Imaging profile embedding and recovery system and method for industrial vision

Abstract

This invention relates to an image-based configuration file embedding and recovery system for industrial vision software. The system includes a configuration data processing module, an encryption / decryption module, an image embedding module, an image output module, an image acquisition and recognition module, a configuration recovery module, a scene restoration module, and a data verification module. The core innovation lies in using images as the storage and transmission medium for configuration files. Through a composite embedding method of "customized QR code + LSB steganography," standardized and encrypted configuration data is embedded into the carrier image to generate an embedded image. This invention features high robustness, high security, and ease of operation, and can adapt to complex industrial environments, significantly improving the deployment and maintenance efficiency of industrial vision systems.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of industrial automation and machine vision technology, specifically relating to the management technology of industrial vision software configuration files, and particularly to a technical system that uses images as data storage medium to realize the embedding, transmission and recovery of configuration files, and supports on-site barcode scanning deployment and remote barcode scanning debugging. Background Technology

[0002] While existing technologies utilize QR codes for data transmission, these solutions have several limitations and cannot meet the configuration file management requirements of industrial vision systems: First, they are not optimized for the characteristics of industrial vision configuration files. These files typically contain structured data with multiple parameter types, resulting in large data volumes. Traditional QR code data storage is limited, and there is a lack of compression and error correction design for structured data. Second, their functionality is limited, only enabling simple data transmission without considering the on-site deployment and remote debugging scenarios of industrial vision systems, failing to meet the core requirements of "scanning to deploy" and "scanning to restore the scene." Third, their robustness design is insufficient. Embedded images in industrial settings may experience quality degradation due to light reflection, dust obstruction, printing wear, etc. Traditional QR code solutions have limited error correction capabilities, easily leading to configuration data extraction failures. Fourth, data security is not considered. Industrial vision configuration files contain core information such as enterprise production process parameters and testing standards. Traditional solutions do not encrypt the embedded configuration data, posing a risk of data leakage.

[0003] Furthermore, troubleshooting existing industrial vision systems largely relies on on-site technical personnel who directly read configuration and operational data by connecting to the equipment. When the equipment is distributed in remote areas or deployed across regions, the time and manpower costs of on-site troubleshooting are extremely high. Even when configurations are read remotely via network, they are limited by the on-site network environment and are subject to the risk of data leakage due to network attacks. Therefore, there is a strong need for a technical solution that can achieve configuration file storage, rapid on-site deployment, and remote fault scenario reconstruction in a low-cost, highly secure, and highly reliable manner, addressing the problems of insecure configuration transmission, low on-site deployment efficiency, and high difficulty in remote troubleshooting in existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, the core objective of this invention is to provide an image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system for industrial vision software. Using images as the storage and transmission medium for configuration files, it achieves secure embedding and lossless storage of configuration files, supporting automatic equipment configuration and deployment on-site via barcode scanning. Furthermore, when equipment malfunctions, it can generate an image containing complete configuration data and send it to the sales / technical support end. Technical support personnel can then restore the on-site visual scene by scanning the barcode, completing troubleshooting without on-site intervention, thereby significantly reducing service costs and improving problem-solving efficiency.

[0005] To achieve the above technical solution, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: A system for embedding and restoring image-based configuration files for industrial vision software, characterized in that it includes a configuration data processing module, an image embedding module, an image output module, an image acquisition and recognition module, a configuration restoration module, a scene restoration module, an encryption and decryption module, and a data verification module; the modules work together to realize the storage, transmission, deployment, and remote debugging of configuration files using images as a medium.

