DE102011117677A1 - Optically variable security element - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an optically variable security element (12) for security papers, documents of value and other data carriers having a substantially transparent carrier (20) with opposite first and second major surfaces (22, 24), one on the first major surface (22) of the carrier (20 ) and a laser-sensitive recording layer (32) arranged on the second main surface of the carrier (20). According to the invention, it is provided that the microlens arrangement (26) is provided with a laser-sensitive covering layer (28) which has at least one recess (30) produced by the action of laser radiation, which extends over several microlenses (26), - the laser-sensitive Recording layer (32) has a multiplicity (34) of laser-generated micro-indicia (36), each micro-tag (36) being associated with a microlens (26) and viewed by the associated microlens (26) when viewing the security element (12). is visible, and - the plurality (34) of micro-license plate (36) on the carrier (20) register exactly opposite the at least one recess (30) is arranged.

Description

The invention relates to an optically variable security element for security papers, documents of value and other data carriers having a substantially transparent carrier with opposite first and second major surfaces, an arrangement of microlenses arranged on the first main surface of the carrier and a laser-sensitive recording layer arranged on the second main surface of the carrier. The invention also relates to a method for producing such a security element and a data carrier with such a security element.

Data carriers, such as valuables or identity documents, but also other valuables, such as branded goods, are often provided with security elements for the purpose of security, which permit verification of the authenticity of the data carrier and at the same time serve as protection against unauthorized reproduction.

Security elements with viewing-angle-dependent effects play a special role in the authentication of authenticity since they can not be reproduced even with the most modern copiers. The security elements are thereby equipped with optically variable elements that give the viewer a different image impression under different viewing angles and, for example, show a different color or brightness impression and / or another graphic motif depending on the viewing angle.

For example, ID cards such as credit cards or identity cards have long been personalized by laser engraving. In personalization by laser engraving, the optical properties of the substrate material are irreversibly changed by suitable guidance of a laser beam in the form of a desired marking. Such a laser marking makes it possible to combine the individualization of the data carriers with security elements and to integrate them more freely into the print image than with conventional individualizations, for example in the case of known indexing methods.

The publication EP 0 219 012 A1 describes a badge with a partial lenticular structure. This lens structure inscribes information into the card at different angles with a laser. This information can then be detected only at this angle, so that when tilting the map, the different information appear.

Based on this, the present invention seeks to provide a security element of the type mentioned above with an attractive visual appearance and high security against counterfeiting.

This object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

• – die Mikrolinsenanordnung mit einer lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht versehen ist, die zumindest eine, durch Einwirkung von Laserstrahlung erzeugte Aussparung aufweist, die sich über mehrere Mikrolinsen erstreckt,
• – die lasersensitive Aufzeichnungsschicht eine Vielzahl von durch Einwirkung von Laserstrahlung erzeugten Mikrokennzeichen aufweist, wobei jedes Mikrokennzeichen einer Mikrolinse zugeordnet ist und bei der Betrachtung des Sicherheitselements durch die zugeordnete Mikrolinse sichtbar ist, und
• – die Vielzahl von Mikrokennzeichen auf dem Träger passergenau unmittelbar gegenüber der zumindest einen Aussparung angeordnet ist.

According to the invention, it is provided in a generic security element that

• The microlens array is provided with a laser-sensitive cover layer which has at least one cutout produced by the action of laser radiation, which extends over a plurality of microlenses,
• The laser-sensitive recording layer has a multiplicity of micro-marks produced by the action of laser radiation, each micro-mark being associated with a microlens and being visible when the security element is viewed through the associated microlens, and
• - The plurality of micro-license plate on the carrier is arranged in register exactly opposite the at least one recess.

Microlenses are lenses whose size is below the resolution limit of the naked eye. The microlenses are preferably spherical or aspherical and, for example, in the case of banknotes, advantageously have a diameter between 5 μm and 100 μm, preferably between 10 μm and 50 μm, particularly preferably between 15 μm and 20 μm. In card applications, the microlenses can also be larger and, for example, have a diameter between 100 .mu.m and 300 .mu.m. In all designs, the microlenses can also be designed as cylindrical lenses.

The recess or the recesses form in all embodiments with advantage a motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding. The recesses are preferably visible to the naked eye and in particular have a dimension between 0.5 mm and 3 cm. The distance between the cover layer and the recording layer is given by the thickness of the support and substantially corresponds to the focal length of the uncoated microlenses.

In a preferred embodiment, the micro-marks are formed by micro-holes in the recording layer, in particular by substantially circular micro-holes or by pattern-shaped micro-holes. The exact shape of the micro-marks or micro-holes depends in particular on the shape of the microlenses (spherical, aspherical, cylindrical) and, as described below, also on the angle of incidence of the laser radiation.

In other embodiments, rather than through microholes in the recording layer, the micro-indicia may also be in blackened or not blackened changes in the visual appearance of the recording layer. In general, the micro-marks may be formed by a color change or removal of the laser-sensitive recording layer. The removal of the laser-sensitive recording layer also includes only a partial removal, which optically corresponds to a brightening. The color change or removal of the recording layer may be due to thermal, photochemical or mixed processes. In order to produce transmitted light effects, the microdischarges have a reduced opacity and are formed in extreme cases by said microholes. For incident light effects, a reduced opacity is not absolutely necessary, where the change may, for example, also consist in a blackening.

In some embodiments, the micro-flags are each smaller than the associated microlenses. The area ratio of micro-mark and associated microlens may be below 1.0 or below 0.5, below 0.2, or even below 0.1. For example, circular microholes may have a diameter between 1 μm and 15 μm, between 1.5 μm and 5 μm, and in particular between 2 μm and 3 μm.

With particular advantage, the security element is semitransparent in the area of the recesses and the opposite microviscosms, in particular with a light transmittance of between 20% and 90%. The light transmission of the security element is in any case significantly higher in the region of the recesses than in the areas still provided with the covering layer, which are typically opaque or have a light transmittance of less than 15%, in particular less than 10%. As a result, the security element has a conspicuous see-through effect, as described in more detail below.

The microdischarges are introduced in preferred embodiments of at least two different directions with laser radiation through the microlens array in the recording layer. In the later consideration, the micro-markers are then each substantially recognizable from the viewing directions under which they were introduced in the generation. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the micro-identifiers can be recognized from at least two different viewing directions, so that tilting or alternating images can be generated. The visible from different viewing directions motifs can be in a sense and, for example, as in a flip book represent a sequence of images that runs when tilting the security element in front of the eye of the beholder. If a certain proportion of the motifs remain unchanged at all viewing angles, this area can also be implemented as a gap area in the recording layer.

The insertion angle and thus also the viewing angle can also vary continuously over the extent of a recess, with variations in one or in two spatial directions being considered. When viewed, the degree of transparency and thus the brightness in the transmitted light changes continuously with the viewing angle, as described in more detail below.

