Intuitive technology
CRANE MICRO-OPTICS
BUILDING TRUST WITH 3D MOVEMENT ON FLAT SURFACES
In the best of worlds, we would not have to think twice if the banknote in our hands is genuine. But to stay ahead of counterfeiters and criminals – and build public trust – we need intuitive and sophisticated security.
For nearly two decades, Crane Currency’s global team of skilled scientists, software engineers and 3D animators have developed a unique technology called Crane micro-optics. It has never been counterfeited and allows central banks to create almost living 3D images on printed surfaces such as banknotes.
The goal is to produce a modern banknote that people can recognize immediately as genuine in any lighting condition. When adding multicolor movement, the authentication speed improves even more according to external specialists in banknote perception testing.
MEET THE CRANE MICRO-OPTIC PRODUCTS
High-contrast color movement
RAPID® VISION
RAPID® Vision increases security by making authentication even easier and faster for the public. The integration of the RAPID Vision security thread into the substrate creates a unique complement of intaglio and offset print with a dynamic, multicolor movement effect.
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Interesting & intuitive effects
MOTION SURFACE
MOTION SURFACE® has a highly customizable display area that brings images to life with stunning three-dimensional effects. The increased surface area provides banknote designers with a larger area to conceive of even more interesting and intuitive visual effects.
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High-Contrast Colors & Sharp Movement
RAPID® HD
is used around the world to securing both high volume transactional banknotes as well as large value store-of-value banknotes. The images are highly customizable, and move extremely quickly with minimal tilting.
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Securing High-Demand Banknotes
BREEZE®
is a Crane micro-optic security thread protecting low denomination, high-demand banknotes. BREEZE security threads are specifically engineered for maximum durability, security and cost-effectiveness.
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STUNNING AND EYE-CATCHING TECHNOLOGY
Our micro-optic technology is integrated seamlessly in the overall design. When the note is tilted, the customizable images move in an engaging way that vary depending on the selected product, the width of the feature and the specific needs.
The effects are stunning, but Crane micro-optics is more than just beauty. Below the moving and colorful images lies advanced technology, built by a team of dedicated specialists, unique design software and proprietary equipment.
A COMPLETE SECURITY SYSTEM
Crane micro-optics combine icon layers, lenses smaller than the width of a human hair and specialty inks printed at the micron level.
It should not be seen as a separate security feature, but rather multilayered optical devices built with proprietary materials and formed to a complete security system.
UNIQUE RAW MATERIALS AND PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT
We produce Crane micro-optics at our own facilities. The raw materials and production equipment used to produce our micro-optic features do not exist elsewhere. This means that a would-be counterfeiter has no starting point, no commercial materials available to simulate the feature credibly.
These secret, purpose-built processes produce billions of lenses per minute. Each lens is shaped specifically to focus on an even smaller, customized icon below it. All components assembled with unvarying separation and angular control.
The result is an optical system that achieves what the security feature industry has sought for decades, distinctive image animation and fluid movement.
TECHNICAL COMPLEXITY AND EASE OF USE
Crane Currency is a fully integrated supplier of secure, durable and well-designed banknotes for central banks all over the world. We are a global expert in banknote security and develop Crane micro-optics to increase security and public trust.
For central banks, deciding on new or upgraded banknotes is an investment which effectiveness is measured in years. Counterfeit deterrent features are crucial and an overt banknote security feature requires a balance between technical complexity and ease of use.
PUBLIC AUTHENTICATION AND MACHINE VERIFICATION
As a natural complement to human authentication of banknotes, we added Detect to Crane micro-optics. It is a modern, IR-based approach for machine verification of Crane micro-optics that takes banknote security to a new level.
THE FUTURE OF CRANE MICRO-OPTICS
Crane micro-optics have brought new and revolutionary security to the banknote industry. We continue to deliver new micro-optic security features that enable larger and easier to use forms of this exciting technology.
Today, Crane micro-optic security features are available woven into the currency paper, and in surface-applied forms for various substrates – cotton paper, laminates and polymer plastic.
With new forms and integration methods in the works, the future will bring even more stunning visual effects. Such developments will enable banknote designs that remain years ahead of the counterfeiting threat.
