Digital (on screen) monochrome watermarking

Abstract

Methods and systems for rendering watermarks may involve creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, thereby producing a visually distinguishable pattern, and rendering a digital watermark on a document in a manner that allows verification at different perspectives. A digital watermark may be created using a digital sample having a plurality of grayscale values. Based on the visibility and characteristics of the digital watermark, the document can be viewed from different angles to verify the validity of the document. The digital watermark may be modified based on predetermined parameters to facilitate enhanced fraud-proof security.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments relate to image processing methods, systems, and devices. Embodiments also relate to the field of professional imaging techniques. Embodiments also relate to the creation and rendering of professional effects that can be incorporated into rendered documents. Embodiments also relate to digital watermarking. Background Art

[0002] Professional imaging techniques are a set of advanced and specialized methods used in printing applications, including the incorporation of digital watermarks. These techniques are designed to enhance the security and authenticity of printed documents (such as banknotes, passports, ID cards, and other sensitive materials) by making them difficult to accurately forge or duplicate. These professional imaging techniques can also be used in non-security applications, such as incorporating special effects into, for example, greeting cards and advertising materials.

[0003] Professional imaging is useful for the creation of digital watermarks, which are embedded patterns or information within a printed image that are typically not perceptible to the human eye but can be detected using specialized equipment or software. Digital watermarks (sometimes abbreviated as "watermarks") can be used as a means of authentication and can contain information such as the origin of the document, serial numbers, or security features.

[0004] Digital watermarks can be visible or invisible. Visible watermarks are recognizable to the naked eye and can include text or patterns that are difficult to accurately replicate. Invisible watermarks are hidden within the content of the document and require specialized tools for detection. Watermarks can be robust, meaning they remain detectable even after various printing and scanning processes, or they can be fragile, meaning they are vulnerable to damage when the document is tampered with.

[0005] Various security printing techniques (such as color-changing inks) and professional imaging watermarks (such as GlossMarks TM (GL) and ultraviolet (UV) watermarks) provide robust protection against forgery and fraud for valuable documents. These features that are designed to exhibit a single color / pattern from one angle / spectrum and reveal the characteristics of a visible watermark from another angle / spectrum can provide an additional layer of security when applied to a printing medium. However, it is important to note that these effects are effective in protecting physical copies (such as printed concert tickets), but may not extend the same level of protection to digital representations or on-screen representations. For example, while traditional event tickets may rely solely on barcodes for protection, copies (whether digital or printed) can potentially compromise the integrity of the ticketing system, allowing unauthorized access and marking legitimate users, thus creating vulnerabilities. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following invention content is provided to facilitate understanding of some innovative features specific to the embodiments disclosed herein and is not intended to be a complete description. A comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be obtained by considering the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract together.

[0007] Accordingly, one aspect of the embodiments is to provide improved image processing methods, systems, and devices.

[0008] Another aspect of the embodiments is to provide improved methods and systems for rendering improved watermarks for printing applications (including both secure and non-secure type applications).

[0009] Another aspect of the embodiments is to provide methods and systems for creating and rendering improved digital watermarks.

[0010] Yet another aspect of the embodiments is to provide methods and systems for creating and rendering digital (on-screen) monochromatic watermarks.

[0011] The above aspects and other objectives and advantages can be achieved in the manner described herein. In one embodiment, a method for rendering a watermark may involve: creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, thereby generating a visually distinguishable pattern; and rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives.

[0012] One embodiment may also involve creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, further including: creating digital samples of multiple grayscale values.

[0013] One embodiment may also involve viewing the document at varying angles to verify the validity of the document based on the visibility and characteristics of the digital watermark.

[0014] One embodiment may also involve modifying the digital watermark based on predetermined parameters to enhance anti-fraud security.

[0015] In one embodiment, the step or operation of rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives may further involve rendering the digital watermark in a low-cost monochromatic application.

[0016] In one embodiment, a method for rendering a digital watermark may involve: in a first viewing mode, viewing a digital proof on a screen and verifying that a predefined text is darker than the background, wherein the digital proof is initially configured with a plurality of grayscale values; in a second viewing mode, viewing the digital proof on the screen and verifying that a second predefined text is lighter than the background; verifying that the reversal of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true from a second angle; and verifying that the digital watermark is almost invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital proof, wherein the at least two gray samples are based on the plurality of grayscale values.

[0017] One embodiment may also involve adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

[0018] In one embodiment, the verified digital watermark may be a monochromatic watermark.