[0006] Furthermore, the configuration data processing module is responsible for standardizing, compressing, encoding, and structurally encapsulating the original configuration files of the industrial vision software, ultimately generating a target data string adapted for image embedding. Specifically, standardization involves parsing configuration files of different formats (XML / JSON / INI) in a unified format, extracting core configuration fields such as camera parameters, algorithm parameters, calibration parameters, and process parameters, and removing redundant comment information. Compression encoding uses the LZ77 compression algorithm combined with Base64 encoding. First, the LZ77 algorithm reduces data redundancy, and then Base64 encoding converts the binary compressed data into a character stream recognizable by the image embedding module, ensuring no data loss during embedding. Structured encapsulation adds a configuration file identifier field (e.g., "IVS_CONFIG_2024"), a data length field, a device model field, and a scene type field (e.g., "defect detection / dimensional measurement / visual guidance") to the beginning of the encoded character stream, and a checksum field to the end, forming a complete target data string for rapid identification and integrity verification during subsequent recovery.

[0007] Furthermore, the encryption / decryption module establishes connections with the configuration data processing module and the configuration recovery module, respectively, undertaking the encryption task of the processed target data string and the decryption task of the extracted encrypted data string. This module uses the AES-256 encryption algorithm, with the specific encryption process parameters set as follows: the key length is strictly 256 bits (32 bytes), and the key is preset by the industrial vision software administrator through the key management interface, supporting custom keys based on device model or enterprise partition; key generation uses the PBKDF2 algorithm for reinforcement, with at least 10,000 iterations, and the salt value is the first 16 bytes of the device's unique serial number; the encryption mode uses CBC (Cipher Block Chaining) mode, with the initialization vector (IV) being a 16-byte random number, automatically generated by the system and embedded into the header of the encrypted data string (immediately after the configuration file identifier field) during each encryption; the padding method uses PKCS#7 to ensure the data block length is compatible with the 128-bit encrypted block. The encryption process is as follows: First, the target data string is divided into 128-bit groups. The last group is padded with PKCS#7. Then, each data block is XORed with the key and encrypted using the AES-256 algorithm. Finally, the initial vector and encrypted data blocks are concatenated in sequence to form a complete encrypted data string. The decryption process is the reverse: the initial vector is extracted from the beginning of the encrypted data string. Then, the subsequent encrypted data blocks are decrypted in groups. After decryption, the data is XORed with the key. Finally, the PKCS#7 padding is removed to obtain the target data string, ensuring that configuration data (especially core enterprise process parameters) is not illegally stolen or tampered with during image transmission and storage.

[0008] Furthermore, the image embedding module is used to embed the encrypted target data string into the carrier image, forming an embedded image containing configuration data. The carrier image is of two types: Type 1 is a blank template image (e.g., a standard-sized image with a white background, resolution not less than 1280×720 pixels), suitable for on-site deployment scenarios; Type 2 is a real-time acquired image from the industrial site (e.g., an image of the workpiece to be inspected, an image of the workstation environment), suitable for fault debugging scenarios, and can be associated with the on-site visual environment through the image. The embedding method adopts a composite scheme of "customized QR code encoding + local pixel LSB steganography": the encrypted data string is divided into a core data segment and an auxiliary data segment. The core data segment (accounting for 70%-80%) is embedded using customized QR code encoding. This customized QR code is based on an improved design of QRCodeModel2, with the following specific structural parameters: the version number is adaptively adjusted according to the data volume (version 1-40 is selectable, corresponding to a matrix size of 21×21 pixels to 177×177 pixels), the error correction level is improved to H level (error correction capability not less than 30%), and the encoding mode adopts byte mode (ByteMode). It supports direct encoding of ASCII characters and binary data; a 2-pixel-wide black industrial-specific identification frame is added around the QR code positioning pattern (three 7×7 pixel position detection patterns), and a 1-pixel-wide white isolation frame is added outside the identification frame to form a three-layer positioning structure of "positioning pattern - black identification frame - white isolation frame" to avoid interference from other QR codes or black and white textures on site; at the same time, a 16-bit industrial vision system-specific verification identifier (0xIV58) is embedded in the quiet area of ​​the QR code (the 4-pixel area around the positioning pattern) to facilitate the system to quickly distinguish the configuration-specific QR code from other industrial scene QR codes. The auxiliary data segment (accounting for 20%-30%) is embedded into non-critical areas of the carrier image (such as the edge area of ​​a blank template image or the background area of ​​a workpiece image) using least significant bit (LSB) steganography. Specific steganography parameters are as follows: the green channel of the carrier image is selected (human eyes have low sensitivity to green, minimizing visual impact after steganography); the binary bits of the auxiliary data segment are sequentially embedded into the least significant bit of the selected area's pixels; before embedding, the auxiliary data segment undergoes CRC-16 verification, with the checksum embedded immediately afterward as a backup for the core data segment. If the core data segment is partially lost due to image wear or contamination, it can be supplemented using the auxiliary data segment, ensuring data integrity. During the embedding process, the system automatically detects the pixel resolution and color channel information of the carrier image, adaptively adjusting the QR code size (ensuring the QR code's proportion in the carrier image is not less than 20% and does not exceed 50%) and the steganography area range based on the data volume. The embedding effect is monitored in real-time using an image quality assessment algorithm to ensure no significant change in the image's visual quality after embedding (peak signal-to-noise ratio PSNR ≥ 35dB), without affecting subsequent scanning and recognition.

