Near perfect infrared colors

Abstract

To provide a method and system for rendering a watermark having near perfect infrared colors.SOLUTION: A method for rendering a watermark having near perfect infrared colors, comprises providing an infrared pattern ink having a color provided with a lower spectral reflection factor in an infrared spectrum, replacing the color having the lower spectral reflection factor in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color configuring a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflection factor in the infrared spectrum, matching, in a visible spectrum, the replacement color with the color having the lower spectral reflection factor in the infrared spectrum, and rendering a watermark comprising a metameric color pair that includes the infrared pattern ink and the replacement color. The watermark may be created by defining a first color pattern having a CMYK value derived from a particular LAB value with a lower toner stack and a higher reflection factor in an infrared spectrum as compared to a second color pattern having a second CMYK value derived from the same LAB value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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[0003]

[0001] Embodiments relate to an image processing method, system, and device. Embodiments also relate to a printing device and technology. Embodiments further relate to security features such as watermarks. Embodiments further relate to special imaging. Embodiments further relate to techniques and devices for rendering near perfect infrared (IR) colors. Embodiments also relate to methods and systems for rendering the dual effect of microgloss and infrared in the same space.

Background Art

[0002] In conventional printing processes that require security means, a pattern color space with special imaging characteristics has been used to provide security means and prevent the forgery of printed materials. Further, in conventional printing processes, the pattern color space has been used partially on variable data such as printed logos, serial numbers, sheet positions, or other types of unique identification information on printed materials.

[0003] Security is an important requirement in many document creation applications. In the case of printing official documents or government documents, event tickets, financial products, etc., it is necessary to protect many documents against copying, forgery, and / or counterfeiting. To achieve this, printed documents often include security marks or security features that help prevent forgery and / or identify a document as an original.

[0004] Therefore, for security purposes, it may be desirable to add information to documents in the form of security marks or security features that can prevent or hinder alteration and forgery. Traditionally, special imaging has been used in printed materials to provide fraud protection and forgery prevention for such security purposes. Some examples include prescriptions, contracts, documents, coupons, and tickets. Typically, several special imaging techniques are used in various locations within the document. In addition, these security elements may, in some cases, detract from the overall aesthetics of the document.

[0005] Examples of special imaging, though not limited to these, include features such as Xerox® MicroText Mark, Xerox® Correlation Mark, Xerox® GlossMark®, Xerox® Infrared Mark, and Xerox® Fluorescent Mark, which add security to static and variable information (VI) jobs by making counterfeiting difficult. Using multiple effects, including visible effects, for a given application can make reproduction more expensive than purchasing the original. Special imaging can also be used to add visual interest and sophistication to print jobs. Special imaging can also be used to add reflective text to enhance photographs, illustrations, and background colors.

[0006] In the field of security printing, documents can be protected from duplication, forgery, and counterfeiting using multiple technologies. Special imaging is one such method for security printing that can use standard materials such as paper ink and toner. Typically, security printing companies on the market require special (expensive) materials. An exemplary document is a prescription that a pharmacist wants to have a good level of confidence in its authenticity.

[0007] A well-known example is special imaging infrared (IR) text, where hidden messages can only be seen under IR illumination, for example, using an IR camera. This can utilize the spectral reflectance of toner. Figure 1 shows Graph 10 of prior art displaying plotted data (curves), showing that black toner can absorb IR, while CMY reflects it in the IR spectrum. Reflectance is plotted along the y-axis of Graph 10, while the wavelength WL in cm is shown along the x-axis of Graph 10. This effect can be achieved without special (expensive) materials such as infrared ink.

[0008] Figures 2 and 3 show prior art images (i.e., the same image) at different zoom levels, illustrating metameric pairs of pattern inks. Specifically, Image 12 is shown in Figure 2, and Image 14 is shown in Figure 3. Images 12 and 14 are the same image, but at different zoom levels. One ink used for a text box may consist of red, blue, cyan, and magenta. Text inks may consist of magenta, blue, and black. At nearly printed levels, as shown in the exemplary Image 12 in Figure 2, the ink pairs may blend into a single pattern / color. This situation can occur as shown in Figure 2, but does not always occur when printed. Image 14 shown in Figure 3 relates to a situation where the text "X" can be seen depending on the zoom level.