In an advantageous variant of the invention, the cover layer, in addition to the recesses produced by the action of laser radiation, also has gap regions which extend over a plurality of microlenses and which are not in the register with directly opposite microdischarges. Such gap regions can be generated, for example, before the generation of the micro-markings by a large-area removal of the covering layer, for example by a washing process or an etching process.

With particular advantage, the recesses in this variant of the invention form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding. In the gap areas of the cover layer there are further micro-codes produced by the action of laser radiation in the recording layer which form a second motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding. These further micro-identifiers are each associated with a microlens, are preferably smaller than the associated microlens and are visible when viewing the security element by the associated microlens. They may also have the further properties mentioned for the first micro-license plates, in particular with regard to the shape and size of the micro-license plates.

In reflected light, only the first subject is recognizable, while in transmitted light viewing the first and second motif can be seen, whereby the two motifs complement each other to an overall motif. The intrinsically incomplete motif representation in reflected light attracts attention and stimulates the observer to look at the transmitted light in order to see the complete motif. The security element therefore has a high attention value and also offers a high security against counterfeiting, since the special supplementary effect when changing from reflected light to transmitted light observation can be adjusted only with difficulty. Be both. Motifs created in the same operation, are the first and second motif to each other in the perfect passer. The gaps can also be formed in the form of another motif.

In a further, likewise advantageous variant of the invention, the recording layer has, in addition to the microdischarges generated by the action of laser radiation, gap regions whose dimensions are greater than the dimension of the microlenses and which are not in the register with directly opposite recesses. Such gaps in the recording layer can also be produced, for example, by a washing process.

Those subregions of the recesses which lie above the recording layer, in this variant of the invention, with particular advantage form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or an encoding, and those subregions of the recesses which lie over the gap regions form a second motif in the form of patterns , Characters or a coding. In the transmitted light view, both the first and the second motif are recognizable and the two motifs complement each other to form an overall motif. In advantageous embodiments, the first motif is not recognizable in reflected light, for example when the cover layer and the recording layer are chosen to be the same color.

In yet another advantageous variant of the invention, the cover layer has, in addition to the recesses produced by the action of laser radiation, gaps which extend over a plurality of microlenses and which are not in the register with directly opposite microd marks. Immediately opposite to these gap areas of the cover layer congruent gap areas are provided in the recording layer. The gap areas in the cover layer and the recording layer are thereby generated with advantage by laser exposure simultaneously by the same laser steel. For this purpose, compared to the production of microholes described elsewhere, the laser energy is increased so much that not only the covering layer but also the recording layer is completely removed.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the recesses form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding, and the gap regions of the covering layer form a second motif in the form of patterns, characters or an encoding. When looking at the incident light, the second motif is then recognizable to me, while with transmitted light, the first and second motif are recognizable and the two motifs complement each other to form an overall motif.

In advantageous embodiments of the invention, the security element also contains a micro-optical representation arrangement, in particular a moire magnification arrangement, a micro-optical magnification arrangement of the moire type or a modulo magnification arrangement. The basic principle of such micro-optical representation arrangements is in the document WO 2009/000528 A1 explained, the disclosure of which is included in the present description in this regard. In this case, the recording layer preferably contains, in addition to the microdot, a motif image which is divided into a plurality of cells, in each of which imaged regions of a predetermined third motif are arranged, wherein the microlens array forms a microlens grid which, when viewing the motif image, forms the third motif reconstructed the imaged areas in the cells.

In a preferred variant of the invention, the recording layer, the cover layer or both layers are opaque. In particular, the recording layer and / or the cover layer can be formed by an opaque metal layer or contain an opaque metal layer. The term metal also includes metal alloys. As opaque metal layers, for example, layers of aluminum, copper, chromium, silver, gold or an Al-Cu alloy into consideration. In some embodiments, there should be a color contrast between the cover layer and the recording layer. In this case, for example, aluminum is selected as the material for the covering layer and copper as the material for the recording layer. In other designs, the cover layer and the recording layer should appear to be the same color. In this case, the same material or color-like materials are chosen for both layers.

In addition to metal layers, thin-film elements with a color-shift effect, which already give the cover layer or the recording layer itself an optically variable appearance, are also suitable for the cover layer and the recording layer. Such thin-film elements typically consist of an absorber layer, a dielectric spacer layer and a metallic reflector layer. The reflector layer is made thin enough so that it can be provided by the laser radiation with the desired recesses or micro holes.

In a further, likewise advantageous variant of the invention, the recording layer, the covering layer or both layers are semitransparent, preferably each with a light transmittance between 20% and 90%, in particular between 40% and 80%.

According to a further, likewise advantageous variant of the invention, the recording layer, the covering layer or both layers are formed by a laser-sensitive ink layer. Of course, the said possibilities can also be combined with one another, that is to say, for example, the recording layer can be formed by a laser-sensitive ink layer and the covering layer can be formed by an opaque metal layer.

In a further, likewise advantageous variant of the invention, the covering layer is a transparent layer which changes the radius of curvature of the microlenses by at least 50%, in particular a transparent layer which levels the microlenses. The recording layer in this variant of the invention may be opaque or semi-transparent. The refractive index of the transparent layer is expediently of the order of magnitude of the refractive index of the microlenses and in particular differs therefrom by less than 0.3, preferably by less than 0.15.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the microdischarges are formed by microholes in the recording layer and that a reflection layer or a print layer is arranged on the recording layer. The microholes advantageously have in this embodiment a slightly larger diameter of more than 5 μm, in particular of more than 10 μm. In a first variant of this embodiment, the reflection layer or the printing layer has no microholes. The security element then shows in reflected light a tilting image in which the motif formed by the plurality of microholes can be seen from a certain viewing angle in reflection or reflected light and disappears when the security element is tilted.

In a second variant, the micro-labels are formed by first and second micro-holes in the recording layer, the first micro-holes being present only in the recording layer but not in the reflective layer or the print layer and the second micro-holes through the recording layer and the reflective layer or the print layer go through. The incident light effect generated by the first microholes is thereby combined with a transmitted light effect generated by the second microholes.

The invention further comprises a data carrier, in particular a value document, such as a banknote, a passport, a document, an identity card or the like, which is equipped with a security element of the type described. The security element may be arranged in an advantageous variant of the invention, in particular in or over a window area or a through opening of the data carrier.

In another, likewise advantageous variant of the invention, the data carrier contains a data carrier substrate which has a marking region produced by the action of laser radiation, which adjoins at least one of the cutouts of the security element produced by laser radiation and is in register therewith. In the marking area, the visual appearance of the data carrier substrate is changed. In particular, color components or metallic substances can be removed from the data carrier substrate by the action of the laser radiation, or the data carrier substrate can be foamed. In the latter case, a tactile marking is added to visually change the appearance. Due to the adapted arrangement of recess and marking area, the security element is connected in a visually and optionally also mechanically detectable manner closely with the data carrier. As described in more detail below, the registered arrangement is made possible by the creation of recess and marking area in the same operation with the same laser beam. In addition to the visual attractiveness, the data carrier thus connected to the security element has increased security against counterfeiting, since the security element can not be re-fit after being detached from the data carrier. A manipulation of the data carrier is therefore readily apparent to non-professionals.