[0009] Furthermore, the image output module connects to the image embedding module, responsible for outputting the generated embedded images in various formats to adapt to different application scenarios. Specific output formats include: ① Screen display: supporting direct display of the embedded image on the local touchscreen of the industrial vision equipment, allowing on-site personnel to scan it using mobile terminals or the equipment's built-in barcode scanning module; ② Print output: supporting connection to an industrial-grade printer to print the embedded image, using materials suitable for the industrial environment (such as waterproof, oil-proof, and wear-resistant label paper), which can be affixed to the equipment casing or workstation for easy subsequent maintenance; ③ File export: supporting exporting the embedded image to local storage in common formats such as PNG and JPG, or exporting via a limited wired interface (such as a USB interface), allowing personnel to send it to sales / technical support. During the output process, the system automatically adds image watermarks (such as equipment number and generation time) to facilitate data traceability.

[0010] Furthermore, the image acquisition and recognition module, serving as the data reading entry point, is responsible for acquiring embedded images and extracting the encrypted data string within them. This module supports two acquisition methods: ① Industrial-grade barcode scanning acquisition, adapted to industrial environments, integrating an anti-reflective and dust-resistant barcode scanning module, capable of directly scanning embedded images displayed on the device screen or pasted printed images, with a scanning speed of no less than 300ms / time and a recognition success rate of no less than 99.5%; ② Remote image acquisition, supporting technicians to capture or read embedded image files sent by staff via mobile terminals, computers, and other devices, extracting data through the system's built-in image recognition algorithm. During the recognition process, the system first preprocesses the acquired images (including grayscale conversion, noise reduction, image enhancement, and geometric correction) to eliminate interference from lighting, shooting angle, and image contamination. Then, it separately identifies the customized QR code in the core data segment and the steganographic data in the auxiliary data segment. After comparing and fusing the two data segments, a complete encrypted data string is generated.

[0011] Furthermore, the configuration recovery module is connected to both the image acquisition and recognition module and the encryption / decryption module. Its main function is to restore the decrypted target data string to the original configuration file. The specific restoration process is as follows: First, the extracted encrypted data string is decrypted by the encryption / decryption module to obtain a standardized target data string. Then, the target data string is parsed to extract fields such as the configuration identifier and device model from the header, verifying the compatibility between the current device and the configuration file. If compatible, the data segment is decompressed (Base64 decoding + LZ77 decompression) to restore the original structured configuration data. Finally, according to the original configuration file format (XML / JSON / INI), the configuration data is repackaged to generate a configuration file that can be directly recognized by industrial vision software. During the restoration process, the system automatically checks the syntax integrity of the configuration file. If syntax errors are found, it automatically calls the backup data from the auxiliary data segment to restore the configuration file, ensuring that the generated configuration file can be used directly.