[0009] Various color names may be available so that document designers can insert the most useful IR pattern ink in the overall design of the document. An example shown in Figures 2 and 3 is IR_crimson_007. Figure 4 shows image 16 showing a swatch sheet 17 that displays the current IR color with text readable without an IR camera. These swatches are poorly made. However, it should be noted that changing the zoom may help in viewing the text.

[0010] Therefore, special imaging infrared (IR) colors, in order to be considered working colors, must be nearly invisible under office lighting and clearly visible using an IR camera. Sample sheets may be printed, and any sample that is defective in any of the above cases is typically discarded. Not being nearly invisible under office lighting is the most common defect. Metameric pairs of IR pattern inks should appear nearly identical under office lighting using techniques similar to halftone working methods. They should appear different to an IR camera due to differences in spectral reflectance in the toner / ink. [Overview of the project]

[0011] The following summary is provided to facilitate understanding of some of the innovative features specific to the disclosed embodiments and is not intended to be a complete description. A complete understanding of the various aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be obtained by looking at the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract together.

[0012] Therefore, one embodiment of the invention is to provide an improved image processing method, system, and device.

[0013] Another embodiment of the invention provides improved printing devices and technologies, as well as improved security features such as watermarks.

[0014] A further embodiment of the invention is to provide an improved special imaging technique.

[0015] Furthermore, one embodiment provides a method and system for implementing quasi-perfect IR color according to one embodiment.

[0016] A further embodiment of the invention provides a method and system for implementing a dual effect of micro-gloss and infrared light in the same space.

[0017] The embodiments described above, as well as other purposes and benefits, can be achieved as described herein. In one embodiment, a method for rendering a watermark having a quasi-perfect infrared color may include: providing an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; replacing the color with the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color comprising a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; matching the replacement color with the color with the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum in the visible spectrum; and rendering a watermark comprising a metameric color pair including the infrared pattern ink and the replacement color.

[0018] In one embodiment, a metallic color pair may include a pair of metallic pattern inks.

[0019] In one embodiment, a metameric color pair can display a visible signal on an infrared camera.

[0020] In one embodiment, the watermark can be rendered by a printing system.

[0021] In one embodiment, the processor may include a digital front-end controller.

[0022] In another embodiment, a method for rendering an imaging effect in the same space on a recording medium may include defining, using a processor, a first color pattern having a higher reflectivity in the infrared spectrum compared to a second color pattern having a CMYK value derived from a specific LAB value having a lower toner stack and a second CMYK value derived from the same LAB value, and rendering the first and second color patterns on the recording medium in a small size such that the first and second color patterns appear as a single LAB color in the same space on the recording medium.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first color pattern can include at least one of a micro - gloss effect or an IR effect.

[0024] In one embodiment, the second color pattern can include at least one of a micro - gloss effect or an IR effect.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first color pattern can include a micro - gloss effect, and the second color pattern includes an IR effect.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first color pattern can include an IR effect, and the second color pattern includes a micro - gloss effect.

[0027] In one embodiment, the watermark can include a first color pattern and a second color pattern rendered on a recording medium.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first color pattern and the second color pattern can be rendered on a recording medium by a printing system.

[0029] In one embodiment, the processor can include a digital front - end controller.

[0030] In one embodiment, a printing system for rendering a watermark having a near - perfect infrared color includes providing an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum, exchanging a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with an exchange color including a combination of colors with a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum, and matching the exchange color with a color having a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum and matching in the visible spectrum, and can include a processor adapted to perform the foregoing.

[0031] One embodiment of the printing system may further include a printer that renders a watermark including a pair of metallic colors, including infrared pattern inks and interchangeable colors.

[0032] In one embodiment of the printing system, a metallic color pair may include a pair of metallic pattern inks.

[0033] In one embodiment of the printing system, a pair of metallic colors can display a visible signal on an infrared camera.