In particular, the recess and the marking area may together constitute overall information, such as a contiguous graphical representation or a continuous alphanumeric string. In the area of the recess, the security element is semitransparent depending on the direction of view, so that the part of the total information lying in the recess is only visible from certain angles. By contrast, the part of the total information lying in the marking area of the data carrier substrate is always visible. When tilting the data carrier therefore only a part of the total information is visible from some points of view, which complements the complete total information from other points of view.

• – ein im Wesentlichen transparenter Träger mit gegenüberliegenden ersten und zweiten Hauptflächen bereitgestellt wird, wobei auf der ersten Hauptfläche des Trägers eine Anordnung aus Mikrolinsen angeordnet ist,
• – auf der zweiten Hauptfläche des Trägers eine lasersensitive Aufzeichnungsschicht angeordnet wird,
• – die Mikrolinsenanordnung mit einer lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht versehen wird,
• – in der lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht durch Einwirkung von Laserstrahlung zumindest eine Aussparung erzeugt wird, die sich über mehrere Mikrolinsen erstreckt,
• – in der lasersensitiven Aufzeichnungsschicht durch Einwirkung von Laserstrahlung eine Vielzahl von Mikrokennzeichen erzeugt wird, wobei jedes Mikrokennzeichen einer Mikrolinse zugeordnet wird und bei der Betrachtung des Sicherheitselements durch die zugeordnete Mikrolinse sichtbar ist, und
• – die Vielzahl von Mikrokennzeichen auf dem Träger passergenau unmittelbar gegenüber der zumindest einen Aussparung angeordnet wird.

The invention further includes a method for producing an optically variable security element for security papers, value documents and other data carriers, in which

• Providing a substantially transparent support with opposing first and second major surfaces, wherein an array of microlenses is disposed on the first major surface of the support,
• A laser-sensitive recording layer is arranged on the second main surface of the carrier,
• The microlens array is provided with a laser-sensitive cover layer,
• In the laser-sensitive covering layer, by the action of laser radiation, at least one recess is produced, which extends over a plurality of microlenses,
• - In the laser-sensitive recording layer by the action of laser radiation, a plurality of micro-mark is generated, each micro-mark is assigned to a microlens and is visible when viewing the security element through the associated microlens, and
• - The plurality of micro-license plate on the carrier is arranged in register exactly opposite the at least one recess.

The recesses in the laser-sensitive cover layer and the opposite micro-markers in the laser-sensitive recording layer are thereby advantageously produced in the same operation by the same laser beam. In some embodiments, the micro-indices may each be made smaller than the associated microlenses.

In an advantageous variant of the method, the micro-marks are generated from at least two different directions through the microlens array in the recording layer.

• – ein Datenträgersubstrat bereitgestellt wird,
• – ein im Wesentlichen transparenter Träger mit gegenüberliegenden ersten und zweiten Hauptflächen bereitgestellt wird, wobei auf der ersten Hauptfläche des Trägers eine Anordnung aus Mikrolinsen angeordnet ist,
• – auf der zweiten Hauptfläche des Trägers eine lasersensitive Aufzeichnungsschicht angeordnet wird,
• – die Mikrolinsenanordnung mit einer lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht versehen wird,
• – der Träger mit der lasersensitiven Aufzeichnungsschicht, der Mikrolinsenanordnung und der lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht auf das Datenträgersubstrat aufgebracht wird, und im selben Arbeitsgang durch denselben Laserstrahl durch die Einwirkung von Laserstrahlung a) in der lasersensitiven Abdeckschicht zumindest eine Aussparung erzeugt wird, die sich über mehrere Mikrolinsen erstreckt, b) in der lasersensitiven Aufzeichnungsschicht eine Vielzahl von Mikrokennzeichen erzeugt wird, wobei jedes Mikrokennzeichen einer Mikrolinse zugeordnet wird und bei der Betrachtung des Sicherheitselements durch die zugeordnete Mikrolinse sichtbar ist, wobei die Vielzahl von Mikrokennzeichen auf dem Träger passergenau unmittelbar gegenüber der zumindest einen Aussparung angeordnet wird, und c) in dem Datenträgersubstrat außerhalb des Bereichs, in dem der Träger mit der Aufzeichnungsschicht, der Mikrolinsenanordnung und der Abdeckschicht auf das Datenträgersubstrat aufgebracht ist, ein Markierungsbereich erzeugt wird, der an zumindest eine der Aussparungen der Abdeckschicht angrenzt.

Finally, the invention also includes a method for producing a data carrier of the above type, in which

• A data carrier substrate is provided,
• Providing a substantially transparent support with opposing first and second major surfaces, wherein an array of microlenses is disposed on the first major surface of the support,
• A laser-sensitive recording layer is arranged on the second main surface of the carrier,
• The microlens array is provided with a laser-sensitive cover layer,
• - The support with the laser-sensitive recording layer, the microlens array and the laser-sensitive cover layer is applied to the data carrier substrate, and at least one recess is formed in the same operation by the same laser beam by the action of laser radiation a) in the laser-sensitive cover layer, which extends over a plurality of microlenses b) in the laser-sensitive recording layer, a plurality of micro-markers is produced, each micro-mark being associated with a microlens and being visible when the security element is viewed through the associated microlens, the plurality of micro-marks being arranged on the carrier precisely opposite the at least one recess and c) a mark in the data carrier substrate outside the area in which the carrier with the recording layer, the microlens array and the cover layer is applied to the data carrier substrate is generated, which adjoins at least one of the recesses of the cover layer.

By the action of the laser radiation, color components or metallic substances are preferably removed from the data carrier substrate in the marking region or the data carrier substrate is foamed.

Preferably, the generation of the recess and of the plurality of micro-labels is carried out with a first set of laser parameter sets, and the generation of the marking region is performed with a second, different set of laser parameter sets. Such a process management takes into account the fact that the generation of the recesses and micro-marks may require different laser parameters, for example a different laser energy, than the generation of the marking area. The laser parameters of the laser beam are thereby switched over between the first and second laser parameter set at the locations where the marking area adjoins a recess of the covering layer. This switching can take place practically instantaneously, so that a precisely defined change of the laser parameters is achieved. Due to the uninterrupted beam guidance, despite the variation of the laser parameters, a matched arrangement of recess and marking area is achieved.

Further exemplary embodiments and advantages of the invention are explained below with reference to the figures, in the representation of which a representation true to scale and proportion has been dispensed with in order to increase the clarity.

Show it:

1 a schematic representation of a banknote with an optically variable security element according to the invention, which is arranged over a through opening of the banknote,

2 schematically the layer structure of a security element according to the invention in cross-section,

3 in (a) and (b) two intermediate steps in the production of the security element of 2 .

