EP3651997B1 - Product or product packaging with structural element - Google Patents

Product or product packaging with structural element Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3651997B1
EP3651997B1 EP18739727.8A EP18739727A EP3651997B1 EP 3651997 B1 EP3651997 B1 EP 3651997B1 EP 18739727 A EP18739727 A EP 18739727A EP 3651997 B1 EP3651997 B1 EP 3651997B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
relief
product
product packaging
reflection image
color image
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.)
Active
Application number
EP18739727.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3651997A1 (en
Inventor
Martin Imhof
Astrid Heine
Peter Franz
Thanh-Hao Huynh
Karlheinz Mayer
Raphael DEHMEL
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.)
Giesecke and Devrient Currency Technology GmbH
Original Assignee
Giesecke and Devrient Currency Technology GmbH
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
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Publication of EP3651997A1 publication Critical patent/EP3651997A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3651997B1 publication Critical patent/EP3651997B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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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
    • B42D25/30—Identification or security features, e.g. for preventing forgery
    • B42D25/351—Translucent or partly translucent parts, e.g. windows
    • 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
    • B42D25/355—Security threads
    • 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
    • B42D25/36—Identification or security features, e.g. for preventing forgery comprising special materials
    • B42D25/373—Metallic materials
    • 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
    • B42D25/40—Manufacture
    • B42D25/405—Marking
    • B42D25/425—Marking by deformation, e.g. embossing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B44—DECORATIVE ARTS
    • B44F—SPECIAL DESIGNS OR PICTURES
    • B44F1/00—Designs or pictures characterised by special or unusual light effects
    • B44F1/02—Designs or pictures characterised by special or unusual light effects produced by reflected light, e.g. matt surfaces, lustrous surfaces
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B44—DECORATIVE ARTS
    • B44F—SPECIAL DESIGNS OR PICTURES
    • B44F7/00—Designs imitating three-dimensional effects