[0034] In one embodiment of the printing system, the processor may include a digital front-end controller.

[0035] In another embodiment, a printing system for rendering an imaging effect in the same space on a recording medium may include a processor adapted to define a first color pattern having a CMYK value lower than the CMYK value of a LAB value having a lower toner stack and higher reflectivity in the infrared spectrum, a second color pattern having a CMYK value higher than the CMYK value of a LAB value having a higher toner stack and lower reflectivity in the IR spectrum, and rendering the first and second color patterns on the recording medium in a small size such that the first and second color patterns appear as a single LAB color in the same space on the recording medium.

[0036] In one embodiment of the printing system, the first color pattern may include at least one of a microgloss effect or an IR effect.

[0037] In one embodiment of the printing system, the second color pattern may include at least one of a microgloss effect or an IR effect.

[0038] In one embodiment of the printing system, the first color pattern may include a micro-gloss effect, and the second color pattern may include an IR effect.

[0039] In one embodiment of the printing system, the first color pattern may include an IR effect, and the second color pattern may include a micro-gloss effect.

[0040] In one embodiment of the printing system, the watermark may include a first color pattern and a second color pattern rendered on the recording medium.

[0041] In one embodiment of the printing system, a first color pattern and a second color pattern can be rendered on a recording medium by the printing system.

[0042] In one embodiment of the printing system, the process described above includes a digital front-end controller. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0043] Similar reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout a separate set of figures. The accompanying drawings, incorporated herein and forming part of this specification, further illustrate the invention and, together with a detailed description of the invention, illustrate the principles of the invention. [Figure 1] The graph shows prior art plotting data indicating that black toner absorbs IR, while CMY reflects in the IR spectrum. [Figure 2] The images show prior art images (i.e., the same image) at different zoom levels, illustrating the metameric pairs of patterned inks. [Figure 3] The images show prior art images (i.e., the same image) at different zoom levels, illustrating the metameric pairs of patterned inks. [Figure 4] This shows prior art IR color with text that can be read without an IR camera. [Figure 5]This image shows a new metameric pair of pattern inks, which is a direct replacement of the original pattern inks, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] This image shows a new metameric pair of pattern inks, which is a direct replacement of the original pattern inks, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] This shows an image of an IR sample sheet, which may be unreadable without an IR camera, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 7 shows an image of an IR sample sheet according to one embodiment, which can be read by an IR camera. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram illustrating the gloss effect is shown. [Figure 10] The images shown are sample sheets and may not all be functional. [Figure 11] This image shows the same paper as in Figure 10, but from a different angle. [Figure 12] The image shown is of the same paper sample as in Figure 11, but it can be read by an IR camera. [Figure 13] This shows an operation flowchart illustrating the logical operation steps of a method for implementing quasi-perfect IR color according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] This diagram shows an operational flowchart illustrating the logical operational steps of a method for implementing a dual effect of micro-gloss and infrared light in the same space, according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] This document shows a block diagram of a digital front-end controller for a printing system suitable for carrying out one or more embodiments of the exemplary methods described herein. [Figure 16] This document shows a block diagram of a digital front-end controller useful for carrying out one or more embodiments of the exemplary methods described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0044] The specific values ​​and configurations discussed in these non-limiting embodiments may be modified and are cited merely to illustrate one or more embodiments, and are not intended to limit their scope.

[0045] Herein, the subject matter is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification and illustrate specific exemplary embodiments. However, the subject matter may be embodied in various different forms, and therefore the subject matter covered or claimed is intended to be construed as not being limited to any exemplary embodiments described herein. The exemplary embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only. Similarly, a fairly broad range is intended for the subject matter claimed or referred to. In particular, for example, the subject matter may be embodied as a method, device, component, or system. Thus, embodiments may take the form of, for example, hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof (other than software itself). Accordingly, the embodiments for carrying out the invention described below are not intended to be construed as restrictive.

