microreliefs 53 s'étend en regard d'une portion sensiblement lisse 54 de la face opposée.Each microrelief network 53 extends opposite a substantially smooth portion 54 of the opposite face.
Les microreliefs 53 forment des lentilles produisant des effets optiques différents selon que le faisceau lumineux traverse d'abord le réseau de microreliefs 53 ou la zone sensiblement lisse 54, comme on peut le constater à partir des trajets des faisceaux lumineux F et G sur la figure 16. Les caractéristiques des différents modes de réalisation décrits peuvent être combinées entre elles au sein des variantes non illustrées.The microreliefs 53 form lenses producing different optical effects depending on whether the light beam first passes through the microrelief network 53 or the substantially smooth zone 54, as can be seen from the paths of the light beams F and G in FIG. 16. The characteristics of the various embodiments described can be combined with each other within the variants that are not illustrated.
L'expression « comportant un » doit être comprise comme étant synonyme de « comportant au moins un », sauf si le contraire est spécifié. The expression "having one" shall be understood as being synonymous with "having at least one", unless the opposite is specified.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Structure optique, notamment pour un document de sécurité et/ou de valeur, comportant : - des première et deuxième faces extérieures opposées,1. Optical structure, in particular for a security document and / or value, comprising: - first and second opposite outer faces,
- au moins une première interface comportant un premier réseau de microreliefs et agencée de manière à ce que, lorsque l'on traverse cette première interface dans le sens de la première face extérieure vers la deuxième face extérieure, on passe d'un premier milieu ayant un premier indice de réfraction à un deuxième milieu ayant un deuxième indice de réfraction supérieur au premier,at least one first interface comprising a first network of microreliefs and arranged so that, when this first interface is crossed in the direction of the first outer face towards the second outer face, a first medium having a first refractive index at a second medium having a second refractive index greater than the first,
- au moins une deuxième interface comportant un deuxième réseau de microreliefs et agencée de manière à ce que, lorsque l'on traverse cette deuxième interface dans le sens de la première face extérieure vers la deuxième face extérieure, on passe d'un troisième milieu ayant un troisième indice de réfraction à un quatrième milieu ayant un quatrième indice de réfraction inférieur au troisième, chaque interface ayant au moins une portion décalée par rapport à l'autre interface lorsque la structure est observée suivant une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'une au moins des faces extérieures.at least one second interface comprising a second network of microreliefs and arranged so that, when this second interface is crossed in the direction of the first outer face towards the second outer face, a third medium having a third index of refraction to a fourth medium having a fourth refractive index less than the third, each interface having at least one portion offset from the other interface when the structure is observed in a direction substantially perpendicular to at least one outer faces.
2. Structure selon la revendication précédente, dans laquelle les interfaces sont entièrement décalées l'une par rapport à l'autre lorsque la structure est observée suivant ladite direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'une au moins des faces extérieures.2. Structure according to the preceding claim, wherein the interfaces are entirely offset with respect to each other when the structure is observed in said direction substantially perpendicular to at least one of the outer faces.
3. Structure selon l'une des deux revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'une au moins des interfaces présente un contour définissant un motif tel qu'un caractère alphanumérique, un symbole, un logo ou un dessin.3. Structure according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein at least one of the interfaces has a contour defining a pattern such as an alphanumeric character, a symbol, a logo or a drawing.
4. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'un au moins des réseaux de microreliefs se superpose au moins partiellement, notamment exactement, à une zone sensiblement lisse de l'une des faces extérieures.4. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the microrelief arrays superimposes at least partially, in particular exactly, a substantially smooth zone of one of the outer faces.
5. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'une au moins des interfaces est formée sur l'une au moins des faces extérieures de la structure. 5. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the interfaces is formed on at least one of the outer faces of the structure.
6. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'un au moins des premier et quatrième milieux est formé par l'air ambiant.6. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first and fourth media is formed by the ambient air.
7. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les deuxième et troisième milieux sont formés par un même matériau. 7. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second and third media are formed by the same material.
8. Structure selon l'une quelconque de revendications 1 à 6, dans laquelle les deuxième et troisième milieux sont formés par des matériaux différents et/ou ayant des indices de réfraction différents.8. Structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second and third media are formed by different materials and / or having different refractive indices.
9. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le premier milieu est formé par un premier matériau sur lequel est réalisé le premier réseau de microreliefs et le deuxième milieu est formé par un deuxième matériau déposé, notamment par dépôt sous vide, sur le premier matériau.9. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first medium is formed by a first material on which is formed the first micro-relief array and the second medium is formed by a second deposited material, in particular by vacuum deposition, on the first material.
10. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'une au moins des interfaces est agencée de manière à ce que, pour au moins une première plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement transparente lorsque la structure est observée depuis l'une des première et deuxième faces extérieures.10. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the interfaces is arranged so that, for at least a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from one of the first and second outer faces.
11. Structure selon la revendication précédente, ladite interface étant agencée pour être transparente à la lumière visible et/ou infrarouge et/ou ultraviolette pour la première plage d'angles d'observation. 11. Structure according to the preceding claim, said interface being arranged to be transparent to visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet for the first range of viewing angles.
12. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'une au moins des interfaces est agencée de manière à ce que, pour au moins une deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement réfléchissante lorsque la structure est observée depuis une face extérieure. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which at least one of the interfaces is arranged in such a way that, for at least a second range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from an outer face.
13. Structure selon la revendication précédente, ladite interface étant agencée pour réfléchir la lumière visible et/ou infrarouge et/ou ultraviolette pour la deuxième plage d'angles d'observation.13. Structure according to the preceding claim, said interface being arranged to reflect the visible light and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet for the second range of viewing angles.
14. Structure selon les revendications 10 à 13, dans laquelle l'une au moins des interfaces est agencée de manière à ce que, pour une première plage d'angles d'observation, une portion de la structure au droit de cette interface apparaisse sensiblement transparente lorsque la structure est observée depuis une face extérieure prédéterminée et, pour une deuxième plage d'angles d'observation, cette portion de la structure apparaisse sensiblement réfléchissante lorsque la structure est observée depuis ladite face extérieure.14. Structure according to claims 10 to 13, wherein at least one of the interfaces is arranged so that, for a first range of observation angles, a portion of the structure at the right of this interface appears substantially transparent when the structure is observed from a predetermined outer face and, for a second range of viewing angles, that portion of the structure appears substantially reflective when the structure is observed from said outer face.
15. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'un au moins des microreliefs présente sensiblement une forme en prisme triangulaire.15. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the microreliefs has substantially a triangular prism shape.
16. Structure selon la revendication précédente, dans laquelle le réseau de microreliefs est agencé de manière à restituer un aspect métallisé, notamment réfléchissant, lorsque la structure optique est observée suivant une plage d'angles prédéterminée. 16. Structure according to the preceding claim, wherein the microrelief array is arranged to restore a metallized appearance, including reflective, when the optical structure is observed in a predetermined range of angles.
17. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'un au moins des microreliefs comporte au moins une surface courbe, concave ou convexe.17. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the microreliefs comprises at least one curved surface, concave or convex.
18. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les microreliefs présentent une épaisseur supérieure aux longueurs d'onde de la lumière visible, notamment du rayonnement proche infrarouge, notamment supérieure à 1 μm.18. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the microreliefs have a thickness greater than the wavelengths of visible light, including near-infrared radiation, in particular greater than 1 micron.
19. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle une partie au moins des microreliefs s'étend suivant une direction longitudinale, les microreliefs étant sensiblement parallèles les uns aux autres. 19. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the microreliefs extends in a longitudinal direction, the microreliefs being substantially parallel to each other.
20. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les microreliefs respectivement des premier et deuxième réseaux sont identiques.20. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the microreliefs respectively of the first and second networks are identical.
21. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les microreliefs des premier et deuxième réseaux sont réalisés sur un support commun. 21. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the microreliefs of the first and second networks are made on a common support.
22. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant un support avec sur une face au moins un réseau de microreliefs, le réseau de microreliefs étant recouvert partiellement d'une couche de revêtement ayant un indice de réfraction plus élevé que celui du support de manière à ce que la première interface soit formée entre le support et l'air ambiant et la deuxième interface entre le support et la couche de revêtement, les première et deuxième interfaces étant notamment adjacentes.22. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a support with on one side at least one microrelief array, the microrelief array being partially covered with a coating layer having a refractive index higher than that of the support. so that the first interface is formed between the support and the ambient air and the second interface between the support and the coating layer, the first and second interfaces being in particular adjacent.
23. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 20, dans laquelle les premier et deuxième réseaux de microreliefs sont réalisés sur des supports distincts. 23. Structure according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first and second networks of microreliefs are made on separate supports.
24. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant au moins un matériau électriquement conducteur.24. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one electrically conductive material.
25. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant au moins un support sur lequel est réalisée au moins une partie des microreliefs, le support étant réalisé en un matériau sensiblement transparent, notamment un polymère.25. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one support on which is made at least a portion of the microreliefs, the support being made of a substantially transparent material, in particular a polymer.
26. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant au moins un matériau fluorescent sous rayonnement infrarouge et/ou ultraviolet. 26. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one fluorescent material under infrared and / or ultraviolet radiation.
27. Structure selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle la différence entre le deuxième indice de réfraction et le premier indice de réfraction et/ou entre le troisième indice de réfraction et le quatrième indice de réfraction est supérieure à 0,1.27. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the difference between the second refractive index and the first refractive index and / or between the third refractive index and the fourth refractive index is greater than 0.1.
28. Structure selon la revendication précédente, dans laquelle ladite différence est supérieure à 0,2.28. Structure according to the preceding claim, wherein said difference is greater than 0.2.
29. Structure selon les revendications 27 ou 28, dans laquelle ladite différence est comprise entre 0,4 et 0,6.The structure of claims 27 or 28, wherein said difference is between 0.4 and 0.6.
30. Matériau en feuille comprenant une structure optique selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes. 30. Sheet material comprising an optical structure according to any one of the preceding claims.
31. Matériau selon la revendication précédente, dans lequel la structure optique est au moins partiellement noyée dans la masse du matériau en feuille.31. Material according to the preceding claim, wherein the optical structure is at least partially embedded in the mass of the sheet material.
32. Matériau selon la revendication précédente, comportant au moins une fenêtre laissant dégagée la structure optique.32. Material according to the preceding claim, comprising at least one window leaving open the optical structure.
33. Matériau selon l'une quelconque des revendications 30 à 32, comportant au moins un élément d'information, la structure optique étant agencée de manière à pouvoir masquer sensiblement l'élément d'information lorsque la structure optique est observée suivant une première plage d'angles et présente un aspect réfléchissant.33. Material according to any one of claims 30 to 32, comprising at least one information element, the optical structure being arranged to be able to substantially hide the information element when the optical structure is observed in a first range. angles and has a reflective appearance.
34. Matériau en feuille selon l'une quelconque des revendications 30 à 33, comportant une base de fibres cellulosiques et/ou synthétiques. 34. Sheet material according to any one of claims 30 to 33, comprising a base of cellulosic and / or synthetic fibers.
35. Document de sécurité et/ou de valeur comportant un matériau en feuille tel que défini dans l'une quelconque des revendications 30 à 34. 35. Security and / or value document comprising a sheet material as defined in any one of claims 30 to 34.
36. Dispositif de conditionnement, notamment un emballage, comportant un matériau en feuille défini dans l'une quelconque des revendications 30 à 34. 36. Packaging device, in particular a package, comprising a sheet material defined in any one of claims 30 to 34.
EP06831348.5A 2005-11-16 2006-11-16 Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value Active EP1951528B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0553480A FR2893424B1 (en) 2005-11-16 2005-11-16 OPTICAL STRUCTURE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A DOCUMENT OF SECURITY AND / OR VALUE.
PCT/FR2006/051186 WO2007057613A1 (en) 2005-11-16 2006-11-16 Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1951528A1 true EP1951528A1 (en) 2008-08-06
EP1951528B1 EP1951528B1 (en) 2009-02-25
EP1951528B2 EP1951528B2 (en) 2015-06-24