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a product or a product packaging with a structural element.
  • the invention also relates to a method for producing the structural element on the product or the product packaging.
  • a spatial impression for the viewer it is known, for example, to represent an object in perspective, to provide it with shading or to use areas that are deliberately shown blurred.
  • DE 10 2007 061838 A1 discloses a security element with a hologram and an overlying color layer, which is intended to be applied to a product.
  • DE 10 2007 061 838 A1 shows the preamble of claim 1. Proceeding from this, the invention is based on the object of specifying a decorative structural element that can in particular be manufactured inexpensively.
  • the product or the product packaging with structural element comprises a reflection image structure which creates a three-dimensional representation of an object.
  • the structural element comprises the reflection image structure of the object and a color image of the object.
  • the reflection image structure comprises a relief structure with relief elements in a surface of the product or the product packaging and a reflective layer.
  • the reflection image structure makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional to the viewer in relation to the surface of the product or the product packaging.
  • the color image is a printed, multicolored color image of the object. It is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a way that the representation of the object appears multicolored and three-dimensional to the viewer.
  • the color image and / or the reflective layer are semitransparent.
  • the reflective relief elements have a lateral size of more than 30 ⁇ m.
  • the structural element of the product or the product packaging can be produced particularly inexpensively, since both the reflection image structure and the color image can be produced by printing (or by embossing and printing).
  • the reflective layer is more cost-effective to provide the reflective layer as a reflective layer printed on in certain areas or as a reflective layer transferred in certain areas.
  • the object is represented with the help of the color image and the reflection image structure, which can be selected and produced independently of one another. It is particularly advantageous that the color image can be created with a low positional accuracy in relation to the reflection image structure.
  • the color image only needs to be arranged with a position tolerance of up to 0.2 mm, preferably up to 1 mm, to the reflection image structure.
  • the Position tolerance is, for example, greater than the lateral size of a relief element.
  • the color image is preferably a printed color image and / or the relief structure is a relief structure produced by embossing (or structure in a surface).
  • the embossing is preferably carried out in a carrier layer.
  • the carrier layer can be transparent, semitransparent or opaque.
  • the relief structure is produced in particular by means of blind embossing, that is to say, for example, by means of color-free intaglio or gravure printing or by means of gravure or embossing. It would also be conceivable to carry out the embossing and the application of the color image together, in particular in an ink-carrying relief or gravure printing step.
  • a semitransparent color image can lie directly on or above the semitransparent or opaque reflection image structure.
  • the (semitransparent or opaque) color image can lie directly below or below the reflection image structure.
  • the colored layer can even lie on the lower side of the transparent carrier layer.
  • the color image itself can - in particular in its multicolor - be designed in such a way that it additionally supports the three-dimensional impression created by the reflection image structure for the viewer, for example through shading, color changes or similar image design means.
  • the reflection image structure comprises a reflective layer which, in particular, is produced by means of a printing process is. Since the reflective layer is semitransparent, it can also be referred to as a reflection-increasing layer.
  • the reflective layer can be applied - in particular over the entire surface - before or after the introduction (in particular embossing) of the relief structure.
  • a highly refractive or metallic layer could be used as the reflective layer.
  • the reflective layer is preferably created by printing a color (or a lacquer) with metallic pigments.
  • the metallic pigments are nanoscale pigments or flat pigments, in particular with an average length in the range from 0.5 to 10 ⁇ m.
  • the flat pigments can be rigid or flexible enough to adapt to the relief structure. It would be much less cost-effective to vaporize the reflective layer (CVD, PVD).
  • the reflective layer is particularly preferably created using a printing process (e.g. offset, screen printing), then printed in color using a printing process and then (blind) embossed.
  • a printing process e.g. offset, screen printing
  • the reflective layer is first embossed and then printed in color.
  • the reflective layer is applied to the carrier layer as a film application (e.g. as a hot or cold transfer film) or as a laminated metallic layer. It is then printed in color using a printing process and embossed (before or after printing - optional).
  • the structural element advantageously shows the multicolored and three-dimensional representation of the object on the front.
  • the rear of the structural element can show a different object or the same object in a different representation for the viewer.
  • On the back of an opaque carrier layer for example, a further color image and / or a further reflection image structure are provided.
  • a transparent or semitransparent carrier layer either under the color image or the reflection image structure a further color image, which interacts with the reflection image structure, or a further reflection image structure, which interacts with the color image, is present.
  • the color image (F), the reflection image structure (R) and the further element, as a color image (F2) or reflection image structure (R2), can be present together on one side or distributed on the front and back of the carrier layer (FR / F2; RF / R2 ; F / R F2; R / F R2).
  • a transparent carrier layer can be provided with only one reflective layer, the front colored image and a further rear colored image, so that the front side has a curved representation of the object (for example an apple) and the reverse side an inversely curved representation of another object (such as an aquarium glass from above ) arises.
  • the multicolor predefined by the color image remains unchanged.
  • the reflection image structure shows a changing reflection behavior for the viewer when the structural element is tilted and / or rotated.
  • the reflection image structure is adapted in such a way that the highlight moves on the object that appears three-dimensional.
  • the structural element can also comprise further relief structure areas.
  • the relief structure and / or the reflective layer are provided in the area of the reflection image structure and in a further area.
  • the relief structure forms the reflection image structure.
  • the further area comprises a relief-structured partial area which adjoins or surrounds the area of the reflection image structure.
  • the relief-structured The sub-area is preferably a relief-structured, non-colored sub-area or a different relief-structured sub-area, for example with other relief element types.
  • the further area can include a limited relief structure-free and reflective sub-area.
  • This sub-area preferably adjoins the relief-structured sub-area or is surrounded by the relief-structured sub-area.
  • the relief structure-free surface is designed in the form of a character or motif. It is preferably arranged at a distance from the area of the reflection image structure in order not to weaken the recognizability of the object in the area.
  • the limited relief structure-free area (sub-area) surrounds a relief-structured area (sub-area). The surrounding relief-structured surface or its outer contour can thereby be particularly emphasized.
  • the reflection image structure comprises a multiplicity of reflective relief elements.
  • the reflective relief elements of the reflection image structure are generally of a first relief element type.
  • the relief elements of the relief structure lie in a common relief structure plane.
  • the relief height of the reflection image structure corresponds to the maximum height of one of the relief elements.
  • the relief elements have, in particular, a planar reflective surface, the relief elements being able to differ in terms of their angle of inclination and azimuth.
  • the relief elements are preferably arranged in a mosaic-like manner, that is to say to fill the area. A large number of similarly designed relief elements form the relief structure in the first area.
  • the orientation (eg angle of inclination and azimuth angle) of the relief elements is selected depending on their lateral position so that incident Light is reflected on the relief elements in the same direction in which the three-dimensional object would reflect the light.
  • the reflection image structure produces, in particular, a curved, three-dimensional representation of the object, which in reality would have a curved surface.
  • the reflective relief elements have a minimum size of more than 30 ⁇ m, in particular more than 100 ⁇ m, but are at most 1 mm in size. The minimum size, for example a width, a diagonal, a diameter or an edge length (honeycomb shape) of a relief element is measured laterally, that is to say in relation to the relief structure plane.
  • the height of the relief elements is a maximum of 300 ⁇ m, preferably a maximum of 150 ⁇ m, particularly preferably a maximum of 100 ⁇ m, and is in particular in the range from 10 to 120 ⁇ m, preferably 25 to 100 ⁇ m, particularly preferably 25 to 50 ⁇ m.
  • the aspect ratio (height to width) is preferably 1: 1.3.
  • the area of the relief elements is between 100 ⁇ m 2 and 1 mm 2 , preferably between 900 ⁇ m 2 and 250,000 ⁇ m 2 , in particular between 10,000 ⁇ m 2 and 250,000 ⁇ m 2 , more preferably between 90,000 ⁇ m 2 and 250,000 ⁇ m 2 .
  • a structural element can additionally comprise an optically variable element.
  • the optically variable element can be present in a second partial area.
  • the optically variable sub-area of the further area preferably adjoins the relief-structured sub-area or is surrounded by it.
  • the optically variable element can be formed at least partially by the relief structure.
  • the optically variable element shows a tilting effect, so for the viewer it represents a motif, such as a character, pattern or object, only in a given tilt or rotation angle range.
  • linear relief elements can be present in a second area, which are locally on a flank of the relief element - are modified by an imprint, a surface variation (such as matting) or additional embossing elements.
  • the structural element is created directly on a product or product packaging.
  • the relief structure is preferably introduced into the surface of the product or the product packaging.
  • the structural element serves as a label for the product.
  • the product is an end product or a product for an end customer (or user).
  • the structural element is not easy to recreate. This applies in particular if, in addition to the three-dimensional and colored representation, it includes further areas with relief structures and / or optically variable elements. In this respect, it can also be referred to as a simple security element.
  • a method for producing a structural element of a product or a product packaging which produces a three-dimensional representation of an object comprises the following steps.
  • a reflection image structure of the object is created, with a relief structure being introduced into the surface of a product or product packaging.
  • the relief structure with relief elements lies in particular in a relief structure plane.
  • the reflection image structure makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional to the viewer.
  • a multicolored color image of the object is created, which is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a way that the representation of the object appears multicolored and three-dimensional to the viewer.
  • a carrier layer can already be reflective (or metallized) or a carrier layer can be printed with a reflective color (in particular with metallic nano- or platelet pigments) (for example with screen printing).
  • the color image can be printed on the reflective layer (e.g. in offset printing) and then provided with the relief structure by means of embossing.
  • the relief structure is introduced into the reflective layer and then the color image is printed (for example with inkjet printing).
  • a carrier layer can first be embossed and then provided with the reflective layer and the color image.
  • Screen printing, offset printing, intaglio printing, inkjet printing or digital printing are particularly suitable as printing methods for printing the color image. Different color components, such as RGB components, can be printed one after the other in several printing sub-steps.
  • Figure 1 shows a structural element of the product or the product packaging in plan.
  • the structural element comprises a reflection image structure 120 of an object, for example an apple, and a color image 140 of the object.
  • FIG Figure 2 The cross section of the structural element 100 is shown in FIG Figure 2 shown.
  • a carrier layer 110 for example a transparent packaging film, is provided with a relief structure 120.
  • a reflective layer 130 for example a metal layer, is arranged on the carrier layer 110.
  • On the The color layer of the multicolored color image 140 is located on the metal layer.
  • the color layer 140 is designed to be semitransparent. For illustration purposes, in this example it comprises three differently colored areas 141, 142 and 143.
  • the viewer looks at the structural element 100 from above.
  • the individual relief elements 121, 122 of the relief structure are aligned in such a way that the reflection image structure 120 generates a curved three-dimensional representation of the object for the viewer.
  • the principle of such an alignment is off WO 2013/007374 A1 and WO 2014/060089 A2 known.
  • the semitransparent color image 140 over the reflection image structure 120 creates a colored and three-dimensional image of the object for the viewer.
  • the relief elements 121, 122, 125 can be designed as honeycombs or regular hexagons.
  • the relief elements 121, 122 of the relief image structure 120 contain the angle of inclination of the relief element 121, 122 as a numerical indication.
  • Relief elements with an inclination angle of 10, 25, 40, 60 and 40 degrees are arranged in rings around an inclined relief element. The inclination is oriented in the direction of the central relief element (azimuth angle).
  • Relief elements 125 lying outside the relief image structure 120 are optional and in this example would be aligned flat.
  • the differently colored areas 141, 142, 143 of the color image are selected in terms of their color and arrangement in such a way that they additionally support the three-dimensional impression of the object.
  • the color image is preferably a true color image, that is to say it can include any color value levels - not just in areas.
  • the color (or the hue) can be created from basic colors such as CYMK. In particular, process colors are used. The use of spot colors, for example with effect pigments, is conceivable. It can also be seen in both figures that the color image and the reflection image structure can be designed for the object independently of one another. A grid of the reflection image structure is independent of a grid of the color image.
  • the position of the grids with respect to one another and / or an exact arrangement of the color image in relation to the reflection image structure is also not important for the three-dimensional, multicolored representation of the object. Changes can thus be implemented cost-effectively and no increased requirements are placed on the positional accuracy in the manufacturing process.
  • the reflective layer 130 is semitransparent, the colored layer 140 could also lie under the reflective layer 130.
  • the relief structure can be produced by embossing.
  • the carrier layer 110 is advantageously embossed directly and then the reflective layer 130 and the colored layer 140 are applied.
  • the existing reflective layer and / or colored layer is also embossed.
  • the carrier layer 110 is transparent, the rear side of the structural element (in Figure 2 from below) viewed an inversely curved reflection image of the object.
  • a differently colored representation of the object red shaded instead of green shaded apple
  • the reverse imprint is semitransparent, the curvature would also be inverse on the reverse (the red apple curved out of the relief structure level on the front side appears as a green apple curved behind the relief structure level).
  • FIG 3 an expanded structural arrangement 200 is shown on a carrier layer 110, in which the structural element 100 is combined with further elements or subregions 220, 230, 240.
  • the further elements 220, 230, 240 can in particular be produced in the same operation, in particular also by means of embossing (and optionally color printing).
  • the mosaic-like relief structure in the area of the structural element 100 is combined with a different, here linear, relief structure 221 in a second area 220.
  • the second area 220 can surround the first area 100 of the structural element or adjoin it.
  • the outer contour of the object in particular can be emphasized by changing the type of relief element.
  • a first reflective partial area 240 of the second area 220 is relief-free, that is, its height is unstructured.
  • the boundaries of the relief-free partial area 240 are indicated with dashed lines.
  • the relief-free sub-area 240 is a reflective surface, possibly overprinted in one color, regardless of the viewing angle.
  • the relief structure forms an optically variable element with a tilting effect.
  • the linear relief structure 220 is additionally embossed on a flank in the sub-area, so that the sub-area 230 can be perceived as an independent area depending on the viewing angle.
  • the local modification 231 of the partial area can take place by means of printing or embossing.
  • Corresponding solutions for the sub-area 230 are for example in WO 2013/045055 A1 described in more detail.