[0012] Furthermore, the scene restoration module, connected to the configuration recovery module, is the core module for remote debugging. Its function is to reconstruct the on-site visual scene in the industrial vision simulation environment at the technical support end based on the restored configuration file. Specific functions include: ① Configuration parameter loading: directly loading the restored configuration file into the simulation environment, automatically configuring the parameters of the simulation camera and lens, and reproducing the on-site image acquisition parameters; ② Algorithm logic reproduction: loading the detection algorithm parameters in the configuration file to restore the on-site detection logic and judgment criteria; ③ Environmental parameter adaptation: extracting environmental features such as on-site lighting and background based on the on-site images (such as workpiece images) associated with the embedded images, simulating them in the simulation environment to ensure that the reconstructed scene is consistent with the actual on-site scene. Technicians can debug in the reconstructed scene, modify parameters, verify effects, find the cause of the fault, generate an optimized configuration file, and then send it to on-site personnel through the image embedding method of this invention. Personnel can then complete the configuration update by scanning a code, achieving remote fault resolution.

[0013] Furthermore, the data verification module, which runs throughout the entire configuration embedding and restoration process, is used to verify the integrity and accuracy of the data. During the embedding phase, the processed target data string undergoes MD5 verification, generating a checksum and embedding it at the end of the data string. During the restoration phase, the MD5 checksum of the decrypted and parsed target data string is recalculated and compared with the embedded checksum. If they match, the data is considered complete; otherwise, an auxiliary data segment completion mechanism is activated, and verification is performed again after completion. Simultaneously, after the configuration file is restored, the system automatically compares the core parameters (such as camera exposure time and defect judgment threshold) of the restored file with those of the original file to ensure parameter accuracy. In addition, in on-site deployment scenarios, after the configuration file is loaded, the data verification module triggers a trial run by acquiring an on-site image for testing to verify whether the configuration parameters are suitable for the current workstation. If the test results meet expectations, deployment is complete; if not, staff are prompted to rescan or contact technical support.

[0014] To further explain, this system is integrated into industrial vision software and adopts a modular design approach. It supports compatibility with mainstream industrial vision software such as Halcon, VisionPro, and LabVIEWVision. It can be integrated as a plug-in without requiring significant modifications to the original software architecture. The system is equipped with a visual operation interface, providing simplified operation functions such as "one-click generation of embedded images," "one-click scanning to restore configuration," and "one-click export of debugging images," lowering the operational threshold for on-site personnel. Even those without professional technical backgrounds can complete configuration, deployment, and fault feedback.

[0015] In addition, this system also has a configuration file version management function. When generating the embedded image, it will automatically record the version number of the configuration file. When restoring the configuration, it can display a list of historical configuration versions and support rolling back to the historical version. At the same time, the system will automatically record the entire process information of embedding, restoration and debugging (such as operation time, operator and equipment status), which will facilitate enterprises to trace the production process and control quality.

[0016] The present invention also discloses a method for managing image-based configuration files for industrial vision software, comprising: processing the configuration file of the industrial vision software and embedding it into a carrier image to generate an embedded image; outputting the embedded image for offline transmission; acquiring the embedded image and extracting processed configuration data from it; restoring the configuration file according to the extracted configuration data, and reconstructing the visual scene in a simulation environment based on the restored configuration file.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1) This invention completely avoids the security risks of traditional transmission methods, abandoning methods such as USB flash drive copying and network transmission that are prone to hardware damage, virus transmission, or data leakage. It uses images as an offline transmission medium to reduce the security risks of configuration transmission in industrial settings from the source, preventing the leakage of production data and core parameters. It adopts the AES-256 high-strength encryption algorithm, combined with the PBKDF2 key strengthening mechanism, the equipment's unique serial number salt value, and the PKCS#7 filling method to build a multi-layered encryption protection system. This ensures that core configuration data such as enterprise process parameters and testing standards are not illegally stolen or tampered with during storage and transmission, meeting industrial data security compliance requirements. The full-process data verification mechanism runs through the embedding and recovery stages. Through multiple verifications such as MD5 checksum, core parameter comparison, and trial operation testing, it ensures the integrity and accuracy of configuration data from generation to restoration, preventing equipment malfunctions caused by data loss or tampering.