Family

ID=36764044

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP06831348.5A Active EP1951528B2 (en) 2005-11-16 2006-11-16 Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US8439402B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1951528B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE423687T1 (en)
BR (1) BRPI0618742A2 (en)
CA (1) CA2629926A1 (en)
DE (1) DE602006005395D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2322874T5 (en)
FR (1) FR2893424B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2007057613A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2893424B1 (en) 2005-11-16 2008-01-25 Arjowiggins Soc Par Actions Si OPTICAL STRUCTURE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A DOCUMENT OF SECURITY AND / OR VALUE.
US7820009B2 (en) * 2006-08-18 2010-10-26 The Royal Institution For The Advancement Of Learning/Mcgill University Cellulose composites comprising hydrophobic particles and their use in paper products
DE102009007779C5 (en) * 2009-02-04 2017-07-27 Bundesdruckerei Gmbh A method for producing a visually perceptible without technical aids security feature, security feature for plastic-based value or security document and document with at least one such security feature
DE102009031386A1 (en) * 2009-07-01 2011-01-05 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element and manufacturing method therefor
TWI547916B (en) * 2009-07-07 2016-09-01 友輝光電股份有限公司 A surface bearing patterned indicia having micro-structures and method of making the same
MTP4301B (en) * 2010-03-25 2011-10-26 Securency Int Pty Ltd High refractive index coatings and their use in the protection of surface relief structures
GB2493369B (en) 2011-08-02 2013-09-25 Rue De Int Ltd Improvements in security devices
FR2979735B1 (en) * 2011-09-02 2014-05-23 Arjowiggins Security SECURITY STRUCTURE COMPRISING TRANSPARENT VARNISH AND ASSOCIATED METHOD
DE102011117044B4 (en) 2011-10-27 2019-05-29 Bundesdruckerei Gmbh security element
US8720776B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2014-05-13 Paul Llewellyn Greene X-ray security system
US8834004B2 (en) * 2012-08-13 2014-09-16 3M Innovative Properties Company Lighting devices with patterned printing of diffractive extraction features
DE102013203303B3 (en) 2012-12-20 2014-06-05 Bundesdruckerei Gmbh Security feature for a value and / or security product, the security feature exhibiting value and / or security product and method for producing the security feature
WO2018213292A1 (en) * 2017-05-15 2018-11-22 Agira, Inc. Light guide apparatus and fabrication method thereof
GB2566019B (en) * 2017-08-29 2021-05-05 De La Rue Int Ltd A security device and method of making thereof