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  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Printing Methods (AREA)
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Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Produkt oder eine Produktverpackung mit Strukturelement. Die Erfindung betrifft auch ein Verfahren zur Herstellung des Strukturelements auf dem Produkt bzw. der Produktverpackung. Zur Erzeugung eines räumlichen Eindrucks für den Betrachter ist es beispielsweise bekannt, ein Objekt perspektivisch darzustellen, es mit Schattierungen zu versehen oder bewusst unscharf dargestellte Bereiche einzusetzen.The invention relates to a product or a product packaging with a structural element. The invention also relates to a method for producing the structural element on the product or the product packaging. In order to create a spatial impression for the viewer, it is known, for example, to represent an object in perspective, to provide it with shading or to use areas that are deliberately shown blurred.

Es gibt inzwischen eine Vielzahl teils sehr komplexer oder technisch anspruchsvoller Verfahren, wie beispielsweise Hologramme in verschiedensten Varianten, um einen räumlichen Eindruck zu vermitteln. Die Kosten für derartige Technologien sind oft vergleichsweise hoch. Für Hochsicherheitselemente, wie Sicherheitsfäden, Sicherheitsstreifen oder Patches für Banknoten, ist es beispielsweise bekannt, dass in einem Motivbereich die einzelnen Reflektor-Elemente einer metallisierten Reliefstruktur aus Reflektor-Elementen so ausgerichtet werden können, dass für den Betrachter der Eindruck eines gewölbten Motives entsteht. Beispiele für entsprechende Anmeldungen sind WO 2013/007374 A1 und WO 2014/060089 A2 . Auch DE 10 2010 049 600 A1 betrifft Sicherheitselemente für Banknoten. DE 10 2007 061838 A1 offenbart ein Sicherheitselement mit Hologramm und darüber liegender Farbschicht, welches zum Aufbringen auf ein Produkt vorgesehen ist. DE 10 2007 061 838 A1 zeigt den Oberbegriff von Anspruch 1. Davon ausgehend liegt der Erfindung die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein dekoratives Strukturelement anzugeben, dass insbesondere kostengünstig herstellbar ist.There are now a large number of sometimes very complex or technically demanding processes, such as holograms in a wide variety of variants, to convey a spatial impression. The costs for such technologies are often comparatively high. For high security elements, such as security threads, security strips or patches for banknotes, it is known, for example, that the individual reflector elements of a metallized relief structure made of reflector elements can be aligned in a motif area so that the viewer has the impression of a curved motif. Examples of such registrations are WO 2013/007374 A1 and WO 2014/060089 A2 . Even DE 10 2010 049 600 A1 relates to security elements for banknotes. DE 10 2007 061838 A1 discloses a security element with a hologram and an overlying color layer, which is intended to be applied to a product. DE 10 2007 061 838 A1 shows the preamble of claim 1. Proceeding from this, the invention is based on the object of specifying a decorative structural element that can in particular be manufactured inexpensively.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch die Merkmale der unabhängigen Ansprüche gelöst. Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand der abhängigen Ansprüche.This object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

Das Produkt oder die Produktverpackung mit Strukturelement umfasst eine Reflexionsbildstruktur, welches eine dreidimensional erscheinende Darstellung eines Objektes erzeugt. Das Strukturelement umfasst die Reflexionsbildstruktur des Objektes und ein Farbbild des Objektes. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur umfasst eine Reliefstruktur mit Reliefelementen in einer Oberfläche des Produkts respektive der Produktverpackung und eine reflektierende Schicht. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur lässt für den Betrachter die Darstellung des Objektes gegenüber der Oberfläche des Produktes respektive der Produktverpackung dreidimensional erscheinen. Das Farbbild ist ein aufgedrucktes, mehrfarbiges Farbbild des Objektes. Es ist so zur Reflexionsbildstruktur angeordnet, dass für den Betrachter die Darstellung des Objektes mehrfarbig und dreidimensional erscheint. Das Farbbild und/ oder die reflektierende Schicht sind semitransparent. Die reflektierenden Reliefelemente haben eine laterale Größe von mehr als 30µm.The product or the product packaging with structural element comprises a reflection image structure which creates a three-dimensional representation of an object. The structural element comprises the reflection image structure of the object and a color image of the object. The reflection image structure comprises a relief structure with relief elements in a surface of the product or the product packaging and a reflective layer. The reflection image structure makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional to the viewer in relation to the surface of the product or the product packaging. The color image is a printed, multicolored color image of the object. It is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a way that the representation of the object appears multicolored and three-dimensional to the viewer. The color image and / or the reflective layer are semitransparent. The reflective relief elements have a lateral size of more than 30 µm.

Das Strukturelement des Produktes oder der Produktverpackung kann besonders kostengünstig hergestellt werden, da sowohl die Reflexionsbildstruktur als auch das Farbbild drucktechnisch (bzw. prägetechnisch und drucktechnisch) erzeugt werden können.The structural element of the product or the product packaging can be produced particularly inexpensively, since both the reflection image structure and the color image can be produced by printing (or by embossing and printing).

Zudem ist es kostengünstiger die reflektierende Schicht als eine bereichsweise aufgedruckte, reflektierende Schicht oder als eine bereichsweise übertragene, reflektierende Schicht vorzusehen.In addition, it is more cost-effective to provide the reflective layer as a reflective layer printed on in certain areas or as a reflective layer transferred in certain areas.

Das Objekt wird mit Hilfe des Farbbildes und der Reflexionsbildstruktur dargestellt, welche unabhängig voneinander wählbar und herstellbar sind. Es ist besonders vorteilhaft, dass das Farbbild mit einer geringen Positionsgenauigkeit zur Reflexionsbildstruktur erstellt werden kann. Insbesondere muss das Farbbild nur mit einer Positionstoleranz von bis zu 0,2 mm, vorzugsweise bis zu 1 mm, zur Reflexionsbildstruktur angeordnet werden. Die Positionstoleranz ist beispielsweise größer als die laterale Größe eines Reliefelements.The object is represented with the help of the color image and the reflection image structure, which can be selected and produced independently of one another. It is particularly advantageous that the color image can be created with a low positional accuracy in relation to the reflection image structure. In particular, the color image only needs to be arranged with a position tolerance of up to 0.2 mm, preferably up to 1 mm, to the reflection image structure. the Position tolerance is, for example, greater than the lateral size of a relief element.

Das Farbbild ist bevorzugt ein aufgedrucktes Farbbild und/oder die Reliefstruktur ist eine durch Prägung erzeugte Reliefstruktur (bzw. Struktur in einer Oberfläche). Die Prägung erfolgt bevorzugt in eine Trägerschicht. Die Trägerschicht kann transparent, semitransparent oder opak sein. Die Reliefstruktur wird insbesondere mittels Blindprägen erzeugt, also beispielsweise mittels farbfreiem Stichtief- oder Tiefdruck oder mittels Tief- oder Hochprägung. Denkbar wäre es auch das Prägen und das Aufbringen des Farbbildes gemeinsam, insbesondere in einem farbführenden Hoch- oder Tiefdruckschritt, auszuführen.The color image is preferably a printed color image and / or the relief structure is a relief structure produced by embossing (or structure in a surface). The embossing is preferably carried out in a carrier layer. The carrier layer can be transparent, semitransparent or opaque. The relief structure is produced in particular by means of blind embossing, that is to say, for example, by means of color-free intaglio or gravure printing or by means of gravure or embossing. It would also be conceivable to carry out the embossing and the application of the color image together, in particular in an ink-carrying relief or gravure printing step.

Ein semitransparentes Farbbild kann unmittelbar auf bzw. über der semitransparenten oder opaken Reflexionsbildstruktur liegen. Mit einer semitransparenten Reflexionsbildstruktur kann das (semitransparente oder opake) Farbbild unmittelbar unter bzw. unter der Reflexionsbildstruktur liegen. Im Falle einer Reliefstruktur in der oberen Seite einer transparenten Trägerschicht kann die Farbschicht sogar auf der unteren Seite der transparenten Trägerschicht liegen.A semitransparent color image can lie directly on or above the semitransparent or opaque reflection image structure. With a semitransparent reflection image structure, the (semitransparent or opaque) color image can lie directly below or below the reflection image structure. In the case of a relief structure in the upper side of a transparent carrier layer, the colored layer can even lie on the lower side of the transparent carrier layer.