[0046] Throughout this specification and the claims, terms may have nuances implied or suggested meanings beyond their expressly stated meanings. Similarly, when used herein, phrases such as “in one embodiment” or “in an exemplary embodiment” and variations thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and when used herein, phrases such as “in another embodiment” or “in another exemplary embodiment” and variations thereof may or may not refer to a different embodiment. For example, the claimed subject matter is intended to include all or some combinations of exemplary embodiments.

[0047] In general, terms can be understood at least partially from their use in context. For example, terms such as “and,” “or,” or “and / or” as used herein may have various meanings that depend at least partially on the context in which such terms are used. Typically, when “or” is used to relate a list such as A, B, or C, it is intended to mean A, B, and C in an inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C in an exclusive sense. In addition, when used herein, the term “one or more” may be used at least partially on the context to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense, or to describe a combination of features, structures, or characteristics in a plural sense. Similarly, terms such as “a,” “an,” or “the” can also be understood, at least partially on the context, to convey either a singular or plural use. In addition, the term “based on” is not necessarily intended to convey an exclusive set of factors, but rather, likewise at least partially on the context, may be understood to anticipate the presence of additional factors that are not necessarily explicitly stated.

[0048] The term "data" in this specification refers to a physical signal that indicates or contains information. "Image," as a physical pattern of light or a collection of data representing physical light, may include characters, words, and text, as well as other features such as figures.

[0049] Broadly speaking, a "digital image" is an image represented by a collection of digital data. An image can be divided into "sections," each of which is an image in itself. These sections can be of any size, up to encompassing the entire image.

[0050] As used herein, the terms “image object” or “object” are generally considered to be equivalent to the term “section” in the art and shall be used interchangeably herein.

[0051] In digital images, which consist of data representing physical light, each element of the data may be called a "pixel," a term commonly used in the art to refer to a photographic element. Each pixel has a position and a value. Each pixel value is a set of bits in the "binary format" of the image, a grayscale value in the "grayscale format" of the image, or a set of color space coordinates in the "color coordinate format" of the image, where the binary format, grayscale format, and color coordinate format are each two-dimensional arrays that define the image.

[0052] The operation can perform "image processing" when it is performed on data items related to a part of an image.

[0053] "Contrast" is used to indicate visual differences between items, data points, etc. Contrast can be measured as color difference, luminance difference, or both.

[0054] A digital color printing system is a device configuration suitable for receiving image data and rendering that image data onto a substrate, such as a recording medium. As used herein, the term “IR camera” or “infrared camera” refers to a type of thermographic camera capable of creating images using infrared (IR) radiation. The term “infrared” (sometimes called infrared light) may refer to electromagnetic radiation having wavelengths longer than those of visible light; therefore, it is invisible to the human eye. IR is generally understood to include wavelengths from about 700 nanometers, the nominal red edge of the visible spectrum, to 1 millimeter.

[0055] The RGB color model is an additive color model in which red, green, and blue are added together in various ways to reproduce a wide range of colors. The model's name comes from the first letters of the three primary colors of additive color mixing: red, green, and blue.

[0056] The primary purpose of the RGB color model is the perception, representation, and display of images in electronic systems. RGB is a device-dependent color model because different devices will perceive or reproduce a given RGB value differently, due to variations in color elements and their responses to individual red, green, and blue levels across manufacturers and even within the same device over time. Therefore, RGB values ​​will not define the same color across devices without some form of color management.

[0057] The "CMYK color model" is a subtractive color mixing model that can be used for color printing and can also be used to describe the printing process itself. CMYK refers to the four inks used in some color printing: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

[0058] A "colorant" can refer to one of the primary colors C, M, Y, and K, which are basic subtractive colorants and can be realized in formulations such as liquid inks, solid inks, dyes, or electrostatic graphic toners. A "colorant mixture" is a specific combination of the colorants C, M, Y, and K.

[0059] The term "LAB" as used is derived from the CIELAB color space (also known as L*a*b*), a color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination in 1976. It represents color as three values: L* is perceived lightness, and a* and b* are the four inherent colors of human vision: red, green, blue, and yellow. The term "LAB" can be used interchangeably with L*a*b*.