4 the visual appearance of the security element of the 2 when viewed from the front, in (a) in reflected light and in (b) in transmitted light,

5 the visual appearance of the security element of the 2 when viewed from the back, in (a) in reflected light and in (b) in transmitted light,

6 an embodiment in which the laser radiation when creating a recess encloses an angle θ with the vertical,

7 a further embodiment of the invention in cross section along the line VII-VII of 8 (a) .

8th the visual appearance of the security element of the 7 when viewed from the front, in (a) in reflected light and in (b) in transmitted light,

9 a further embodiment of the invention in cross section along the line IX-IX of 10 (a) .

10 the visual appearance of the security element of the 9 in (a) viewed from the front in reflected light, (b) viewed from the same side in transmitted light, (c) viewed from the rear in reflected light, (d) viewed from the same side in transmitted light .

11 in (a) to (d) a representation as in 10 for a modification of the security element of 9 .

12 schematically in cross-section a security element according to the invention, which at the same time forms a micro-optical representation arrangement,

13 An embodiment of the invention in which the cover layer is formed by a laser-sensitive transparent coating,

14 an embodiment in which patterned microholes are formed in the recording layer,

15 in (a) and (b) respectively a plan view of a recording layer with patterned microholes according to embodiments of the invention,

16 a further embodiment of the invention in cross-section,

17 the visual appearance of the security element of the 16 when viewed from the front, in (a) in reflected light and in (b) in transmitted light, and

18 a further embodiment of the invention, which shows a tilting effect in incident light.

The invention will be explained with reference to the example of security elements for banknotes. 1 shows a schematic representation of a banknote 10 with an optically variable security element according to the invention 12 that over a continuous opening 14 the banknote 10 is arranged.

The security element 12 appears in subareas 16 Semitransparent in transmitted light and can due to its application over the opening 14 be viewed both from the front and from the back in each reflected light and transmitted light. The security element 12 shows from these different viewing directions each different visual appearances, as explained in more detail below.

2 schematically shows the layer structure of the security element according to the invention 12 in cross-section, wherein only the parts of the layer structure required for the explanation of the functional principle are shown. The security element 12 contains a substantially transparent carrier 20 which is typically formed by a transparent plastic film, such as an approximately 20 micron thick polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film.

The carrier 20 has opposing first and second major surfaces, the first major surface 22 with an array of microlenses 26 is provided. In the specific embodiment, the microlenses 26 arranged regularly in the form of a microlens grid and form on the surface of the carrier film, a two-dimensional Bravais grid with a preselected symmetry. The Bravais grid of microlenses 26 For example, it may have hexagonal lattice symmetry or lower symmetry, such as the symmetry of a parallelogram lattice.

The spherically or aspherically designed microlenses 26 preferably have a diameter between 15 microns and 30 microns and are therefore not visible to the naked eye. The thickness of the carrier 20 and the curvature of the microlenses 26 are coordinated so that the focal length of the microlenses 26 essentially the thickness of the carrier 20 equivalent.

The microlens grid of the first main surface 22 is with an opaque, laser-sensitive covering 28 provided, which is formed in the embodiment by a 50 nm thick aluminum layer.

In the cover layer 28 were by the action of laser radiation one or more recesses 30 introduced, which form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding. The recesses 30 extend over several, typically even over several thousand microlenses 26 because the recesses 30 visible to the naked eye and therefore generally have dimensions of several millimeters. With respect to the 1 to 5 described security element 12 shows for illustration only a single recess 30 with the shape of a maple leaf 16 , Indicates the recess 30 For example, an area of 50 mm ² , so it extends at a lens diameter of 25 microns over about 80,000 to 100,000 microlenses. It is therefore understood that the size ratios of microlenses and recesses in the figures can only be greatly exaggerated.

On the second main surface 24 of the carrier 20 is a laser-sensitive recording layer 32 arranged, which is formed in the embodiment by a 60 nm thick copper layer.

In the recording layer 32 became by the action of laser radiation a variety 34 of circular microholes 36 introduced with a diameter of 2 microns to 3 microns. Although the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to microholes, it will be understood that instead of microholes, other microdischarges, such as color-changed regions in a color layer, may also be used.

The recesses 30 and the opposite microholes 36 are generated simultaneously and by the same laser beam in the same operation in the same operation described below, so that the recesses and the micro-holes to each other have no tolerances. The variety 34 the microholes in the recording layer 32 is thereby on the carrier 20 register exactly opposite the recesses 30 the cover layer 28 arranged.

For the production of the security element 12 that will be on the carrier 20 present microlens grid first with a continuous, 50 nm thick aluminum layer 28 coated as in 3 (a) shown. The second main area 24 is made with a continuous, 60 nm thick copper layer 32 coated. At these layer thicknesses are both the aluminum layer 28 as well as the copper layer 32 opaque. Through the aluminum coating 28 are the microlenses 26 visually no longer effective in the coated areas.

The coated carrier 20 is then from the side of the first main surface 22 here with laser radiation 40 , For example, with the radiation of a Nd: YAG, Nd: YVO ₄ - or fiber laser applied and the aluminum layer 28 in the form of desired recesses 30 ablated. The laser beam 40 can be pre-focused. By the removal of the aluminum layer 28 becomes the optical efficiency of the microlenses 26 in the area of the recesses 30 restored. If laser energy is used, which is higher than that for demetallizing the aluminum layer, then laser energy is used 28 Required energy, so remains after the removal of a residual energy, which by the now optically effective microlenses 26 on the recording layer 32 is focused, as in 3 (b) by the reference numeral 42 indicated. With a suitable choice of laser energy, the residual energy is not so high that the recording layer 32 under the microlenses 26 is completely removed, but is sufficient to be in the recording layer 32 microholes 36 whose dimensions are smaller than those of the associated microlenses 26 are.

By doing this, it is achieved that each of the microholes 36 a microlens 26 is assigned, through which the micro hole 36 generated by laser exposure, and by the micro-hole 36 is visible in the later consideration of the security element. The variety 34 the microholes 36 is so accurate and exclusively in the area of each opposite recesses 30 generated. Because of the small dimensions of the microlenses 26 from only 20 to 30 microns also ensures that the area of the recesses 30 from the normal viewing distance of 20 to 30 cm congruent with that with the plurality of micro holes 36 provided area 34 is.

4 shows the visual appearance of the security element thus created 12 when viewed from the side of the first main surface 22 (Front) ago, where 4 (a) appearance in reflected light, ie in reflection, and 4 (b) the appearance in transmitted light, ie in transmission shows.

In incident light dominates outside the recess 30 the silvery shiny cover layer 28 made of aluminum the appearance. In the recess 30 is the cover layer 28 removed and the viewer sees there the copper color of the recording layer 32 , The microholes 36 in the recording layer 32 Due to their small size, they are not or hardly recognizable in the incident light with the naked eye, so that the recording layer 32 appears as a continuous metal layer. The viewer thus sees in reflected light a copper-colored maple leaf 16 in front of a silvery background, like in 4 (a) illustrated.