Das Farbbild selbst kann - insbesondere in seiner Mehrfarbigkeit - so gestaltet sein, dass es den durch die Reflexionsbildstruktur erzeugten dreidimensionalen Eindruck für den Betrachter zusätzlich unterstützt, beispielsweise durch Schattierungen, Farbtonänderungen oder ähnliche bildgestalterische Mittel.The color image itself can - in particular in its multicolor - be designed in such a way that it additionally supports the three-dimensional impression created by the reflection image structure for the viewer, for example through shading, color changes or similar image design means.

Die Reflexionsbildstruktur umfasst in bevorzugten Ausgestaltungen eine reflektierende Schicht, die insbesondere mittels eines Druckverfahrens erzeugt ist. Da die reflektierende Schicht semitransparent ist kann sie auch als reflektionserhöhende Schicht bezeichnet werden. Die reflektierende Schicht kann vor oder nach dem Einbringen (insbesondere Prägen) der Reliefstruktur - insbesondere vollflächig - aufgebracht werden. Als reflektierende Schicht könnte eine hochbrechende oder eine metallische Schicht verwendet werden. Bevorzugt wird die reflektierende Schicht durch Drucken einer Farbe (oder eines Lackes) mit metallischen Pigmenten erstellt. Die metallischen Pigmente sind nanoskalige Pigmente oder flächige Pigmente, insbesondere mit einer durchschnittlichen Länge im Bereich von 0,5 bis 10 µm. Die flächigen Pigmente können starr sein oder derart flexibel, dass sie sich der Reliefstruktur anpassen. Wesentlich weniger kostengünstig wäre es, die reflektierende Schicht aufzudampfen (CVD, PVD).In preferred refinements, the reflection image structure comprises a reflective layer which, in particular, is produced by means of a printing process is. Since the reflective layer is semitransparent, it can also be referred to as a reflection-increasing layer. The reflective layer can be applied - in particular over the entire surface - before or after the introduction (in particular embossing) of the relief structure. A highly refractive or metallic layer could be used as the reflective layer. The reflective layer is preferably created by printing a color (or a lacquer) with metallic pigments. The metallic pigments are nanoscale pigments or flat pigments, in particular with an average length in the range from 0.5 to 10 μm. The flat pigments can be rigid or flexible enough to adapt to the relief structure. It would be much less cost-effective to vaporize the reflective layer (CVD, PVD).

Besonders bevorzugt wird die reflektierende Schicht mittels Druckverfahren (z.B. Offset, Siebdruck) erstellt, anschließend mit einem Druckverfahren farbig bedruckt und dann (blind)verprägt. Alternativ wird die reflektierende Schicht erst geprägt und dann farbig bedruckt. In weiteren bevorzugten Ausgestaltungen wird die reflektierende Schicht als Folienapplikation (z.B. als Heiß- oder Kalttransferfolie) bzw. als kaschierte metallische Schicht auf die Trägerschicht aufgebracht. Anschließend wird sie mit einem Druckverfahren farbig bedruckt und (vor oder nach dem Drucken - optional) geprägt.The reflective layer is particularly preferably created using a printing process (e.g. offset, screen printing), then printed in color using a printing process and then (blind) embossed. Alternatively, the reflective layer is first embossed and then printed in color. In further preferred embodiments, the reflective layer is applied to the carrier layer as a film application (e.g. as a hot or cold transfer film) or as a laminated metallic layer. It is then printed in color using a printing process and embossed (before or after printing - optional).

Mit Vorteil zeigt das Strukturelement vorderseitig die mehrfarbige und dreidimensionale Darstellung des Objektes. Das Strukturelement kann rückseitig für den Betrachter ein anderes Objekt oder das gleiche Objekt in einer anderen Darstellung zeigen. Auf einer opaken Trägerschicht sind rückseitig beispielsweise eine weiteres Farbbild und/ oder eine weitere Reflexionsbildstruktur vorgesehen. Auf einer transparenten oder semitransparenten Trägerschicht kann unter dem Farbbild und der Reflexionsbildstruktur entweder ein weiteres Farbbild, welches mit der Reflexionsbildstruktur zusammenwirkt, oder eine weitere Reflexionsbildstruktur, welche mit dem Farbbild zusammenwirkt, vorliegen. Das Farbbild (F), die Reflexionsbildstruktur(R) und das weitere Element, als Farbbild (F2) oder Reflexionsbildstruktur (R2), können gemeinsam auf einer Seite oder verteilt auf Vorder- und Rückseite der Trägerschicht vorliegen (F R/F2; R F/R2; F/R F2; R/F R2). Beispielsweise kann eine transparente Trägerschicht mit nur einer Reflexionsschicht, dem vorderseitigen Farbbild und einem weiteren rückseitigen Farbbild versehen sein, so dass vorderseitig eine gewölbte Darstellung des Objektes (beispielsweise eines Apfels) und rückseitig eine invers gewölbte Darstellung eines anderen Objektes (wie beispielsweise ein Aquariumsglas von oben) entsteht.The structural element advantageously shows the multicolored and three-dimensional representation of the object on the front. The rear of the structural element can show a different object or the same object in a different representation for the viewer. On the back of an opaque carrier layer, for example, a further color image and / or a further reflection image structure are provided. On a transparent or semitransparent carrier layer, either under the color image or the reflection image structure a further color image, which interacts with the reflection image structure, or a further reflection image structure, which interacts with the color image, is present. The color image (F), the reflection image structure (R) and the further element, as a color image (F2) or reflection image structure (R2), can be present together on one side or distributed on the front and back of the carrier layer (FR / F2; RF / R2 ; F / R F2; R / F R2). For example, a transparent carrier layer can be provided with only one reflective layer, the front colored image and a further rear colored image, so that the front side has a curved representation of the object (for example an apple) and the reverse side an inversely curved representation of another object (such as an aquarium glass from above ) arises.

In besonders bevorzugten Ausgestaltungen bleibt bei einer Bewegung, wie Kippen und/ oder Drehen, des Strukturelements die durch das Farbbild vorgegebene Mehrfarbigkeit unverändert. Der Farbton, also der a*- und b*-Wert in einem LAB-Farbraum, bleibt unverändert, die Helligkeit, also der L-Wert, kann sich ändern. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur zeigt für den Betrachter ein sich änderndes Reflexionsverhalten, beim Kippen und/oder Drehen des Strukturelements. Insbesondere ist dabei die Reflexionsbildstruktur so angepasst, dass der Glanzpunkt auf dem dreidimensional erscheinenden Objekt wandert.In particularly preferred refinements, when the structural element is moved, such as tilting and / or rotating, the multicolor predefined by the color image remains unchanged. The hue, i.e. the a * and b * value in a LAB color space, remains unchanged, the brightness, i.e. the L value, can change. The reflection image structure shows a changing reflection behavior for the viewer when the structural element is tilted and / or rotated. In particular, the reflection image structure is adapted in such a way that the highlight moves on the object that appears three-dimensional.

Das Strukturelement kann zudem weitere Reliefstrukturbereiche umfassen. Die Reliefstruktur und/oder die reflektierende Schicht sind in dem Bereich der Reflexionsbildstruktur und in einem weiteren Bereich vorgesehen. In einem ersten Bereich bildet die Reliefstruktur die Reflexionsbildstruktur. Der weitere Bereich umfasst einen reliefstrukturierten Teilbereich, der an den Bereich der Reflexionsbildstruktur angrenzt oder ihn umgibt. Der reliefstrukturierte Teilbereich ist bevorzugt ein reliefstrukturierter, unbunter Teilbereich oder ein anders reliefstrukturierter Teilbereich, beispielsweise mit anderen Reliefelementtypen.The structural element can also comprise further relief structure areas. The relief structure and / or the reflective layer are provided in the area of the reflection image structure and in a further area. In a first area, the relief structure forms the reflection image structure. The further area comprises a relief-structured partial area which adjoins or surrounds the area of the reflection image structure. The relief-structured The sub-area is preferably a relief-structured, non-colored sub-area or a different relief-structured sub-area, for example with other relief element types.