Family Cites Families (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3650027T2 (en) † 1985-05-07 1995-01-26 Dainippon Printing Co Ltd Item with transparent hologram.
US5145212A (en) † 1988-02-12 1992-09-08 American Banknote Holographics, Inc. Non-continuous holograms, methods of making them and articles incorporating them
GB9106128D0 (en) † 1991-03-22 1991-05-08 Amblehurst Ltd Article
EP0537439B2 (en) * 1991-10-14 2003-07-09 OVD Kinegram AG Security element
US5301981A (en) * 1992-07-09 1994-04-12 Docusafe, Ltd. Copy preventing device and method
DE4344298A1 (en) † 1993-12-23 1995-06-29 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security paper with a thread-like or ribbon-shaped security element
ATE153459T1 (en) * 1995-03-16 1997-06-15 Landis & Gyr Tech Innovat OPTICAL INFORMATION CARRIER
CH691750A5 (en) * 1995-11-28 2001-09-28 Ovd Kinegram Ag Optical information carrier made of composite laminate with carrier foil
AUPO260296A0 (en) 1996-09-26 1996-10-24 Reserve Bank Of Australia Banknotes incorporating security devices
GB2323814B (en) † 1997-04-03 1999-06-02 Portals Ltd Security element for security paper
CH689680A5 (en) 1997-12-12 1999-08-13 Electrowatt Tech Innovat Corp Smart card with durably-protected security elements, e.g. holograms
GB9828770D0 (en) † 1998-12-29 1999-02-17 Rue De Int Ltd Security paper
JP2001315472A (en) † 2000-05-02 2001-11-13 Dainippon Printing Co Ltd Information recording medium and card having light diffracting structure, and light diffracting structure body
GB0016356D0 (en) 2000-07-03 2000-08-23 Optaglio Ltd Optical structure
DE10226114A1 (en) 2001-12-21 2003-07-03 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element for security papers and documents of value
GB0130726D0 (en) 2001-12-21 2002-02-06 Durand Technology Ltd Improvements in or relating to security or authentication markings or the like
DE10206357A1 (en) 2002-02-14 2003-08-28 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element and security document with such a security element
EP1490236B2 (en) † 2002-04-03 2022-03-16 De La Rue International Limited Optically variable security device
US7290802B1 (en) * 2003-01-22 2007-11-06 Serigraph, Inc. Second surface micromotion display
EP2311647B1 (en) * 2003-11-21 2018-01-10 Visual Physics, LLC Micro-optic security and image presentation system
GB0504959D0 (en) † 2005-03-10 2005-04-20 Rue International De La Ltd Security device based on customised microprism film
DE102005017169B4 (en) 2005-04-13 2023-06-22 Ovd Kinegram Ag transfer film
DE102005052928A1 (en) 2005-11-03 2007-05-16 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh See-through security element and method for its manufacture
FR2893424B1 (en) 2005-11-16 2008-01-25 Arjowiggins Soc Par Actions Si OPTICAL STRUCTURE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A DOCUMENT OF SECURITY AND / OR VALUE.

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2007057613A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2007057613A1 (en) 2007-05-24
ES2322874T3 (en) 2009-06-30
ES2322874T5 (en) 2015-09-18
ATE423687T1 (en) 2009-03-15
DE602006005395D1 (en) 2009-04-09
US20090121473A1 (en) 2009-05-14
EP1951528B1 (en) 2009-02-25
EP1951528B2 (en) 2015-06-24
FR2893424B1 (en) 2008-01-25
US8439402B2 (en) 2013-05-14
BRPI0618742A2 (en) 2011-09-13
FR2893424A1 (en) 2007-05-18
CA2629926A1 (en) 2007-05-24

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1951528B1 (en) Optical structure, especially for a security document and/or a document of value
EP2750897B1 (en) Security structure comprising an reflective optical structure, and associated method
CA2586414C (en) Security structure and article incorporating such a structure
EP2794284B1 (en) Multilayer structure comprising at least one diffusing layer and method for manufacturing same
EP1516089B1 (en) Article formed from at least a fibrous material jet comprising at least a null thickness zone and method for making same
EP1448392A1 (en) Method for making an article comprising a sheet and at least an element directly mounted thereon
EP2062204A1 (en) Security structure, particularly for a security document and/or a valuable document
CA2654387A1 (en) Material in sheet form having a window, its manufacturing method, and security document comprising it
WO2016113517A1 (en) Optical security component
CA2779636A1 (en) Security element comprising an adhesive and a substrate bearing an optical structure, and associated method
FR2900737A1 (en) Optical marking component for e.g. identity document authentication system, has stamped film to form diffraction gratings with distinct orientations, where each grating has specific period and specific modulation relative to reference plane
WO2014199296A1 (en) Security structure having a diffractive optical element
WO2015181289A1 (en) Use of an optical security component for customising a security document and production of such a component
CA2710870A1 (en) Security paper
WO2015087275A1 (en) Security structure
FR2951867A1 (en) METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A MEDIUM COMPRISING AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
EP2935696A1 (en) Security structure
OA13016A (en) Safety device in waveguide.
EP3727872B1 (en) Optical security component visible in reflection, manufacture of such a component, and secure document provided with such a component
EP2225417B1 (en) Safety structure comprising nematic liquid crystals
EP3478493B1 (en) Process for manufacturing a security document comprising a security sign that produces a contrast in shininess
EP3558692A1 (en) Secure document

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20080515

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20090409

Kind code of ref document: P

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: KIRKER & CIE S.A.