[0060] An "infrared mark" is a watermark embedded in an image that is relatively difficult to decipher under normal light, but can be deciphered under infrared illumination using an appropriate infrared sensing device such as an infrared camera.

[0061] "Metameric" rendering / printing is the ability to use a combination of multiple colorants to render a single visual color, as can be achieved when printing with four or more colorants.

[0062] As used herein, the terms “printer” and “printing system” may include any device and / or system, such as a digital copier, electrophotographic and photocopying system, bookbinding machine, facsimile machine, multifunction machine, inkjet machine, continuous feed, sheet feed printing device, etc., which may include a print controller and a print engine and may perform print output functions for any purpose. A digital color printing system is an example of a printer or printing system.

[0063] In one embodiment, the pattern ink from the original metameric pair, which has more absorbency in the IR spectrum, can be left unchanged. The second pattern ink can be created from the first pattern ink, replacing the highly IR-absorbent color with a highly reflective IR color. The new pair of metameric pattern inks looks nearly identical under office lighting, while still showing signals clearly visible on an IR camera. More sample sheets are typically available here. The new set of colors can be a direct replacement for the originals.

[0064] In one embodiment, the method can be carried out as follows. 1) Start with the current IR pattern ink, which has a lower spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum. 2) Replace only the color(s) with lower spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum with the color(s) with higher spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum. 3) The replacement color in step 2 should, through trial and error, match the replacement color in step 1 in the visible spectrum. 4) Use the new metameric pair, which consists of the IR pattern inks from Step 1, together with the new pattern inks from Steps 2 and 3.

[0065] The result of the above steps / operations is that the new pattern inks in steps 2 and 3, as well as the new pattern ink selected in step 1, become the new IR color. The original IR pattern inks not selected in step 1 are no longer used. The methods outlined above with respect to steps 1, 2, 3, and 4 are also described herein with respect to the embodiments shown in Figure 13. It should be noted that the methods described above and elsewhere herein can be carried out by a printing system such as the printing system 100 shown in Figure 16.

[0066] Figures 5 and 6 show a new metameric pair of pattern inks (e.g., IR_crimson_007, which is the metameric pair of pattern inks) as shown in images 18 and 20 respectively, which can be used as a direct replacement for the original pattern ink. This offers the advantage of replacing the current IR color with an improved IR color without any changes to the document designer. In the exemplary embodiments shown in images 18 and 20 of Figures 5 and 6, the color having the lowest spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum K can be replaced with a color having a higher spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum process.

[0067] Figure 7 shows an image 22 of the IR sample sheet 23, which may be unreadable without an IR camera. Figure 8 shows an image 24 of the IR sample sheet 23 shown in Figure 7, according to one embodiment, but which is readable with an IR camera 25.

[0068] Embodiments can also address gloss effects. That is, the goal in designing a gloss effect is to provide a gloss effect where text and / or figures appear to be nearly the same color / pattern at a given angle under illumination, but appear differently at different angles. Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram 26 illustrating a gloss effect. Schematic diagram 26 shown in Figure 9 demonstrates that gloss effects can be based on the angle of the light source, the angle of the observer, and the angle of the sample. This applies to microgloss and other gloss effects such as GlossMark®. In some microgloss applications, IR watermarks may be embedded in the microgloss print, which involves overlaying the IR and microgloss effects. However, these separate watermarks tend to use more "real estate."

[0069] One embodiment of addressing this problem can be implemented as a method that includes the following steps: 1) Define a low value for one color CMYK with a specific LAB value that has a relatively low toner stack and a relatively high reflectance in the IR spectrum. 2) Define a high value for another color CMYK with a specific LAB value that has a relatively high toner stack and a relatively low reflectance in the IR spectrum. 3) When printed at a small size, the two patterns appear as a single LAB color. 4) Verify both the micro-gloss effect and the IR effect.

[0070] Steps 1 and 2 above may include the operation of defining a CMYK value derived from a particular LAB value having a lower toner stack, and a first color pattern having a higher reflectivity in the infrared spectrum compared to a second color pattern having a second CMYK value derived from the same LAB value. This is because for one particular LAB value, there are multiple CMYK values, and since they are the same LAB, they should appear to be approximately the same color. One CMYK value has a higher toner stack and a higher reflectivity in IR compared to other CMYK values.