Der weitere Bereich kann einen begrenzten reliefstrukturfreien und reflektierenden Teilbereich umfassen. Dieser Teilbereich grenzt vorzugsweise an den reliefstrukturierten Teilbereich an oder ist von dem reliefstrukturierten Teilbereich umgeben. Die reliefstrukturfreie Fläche ist in Form eines Zeichens oder Motivs ausgebildet. Sie ist vorzugsweise beabstandet von dem Bereich der Reflexionsbildstruktur angeordnet, um die Erkennbarkeit des Objekts in dem Bereich nicht zu schwächen. In einer anderen Ausgestaltung umgibt die begrenzte reliefstrukturfreie Fläche (Teilbereich), eine reliefstrukturierte Fläche (Teilbereich). Die umgebene reliefstrukturierte Fläche bzw. dessen Außenkontur kann dadurch besonders hervorgehoben werden.The further area can include a limited relief structure-free and reflective sub-area. This sub-area preferably adjoins the relief-structured sub-area or is surrounded by the relief-structured sub-area. The relief structure-free surface is designed in the form of a character or motif. It is preferably arranged at a distance from the area of the reflection image structure in order not to weaken the recognizability of the object in the area. In another embodiment, the limited relief structure-free area (sub-area) surrounds a relief-structured area (sub-area). The surrounding relief-structured surface or its outer contour can thereby be particularly emphasized.

Die Reflexionsbildstruktur umfasst eine Vielzahl von reflektierenden Reliefelementen. Die reflektierenden Reliefelemente der Reflexionsbildstruktur sind in der Regel von einem ersten Reliefelementtyp. Die Reliefelemente der Reliefstruktur liegen in einer gemeinsamen Reliefstrukturebene. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur erzeugt zwar eine dreidimensionale Darstellung des Objektes, ist aber eine insgesamt flache Struktur - insbesondere ohne eine objektbezogen relevante Höhe. Die Reliefhöhe der Reflexionsbildstruktur entspricht der maximalen Höhe eines der Reliefelemente. Die Reliefelemente haben insbesondere eine plane reflektierende Fläche, wobei sich die Reliefelemente durch ihren Neigungs- und Azimutwinkel unterscheiden können. Bevorzugt sind die Reliefelemente mosaikartig, also flächenfüllend, angeordnet. Eine Vielzahl gleichartig ausgebildeter Reliefelemente bildet die Reliefstruktur im ersten Bereich. Die Ausrichtung (z.b. Neigungs- und Azimutwinkel) der Reliefelemente ist in Abhängigkeit ihrer lateralen Position so gewählt, dass einfallendes Licht an den Reliefelementen in die gleiche Richtung reflektiert wird, in welche das dreidimensionale Objekt das Licht reflektieren würde. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur erzeugt insbesondere eine gewölbte, dreidimensionale Darstellung des Objektes, welches in der Realität eine gewölbte Oberfläche hätte. Die reflektierenden Reliefelemente haben eine Mindestgröße von mehr als 30 µm, insbesondere mehr als 100µm, sind maximal jedoch 1 mm groß. Die Mindestgröße, beispielsweise eine Breite, eine Diagonale, ein Durchmesser oder eine Kantenlänge (Wabenform) eines Reliefelements, wird lateral, also in Bezug auf die Reliefstrukturebene, gemessen. Die Höhe der Reliefelemente (Prägehöhe) beträgt maximal 300 µm, bevorzugt maximal 150 µm, besonders bevorzugt maximal 100 µm, und liegt insbesondere im Bereich von 10 bis 120 µm, bevorzugt 25 bis 100 µm, besonders bevorzugt 25 bis 50 µm. Bevorzugt liegt das Aspektverhältnis (Höhe zu Breite) bei 1 : 1,3. Die Fläche der Reliefelemente liegt zwischen 100 µm2 und 1 mm2, bevorzugt zwischen 900 µm2 und 250.000 µm2, insbesondere zwischen 10.000 µm2 und 250.000 µm2, weiter bevorzugt zwischen 90.000 µm2 und 250.000 µm2.The reflection image structure comprises a multiplicity of reflective relief elements. The reflective relief elements of the reflection image structure are generally of a first relief element type. The relief elements of the relief structure lie in a common relief structure plane. Although the reflection image structure generates a three-dimensional representation of the object, it is an overall flat structure - in particular without an object-related relevant height. The relief height of the reflection image structure corresponds to the maximum height of one of the relief elements. The relief elements have, in particular, a planar reflective surface, the relief elements being able to differ in terms of their angle of inclination and azimuth. The relief elements are preferably arranged in a mosaic-like manner, that is to say to fill the area. A large number of similarly designed relief elements form the relief structure in the first area. The orientation (eg angle of inclination and azimuth angle) of the relief elements is selected depending on their lateral position so that incident Light is reflected on the relief elements in the same direction in which the three-dimensional object would reflect the light. The reflection image structure produces, in particular, a curved, three-dimensional representation of the object, which in reality would have a curved surface. The reflective relief elements have a minimum size of more than 30 μm, in particular more than 100 μm, but are at most 1 mm in size. The minimum size, for example a width, a diagonal, a diameter or an edge length (honeycomb shape) of a relief element is measured laterally, that is to say in relation to the relief structure plane. The height of the relief elements (embossing height) is a maximum of 300 μm, preferably a maximum of 150 μm, particularly preferably a maximum of 100 μm, and is in particular in the range from 10 to 120 μm, preferably 25 to 100 μm, particularly preferably 25 to 50 μm. The aspect ratio (height to width) is preferably 1: 1.3. The area of the relief elements is between 100 μm 2 and 1 mm 2 , preferably between 900 μm 2 and 250,000 μm 2 , in particular between 10,000 μm 2 and 250,000 μm 2 , more preferably between 90,000 μm 2 and 250,000 μm 2 .

Die reflektierenden Reliefelemente der Reflexionsbildstruktur unterscheiden sich in einem oder mehreren der Parameter:

  • räumliche Ausrichtung des Reliefelementes, insbesondere Neigungswinkel und/oder Azimutwinkel, und
  • Strukturhöhe des Reliefelements.
The reflective relief elements of the reflection image structure differ in one or more of the parameters:
  • spatial alignment of the relief element, in particular angle of inclination and / or azimuth angle, and
  • Structure height of the relief element.

Das Strukturelement umfasst bevorzugt weiterhin mindestens Reliefelemente eines zweiten Reliefelementtyps. Der zweite Reliefelementtyp unterscheiden sich hinsichtlich einem oder mehreren der Parameter vom ersten Reliefelementtyp:

  • Außenkontur des Reliefelements, und/ oder
  • Größe des Reliefelements, und/oder
  • Reflexionsgrad des Reliefelements.
The structural element preferably further comprises at least relief elements of a second relief element type. The second type of relief element differ from the first type of relief element with regard to one or more of the parameters:
  • Outer contour of the relief element, and / or
  • Size of the relief element, and / or
  • Reflectivity of the relief element.

Auch die Reliefelemente des zweiten Reliefelementtyps können sich untereinander unterscheiden in einem oder mehreren der Parameter:

  • räumliche Ausrichtung des Reliefelementes, insbesondere Neigungswinkel und/oder Azimutwinkel, und
  • Strukturhöhe des Reliefelements.
The relief elements of the second relief element type can also differ from one another in one or more of the parameters:
  • spatial alignment of the relief element, in particular angle of inclination and / or azimuth angle, and
  • Structure height of the relief element.