When viewed in transmitted light, the security element appears 12 outside the recess 30 because of the opaque covering layer 28 dark. Inside the recess 30 is the recording layer 32 against it by the multiplicity 34 the microholes 36 Viewing dependent semitransparent. Because the microholes 36 in this viewing direction through the microlenses 26 through are the microholes 36 in each case essentially to be recognized from the viewing angle at which they are generated by the laser beam 40 were introduced. Around this central viewing angle are the microholes 36 moreover, recognizable in a certain angular range, mainly of the diameter of the microholes 36 depends. This in turn results in particular from the lens properties, especially from the focal length of the microlenses at the laser wavelength, the thickness of the carrier 20 , the laser energy used and the layer thickness of the recording layer 32 , By appropriate selection and tuning of these parameters, the diameter of the microholes can be determined 36 and thus adjust the angular extent of the visibility range in a wide range as desired.

With reference to the representation of 4 (b) were the microholes 36 of the described embodiment under normal incidence of the laser radiation 40 generated as in 3 shown. The microholes 36 are therefore also in vertical view of the security element 12 through the microlenses 26 visible through, leaving the area of the recess 30 From this viewing angle appears semitransparent in transmitted light. The viewer then sees a bright maple leaf 16 against a dark background, like in 4 (b) illustrated.

5 shows the visual appearance of the security element 12 when viewed from the side of the second major surface 24 (Back) ago, where 5 (a) the appearance in reflected light and 5 (b) the appearance illustrated in transmitted light.

In the incident light, only the copper-colored recording layer is from the rear side 32 to see because the microholes 36 because of their small size in reflected light with the naked eye are difficult or impossible to see. The observer thus sees the continuous copper-colored metal layer in reflected light from the rear, as in 5 (a) shown.

When viewed in transmitted light, the security element appears 12 outside the recess 30 because of the opaque recording layer 32 dark. Inside the recess 30 appears recording layer 32 against it by the multiplicity 34 the microholes 36 Semitransparent in a large angular range. In contrast to viewing from the front side, the microholes in the rear view become 36 not by microlenses 26 considered. Rather, collect the microlenses 26 that from the first main area 22 incoming light and focus it on the microholes 36 , so that there is a wide angle range, below the microholes 36 appear bright on the back. The viewer thus sees a bright maple leaf 16 against a dark background, like in 5 (b) illustrated.

In the embodiment just described, for the sake of simplicity, the microholes have only been seen from a single direction, namely from a direction perpendicular to the major surfaces 22 . 24 , introduced into the recording layer. Preferably, however, the microholes of security elements according to the invention are produced from at least two different directions through the microlens grid in the recording layer. So shows 6 an embodiment in which the laser radiation 40 in the generation of a recess 30 ' an angle θ with the vertical 44 includes. The recess 30 ' differs practically not from a recess produced under vertical action 30 that are in the recording layer 32 created microholes 36 ' are, however, moved out of the lens center. This causes the microholes 36 ' seen at a later time substantially only from a viewing angle, which is inclined by the angle θ to the vertical. Of course, here too, there is a certain range of visibility around the angle θ, which is due to the size of the microholes 36 ' given is.

By creating micro holes 36 With different viewing angles θ, it is thus possible to create regions which are semitransparent in the through-passage from respectively different angles, so that a tilting image is formed. In some embodiments, the microholes 36 . 36 ' while inside a recess 30 . 30 ' each have a constant viewing angle θ ₃₀ , θ _{30 '} , while the viewing angles of various recesses 30 . 30 ' differ, ie θ ₃₀ ≠ θ _{30 '} is. In other designs are already within a recess 30 several microholes that are visible from different spatial directions.

In preferred embodiments, the insertion and hence the viewing angle θ varies continuously over the extent of the recesses 30 in one or even in two spatial directions. Such a continuous change can be realized for example by a suitable deflection system for the laser radiation. The expression of semitransparency changes in the Viewing in transmitted light then tilting the security element within the recess 30 continuously.

For example, the microholes 36 on the left edge of the 4 and 5 shown recess 30 perpendicular (insertion angle θ = 0 °) and be introduced at the right edge at an angle of θ = 40 °, wherein the insertion angle θ from the left to the right edge continuously increases from 0 ° to 40 °. When viewing the front side of the security element vertically in the transmitted light then the left side of the maple leaf appears 16 very bright, because the viewer there introduced the vertical angle microholes 36 through the microlenses 26 sees. To the right edge of the maple leaf 16 the brightness decreases continuously as the microlenses 26 with increasing angle θ more and more on the edge or on outer areas of the microholes 36 focus.

If the observer tilts the security element to the left, the area in which the microholes move shifts 36 under the respective insertion angle are considered continuously, until at a tilt of 40 °, the right side of the maple leaf appears very bright, since the viewer now there under θ = 40 ° introduced microholes 36 created microholes 36 in the focus of the microlenses 26 Has. To the left edge of the maple leaf 16 the brightness decreases continuously as the microlenses 26 now with decreasing angle θ more and more on the edge or on outer areas of the microholes 36 focus.

Another embodiment of the invention is in 7 schematically in cross section and in 8th illustrated with its visual appearance in reflected light and transmitted light. At the security element 50 has the cover layer 28 in addition to the already described and generated by the action of laser radiation recesses 30 gap areas 52 which extend over a plurality of microlenses, but not with directly opposite microholes 36 are passed. These gaps 52 For example, by demetallizing with a washing process prior to laser application to create the recesses 30 be generated. In such a washing process is preferably before the metallization, a soluble wash color in the form of the desired Demetallisierungsbereiches on the carrier 20 printed on, and the washing paint after the metallization washed together with this by a solvent. Further details of such a washing process can the document WO 99/13157 are removed, the disclosure of which is included in the present application in this respect.

In the embodiment shown, the gap area increases 52 the lower half of the security element 50 a, like in 8 (a) shown. Basically, the gap areas 52 however, be formed in the form of any patterns, characters or codes.

The recesses 30 form now a first motif, which is given in the embodiment shown by the upper half of the number sequence "10" ( 8 (a) ). In the gap area 52 was also a variety by laser exposure 54 from microholes 56 generated, which form a second motif, which is presently formed by the lower half of the digit sequence "10". Because in the gap area 52 a larger proportion of the laser energy in the recording layer 32 arrives, the microholes can 56 a slightly larger diameter than the microholes 36 exhibit. To avoid this variation, the laser energy in the gap area 52 be reduced appropriately.

8th shows the visual appearance of the security element thus created 50 when viewed from the side of the first main surface 22 ago.

