A security element, which is extremely simple for supervisors to check and extremely sophisticated for counterfeiters to forge – this is the holy grail in visual protection of ID documents. IQ Structures, a Czech research and production company, announced another milestone on the way to this goal. Its newly introduced fusion elements for polycarbonate ID cards integrate different security technologies, including holograms, UV and OVI inks, tactile features and security printing.

“Leading-edge technologies are critical. But art design is crucial as well. Security element should be glamorous for users` eye, easy to identify and has to exploit the potential of technology fully. It is a reason why we employ artists that exhibit their paintings. They work closely together with mathematicians, technicians and industrial designers,” says Petr Franc, CEO of IQ Structures.

Fusion element is a visual object that looks like a compact unit. Some parts are holographic; others are created with security inks or tactile features. Other technologies, such as laser engraving, can also be applied. Fusion element can be, for example, a head with a holographic beard and OVI printed hat or an animal with holographic eyes, OVI printed fur, tactile whiskers and UV printed skeleton. Both metallic and transparent holograms can be integrated into fusion elements.

Fusion elements can be placed anywhere on the ID card, even on the very edge. IQ Structures´ unique holographic technology enables this feature. This technology also ensures full integration in the card. Any attempt for manipulation results in irreversible disintegration of element into thousands of tiny pieces.
“Our innovation opens the way to new attitudes. People will talk not just about a new ID card, but about the ID card with The Leaf, the passport with The Virgin etc. Such a seemingly small change in human behaviour can bring growth in resistance against counterfeiting. People will be more focused on security elements. Even if the strongest protection technology is applied, it is up to human guards to spot the difference between genuine and counterfeited,” commented Robert Dvorak, Business Development Director in IQ Structures.

Fusion elements can be integrated into another innovation that IQ Structures introduced recently: National concept as a single comprehensive solution that covers all polycarbonate identity documents (IDs, passports, driver´s licenses etc.) issued by a state.