Ein Strukturelement kann zusätzlich ein optisch variables Element umfassen. Insbesondere kann das optisch variable Element in einem zweiten Teilbereich vorliegen. Der optisch variable Teilbereich des weiteren Bereichs grenzt bevorzugt an den reliefstrukturierten Teilbereich an oder ist von diesem umgeben. Das optisch variable Element kann mindestens teilweise durch die Reliefstruktur gebildet sein. Das optisch variable Element zeigt einen Kippeffekt, stellt für den Betrachter also ein Motiv, wie Zeichen, Muster oder Objekt, nur in einem vorgegebenen Kipp- oder Drehwinkelbereich dar. Beispielsweise können lineare Reliefelemente in einem zweiten Bereich vorliegen, die lokal auf einer Flanke des Reliefelementes - durch einen Aufdruck, eine Oberflächenvariation (wie Mattierung) oder zusätzliche Prägeelemente - modifiziert sind.A structural element can additionally comprise an optically variable element. In particular, the optically variable element can be present in a second partial area. The optically variable sub-area of the further area preferably adjoins the relief-structured sub-area or is surrounded by it. The optically variable element can be formed at least partially by the relief structure. The optically variable element shows a tilting effect, so for the viewer it represents a motif, such as a character, pattern or object, only in a given tilt or rotation angle range. For example, linear relief elements can be present in a second area, which are locally on a flank of the relief element - are modified by an imprint, a surface variation (such as matting) or additional embossing elements.

Das Strukturelement wird unmittelbar auf einem Produkt oder einer Produktverpackung erstellt. Bevorzugt wird die Reliefstruktur in die Oberfläche des Produkts oder der Produktverpackung eingebracht. Das Strukturelement dient als Kennzeichnung für das Produkt. Das Produkt ist vorliegend ein Endprodukt bzw. ein Produkt für einen Endkunden (oder Benutzer).The structural element is created directly on a product or product packaging. The relief structure is preferably introduced into the surface of the product or the product packaging. The structural element serves as a label for the product. In the present case, the product is an end product or a product for an end customer (or user).

Das Strukturelement ist nicht leicht nachzubilden. Dies gilt insbesondere wenn es zusätzlich zu der dreidimensional und farbigen Darstellung, weitere Bereiche mit Reliefstrukturen und/oder optisch variable Elementen umfasst. Es kann insofern auch als einfaches Sicherheitselement bezeichnet werden.The structural element is not easy to recreate. This applies in particular if, in addition to the three-dimensional and colored representation, it includes further areas with relief structures and / or optically variable elements. In this respect, it can also be referred to as a simple security element.

Ein Verfahren zum Herstellen eines Strukturelements eines Produktes oder einer Produktverpackung, welches eine dreidimensional erscheinende Darstellung eines Objektes erzeugt, umfasst die folgenden Schritte. Eine Reflexionsbildstruktur des Objektes wird erstellt, wobei eine Reliefstruktur in die Oberfläche eines Produktes oder einer Produktverpackung eingebracht wird. Die Reliefstruktur mit Reliefelementen liegt insbesondere in einer Reliefstrukturebene. Die Reflexionsbildstruktur lässt für den Betrachter die Darstellung des Objektes dreidimensional erscheinen. Ein mehrfarbiges Farbbild des Objektes wird erstellt, welches so zur Reflexionsbildstruktur angeordnet ist, dass für den Betrachter die Darstellung des Objektes mehrfarbig und dreidimensional erscheint.A method for producing a structural element of a product or a product packaging which produces a three-dimensional representation of an object comprises the following steps. A reflection image structure of the object is created, with a relief structure being introduced into the surface of a product or product packaging. The relief structure with relief elements lies in particular in a relief structure plane. The reflection image structure makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional to the viewer. A multicolored color image of the object is created, which is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a way that the representation of the object appears multicolored and three-dimensional to the viewer.

Wie bereits ausgeführt kann die Reihenfolge in welcher das Farbbild und die Reflexionsbildstruktur bzw. dessen Teile erstellt wird unterschiedlich gewählt sein. So kann beispielsweise eine Trägerschicht bereits reflektierend (bzw. metallisiert) sein oder eine Trägerschicht mit reflektierender Farbe (insbesondere mit metallischen Nano- oder Plättchenpigmenten) bedruckt (z.b. mit Siebdruck) werden. Auf die reflektierende Schicht kann das Farbbild gedruckt (z.b. im Offsetdruck) und dann mittels Prägung mit der Reliefstruktur versehen werden. Alternativ wird in die reflektierende Schicht die Reliefstruktur eingebracht und anschließend das Farbbild (z.b. mit Inkjetdruck) gedruckt. Eine Trägerschicht kann weiter alternativ zunächst geprägt und dann mit der reflektierenden Schicht und dem Farbbild versehen werden. Als Druckverfahren zum Drucken des Farbbildes eignen sich insbesondere Sieb-, Offset-, Stichtief-, Inkjet- oder Digitaldruck. Unterschiedliche Farbanteile, wie RGB-Anteile, können in mehreren Druckteilschritten hintereinander gedruckt werden.As already stated, the order in which the color image and the reflection image structure or its parts are created can be selected to be different. For example, a carrier layer can already be reflective (or metallized) or a carrier layer can be printed with a reflective color (in particular with metallic nano- or platelet pigments) (for example with screen printing). The color image can be printed on the reflective layer (e.g. in offset printing) and then provided with the relief structure by means of embossing. Alternatively, the relief structure is introduced into the reflective layer and then the color image is printed (for example with inkjet printing). As an alternative, a carrier layer can first be embossed and then provided with the reflective layer and the color image. Screen printing, offset printing, intaglio printing, inkjet printing or digital printing are particularly suitable as printing methods for printing the color image. Different color components, such as RGB components, can be printed one after the other in several printing sub-steps.

Weitere Ausführungsbeispiele sowie Vorteile der Erfindung werden nachfolgend anhand der Figuren erläutert, bei deren Darstellung auf eine maßstabs- und proportionsgetreue Wiedergabe verzichtet wurde, um die Anschaulichkeit zu erhöhen.Further exemplary embodiments as well as advantages of the invention are explained below with reference to the figures, in the representation of which a reproduction true to scale and proportion was dispensed with in order to increase the clarity.

Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische Darstellung eines Strukturelements in Aufsicht,
Fig. 2
eine schematische Darstellung des Strukturelements im Querschnitt, und
Fig. 3
ein Strukturelement zusammen mit weiteren Reliefstrukturen in Aufsicht.
Show it:
Fig. 1
a schematic representation of a structural element in plan view,
Fig. 2
a schematic representation of the structural element in cross section, and
Fig. 3
a structural element together with other relief structures in plan view.

Figur 1 zeigt ein Strukturelement des Produktes oder der Produktverpackung in Aufsicht. Das Strukturelement umfasst eine Reflexionsbildstruktur 120 eines Objektes, beispielsweise ein Apfel, und ein Farbbild 140 des Objektes. Figure 1 shows a structural element of the product or the product packaging in plan. The structural element comprises a reflection image structure 120 of an object, for example an apple, and a color image 140 of the object.

Der Querschnitt des Strukturelementes 100 ist in Figur 2 dargestellt. Eine Trägerschicht 110, beispielsweise eine transparente Verpackungsfolie, ist mit einer Reliefstruktur 120 versehen. Auf der Trägerschicht 110 ist eine reflektierende Schicht 130, beispielsweise eine Metallschicht, angeordnet. Auf der Metallschicht liegt die Farbschicht des mehrfarbigen Farbbildes 140. Die Farbschicht 140 ist semitransparent ausgebildet. Sie umfasst zur Illustration in diesem Beispiel drei unterschiedlich farbige Bereiche 141, 142 und 143.The cross section of the structural element 100 is shown in FIG Figure 2 shown. A carrier layer 110, for example a transparent packaging film, is provided with a relief structure 120. A reflective layer 130, for example a metal layer, is arranged on the carrier layer 110. On the The color layer of the multicolored color image 140 is located on the metal layer. The color layer 140 is designed to be semitransparent. For illustration purposes, in this example it comprises three differently colored areas 141, 142 and 143.

Der Betrachter sieht das Strukturelement 100 von oben an. Die einzelnen Reliefelemente 121,122 der Reliefstruktur sind so ausgerichtet, dass die Reflexionsbildstruktur 120 für den Betrachter eine gewölbte dreidimensionale Darstellung des Objektes erzeugt. Das Prinzip einer solchen Ausrichtung ist aus WO 2013/007374 A1 und WO 2014/060089 A2 bekannt. Durch das semitransparente Farbbild 140 über der Reflexionsbildstruktur 120 entsteht für den Betrachter ein farbiges und dreidimensionales Bild des Objektes.The viewer looks at the structural element 100 from above. The individual relief elements 121, 122 of the relief structure are aligned in such a way that the reflection image structure 120 generates a curved three-dimensional representation of the object for the viewer. The principle of such an alignment is off WO 2013/007374 A1 and WO 2014/060089 A2 known. The semitransparent color image 140 over the reflection image structure 120 creates a colored and three-dimensional image of the object for the viewer.