In the incident light determined outside of the recesses 30 and the gap area 52 the silvery shiny aluminum cover layer 28 the appearance. In the area of the recesses 30 and in the gap area 52 is the cover layer 28 removed and the viewer sees the copper color of the recording layer 32 , As in 4 are the microholes 36 Because of their small size in incident light with the naked eye is difficult or impossible to detect, so that the recording layer 32 appears as a continuous metal layer. The observer thus sees in reflected light only the upper half of the number sequence "10", as in 8 (a) shown. The incomplete motif representation attracts attention and encourages the viewer to look at the transmitted light to see the complete motif "10".

When viewed in transmitted light then appear both the first motif of the recesses 30 as well as second motive 54 because of the included microholes 36 respectively. 56 Viewing dependent semitransparent, as related to 4 (b) explained. Outside of these areas is the security element 50 Opaque, because the viewer is either on the opaque cover layer 28 or the likewise opaque recording layer 32 looks. The color difference between the copper-colored recording layer 32 and the silver-colored cover layer 28 occurs in the transmitted light strongly in the background and is usually not or hardly recognizable.

For the viewer, therefore, complement the first motive 30 and the second motive 54 to a brightly glowing overall motif in the form of the number sequence "10" in front of a uniformly dark background, as in 8 (b) illustrated.

Looking at the security element 50 from the second major surface 24 (Back) ago this results already in connection with 5 described appearance. In the incident light, only the copper-colored recording layer is from the rear side 32 when viewed in transmitted light, the viewer sees the complete digit sequence "10" reversed against the dark background of the opaque recording layer 32 ,

Instead of in the cover layer 28 can fill gaps 62 also in the recording layer 32 be provided as based on the 9 and 10 illustrating that a security element according to the invention 60 show schematically in cross-section and the visual appearance in front and back viewing in reflected light and transmitted light.

At the security element 60 has the recording layer 32 in addition to the microholes already described and produced by the action of laser radiation 36 gap areas 62 whose dimensions are larger than the size of the microlenses 26 are and not with directly opposite recesses 30 are passed. These gaps 62 For example, by demetallizing with a washing process prior to laser application to create the microholes 36 be generated. In the embodiment shown, the gap area increases 62 the lower half of the security element 60 a, like in 10 (a) shown. In the upper half 64 of the security element 60 on the other hand, there is a recording layer 32 in front. Basically, the gap areas 62 be formed in the form of any pattern, character or coding.

The security element 60 was after the creation of the gap areas 62 in the recording layer 32 As described above, applied with laser radiation to simultaneously and accurately registering recesses 30 in the cover layer 28 and microholes 36 in the recording layer 32 to create. In the gap areas 62 can not have any additional micro holes 36 be generated.

The subarea 74 the recesses 30 that is above the recording layer 32 is now forms a first motif, which is given by the upper half of the number sequence "10". The subarea 72 the recesses 30 that's over the gap area 62 forms a second motif, which in the present case is formed by the lower half of the number sequence "10" ( 10 (a) ).

10 shows the visual appearance of the security element thus created 60 , Looking at the front in reflected light ( 10 (a) ) determined outside of the recesses 30 the silvery shiny aluminum cover layer 28 the appearance. In the first part 74 the recesses 30 is the cover layer 28 removed and the viewer sees there the copper color of the recording layer 32 , In the second part 72 the recesses 30 are both cover layer 28 as well as a recording layer 32 away, there the viewer sees the under the security element 60 located underground.

Looking at the front in transmitted light ( 10 (b) ) then appear the first section 74 the recesses 30 because of the containing microholes 36 Viewing dependent semitransparent, as already described above. The second part 72 the recesses 30 appears transparent, because there is no recording layer 32 is present.

Looking at the back in incident light ( 10 (c) ) is in the upper half 64 only the copper-colored recording layer 32 to see in the gaps areas 62 the viewer sees the silver-colored cover layer 28 and in the subarea 72 the recesses 30 under the security element 60 located underground.

Looking at the back in transmitted light ( 10 (d) ) the security element appears 60 in the upper half 64 in the subarea 74 the recesses through the multiplicity of microholes 36 in the recording layer 32 Semitransparent in a large angular range. The second part 72 the recesses 30 appears transparent, because there is no recording layer 32 is present.

Will replace the copper-colored recording layer 32 of the 10 a silver-colored aluminum layer as a recording layer 82 chosen, so are the cover layer 28 and the recording layer 82 almost the same color. When viewing the front side in incident light, the first subregions can then be used 74 the recesses 30 in which the recording layer 82 can be seen, not from the surrounding cover layer 28 be differentiated as in 11 (a) shown. The viewer therefore only recognizes the lower half of the overall motif. In the transmitted light, the first motif of the first sections is added 74 then with the second motif of the second partitions 72 to the full digit string "10", as in 11 (b) shown.

The recording layer also appears in the rear view 82 and those outside the subareas 72 the recesses 30 Hanging cover layer 28 in incident light with the same color as in 11 (c) shown. The viewer recognizes Therefore, from the back only the lower half of the overall motif. In the transmitted light, the first motif of the first sections is added 74 then with the second motif of the second partitions 72 to the full digit string "10", as in 11 (d) shown.

The described effects can be combined with a micro-optical representation arrangement, in particular a moiré magnification arrangement, a moiré-type micro-optical magnification arrangement or a modulo magnification arrangement, as in the exemplary embodiment of FIG 12 illustrated.

The recording layer contains this 92 of the security element 90 in addition to the microholes already described 36 a grid-shaped arrangement of micromotif elements 94 , The arrangement of the micromotif elements 94 forms like the arrangement of the microlenses 26 a lattice with a preselected symmetry, where by the tuning of the microlens lattice and the lattice of the micromotif elements 94 a desired moire magnification effect and characteristic motion effects are generated. In the case of a moiré magnification arrangement, the Bravais grid of the grid cells of the micromotif elements differs in this case 94 in its orientation and / or in the size of its lattice parameter slightly from the Bravais lattice of the microlenses 26 , as in 12 by the offset of the micromotif elements 94 opposite the microlenses 26 indicated. Depending on the type and size of the offset, a moiré-magnified image of the micromotif elements is created when viewing the motif image 94 , Such security elements with micro-optical representation arrangements also allow impressive motion effects, as explained in more detail in the above-mentioned document. For example, the grid parameters of the arrangement of the imaged areas and of the microlens grid can be matched to one another such that when the security element is tilted 90 an orthoparallactic motion effect results in which the subject shown moves perpendicular to the tilt direction rather than parallel to it, as one would intuitively expect.

In the context of the present invention, these moiré effects are only in the area of the recesses 30 or gap areas 52 the cover layer 28 visible, noticeable. Be for the cover layer 28 and the recording layer 92 the same material or materials of the same color are chosen, so in reflected light in the areas 30 . 52 almost only the moiré effects visible.

In the embodiments described so far, the laser-sensitive cover layer and the laser-sensitive recording layer were each formed by opaque metal layers for illustration. However, both the capping layer and the recording layer may be formed by, for example, a thin-film element having a color-shifting effect as mentioned above.