[0018] 2) This invention enables convenient "scan-to-deploy" operation. On-site personnel do not need professional technical background. By scanning the embedded image with the device's built-in scanning module or a mobile terminal, the configuration file can be automatically restored and the device adapted. The entire deployment process takes no more than 5 minutes, which is more than 80% more efficient than traditional methods such as USB flash drive copying and network configuration. It is suitable for complex industrial environments. The carrier image printing uses waterproof, oil-proof, and wear-resistant industrial-grade label paper. The embedding method has high robustness. The customized QR code error correction level reaches H level (error correction capability ≥30%). Combined with LSB steganography backup data, it can resist on-site interference such as dust obstruction, light reflection, and printing wear. The recognition success rate is no less than 99.5%, ensuring a stable and reliable deployment process. No additional wiring or reliance on network environment is required. It gets rid of the limitations of weak network signals and electromagnetic interference in industrial sites, reducing the dependence of deployment on the environment. It is especially suitable for remote areas or complex layout production workstations, greatly reducing deployment preparation work and time costs.

[0019] 3) This invention innovatively achieves "scanning a code to restore the scene." By embedding on-site configuration data with real-time environmental images, technical support personnel can accurately reconstruct the on-site visual scene in a simulation environment without being physically present. This includes core elements such as camera parameters, algorithm logic, and lighting conditions, completely solving the pain point of "configuration files being disconnected from the on-site environment" in traditional debugging. The entire remote debugging process is completed offline, without relying on the on-site network, avoiding the risk of network attacks. It also saves the time and manpower costs of technical personnel traveling across regions. The fault resolution cycle is shortened from several days to several hours. For example, in the scenario of automotive parts defect detection, the debugging time is only 1.5 hours, and the service cost is reduced by more than 70%. It supports the rapid return and update of optimized configuration files. After the technical personnel complete the debugging, they generate a new embedded image, and on-site staff can complete the configuration upgrade by scanning a code. There is no need for manual export and import operations, reducing operational errors and improving fault resolution efficiency.

[0020] 4) The modular design of this invention supports plug-in integration and is compatible with mainstream industrial vision software such as Halcon, VisionPro, and LabVIEWVision. It does not require modification of the original software architecture, reducing the cost of enterprise upgrades and transformations, and is compatible with different brands and models of industrial vision equipment. The carrier image supports two types: blank templates and real-time on-site images, which are adapted to deployment and debugging scenarios respectively. It not only meets the requirements of standardized deployment, but also improves the accuracy of debugging by associating environmental information with on-site images, and is compatible with diverse application scenarios of industrial vision systems. It has a visual operation interface and simplified functions, providing convenient operations such as "one-click generation of embedded images", "one-click scanning and recovery", and "one-click export of debugging images", reducing the operation threshold for on-site personnel. At the same time, it supports configuration version management and operation log traceability, which facilitates enterprise production process control and quality traceability.