[0019] In one embodiment, in the first viewing mode, viewing the digital proof on the screen and verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background may further involve verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background within a portion of the digital watermark.

[0020] In one embodiment, in the second viewing mode, viewing the digital proof on the screen and verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background may further involve verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background within another portion of the digital watermark.

[0021] One embodiment may also involve generating a digital proof with a plurality of grayscale values by arranging digital representations of a plurality of the grayscale values in a predefined layout.

[0022] One embodiment may also involve providing a user interface for customizing the arrangement and organization of the digital representations within the digital proof.

[0023] In one embodiment, a system for rendering a digital watermark may include at least one processor and a memory that stores instructions for causing the at least one processor to perform: in a first viewing mode, viewing a digital proof on a screen and verifying that a predefined text is darker than the background, wherein the digital proof is initially configured with a plurality of grayscale values; in a second viewing mode, viewing the digital proof on the screen and verifying that a second predefined text is lighter than the background; verifying that the reversal of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true from a second angle; and verifying that the digital watermark is almost invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital proof, wherein the at least two gray samples are based on the plurality of grayscale values.

[0024] In one embodiment of the system, the instructions may further cause the at least one processor to perform: adding at least one working patch to the digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

[0025] In one embodiment of the system, the verified digital watermark may include a monochromatic watermark.

[0026] In one embodiment, the instructions may further cause the at least one processor to add at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark, wherein the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

[0027] In one embodiment, in a first viewing mode, viewing a digital sample on a screen and verifying that predefined text is darker than a background may further involve: verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background in a portion of the digital watermark.

[0028] In one embodiment, in a second viewing mode, viewing a digital sample on a screen and verifying that second predefined text is lighter than a background may further involve: verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background in another portion of the digital watermark. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The drawings further illustrate the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, are used to explain the principles of the invention. Like reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, and the drawings are incorporated into and form a part of this specification.

[0030] Figure 1 An image of genuine currency above counterfeit currency is shown, where the counterfeit currency is missing a watermark on the right;

[0031] Figure 2 An image showing color shift is shown;

[0032] Figure 3 An image of a digital sample is shown;

[0033] Figure 4 An image of a watermark on a screen is shown;

[0034] Figure 5 An image of a watermark on a screen at a second angle is shown;

[0035] Figure 6 An image of a watermark on a screen at a third angle is shown;

[0036] Figure 7 A high-level flowchart depicting operations of a method for implementing a digital (on-screen) monochromatic watermark according to one embodiment is shown;

[0037] Figure 8 A block diagram of a printing system suitable for implementing one or more of the disclosed embodiments is shown; and

[0038] Figure 9 A block diagram of a digital front-end controller that can be used to implement one or more of the disclosed embodiments is shown.

[0039] It is important to note that although the figures and diagrams shown herein are presented in black and white, they may have been initially created and displayed in color. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that even if the images and diagrams may not show color, they may in fact depict features in color. Detailed Description

[0040] The specific values and configurations discussed in these non-limiting examples may vary and are cited only to illustrate one or more embodiments and are not intended to limit their scope.

[0041] The subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this invention and illustrate specific example embodiments by way of illustration. However, the subject matter may be embodied in many different forms, and thus, the subject matter covered or claimed is intended to be understood as not limited to any of the example embodiments set forth herein; the example embodiments are provided merely for illustrative purposes. Similarly, a fairly broad scope of the subject matter covered or claimed by the claims is anticipated. Among other things, for example, the subject matter may be embodied as a method, apparatus, component, or system. Accordingly, an embodiment may, for example, take the form of hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof (other than software itself). Accordingly, the following detailed description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense.

[0042] Throughout the specification and claims, terms may have nuanced meanings that go beyond the explicit meaning stated and are suggested by the context. Similarly, as used herein, phrases such as "in one embodiment" or "in an example embodiment" and their variations do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and as used herein, phrases such as "in another embodiment" or "in another example embodiment" and their variations may or may not refer to different embodiments. For example, the subject matter claimed is intended to include combinations of all or part of the example embodiments.