The cover layer and / or the recording layer can also be formed semitransparent and in particular have a light transmission between 20% and 90%. Is the cover layer 28 Semitransparent, for example, the moiré effect of 12 also outside the recesses 30 be seen with reduced brightness. Are both the cover layer 28 as well as the recording layer 32 Semitransparent, so the security element also outside of the recesses and gaps a certain residual transparency. This can be particularly advantageous if the security element as in 1 over an opening 14 or a pane of a value document. Shape and outline of the opening 14 are then visible in transmitted light.

In further embodiments, the cover layer 28 also by a laser-sensitive transparent coating 100 be formed as in 13 illustrated. When coating 100 For example, it may be an IR lacquer which is largely transparent in the visible spectral range, but strongly absorbs the radiation of an infrared laser used for charging, for example the 1.064 micron radiation of an Nd: YVO ₄ laser.

The optical effectiveness of the microlenses 26 can also be reduced by such a transparent coating by changing the radius of curvature of the lenses, for example by 50% or more. In particular, the transparent layer can level the lenses and completely cancel out the optical effect. The refractive index of the transparent coating 100 is expedient in the order of the refractive index of the microlenses 26 ,

Between the leveling laser-sensitive coating 100 and the microlenses 26 Optionally, add another thin layer 102 be provided. This may be, for example, a detachment of the laser-sensitive coating 100 promotional coating act. The other thin layer 102 may also be a reflective layer, for example an aluminum layer, so that the microlenses 26 outside the demetallized areas act as a micro-concave mirror. As a result, the effects described here can be combined with the effects of double-sided magnification arrangements which are described in the document WO 2010/136339 A2 are described in more detail. The disclosure of the WO 2010/136339 A2 is included in the present application in this respect.

With reference to the representation of 14 Instead of circular microholes during laser application, patterned microholes can also be used 110 be generated. For this purpose, the angle of incidence of the laser radiation 40 . 40 ' at the laser application according to the desired shape of the patterned micro hole 110 varied. For example, by simply tilting the laser radiation 40 . 40 ' when subjected to a spatial direction, a demetallized line 110 in the recording layer 32 be generated. The shape of the recess 30 does not change.

By a variation of the angle of incidence of the laser radiation 40 Microholes in the form of two-dimensional patterns can also be used in two spatial directions 112 be generated as in the plan view of the recording layer 32 of the 15 (a) shown. Also, the shape of the recess changes 30 not, because at the place of the covering layer 28 only the incident, but not the position of the laser beam 40 varied.

Instead of microholes may be in the recording layer 32 also other micro-marks 114 be generated as in 15 (b) illustrated. For example, the color of the recording layer 32 by the action of the microlenses 26 change focused laser radiation. By varying the angle of incidence of the laser radiation 40 in two spatial directions can be so within a recording layer 32 with a first color micro-mark 114 be generated with a second color. For the laser-sensitive recording layer 32 Therefore, in addition to the already mentioned metal layers, other laser-sensitive materials are also considered, the visual appearance of which can be changed by the action of the laser radiation.

In all the above designs, the recesses 30 and the plurality of micro-flags include an individualization of the security element, for example the serial number of a banknote 10 , Such customized customizations can be compared with other methods very difficult and therefore have a high security against counterfeiting.

The individualization of the security element may be associated with particular 6 combined tilting images are described. For example, the micro-markings introduced at a vertical angle can represent a non-individualizing graphic motif. At an oblique angle, micro-markers are then introduced into the recording layer, which represent an individualization, for example the signature of a passport holder or a serial number. When the security element is tilted, the visible representation then changes from the graphic motif when viewed vertically to the individualization when viewed obliquely.

Another embodiment of the invention is in 16 schematically in cross section and in 17 illustrated with its visual appearance in reflected light and transmitted light. At the security element 120 has the cover layer 28 in addition to the already described recesses 30 congruent gap areas generated by the action of laser radiation 122 . 124 in the cover layer 28 or in the recording layer 32 on. Around the gaps 122 . 124 The laser energy has been increased so much that not just the cover layer 28 but also the recording layer 32 below the microlenses 26 was completely removed. The recesses 30 and the microholes 36 however, are generated at lower laser energy, at which the residual energy after ablation of the cover layer 28 only to create the small microholes 26 in the recording layer 32 leads.

Since the laser energy can increase and decrease again with almost no time delay, the gap areas 122 and the recesses 30 connect seamlessly and in register. In the embodiment shown, the recesses form 30 a first motif given by a part of the digit sequence "50" which is in 17 (a) indicated by the dashed outline. The gaps 122 form a second motif, which is given by the rest of the digit sequence "50".

17 shows the visual appearance of the security element thus created 120 when viewed from the side of the first main surface 22 ago. To ensure color uniformity, consist of the cover layer 28 and the recording layer 32 of the same material, for example aluminum. Regarding 17 (a) is in the reflected light for the viewer only the second motif of the gap areas 122 . 124 to recognize because there under the security element 120 underlying surface shows through. In the recesses 30 the cover layer 28 By contrast, the viewer looks at the color-identical recording layer 32 so that the recesses 30 because of the lack of contrast and because of the small size of the microholes 36 do not appear in reflected light. The incomplete motif presentation thus stimulates the observer to look at the transmitted light in order to be able to recognize the complete motif.

When viewed in transmitted light then appear as in 17 (b) shown the first motif of the recesses 30 Viewing dependent semitransparent, as already explained several times above. The first and second motive are therefore complementary to a bright overall theme in the form of the number "50" in front of a uniformly dark background. When viewed from the back of the security element 120 The result is the same motif completion, but with a reversed overall motif.

18 shows a security element 130 according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein on a recording layer 32 made of copper a reflection layer 132 made of aluminum, which contains no microholes. The microholes 134 in the recording layer 32 are slightly larger than in the embodiments described above and have a diameter of the microlenses of 30 microns diameter of 5-15 microns. The security element 130 shows in incident light viewing a tilting picture. From the viewing angle from which the microholes 134 the observer looks through the microholes 134 on the silver reflection layer 132 and thus sees that from the microholes 134 formed motif silver in front of the copper-colored background of the recording layer 32 , The viewer tilts the security element 130 in a different viewing angle, so is only the copper-colored recording layer 32 visible and the subject disappears. The layer 132 For example, it may also be a printed layer applied to the underlying substrate, such as a banknote paper.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

bill

12

security element

14

opening

16

subregions

20

carrier

22, 24

main areas

26

microlenses

28

covering

30, 30 '

recess

32

recording layer

34

Variety of micro holes

36, 36 '

microholes

40, 40 '

laser radiation

42

focused laser radiation

44

vertical

50

security element

52

gap areas

54

Variety of micro holes

56

microholes

60

security element

62

gap areas

64

upper half of the security element

72, 74

subregions

82

recording layer

90

security element

92

recording layer

94

Micromotif elements

100

transparent coating

102

thin layer

110, 112, 114

patterned microholes

120

security element

122, 124

gap areas

130

security element

132

reflective layer

134

microholes

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0219012 A1 [0005]
• WO 2009/000528 A1 [0024]
• WO 99/13157 [0086]
• WO 2010/136339 A2 [0111, 0111]