[0021] 5) This invention breaks through the traditional configuration file management model and pioneers the "image-based storage and transmission" solution, integrating customized QR code encoding and LSB steganography technology to solve the industry problem of large data volume and high transmission requirements of industrial vision configuration files, providing a brand-new approach to configuration management in the field of industrial automation; it takes into account high security, high robustness and high convenience, meeting the needs of industrial data confidentiality, adapting to complex field environments, and simplifying the operation process, promoting the transformation of industrial vision system deployment and maintenance towards "high efficiency, low cost and low threshold", helping enterprises improve production efficiency and equipment operation and maintenance level, and has broad industrial application prospects and promotion value. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To further illustrate the various embodiments, the present invention provides accompanying drawings. These drawings are part of the disclosure of the present invention, primarily used to illustrate the embodiments and to explain the operating principles of the embodiments in conjunction with the relevant descriptions in the specification. With reference to these drawings, those skilled in the art should be able to understand other possible implementations and the advantages of the present invention. Components in the drawings are not drawn to scale, and similar component symbols are generally used to represent similar components.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a system for embedding and restoring graphical configuration files for industrial vision software. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0025] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0026] Example 1: Please see the appendix Figure 1As shown: A system for embedding and restoring image-based configuration files for industrial vision software is used for on-site barcode scanning deployment. Specifically, step 1: configuration data processing and encryption. In the visualization interface of the industrial vision software, the staff selects the original configuration file (JSON format, containing parameters such as camera exposure time 200μs, gain 1.2, defect judgment threshold 0.8, and pixel equivalent 0.01mm / pixel) for "automotive engine cylinder block defect detection". The system standardizes the file through the configuration data processing module, removes the annotation information, and extracts the core configuration fields. Then, the core field data is compressed using the LZ77 algorithm (compression rate of approximately 45%), and then converted into a character stream using Base64 encoding. Finally, the identifier field "IVS_CONFIG_2024", the device model "IVS-6800", and the scene type "defect detection" are added, and an MD5 checksum is generated to form a complete target data string. The encryption and decryption module uses the AES-256 algorithm and the company's proprietary key "QYGZ-2024-IVS" to encrypt the target data string, resulting in an encrypted data string. Step 2: Image embedding and output. The system uses a blank template image as the carrier image. The image embedding module divides the encrypted data string into a core data segment (75%) and an auxiliary data segment (25%). The core data segment is embedded using a customized QR code encoding, with the QR code error correction level set to H. A "Dedicated for Industrial Vision Configuration" label is added around the positioning pattern. The auxiliary data segment is embedded into the edge area of ​​the blank template image using LSB steganography technology. After embedding, an embedded image is generated with a peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of 38dB and no obvious visual abnormalities. The operator selects print output through the image output module. An industrial-grade printer prints the embedded image onto waterproof and oil-proof label paper, which is then affixed to the casing of the industrial vision equipment. Step 3: Scanning and Configuration Recovery. During on-site installation and commissioning, staff activated the industrial vision equipment. The equipment's built-in industrial-grade barcode scanning module automatically scanned the embedded image on the casing. The image acquisition and recognition module first preprocessed the acquired image by denoising and geometric correction, then extracted the core data segment and auxiliary data segment of the edge region from the customized QR code. After comparison and fusion, a complete encrypted data string was obtained. The encryption and decryption module used a dedicated key to decrypt the target data string. The data verification module calculated the MD5 checksum and compared it with the tail checksum to confirm the data integrity. The configuration recovery module performed Base64 decoding and LZ77 decompression on the target data string, restoring it to the original JSON format configuration file, while verifying the device model compatibility (the current device model is IVS-6800, which is consistent with the device model in the data string). Step 4: Deployment verification.The data verification module triggers a trial run test. The industrial vision equipment acquires an image of a car engine block and performs defect detection according to the restored configuration file. If the detection result matches the preset standard, the configuration deployment is deemed successful. If the detection result is abnormal, the system automatically calls the auxiliary data segment to restore the configuration file and re-verify until deployment is successful. The entire deployment process does not require the use of USB flash drives or network transmission, and the operation time is less than 5 minutes, significantly improving on-site deployment efficiency.