[0043] Generally speaking, terms can be understood, at least in part, from their usage in context. For example, terms such as "and", "or", or "and / or" as used herein can include a variety of meanings that can depend, at least in part, on the context in which such terms are used. Generally, "or" when used in connection with a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C as used herein in an inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C as used herein in an exclusive sense. Additionally, as used herein, the term "one or more" can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense or can be used to describe a combination of features, structures, or characteristics in a plural sense, at least in part depending on the context. Similarly, terms such as "a", "an", or "the" can also be understood to convey a singular usage or to convey a plural usage, at least in part depending on the context. Additionally, the term "based on" can be understood to not necessarily be intended to convey a set of exclusive factors, but rather can allow for the existence of additional factors that are not necessarily described again explicitly, at least in part depending on the context. Additionally, as used herein, the term "at least one" can refer to "one or more". For example, "at least one sub-component" can refer to "one or more sub-components".

[0044] The term "data" as used herein refers to a physical signal that indicates or includes information. As a pattern of physical light or a collection of data representing physical light, an "image" can include characters, words, and text, as well as other features such as graphics.

[0045] A "digital image" extends to an image represented by a collection of digital data. An image can be divided into "fragments", each of which is an image in itself. The fragments of an image can be of any size up to and including the entire image. As used herein, it is believed that the terms "image object" or "object" are generally considered in the art to be equivalent to the term "fragment" and will be used interchangeably herein.

[0046] In a digital image composed of data representing physical light, each element of the data can be referred to as a "pixel", which is commonly used in the art and refers to a picture element. Each pixel has a position and a value. Each pixel value is a byte in the "binary form" of the image, a grayscale value in the "grayscale form" of the image, or a set of color space coordinates in the "color coordinate form" of the image, where the binary form, grayscale form, and color coordinate form are each two-dimensional arrays defining the image. When an operation is performed on a data item related to a part of the image, the operation can perform "image processing".

[0047] As used herein, the term "metamerism" may relate to metameric pairs of pattern inks. In a metameric pair of pattern inks (also simply referred to as a "metameric pair"), when viewed from one angle, the print and the paper are visually indistinguishable, but when viewed from another angle (relative to the light source), this can create a watermark without the use of more expensive spot inks, toners, and / or printers.

[0048] As used herein, the term L*a*b (also known as Lab or LAB) relates to the CIELAB color space (L*a*b), which is a color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). L*a*b represents color as three values: L* for perceived lightness, and a* and b* for the four unique colors of human vision: red, green, blue, and yellow. CIELAB is intended to be a perceptually uniform space, where a given numerical change corresponds to a similar perceived color change. Although the LAB space is not truly perceptually unique, it is useful in industry for detecting small differences in color.

[0049] As used herein, the term CMYK relates to the CMYI color model, where CYMK refers to the four ink plates used: cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black). The CMYK model works by partially or completely masking colors on a lighter, usually white background. The ink reduces the light that would otherwise be reflected. Such models are considered subtractive because the ink "subtracts" red, green, and blue from white light. Subtracting red from white light leaves cyan, subtracting green from white light leaves magenta, and subtracting blue from white light leaves yellow. An example of an additive color model is the RGB color model, where the red, green, and blue primary colors of light are added together to reproduce a wide array of colors. "RGB" relates to the primary colors, red, green, and blue. RGB (i.e., the RGB color model) can be used to sense, represent, and display images in electronic systems such as televisions and computers.

[0050] As used herein, the term "watermark" may relate to a piece of transparent text, image, logo, or other mark that can be applied to a medium (e.g., a document, paper, photo, image, etc.), which can make it more difficult to copy or forge the medium (by applying the watermark to the medium through security printing) or to use the medium without permission. A "watermark" can be a special text or picture that can be printed across one or more pages. For example, words like "Copy", "Draft", or "Confidential" can be added as a watermark rather than embossing it on the document before distribution.

[0051] Figure 1 An image 10 of a genuine currency positioned above a counterfeit currency is shown, where the counterfeit currency is missing a watermark on the right side. Figure 1 The image 10 shown depicts a genuine coin (top) and a counterfeit coin (bottom) that is missing a watermark on the right side. InFigure 1 , image 10 provides a visual representation of a banknote juxtaposed above a counterfeit counterpart. Image 10 is used to illustrate a comparative analysis between a genuine banknote positioned at the top and a counterfeit banknote located at the bottom. Thus, the key differentiating factor between the two is the absence of a watermark on the right side of the counterfeit banknote.

[0052] Figure 2 An image 20 showing a colour shift is shown. Figure 2 Text 22, shown as "100" in the image, is positioned above text 24, also shown as "100" in the image 20. The image depicts the effect of a transfer ink made from a specific (expensive) ink that exhibits two different colors at two angles. Image 20 highlights the unique properties of the transfer ink - a unique formulation containing specific and usually more expensive inks that exhibit a two-color appearance when viewed from different angles.