Wie in Figur 1 erkennbar, können die Reliefelemente 121, 122, 125 als Waben bzw. regelmäßige Sechsecke ausgebildet sein. Die Reliefelemente 121, 122 der Reliefbildstruktur 120 enthalten als Zahlenangabe den Neigungswinkel des Reliefelementes 121,122. Um ein ungeneigtes Reliefelement herum sind jeweils in Ringen Reliefelemente mit einem Neigungswinkel von 10, 25, 40, 60 und 40 Grad angeordnet. Die Neigung ist dabei jeweils in Richtung des zentralen Reliefelementes orientiert (Azimutwinkel). Außerhalb der Reliefbildstruktur 120 liegende Reliefelemente 125 sind optional und wären in diesem Beispiel plan ausgerichtet.As in Figure 1 recognizable, the relief elements 121, 122, 125 can be designed as honeycombs or regular hexagons. The relief elements 121, 122 of the relief image structure 120 contain the angle of inclination of the relief element 121, 122 as a numerical indication. Relief elements with an inclination angle of 10, 25, 40, 60 and 40 degrees are arranged in rings around an inclined relief element. The inclination is oriented in the direction of the central relief element (azimuth angle). Relief elements 125 lying outside the relief image structure 120 are optional and in this example would be aligned flat.

Die unterschiedlich farbigen Bereiche 141, 142, 143 des Farbbildes sind von ihrer Farbe und Anordnung so gewählt, dass sie den dreidimensionalen Eindruck des Objektes zusätzlich unterstützen. Das Farbbild ist bevorzugt ein Echtfarbenbild, kann also beliebige Farbwertstufen - nicht nur bereichsweise - umfassen. Die Farbe (bzw. der Farbton) kann aus Grundfarben, wie CYMK, erstellt sein. Insbesondere werden Skalenfarben verwendet. Der Einsatz von Schmuckfarben, beispielsweise mit Effektpigmenten, ist denkbar. In beiden Figuren ist ebenfalls erkennbar, dass das Farbbild und die Reflexionsbildstruktur unabhängig voneinander für das Objekt gestaltet werden können. Ein Raster der Reflexionsbildstruktur ist unabhängig von einem Raster des Farbbildes. Auch die Lage der Raster zueinander und/oder eine exakte Anordnung des Farbbildes zur Reflexionsbildstruktur ist für die dreidimensionale mehrfarbige Darstellung des Objektes nicht erheblich. Änderungen können somit kostengünstig umgesetzt werden und an die Lagegenauigkeit im Herstellungsverfahren werden keine erhöhten Anforderungen gestellt.The differently colored areas 141, 142, 143 of the color image are selected in terms of their color and arrangement in such a way that they additionally support the three-dimensional impression of the object. The color image is preferably a true color image, that is to say it can include any color value levels - not just in areas. The color (or the hue) can be created from basic colors such as CYMK. In particular, process colors are used. The use of spot colors, for example with effect pigments, is conceivable. It can also be seen in both figures that the color image and the reflection image structure can be designed for the object independently of one another. A grid of the reflection image structure is independent of a grid of the color image. The position of the grids with respect to one another and / or an exact arrangement of the color image in relation to the reflection image structure is also not important for the three-dimensional, multicolored representation of the object. Changes can thus be implemented cost-effectively and no increased requirements are placed on the positional accuracy in the manufacturing process.

Einige Varianten sollen anhand von Figur 2 kurz angedeutet werden. Ist die Reflexionsschicht 130 semitransparent, könnte die Farbschicht 140 auch unter der Reflexionsschicht 130 liegen. Die Reliefstruktur kann durch Prägen erzeugt werden. Vorteilhaft wird direkt die Trägerschicht 110 geprägt und anschließend werden Reflexionsschicht 130 und die Farbschicht 140 aufgebracht. Alternativ wird die vorhandene Reflexionsschicht und/oder Farbschicht mit geprägt.Some variants should be based on Figure 2 briefly indicated. If the reflective layer 130 is semitransparent, the colored layer 140 could also lie under the reflective layer 130. The relief structure can be produced by embossing. The carrier layer 110 is advantageously embossed directly and then the reflective layer 130 and the colored layer 140 are applied. Alternatively, the existing reflective layer and / or colored layer is also embossed.

Ist die Trägerschicht 110 transparent so zeigt das Strukturelement rückseitig (in Figur 2 von unten) betrachtet ein invers gewölbtes Reflexionsbild des Objektes. Durch semitransparente oder opake rückseitige Aufdrucke könnte also zusätzlich für den Betrachter der Rückseite ein beispielsweise anders farbige Darstellung des Objektes (rot schattierter statt grün schattierter Apfel) erstellt werden. Ist der rückseitige Aufdruck semitransparent wäre die Wölbung zudem rückseitig invers (der vorderseitig aus der Reliefstrukturebene heraus gewölbte rote Apfel erscheint als grüner, hinter die Reliefstrukturebene gewölbter Apfel).If the carrier layer 110 is transparent, the rear side of the structural element (in Figure 2 from below) viewed an inversely curved reflection image of the object. By means of semitransparent or opaque rear-side imprints, a differently colored representation of the object (red shaded instead of green shaded apple) could therefore also be created for the viewer on the back. If the reverse imprint is semitransparent, the curvature would also be inverse on the reverse (the red apple curved out of the relief structure level on the front side appears as a green apple curved behind the relief structure level).

In Figur 3 ist eine erweiterte Strukturanordnung 200 auf einer Trägerschicht 110 gezeigt, in welcher das Strukturelement 100 mit weiteren Elementen bzw. Teilbereichen 220, 230, 240 kombiniert ist. Die weiteren Elemente 220, 230, 240 können insbesondere im gleichen Arbeitsgang, insbesondere ebenfalls mittels Prägung (und optional Farbaufdruck), erzeugt werden. Die mosaikartige Reliefstruktur im Bereich des Strukturelementes 100 wird mit einer andersartigen, hier linienförmigen, Reliefstruktur 221 in einem zweiten Bereich 220 kombiniert. Der zweite Bereich 220 kann den ersten Bereich 100 des Strukturelementes umgeben oder an ihn angrenzen. Gerade die Außenkontur des Objektes kann durch den Wechsel des Reliefelementtyps betont werden. Ein erster reflektierender Teilbereich 240 des zweiten Bereichs 220 ist relieffrei, also in seiner Höhe unstrukturiert. Die Grenzen des relieffreien Teilbereichs 240 sind mit gestrichelten Linien angedeutet. Der relieffreie Teilbereich 240 ist unabhängig vom Betrachtungswinkel eine spiegelnde, ggf. einfarbig überdruckte, Fläche.In Figure 3 an expanded structural arrangement 200 is shown on a carrier layer 110, in which the structural element 100 is combined with further elements or subregions 220, 230, 240. The further elements 220, 230, 240 can in particular be produced in the same operation, in particular also by means of embossing (and optionally color printing). The mosaic-like relief structure in the area of the structural element 100 is combined with a different, here linear, relief structure 221 in a second area 220. The second area 220 can surround the first area 100 of the structural element or adjoin it. The outer contour of the object in particular can be emphasized by changing the type of relief element. A first reflective partial area 240 of the second area 220 is relief-free, that is, its height is unstructured. The boundaries of the relief-free partial area 240 are indicated with dashed lines. The relief-free sub-area 240 is a reflective surface, possibly overprinted in one color, regardless of the viewing angle.

