Abstract: A printing apparatus includes a magnetic rotatable roller with a smooth even outer surface for aligning magnetic flakes in a carrier, such as an ink vehicle or a paint vehicle to create optically variable images in a high-speed, linear printing operation. Images can provide security features on high-value documents, such as bank notes. Magnetic flakes in the ink are aligned using magnetic portions of the roller, that can be formed by permanent magnets embedded in a non-magnetic roller body, or selectively magnetized portions of a flexible magnetic cover of the roller. In some embodiments, the roller is assembled for a plurality of interchangeable sections, which can include spinning magnets. Selected orientation of the magnetic pigment flakes can achieve a variety of illusive optical effects that are useful for decorative or security applications.

Abstract: This invention discloses a magnet for use as a printing plate or printing head that is used for aligning flakes or particles in a paint or ink. A composite sheet or block of magnetizable material is selectively magnetized so that a magnet is formed within the sheet or block that has a shape of a predetermined image, logo, or indica. Dies are used to magnetize the magnetizable material and preferably the does contact the material to be magnetized. A pre-magnetized sheet such as a refrigerator magnet may be re-magnetized differently so that a magnetic image is encoded therein for use as a printing plate. Preferably the printing plate is flexible so that it can be formed to a curved surface of a cylinder or drum for printing. Conveniently these flexible magnets can be changed for other designs and placed on the same drum for use in printing.

Abstract: An image is disclosed comprised of flakes in a carrier, such as an ink vehicle or a paint that can be aligned in a magnetic field. The flakes are aligned so as to produce one or more kinematic features such as a rolling bar that appears to move as the image is tilted. These images can provide security features on high-value documents, such as bank notes.

Abstract: Apparatus and related methods align magnetic flakes in a carrier, such as an ink vehicle or a paint vehicle to create optically variable images in a high-speed, linear printing operation. Images can provide security features on high-value documents, such as bank notes. Magnetic flakes in the ink are aligned using magnets in a linear printing operation. Selected orientation of the magnetic pigment flakes can achieve a variety of illusive optical effects that are useful for decorative or security applications.