[0053] The juxtaposition of two examples of the text / number "100" in the image serves to emphasize the color shifting properties of the ink. At one angle, the text 22 and 24 may appear as one particular color, and as the viewing angle changes, that color seamlessly shifts to another hue. This effect is a direct result of the special properties of the transfer ink, demonstrating its ability to appear two different colors, adding an additional layer of sophistication and security to the printed material.

[0054] Figure 3 An image 30 of an example digital swatch is shown, which includes the text "HELLO WORLD". Figure 3 The digital swatches shown can be used as a visual reference guide that can demonstrate the range of colors that can be achieved through digital rendering. It should be noted that as used herein, the term "digital swatches" can refer to a digitally generated document or image that can systematically display a collection of color samples. These samples can provide different color palettes that can be produced by a digital printing system. Each color sample within the table can be used as a reference point, allowing designers, printers, and others to accurately evaluate and select specific colors for intended applications.

[0055] Figure 4 An image 40 of an on-screen watermark comprising the text "HELLO WORLD" is shown. Figure 5 An image 50 of the watermark on the screen at a second angle is shown. Figure 6 An image 60 of a screen watermark at a third angle is shown. It will be appreciated that such a screen watermark may be displayed on a computing device (such as, for example, Figure 8 On a display screen of a computer 250) shown.

[0056] The following methods can be implemented according to the implementation plan:

[0057] 1) Create digital samples with multiple gray values (e.g., see Figure 3 );

[0058] 2) View and verify on the screen that the text "Hello W" is darker than the background (e.g., see Figure 4 );

[0059] 3) View and verify on the screen that the text "orld" is lighter than the background (e.g., see Figure 4);

[0061] 4) Verify at a second angle that the reversals of steps 2 and 3 are now true (e.g., see Figure 5);

[0063] 5) Verify at a third angle that the watermarks of the top two samples are almost gone (e.g., see Figure

[0064] 6); and

[0065] 6) Add a working patch to the digital document.

[0066] Figure 7 FIG. shows a high - level flowchart depicting the operations of a method 100 for implementing a digital (on - screen) monochromatic watermark according to one embodiment. As shown at block 101, a step or operation involving creating digital samples with multiple gray values can be implemented (e.g., see Figure 3 ). Thereafter, as shown at block 102, a step or operation involving viewing and verifying on the screen that text (e.g., "Hello W") is darker than the background in a portion of the watermark (e.g., see Figure 4 ) can be implemented.

[0067] Next, as depicted at block 103, a step or operation involving viewing and verifying on the screen that text (e.g., "orld") is lighter than the background in another portion of the watermark (e.g., see Figure 4 ) can be implemented. Thereafter, as shown at block 104, a step or operation involving verifying at a second angle that the reversals of the operations shown at blocks 103 and 104 are now true can be implemented (e.g., see Figure 5 ). Next, as shown at block 105, a step or operation involving verifying at a third angle that the watermarks of the first two samples are almost gone can be implemented (e.g., see Figure 6 ). Finally, as shown at block 106, a step or operation involving adding a working patch to the digital document can be implemented.

[0068] It can be understood that the advantage of the disclosed method is that it can work well in low - cost monochromatic applications. That is, the disclosed method involves techniques for evaluating and optimizing the gray - scale representation for printing or displaying monochromatic content, for example.

[0069] The method involves creating digital samples with multiple gray values. This process can be done digitally, eliminating the need for physical samples or expensive color calibration tools. This is particularly advantageous in low-cost applications where complex color calibration equipment may not be feasible. Additionally, the disclosed method also focuses on visually verifying text readability by comparing the darkness of the text with the background. This is a practical and straightforward method that does not require specialized equipment, making it suitable for low-cost applications.

[0070] Furthermore, by verifying the text at different viewing angles, the method takes into account how the displayed or printed material appears from various perspectives. This is important in situations where the user or observer may not always view the content directly. This consideration may be particularly relevant in cost-effective display technologies that may have limited viewing angles. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the monochromatic watermark may remain unaffected by the type of screen used. In other words, regardless of the specific type of screen (display screen), the watermark can be generated and displayed as a digital watermark according to the method disclosed in the present invention.

[0071] Using digital samples and adding working patches to digital documents can streamline the process and make it more efficient. This may be particularly advantageous in low-cost scenarios where manual processing or expensive printing equipment may be impractical. Additionally, the method disclosed in the present invention may allow adjustments based on visual assessment, which can provide flexibility in optimizing the gray-scale representation. This adaptability is valuable in cases where the printing or display conditions may be suboptimal or inconsistent.