In einem zweiten Teilbereich 230 wird durch die Reliefstruktur ein optisch variables Element mit einem Kippeffekt gebildet. Die linienförmige Reliefstruktur 220 in dem Teilbereich auf einer Flanke zusätzlich verprägt, so dass abhängig vom Betrachtungswinkel der Teilbereich 230 als eigenständiger Bereich wahrnehmbar ist. Die lokale Modifikation 231 des Teilbereiches kann mittels Aufdruck oder Prägung erfolgen. Entsprechende Lösungen für den Teilbereich 230 werden beispielsweise in WO 2013/045055 A1 genauer beschrieben.In a second partial area 230, the relief structure forms an optically variable element with a tilting effect. The linear relief structure 220 is additionally embossed on a flank in the sub-area, so that the sub-area 230 can be perceived as an independent area depending on the viewing angle. The local modification 231 of the partial area can take place by means of printing or embossing. Corresponding solutions for the sub-area 230 are for example in WO 2013/045055 A1 described in more detail.

BezugszeichenlisteList of reference symbols

100100
StrukturelementStructural element
110110
TrägerflächeSupport surface
120120
ReflexionsbildstrukturReflection image structure
121, 122, 125121, 122, 125
ReliefelementeRelief elements
130130
ReflektionsschichtReflective layer
140140
FarbbildColor image
141, 142, 143141, 142, 143
FarbbereicheColor ranges
200200
StrukturelementträgerStructural element carrier
220220
Lineare ReliefelementeLinear relief elements
230230
Modifizierte lineare ReliefelementeModified linear relief elements
240240
Relieffreier BereichRelief-free area

Claims (15)

  1. A product or product packaging with a structural element (100) which produces a three-dimensionally appearing representation of an object, wherein the structural element (100) comprises:
    - a reflection image structure (120) of the object, which comprises a relief structure with relief elements (121, 122) and a reflective layer (130),
    wherein the reflection image structure (120) for the viewer makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional against the surface; and
    - a printed, multicolored color image (140);
    wherein the color image (140) and/or the reflective layer (120) are semitransparent, wherein the relief structure is incorporated into a surface of the product, respectively of the product packaging, and
    the printed, multicolored color image (140) is a color image of the object which is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a manner that the representation of the object for the viewer appears multicolored and three-dimensional, characterized in that
    the reflective relief elements (121, 122) have a lateral size of more than 30 µm.
  2. The product or product packaging according to claim 1, characterized in that the reflective layer (130) is a reflective layer printed in regions or a reflective layer transferred in regions.
  3. The product or product packaging according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the relief structure and/or the reflective layer are provided in the region of the reflection image structure (120) and in a further region.
  4. The product or product packaging according to claim 3, characterized in that the further region comprises a relief-structured subregion (220) which adjoins or surrounds the region of the reflection image structure (120), wherein the relief-structured subregion (220) preferably is achromatic and/or is relief-structured differently.
  5. The product or product packaging according to either of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that the further region comprises a limited relief structure-free and reflective subregion (240) which preferably adjoins or is surrounded by the relief-structured subregion (220).
  6. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the further region comprises an optically variable subregion (230) which preferably adjoins or is surrounded by the relief-structured subregion (220).
  7. The product or product packaging according to claim 6, characterized in that the optically variable subregion (230) is formed by a local modification of the relief structure of the relief-structured subregion (220).
  8. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the relief elements (121, 122) of the reflection image structure are of a first relief element type, and the relief structure furthermore comprises at least relief elements (221) of a second relief element type.
  9. The product or product packaging according to claim 8, characterized in that the relief element types differ with regard to one or several of the parameters:
    - outer contour of the relief element, and/or
    - size of the relief element, and/or
    - reflectance of the relief element.
  10. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the relief structure is a structure embossed into the carrier layer of the product, respectively of the product packaging; and/or that the color image is configured in such a manner that it additionally supports the three-dimensional impression produced for the viewer by the reflection image structure.
  11. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that when the product or the product packaging is tilted and/or rotated
    - the reflection image structure (120) produces a changing reflection behavior for the viewer and/or
    - the polychromy predetermined by the color image (140) remains unchanged.
  12. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the reflective relief elements of the reflection image structure differ from one another with respect to one or several of the parameters:
    - spatial alignment of the relief element, in particular angle of inclination and/or azimuth angle,
    - structure height of the relief element.
  13. The product or product packaging according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the reflective relief elements (121, 122) have a lateral size of more than 100 µm.
  14. A method for manufacturing a structural element of a product or of a product packaging, in particular according to any of claims 1 to 13, which comprises a three-dimensionally appearing representation of an object, with:
    - creating a reflection image structure (120) of the object,
    wherein a reflective layer (130) is applied, wherein the reflection image structure for the viewer makes the representation of the object appear three-dimensional; and
    - printing a multicolored color image (140),
    wherein the color image (140) and/or the reflective layer (120) are semitransparent. wherein a relief structure with relief elements (121, 122) is incorporated into the surface of the product or of the product packaging, and the color image (140) is a color image of the object which is arranged in relation to the reflection image structure in such a manner that the representation of the object for the viewer appears multicolored and three-dimensional, characterized in that
    the reflective relief elements (121, 122) have a lateral size of more than 30 µm.
  15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the color image (140) is printed with a position tolerance of 0.2 mm, preferably up to 1 mm, to the reflection image structure (120).
EP18739727.8A 2017-07-10 2018-07-06 Product or product packaging with structural element Active EP3651997B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102017006507.1A DE102017006507A1 (en) 2017-07-10 2017-07-10 structural element
PCT/EP2018/000346 WO2019011465A1 (en) 2017-07-10 2018-07-06 Product or product packaging with structural element

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3651997A1 EP3651997A1 (en) 2020-05-20
EP3651997B1 true EP3651997B1 (en) 2021-09-08

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18739727.8A Active EP3651997B1 (en) 2017-07-10 2018-07-06 Product or product packaging with structural element

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3651997B1 (en)
CN (1) CN110418721B (en)
DE (1) DE102017006507A1 (en)
RU (1) RU2736433C1 (en)
WO (1) WO2019011465A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3778256A1 (en) * 2019-08-12 2021-02-17 Hueck Folien Gesellschaft m.b.H. Security element
DE102021002335A1 (en) * 2021-05-03 2022-12-01 Giesecke+Devrient Currency Technology Gmbh OPTICALLY VARIABLE SECURITY ELEMENT AND VALUABLE DOCUMENT WITH THE OPTICALLY VARIABLE SECURITY ELEMENT

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2474424A3 (en) * 2003-11-21 2014-01-08 Visual Physics, LLC Micro-optic security and image presentation system
DE102006037431A1 (en) * 2006-08-09 2008-04-17 Ovd Kinegram Ag Production of multi-layer bodies useful in element for security- and value document such as banknotes and credit cards, by forming a relief structure in an area of replication layer and applying a layer on carrier and/or replication layer
DE102007061838A1 (en) * 2007-12-20 2009-06-25 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element and method for its production
FR2942811B1 (en) * 2009-03-04 2011-05-06 Oberthur Technologies SECURITY ELEMENT FOR DOCUMENT-VALUE.
DE102009052538A1 (en) * 2009-11-11 2011-05-12 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Producing a provided with colored microwells security element
DE102009056934A1 (en) * 2009-12-04 2011-06-09 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element, value document with such a security element and manufacturing method of a security element
DE102010049600A1 (en) * 2010-10-26 2012-01-19 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element with optically variable surface pattern
DE102010049831A1 (en) * 2010-10-27 2012-05-03 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Optically variable surface pattern
DE102011107154A1 (en) * 2011-07-14 2013-01-17 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Optically variable element, in particular security element for a data carrier
DE102011114647A1 (en) 2011-09-30 2013-04-04 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Security element with several optically variable structures
DE102012020257A1 (en) 2012-10-16 2014-04-17 Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh Optically variable surface pattern
AT516128B1 (en) * 2014-07-17 2018-05-15 Hueck Folien Gmbh Security element with color shift effect and tamper evidence

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Publication number Publication date
CN110418721B (en) 2021-02-19
WO2019011465A1 (en) 2019-01-17
DE102017006507A1 (en) 2019-01-10
CN110418721A (en) 2019-11-05
RU2736433C1 (en) 2020-11-17
EP3651997A1 (en) 2020-05-20

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