[0071] The methods outlined above with respect to Step 1, Step 2, Step 3, and Step 4 are also described herein with respect to the embodiments shown in Figure 14. It should be noted that the methods described above and elsewhere herein can be carried out by a printing system such as the printing system 100 shown in Figure 16.

[0072] Figure 10 shows image 28 of sample sheet 31, where not all samples may function. Specifically, the top line 33 shown in image 28 of Figure 10 (which may appear red and black in color rendering) is a sample. From the second line downwards, it may appear as a single color, or the watermark text may be barely visible.

[0073] Figure 11 shows image 30 of the same paper / medium 31 as shown in Figure 10, but from a different angle. In image 30 of the paper / medium 31 shown in Figure 11, the watermark text "0123456789" is clearly visible as a glossy effect in the second sample from above.

[0074] Figure 12 shows an image 40 of the same paper / medium 31 (or substrate) as shown in Figure 11, but readable by the IR camera 25. Note that the paper / medium 31 can be viewed through the IR camera 25. In Figure 12, the third part of the dual watermark in function is the second sample from the top, which has a visible IR watermark. The glossy effect is easy to verify even without equipment, but the IR effect is better for automated machine verification, e.g., IR barcodes.

[0075] Figure 13 shows an operation flowchart illustrating the logical operation steps of Method 50 for implementing a quasi-perfect IR color according to one embodiment. Method 50 shown in Figure 13 is shown in the context of four operation blocks, including blocks 52, 54, 56, and 58. Block 52 illustrates step 1, block 54 illustrates step 2, block 54 illustrates step 3, and block 56 illustrates step 4. As shown in block 52, a step or operation may be performed to start with the current IR pattern ink having a lower spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum. As shown in block 54, a step or operation may be performed to replace a color(s) having a lower spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum with a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the IR spectrum. Then, as shown in block 54, a step or operation may be performed so that the replacement color from step 2 matches the replacement color from step 1 in the visible spectrum. Subsequently, steps or operations can be performed to use a new metameric pair consisting of the IR pattern ink from step 1 and the new pattern inks from steps 2 and 3, as shown in block 56.

[0076] Method 50, shown in Figure 13, may include an operation that allows the pattern ink from the original metameric pair to remain unchanged, while having more absorbency in the IR spectrum. The second pattern ink can be created from the first pattern ink by replacing the highly IR absorbent color with a highly reflective IR color. The new pair of metameric pattern inks looks nearly identical under office lighting, while still showing signals clearly visible on an IR camera (e.g., IR camera 25). More sample sheets are typically available here. The new set of colors is a direct replacement for the original.

[0077] In method 50 shown in Figure 13, the new pattern inks in steps 2 and 3, as well as the new pattern ink selected in step 1, become the new IR color. The original IR pattern inks not selected in step 1 are no longer used. Note that method 50 described above and elsewhere in this specification can be carried out by a printing system such as the printing system 100 shown in Figure 16.

[0078] Figure 14 shows an operation flowchart illustrating the logical operation steps of Method 60 for implementing a dual effect of microgloss and infrared in the same space according to one embodiment. As shown in block 62, a step or operation can be performed to define one color CMYK lower than a specific LAB value CMYK having a relatively low toner stack and a relatively high reflectivity in the IR spectrum. Then, as shown in block 64, a step or operation can be performed to define another color CMYK higher than a specific LAB value CMYK having a relatively high toner stack and a relatively low reflectivity in the IR spectrum. Then, as shown in block 66, a step or operation can be performed to print at a small size so that the two patterns may appear as a single LAB color. Subsequently, as shown in block 68, a step or operation can be performed to verify the microgloss and IR effect work.