[0072] The method disclosed in the present invention can utilize visual verification and angle-related assessment to optimize the gray-scale representation in a cost-effective manner. The method prioritizes practicality and simplicity, making it highly suitable for low-cost monochromatic applications where complex tools and equipment may not be easily available.

[0073] Figure 8 A block diagram of a printing system 200 suitable for implementing one or more of the embodiments disclosed in the present invention is shown. Figure 9 A block diagram of a digital front-end controller 300 that can be used to implement one or more of the embodiments disclosed in the present invention is shown. For example, the printing system 200 and / or the digital front-end controller 300 can be used to render a document with a yellow and black gloss effect.

[0074] See Figure 8 , a printing system (or image rendering system) 200 suitable for implementing various aspects of the exemplary embodiments described herein is shown. The printing system 200 can perform rendering operations, such as scanning a document via a scanner and printing a document via a printer, where the document exhibits the yellow and black gloss effect disclosed in the present invention.

[0075] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "scanner" may refer to an image scanner, which is a device or system that can optically scan an image, printed text, manuscript, or object and convert it into a digital image. An example of a scanner is a flatbed scanner, where a document to be imaged (e.g., a form) can be placed on a glass window for scanning. In some cases, a scanner may be incorporated into a multi-functional device (MFD), which may also have printing and photocopying features. A scanner may also be integrated into, for example, a printing system such as Figure 8 the printing system 200 shown. For example, the scanner 229 is shown as part of the printing system 200 in Figure 8 . Alternatively, or in addition to the scanner 229 included as part of the printing system 100, the scanner may be implemented as a separate scanner 262 also depicted in Figure 8 , which may communicate with the network 260.

[0076] As used herein, the words "printer" and the term "printing system" may include any device and / or system; such as digital copiers, electrophotographic and copy printing systems, bookmaking machines, fax machines, multi-functional machines, inkjet printers, continuous feed printing devices, single sheet feed printing devices, etc.; which can accommodate a print controller and a print engine and can perform a print output function for any purpose.

[0077] The printing system 200 may include a user interface 210, a digital front end (DFE) controller 220, and at least one print engine 230. The print engine 230 may access print media 235 of various sizes and costs for printing jobs. The printing system 200 may include a color printer having a variety of color marking materials.

[0078] A "print job" or "document" is generally a set of related pages, typically one or more collated copies collected from a set of original print job pages or electronic document page images, from a particular user, or in a related other manner. To submit a regular print job (or customer job), digital data may be sent to the printing system 200.

[0079] The classifier 240 may operate after the print engine 230 prints a job to manage the layout of the hard copy output, which includes a shearing function. A user may access and operate the printing system 200 using the user interface 210 or via a data processing system such as a computer 250. The computer 250 may communicate bidirectionally with the printing system 200 via the communication network 260. As Figure 8 shown, the computer 250 includes a screen (display screen) on which a digital image can be displayed and viewed by the user.

[0080] User files, work products for printing, media libraries, and various print job parameters may be stored in a database or memory 270 that can be accessed by computer 250 or print system 200 via network 260, or such data may be accessed directly via print system 200. As is known in the art, one or more color sensors (not shown) may be embedded in the printer paper path.

[0081] Regarding Figure 9 , an exemplary DFE (Digital Front End) controller 300 is shown in more detail. DFE controller 300 may include one or more processors capable of executing machine-executable program instructions, such as processor 306. Processor 306 may be used as a DFE processor.

[0082] In Figure 9 the illustrated embodiment, processor 306 may communicate with bus 302 (e.g., a backplane interface bus, crossbar, or data network). Digital front end 300 may also include a main memory 304 for storing machine-readable instructions. Main memory 304 is also capable of storing data. Main memory 304 may alternatively include random access memory (RAM) to support reprogramming and flexible data storage. Buffer 366 may be used to temporarily store data for access by processor 306.

[0083] Program memory 364 may include, for example, executable programs that implement the embodiments described herein. Program memory 364 may store at least a subset of the data contained in the buffer. Digital front end 300 may include a display interface 308 that may forward data from communication bus 302 (or from a frame buffer not shown) to display 310. Digital front end 300 may also include a secondary memory 312 that may include, for example, a hard disk drive 314 and / or a removable storage drive 316 that may read and write to a removable storage device 318 (such as a floppy disk, magnetic tape, optical disk, etc.) storing computer software and / or data.