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2322874

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090625

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090812

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

PLBI Opposition filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

PLBI Opposition filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

26 Opposition filed

Opponent name: LEONHARD KURZ STIFTUNG & CO. KG

Effective date: 20091124

26 Opposition filed

Opponent name: LEONHARD KURZ STIFTUNG & CO. KG

Effective date: 20091124

Opponent name: GIESECKE & DEVRIENT GMBH

Effective date: 20091125

PLAX Notice of opposition and request to file observation + time limit sent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS2

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090525

NLR1 Nl: opposition has been filed with the epo

Opponent name: GIESECKE & DEVRIENT GMBH

Opponent name: LEONHARD KURZ STIFTUNG & CO. KG

PLAF Information modified related to communication of a notice of opposition and request to file observations + time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCOBS2

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY

Effective date: 20091130

Owner name: ARJOWIGGINS

Effective date: 20091130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091130

PLBB Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition received

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS3

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091130

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090526

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091116

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090826

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

RIC2 Information provided on ipc code assigned after grant

Ipc: B42D 15/00 20060101ALI20140313BHEP

Ipc: B42D 25/00 20140101AFI20140313BHEP

Ipc: G07D 7/12 20060101ALI20140313BHEP

APBM Appeal reference recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNREFNO

APBP Date of receipt of notice of appeal recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA2O

APAH Appeal reference modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCREFNO

APBM Appeal reference recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNREFNO

APBP Date of receipt of notice of appeal recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA2O

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY

APBU Appeal procedure closed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA9O

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20141119

Year of fee payment: 9

RIN2 Information on inventor provided after grant (corrected)

Inventor name: CAMUS, MICHEL

Inventor name: ROSSET, HENRI

PUAH Patent maintained in amended form

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009272

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: PATENT MAINTAINED AS AMENDED

27A Patent maintained in amended form

Effective date: 20150624

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B2

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R102

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: AELC

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: DC2A

Ref document number: 2322874

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T5

Effective date: 20150918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: NAV

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 10

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20090225

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20151111

Year of fee payment: 10

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20151118

Year of fee payment: 10

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: RINS

Effective date: 20160530

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: RPEO

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 11

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090225

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: EUG

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20161117

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20161117

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: 732E

Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20180802 AND 20180808

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: SCHWABE SANDMAIR MARX PATENTANWAELTE RECHTSANW, DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNERS: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR; ARJOWIGGINS, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, PARIS, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, BOULOGNE BILLANCOURT, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNERS: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR; ARJOWIGGINS, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, BOULOGNE BILLANCOURT, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, ISSY LES MOULINEAUX, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, PARIS, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: SSM SANDMAIR PATENTANWAELTE RECHTSANWALT PARTN, DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: OBERTHUR FIUDICAIRE SAS, PARIS, FR

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: SCHWABE SANDMAIR MARX PATENTANWAELTE RECHTSANW, DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602006005395

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: SSM SANDMAIR PATENTANWAELTE RECHTSANWALT PARTN, DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: 732E

Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20180927 AND 20181005

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: KIRKER AND CIE S.A., CH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PFA

Owner name: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS, FR

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PUE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ARJOWIGGINS SECURITY, FR

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PUE

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20181123

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: TP

Owner name: OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE SAS, FR

Effective date: 20181031

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: THE PATENT HAS BEEN ANNULLED BY A DECISION OF A NATIONAL AUTHORITY

Effective date: 20090225

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20221122

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20221122

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20221128

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20220620

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20221121

Year of fee payment: 17