Claims (32)

An optically variable security element for security papers, documents of value and other data carriers having a substantially transparent carrier with opposite first and second major surfaces, an array of microlenses disposed on the first main surface of the carrier, and a laser-sensitive recording layer disposed on the second main surface of the carrier, characterized in that the microlens array is provided with a laser-sensitive cover layer which has at least one cutout produced by the action of laser radiation which extends over a plurality of microlenses, the laser-sensitive recording layer has a multiplicity of microlens produced by the action of laser radiation, each microfine mark being a microlens is assigned and visible when viewing the security element by the associated microlens, and - the plurality of micro-mark on the carrier passergenau is arranged directly opposite the at least one recess. A security element according to claim 1, characterized in that the micro-marks are formed by micro-holes in the recording layer, in particular by substantially circular micro-holes or by pattern-shaped micro-holes. A security element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the micro-flags are each smaller than the associated microlenses. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the area ratio of micro-marks and associated microlenses below 1.0 or below 0.5 or even below 0.2. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the security element is semitransparent in the region of the recesses and the opposite microd marks. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the microdischarges are introduced from at least two different directions with laser radiation through the microlens array in the recording layer and when viewing each of these, at least two different viewing directions can be seen. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the covering layer has, in addition to the recesses produced by the action of laser radiation, gaps which extend over a plurality of microlenses and which are not in the register with directly opposite microd marks. Security element according to claim 7, characterized in that The recesses form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or an encoding, In the gap regions of the cover layer there are further microidentifiers in the recording layer produced by the action of laser radiation, which form a second motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding, and - When looking at the incident light, only the first motif is recognizable and when viewing the transmitted light, the first and second motifs are recognizable and the two motifs complement each other to form an overall motif. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the recording layer, in addition to the micro-characteristics generated by the action of laser radiation has gaps whose dimensions are greater than the dimension of the microlenses and which are not directly opposite recesses in the register. A security element according to claim 9, characterized in that those portions of the recesses which lie above the recording layer form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or an encoding, Those subareas of the recesses which lie over gaps of the recording layer form a second motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding, and - When viewed through transmitted light, the first and second motif are recognizable and complement the two motifs to a total theme. A security element according to claim 7, characterized in that there are congruent gap regions in the recording layer directly opposite the gap regions of the cover layer. Security element according to claim 11, characterized in that The recesses form a first motif in the form of patterns, characters or an encoding, The gap areas of the cover layer form a second motif in the form of patterns, characters or a coding, and - When viewing the incident light, only the second motif is recognizable and when viewing the transmitted light, the first and second motif are recognizable and the two motifs complement each other to form an overall motif. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the recording layer contains a motif image which is divided into a plurality of cells, in each of which imaged areas of a predetermined third motif are arranged, wherein the microlens array forms a microlens grid Contemplating the motif image, the third motif from the arranged in the cells imaged areas reconstructed. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the recording layer and / or the cover layer are opaque, in particular that the recording layer and the cover layer are formed by an opaque metal layer or contain an opaque metal layer. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the recording layer and / or the cover layer are semitransparent, preferably each with a light transmittance of between 20% and 90%. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the covering layer and / or the recording layer are formed by a thin-film element with a color-shift effect. Security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the covering layer and / or the recording layer are formed by a laser-sensitive ink layer. Security element according to at least one of Claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the covering layer and the recording layer are of the same color, in particular that the covering layer and the recording layer consist of the same material, in particular of the same metal. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the covering layer is a transparent layer which changes the radius of curvature of the microlenses by at least 50%, in particular a transparent layer which levels the microlenses. A security element according to claim 19, characterized in that the refractive index of the transparent cover layer differs by 0.3 or less from the refractive index of the microlenses. A security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the microdischarges are formed by microholes in the recording layer and that a reflection layer or a print layer is arranged on the recording layer. A security element according to claim 21, characterized in that the reflective layer or the printing layer has no microholes. A security element according to claim 21, characterized in that the micro-marks are formed by first and second micro-holes in the recording layer, the first micro-holes being present only in the recording layer but not in the reflective layer and the second micro-holes through the recording layer and the reflective layer or print layer go through. Data carrier with a security element according to at least one of claims 1 to 23. A data carrier according to claim 24, characterized in that the security element is arranged in or over a window area or a through opening of the data carrier. A data carrier according to claim 24, characterized in that the data carrier contains a data carrier substrate which has a marking region generated by the action of laser radiation, which adjoins at least one of the cutouts of the security element generated by laser radiation and is in the register with the latter. A data carrier according to claim 26, characterized in that in the marking area by the action of laser radiation color components or metallic substances are removed from the data carrier substrate or the data carrier substrate is foamed. A method for producing an optically variable security element for security papers, value documents and other data carriers, in which - a substantially transparent support is provided with opposite first and second major surfaces, wherein on the first main surface of the support an array of microlenses is arranged, - on the second A laser-sensitive recording layer is arranged on the main surface of the support, the laser lens-sensitive cover layer is formed by the action of laser radiation at least one recess which extends over a plurality of microlenses, in the laser-sensitive recording layer by the action of laser radiation a plurality of micro-tags is generated, each one Micro-label is associated with a microlens and is visible when viewing the security element through the associated microlens, and - the plurality of micro-mark on the carrier is accurately positioned immediately opposite to the at least one recess. A method according to claim 28, characterized in that the recesses in the laser-sensitive masking layer and the opposite micro-marks in the laser-sensitive recording layer are produced in the same operation by the same laser beam. A method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the microdischarges are generated from at least two different directions through the microlens array in the recording layer. Method for producing a data carrier according to one of Claims 26 or 27, in which A data carrier substrate is provided, Providing a substantially transparent support with opposing first and second major surfaces, an array of microlenses being arranged on the first major surface of the support, A laser-sensitive recording layer is arranged on the second main surface of the carrier, The microlens array is provided with a laser-sensitive cover layer, The carrier with the laser-sensitive recording layer, the microlens array and the laser-sensitive cover layer is applied to the data carrier substrate, and - In the same operation by the same laser beam by the action of laser radiation a) at least one recess is produced in the laser-sensitive covering layer, which extends over a plurality of microlenses, b) in the laser-sensitive recording layer, a plurality of micro-registration is generated, each micro-label is assigned to a microlens and is visible when viewing the security element through the associated microlens, wherein the plurality of micro-mark on the support is accurately positioned immediately opposite to the at least one recess , and c) in the data carrier substrate outside of the region in which the carrier with the recording layer, the microlens array and the cover layer is applied to the data carrier substrate, a marking region is created, which adjoins at least one of the recesses of the cover layer. A method according to claim 31, characterized in that in the marking area by the action of laser radiation color components or metallic substances are removed from the data carrier substrate or the data carrier substrate is foamed.

Images