[0084] Alternatively, secondary memory 312 may include other similar mechanisms for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system. Such mechanisms may include, for example, a removable storage unit 322 adapted to exchange data through interface 320. Examples of such mechanisms include program cartridge memory and cartridge memory interfaces (such as those found in video game devices), removable memory chips (such as EPROM or PROM) and associated sockets, and other removable units and interfaces that allow the transfer of software and data.

[0085] Figure 9The digital front end (DFE) controller 300 shown may include a communication interface 324 that can act as both an input and output to allow software and data to be transferred between the digital front end controller 300 and external devices. Examples of communication interfaces include modems, network interfaces (such as Ethernet cards), communication ports, PCMCIA slots and cards, and the like.

[0086] A computer program (also referred to as computer control logic) including one or more modules may be stored in the main memory 304 and / or the secondary memory 312. The computer program or module may also be received via the communication interface 324. Such computer programs or modules, when executed, enable the computer system to perform the features and capabilities provided herein. The software and data transmitted via the communication interface may be in the form of signals, which may be, for example, electrical, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals capable of being received by the communication interface.

[0087] These signals may be provided to the communication interface via a communication path (i.e., a channel) that carries the signals and may be implemented using wires, cables, and optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, RF, or other communication channels. A portion of the data stored in the secondary memory 312 for access during DFE operation may be a set of translation tables that can convert incoming color signals into physical machine signals.

[0088] The color signal may be represented as chromaticity values; typically three components such as L*a*b*, RGB, XYZ, etc.; which are converted into physical exposure signals for the four toners cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. These tables may be created and downloaded outside the DFE, but may optionally be created inside the DFE in a so-called characterization step. A portion of the data stored in the secondary memory 312 may also be the conversion tables discussed previously.

[0089] Certain aspects of a data processing system will now be presented with reference to various systems and methods. These systems and methods will be described in the following detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, modules, components, circuits, steps, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as "elements"). These elements may be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such elements are implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0090] By way of example, an element or any portion of an element, or any combination of elements, can be implemented using a "processing system" that includes one or more processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functions described in this disclosure. One or more processors in the processing system can execute software. Software should be understood broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executables, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise. A mobile "application" is an example of such software.

[0091] Accordingly, in one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions can be stored on a computer-readable medium or encoded as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer.

[0092] The example embodiments disclosed herein are described at least in part in conjunction with flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams and / or schematic diagrams of methods, systems, and computer program products and data structures according to embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that each block of the illustrations, and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks.

[0093] For clarity, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented in the context of, for example, a special purpose computer or a general purpose computer or other programmable data processing apparatus or system. For example, in some example embodiments, the data processing apparatus or system can be implemented as a combination of a special purpose computer and a general purpose computer. A computer program product can include a computer-readable storage medium (or media) having computer-readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to execute aspects of the embodiments.

[0094] The foregoing computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory, which can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory (e.g., steps / operations) produce a manufactured article including an instruction apparatus that implements the functions / actions specified in the different boxes or multiple boxes, flowcharts, and other architectures shown and described herein.

[0095] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions / actions specified in the box or multiple boxes.

[0096] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments (preferred embodiments or alternative embodiments). In this regard, each box in the flowcharts or block diagrams depicted and described herein can represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which can include one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function.

[0097] In some alternative implementations, the functions shown in the boxes may not be performed in the order shown in the figures. For example, the two boxes shown connected may actually be performed substantially simultaneously, or the boxes may sometimes be performed in the reverse order depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations can be implemented by a system based on dedicated hardware that performs the specified functions or operations or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0098] The functions described herein can be implemented entirely and non-abstractly as physical hardware, entirely as physical non-abstract software (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or as a combination of non-abstract software and hardware implementations, which may be referred to herein as "circuits", "modules", "engines", "components", "blocks", "databases", "agents", or "systems". Additionally, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more non-transitory computer-readable media having computer-readable and / or executable program code embodied thereon.

[0099] The following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the system and method can be implemented. Although not required, the embodiments disclosed herein of the present invention will be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a single computer. In most cases, a "module" (also referred to as an "engine") can constitute a software application, but can also be implemented as both software and hardware (i.e., a combination of software and hardware).

[0100] Generally speaking, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, subroutines, software applications, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific data types and instructions. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that the methods and systems disclosed herein of the present invention can be practiced with other computer system configurations, such as, for example, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, data networks, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, networked PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, servers, etc.

