Data carrier with independent light source and method of producing it

A secure article comprising er consisting of at least one data carrier (1) that comprises,

• a carrier body (2) defining an extension direction (E);
• and
• at least one light emitting element (4) being arranged in the carrier body (2);
• wherein the carrier body (2) comprises at least one light guiding element (3),
• wherein the light emitting element (4) is at least partially and preferably entirely arranged in the light guiding element (3), and
• wherein the light guiding element (3) is configured to guide light being emitted from the light emitting element (4) within the light guiding element (3) and along a transverse direction (T) extending perpendicularly to the extension direction (E),
• wherein the the secure article is an identity card, a bank card, a smart card, a driver's licence, a passport.

A method of producing a data carrier (1), the method comprising the steps of:

• Providing a carrier body (2) defining an extension direction (E);
• and
• Providing at least one light emitting element (4) being arranged in the carrier body (2);
• wherein the carrier body (2) comprises at least one light guiding element (3),
• wherein the light emitting element (4) is at least partially and preferably entirely arranged in the light guiding element (3), and
• wherein the light guiding element (3) is configured to guide light being emitted from the light emitting element (4) within the light guiding element (3) and along a transverse direction (T) extending perpendicularly to the extension direction (E).