[0027] Example 2: Please see the appendix Figure 1 As shown: A scenario for remote on-site barcode scanning debugging using an image-based configuration file embedding and recovery system for industrial vision software. Specifically, Step 1: Fault Image Generation and Sending. When a defect or misjudgment occurs during the operation of the industrial vision equipment, on-site personnel select the "Fault Debugging Image Generation" function in the system interface. The system automatically retrieves the current running configuration file and completes data processing and encryption through the configuration data processing module and encryption / decryption module. The image embedding module uses an on-site acquired image of a car engine cylinder block as the carrier image, embedding the core data segment of the encrypted data string into a customized QR code, and hiding the auxiliary data segment in the background area of ​​the cylinder block image to generate an embedded image. Personnel export the embedded image as a PNG format through the image output module and send it to the technical support personnel at the sales end. Step 2: Image Recognition and Scene Reconstruction. Technical support personnel open the received embedded image on their computer, extract the encrypted data string through the system's image acquisition and recognition module, and after decryption and verification, the configuration recovery module restores the original configuration file. The scene restoration module loads this configuration file into the industrial vision simulation environment, automatically configures parameters such as exposure time and gain of the simulation camera, loads the defect detection algorithm and judgment threshold, and simulates the same lighting intensity and background environment based on the cylinder image in the embedded image, completing the accurate reconstruction of the on-site visual scene. Step 3: Remote debugging and configuration update. Technical support personnel conduct debugging work in the reconstructed scene and find that the fault is caused by an excessively low defect judgment threshold (0.8), which causes normal surface textures to be misjudged as defects. By adjusting the threshold to 1.2 and rerunning the detection algorithm, the accuracy of the detection results is verified. Subsequently, an optimized configuration file is generated, and a new embedded image is generated through the system and sent to the on-site staff. After the on-site staff scans the code, the system automatically restores the optimized configuration file, and the detection is run again, resolving the fault. The entire debugging process does not require on-site technical personnel and takes only 1.5 hours, significantly reducing service costs and fault resolution time.

[0028] In summary, this invention proposes a novel solution using images as the storage medium for industrial visual configuration files, breaking through the limitations of traditional network and USB flash drive transmissions to achieve offline and secure transmission of configuration files. It employs a composite embedding method of "customized QR codes + LSB steganography," combined with high-level error correction and data backup design, enhancing the system's robustness in industrial settings. The addition of a scene restoration module enables "scanning the code to restore the scene," effectively addressing the industry pain point of requiring on-site technical personnel for remote debugging. Through end-to-end encryption and verification design, the security of core process parameters is guaranteed. Compared to existing technologies, this invention not only achieves image-based management of configuration files but also precisely adapts to the actual needs of industrial deployment and remote maintenance, creatively solving the problems of poor security, low efficiency, and high cost inherent in traditional technologies, thus possessing significant industrial value.

[0029] This invention also discloses a method for managing image-based configuration files for industrial vision software, comprising: processing the configuration file of the industrial vision software and embedding it into a carrier image to generate an embedded image; outputting the embedded image for offline transmission; acquiring the embedded image and extracting processed configuration data from it; restoring the configuration file based on the extracted configuration data; and reconstructing a visual scene in a simulation environment based on the restored configuration file. The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art should be able to make equivalent embodiments by making some changes or modifications to the above-disclosed technical content without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for embedding and restoring image-based configuration files for industrial vision software, characterized in that: include: The configuration embedding unit is used to embed the configuration file of the industrial vision software into the carrier image after processing, and generate an embedded image containing configuration data. An image output unit is used to output the embedded image; A configuration recovery unit is used to extract and process configuration data from the acquired embedded image to recover the configuration file; The scene simulation unit is used to reconstruct the corresponding industrial vision scene in the simulation environment based on the restored configuration file.

2. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The configuration embedding unit includes: a configuration data processing module, an encryption / decryption module, and an image embedding module that are electrically connected to each other; The configuration data processing module is used to standardize, compress, encode, and structure the original configuration file of the industrial vision software to generate the target data string. The encryption / decryption module is used to encrypt the target data string and decrypt the extracted encrypted data string. The image embedding module is used to embed the encrypted target data string into the carrier image to generate an embedded image; The image output unit includes an image output module and an image acquisition and recognition module that are electrically connected; The image output module is used to output the embedded image in the form of screen display, print output, and file export; The image acquisition and recognition module is used to acquire embedded images and extract encrypted data strings therein; The scene simulation unit includes a scene restoration module and a data verification module that are electrically connected. The scene restoration module is used to reconstruct the visual scene of the industrial site in the simulation environment according to the restored configuration file. The data verification module is used to verify the integrity and accuracy of data throughout the embedding and recovery process.

3. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The original configuration file includes camera parameters, lens parameters, detection algorithm parameters, workstation calibration parameters, and process control parameters; the configuration data processing module is used to parse, compress, encode, and add identification information to the original configuration file to generate the target data string.

4. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The encryption / decryption module uses a symmetric encryption algorithm to encrypt the target data string.

5. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The image embedding module adopts a composite embedding method of "customized QR code encoding + local pixel LSB steganography". The customized QR code is an improved QRCodeModel2 structure, with version number 1-40 adaptively adjusted, error correction level H, and encoding mode byte mode. The positioning pattern is surrounded by a 2-pixel wide black industrial-specific identification frame and a 1-pixel wide white isolation frame, and a 0xIV58 exclusive verification mark is embedded in the quiet area. The LSB steganography technology selects the green channel of the carrier image and embeds the binary bits of the auxiliary data segment into the lowest bit of the pixel. The auxiliary data segment carries a CRC-16 check code. The carrier image is a blank template image or a real-time image acquired in the industrial field. During the embedding process, the system adaptively adjusts the QR code size and the range of the steganography area. The peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of the embedded image is ≥35dB.

6. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The image output module's printing output is adapted to industrial environments, and the printing medium is waterproof, oil-proof, and wear-resistant label paper; the output embedded image is automatically watermarked with the device number and generation time. The file can be exported in PNG or JPG format.

7. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The image acquisition and recognition module supports both industrial-grade barcode scanning and remote image acquisition. After acquisition, the image undergoes preprocessing such as grayscale conversion, noise reduction, image enhancement, and geometric correction. During recognition, the core data segment and auxiliary data segment are extracted, compared, and fused to generate a complete encrypted data string.

8. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The restoration process of the configuration recovery module includes: decrypting the encrypted data string to obtain the target data string, parsing the target data string and verifying device compatibility, performing Base64 decoding and LZ77 decompression on the data segment, restoring it into structured configuration data, and then encapsulating it into a configuration file in the original format; during the restoration process, the integrity of the configuration file syntax is automatically detected, and backup data of the auxiliary data segment can be called to restore it again.

9. The image-based configuration file embedding and restoration system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The scene reconstruction module includes: loading a configuration file to configure the simulated camera and lens parameters, loading detection algorithm parameters to reproduce the detection logic, and simulating lighting and background environment based on the embedded image and associated field image. Technicians can debug parameters and generate optimized configuration files in the reconstructed scene. The data verification module uses MD5 checksum to verify data integrity. During the embedding stage, a checksum is generated and embedded at the end of the data string. During the recovery stage, the checksum is recalculated and compared. After the configuration file is restored, the consistency of core parameters is automatically compared. During on-site deployment, a trial run test is triggered after the configuration is loaded to verify the configuration adaptability.

10. A method for managing image-based configuration files for industrial vision software, characterized in that, include: The configuration file of the industrial vision software is processed and then embedded into the carrier image to generate an embedded image. Output the embedded image for offline transmission; The embedded image is acquired and processed configuration data is extracted from it; the configuration file is restored based on the extracted configuration data, and the visual scene is reconstructed in the simulation environment based on the restored configuration file.

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