[0101] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term module can refer to a collection of routines and data structures that perform a specific task or implement a specific data type. A module can consist of two parts: an interface device, which lists constants, data types, variables, and routines that can be accessed by other modules or routines; and an implementation device, which is typically private (accessible only by the module) and includes the source code that actually implements the routines in the module. The term module can also simply refer to an application program, such as a computer program designed to assist in performing a specific task (such as word processing, accounting, inventory management, etc.).

[0102] In some example embodiments, the term "module" can also refer to a modular hardware component or a component that is a combination of hardware and software. It should be understood that the specific implementation and processing of such modules according to the methods described herein can result in improvements in processing speed, energy conservation, and efficiency in a data processing system (such as, for example, Figure 8 the printing system 200 shown and / or Figure 9 the DFE controller 300 shown). A "module" can execute various steps, operations, or instructions discussed herein, such as one or more of the steps or operations discussed herein.

[0103] For example, the methods described herein can be implemented in part in a computer program product that includes modules that can be executed by, for example, a DFE controller 220. The computer program product can include a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium on which a control program is recorded (stored), such as a magnetic disk, a hard disk drive, etc. It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "recording medium" can refer to such non-transitory computer-readable recording mediums.

[0104] Common forms of non-transitory computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes or any other magnetic storage medium, CD-ROM, DVD or any other optical medium, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EPROM or other memory chips or cartridges, or any other non-transitory medium that can be read and used by a computer. The computer program product can be integrated with the DFE controller 220 (e.g., an internal hard disk drive of the RAM), or can be separate (e.g., an external hard disk drive operably connected to a printer), or can be separate and accessible via a digital data network such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet (e.g., a redundant array of inexpensive or independent disks (RAID) or other network server memory indirectly accessible by the DFE controller 220 via a digital network such as Figure 8 the network 260 shown).

[0105] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchical structure of steps, operations, or instructions in the processes or methods disclosed in the present invention is an illustration of exemplary methods. For example, the various steps, operations, or instructions discussed herein can be executed in a different order. Similarly, the various steps and operations of the exemplary pseudocode disclosed in the present invention discussed herein can be changed and processed in a different order. Based on design preferences, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchical structure of such steps, operations, or instructions in the processes or methods discussed and shown herein can be rearranged. For example, the appended claims present the elements of various steps, operations, or instructions in a sample order and are not intended to be limited by the specific order or hierarchical structure presented.

[0106] The inventors of the present invention have achieved a non-abstract technical solution to the technical problem of improving such computer technologies by improving the efficiency of computer technologies. The embodiments disclosed in the present invention provide a technical improvement to computer technologies such as data processing systems, and also provide a non-abstract improvement to computer technologies via a technical solution to the technical problems identified in the background art section of the present disclosure. Such improvements can be produced by the implementation of the embodiments. The solution protected by the claims can originate from computer technologies in order to overcome problems that particularly arise in the fields of computers, computer networks, and printing and scanning. The solution protected by the claims can also relate to non-abstract devices, such as a security device including non-abstract features, such as a printing medium (e.g., paper) on which the security device (e.g., a watermark) can be rendered.

[0107] Based on the foregoing, it should be understood that multiple different embodiments are disclosed herein. For example, in one embodiment, a method for rendering a watermark may involve: creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, thereby producing a visually distinguishable pattern; and rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives.

[0108] One embodiment may also involve creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, further including: creating digital samples of multiple grayscale values.

[0109] One embodiment may also involve viewing the document at varying angles to verify the validity of the document based on the visibility and characteristics of the digital watermark.

[0110] One embodiment may also involve modifying the digital watermark based on predetermined parameters to facilitate enhanced anti-fraud security.

[0111] In one embodiment, the step or operation of rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives may further involve rendering the digital watermark in a low-cost monochromatic application.

[0112] In one embodiment, a method for rendering a digital watermark may involve: in a first viewing mode, viewing a digital sample on a screen and verifying that a predefined text is darker than the background, wherein the digital sample is initially configured with multiple grayscale values; in a second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that a second predefined text is lighter than the background; verifying that the inversion of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true at a second angle; and verifying that the digital watermark is almost invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital sample at a third angle, wherein the at least two gray samples are based on the multiple grayscale values.

[0113] One embodiment may also involve adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

[0114] In one embodiment, the verified digital watermark may be a monochromatic watermark.

[0115] In one embodiment, in the first viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background may further involve verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background in a part of the digital watermark.

[0116] In one embodiment, in the second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background may further involve verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background in another part of the digital watermark.

[0117] One implementation may also involve generating a digital sample with multiple gray levels by arranging digital representations of multiple gray levels out of the multiple gray levels in a predefined layout.

[0118] One implementation may also involve providing a user interface for customizing the arrangement and organization of digital representations within the digital sample.

[0119] In one implementation, a system for rendering a digital watermark may include at least one processor and a memory that stores instructions to cause the at least one processor to perform: in a first viewing mode, view a digital sample on a screen and verify that predefined text is darker than the background, where the digital sample is initially configured with multiple gray levels; in a second viewing mode, view the digital sample on the screen and verify that second predefined text is lighter than the background; verify that the reversal of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true from a second angle; and verify that the digital watermark is nearly invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital sample, where the at least two gray samples are based on the multiple gray levels.

[0120] In one implementation of the system, the instructions may further cause the at least one processor to perform: add at least one working patch to the digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

[0121] In one implementation of the system, the verified digital watermark may include a monochromatic watermark.

[0122] In one implementation, the instructions may further cause the at least one processor to add at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark, where the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

[0123] In one implementation, in the first viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background may further involve: verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background within a portion of the digital watermark.

[0124] In one implementation, in the second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background may further involve: verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background within another portion of the digital watermark.

[0125] It should be understood that variations or alternatives of the above-disclosed and other features and functions can be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. It should also be understood that those skilled in the art may subsequently make various substitutions, modifications, variations or improvements that are currently unforeseen or unanticipated, and these are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for rendering a watermark, the method comprising: Creating a digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to a document, thereby producing a visually distinguishable pattern; And Rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein creating the digital watermark by applying grayscale inversion and contrast reduction to the document further comprises: Creating digital samples of multiple grayscale values.

3. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising: Viewing the document at varying angles to verify the validity of the document based on the visibility and characteristics of the digital watermark.

4. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising: Modifying the digital watermark based on predetermined parameters to facilitate enhanced anti-fraud security.

5. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising: Viewing the document at varying angles to verify the validity of the document based on the visibility and characteristics of the digital watermark; And Modifying the digital watermark based on predetermined parameters to facilitate enhanced anti-fraud security.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein rendering the digital watermark on the document in a manner that allows verification from different perspectives further comprises: Rendering the digital watermark in a low-cost monochromatic application.

7. A method for rendering a digital watermark, the method comprising: In a first viewing mode, viewing a digital sample on a screen and verifying that a predefined text is darker than the background, wherein the digital sample is initially configured with multiple grayscale values; In a second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that a second predefined text is lighter than the background; Verifying that the inversion of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true at a second angle; Verifying that the digital watermark is almost invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital sample at a third angle, wherein the at least two gray samples are based on the multiple grayscale values.

8. The method according to claim 7, the method further comprising adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

10. The method according to claim 7, the method further comprising adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark, wherein the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

11. The method according to claim 7, wherein in the first viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background further comprises: Verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background in a part of the digital watermark.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein in the second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background further comprises: Verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background in another part of the digital watermark.

13. The method according to claim 7, the method further comprising generating the digital sample having a plurality of gray levels by arranging digital representations of a plurality of the gray levels among the plurality of gray levels in a predefined layout.

14. The method according to claim 13, the method further comprising providing a user interface for customizing the arrangement and organization of the digital representations within the digital sample.

15. A system for rendering a digital watermark, the system comprising: at least one processor and a memory, the memory storing instructions for causing the at least one processor to perform: in a first viewing mode, viewing a digital sample on a screen and verifying that predefined text is darker than a background, wherein the digital sample is initially configured with a plurality of gray levels; in a second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that second predefined text is lighter than the background; verifying, at a second angle, that the reversal of the first viewing mode and the second viewing mode is true; and verifying, at a third angle, that the digital watermark is almost invisible relative to at least two gray samples on the digital sample, wherein the at least two gray samples are based on the plurality of gray levels.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processor to perform: adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark.

17. The system according to claim 15, wherein the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processor to perform adding at least one working patch to a digital document based on the verified digital watermark, wherein the verified digital watermark includes a monochromatic watermark.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein in the first viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background further comprises: verifying that the predefined text is darker than the background in a portion of the digital watermark.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein in the second viewing mode, viewing the digital sample on the screen and verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background further comprises: verifying that the second predefined text is lighter than the background in another portion of the digital watermark.

Images