[0079] Therefore, the method 60 shown in Figure 14 may include steps or operations that can create a metameric pair of inks in which one absorbs more infrared light than the other. In addition, one ink may be made from a higher toner or ink stack compared to the other. When printed at a small size, the two inks may appear nearly identical or monochromatic. A glossy effect can be observed when tilted under light, and infrared marks can be seen with an IR camera. Since both effects appear in the same space, this will result in saving valuable material resources. It should be noted that the method 60 described above and elsewhere in this specification can be carried out by a printing system such as the printing system 100 shown in Figure 16.

[0080] Figure 15 shows a block diagram of a digital front-end (DFE) controller 120 useful for carrying out one or more embodiments of the exemplary methods described herein. The exemplary digital front-end controller 120 is shown in more detail with respect to Figure 15. The digital front-end controller 120 may include one or more processors, such as a processor 206, capable of executing machine-executable program instructions.

[0081] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term digital front-end (DEF) may refer to a workflow touchpoint that can accept print files (e.g., PDF or PostScript files) and convert the print files into a format that a print engine (e.g., toner or inkjet) can use to place the content onto a substrate (e.g., a print medium). In one embodiment, the DFE may be a raster image processor (RIP), but can encompass many more depending on the type of device / system in which the DFE is implemented. Thus, a DFE controller may comprise a device, program, and / or system for controlling the DFE of a printing system.

[0082] In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, the processor 206 can communicate over a bus 202 (e.g., a backplane interface bus, a crossover bar, or a data network). The digital front-end controller 120 may also include a main memory 204 that can store machine-readable instructions. Thus, the main memory 204 can store data. The main memory 204 may alternatively include random access memory (RAM) to support reprogramming and flexible data storage. A buffer 266 can be used to temporarily store data for access by the processor. The main memory 204 may also include a program memory 264 that can contain an executable program that can perform, for example, one or more embodiments of the method described herein. The program memory 264 can store at least a subset of the data contained in the buffer 266.

[0083] The digital front-end controller 120 may include a display interface 208 that can transfer data from a communication bus 202 (or from a frame buffer, not shown) to a display 210. The digital front-end controller 120 may also include a secondary memory 212 that may include, for example, a hard disk drive 214 and / or a removable storage drive 216, which can read and write data to a removable storage device 218, such as a floppy disk, magnetic tape, or optical disk, which can store computer software and / or data.

[0084] The secondary memory 212 may alternatively include other similar mechanisms for enabling the loading of computer programs or other instructions into the computer system. Such a mechanism may include, for example, a removable storage unit 222 adapted to exchange data through interface 220.

[0085] Examples of such mechanisms include program cartridges and cartridge interfaces (such as those found in video game devices), removable memory chips (such as EPROMs or PROMs) and associated sockets, and other removable units and interfaces that enable the transfer of software and data.

[0086] The digital front-end controller 120 may include a communication interface 224 that functions as both an input and an output, allowing software and data to be transferred between the digital front-end controller 120 and external devices. Examples of communication interfaces include modems, network interfaces (such as Ethernet cards), communication ports, PCMCIA slots, and cards.

[0087] Computer programs (also called computer control logic) may be stored in main memory 204 and / or secondary memory 212. Computer programs may also be received via a communication interface 224 associated with a communication path 226. When such computer programs are executed, the computer system is able to perform features and capabilities provided herein, such as instructions, operations, or steps shown, for example, in blocks 52-58 of Figure 13 and / or in blocks 62-68 shown in Figure 14, and described elsewhere herein. Software and data transferred via the communication interface may be in the form of signals, such as electronic signals, electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or other signals that can be received by the communication interface.

[0088] These signals can be provided to the communication interface 224 via a communication path 226 (i.e., a channel) capable of carrying the signals, and can be implemented using wires, cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, RF, or other communication channels. Some of the data, typically stored in secondary memory 212 for access during digital front-end operation, can be a set of conversion tables capable of converting incoming color signals into physical mechanical signals. These color signals can be represented as physical exposure signals for four toners—cyan, magenta, yellow, and black—as colorimetric values, typically consisting of three components such as L*a*b*, RGB, or XYZ. These tables can be created and downloaded outside the digital front-end, or optionally created within the digital front-end during so-called characterization.

[0089] Figure 16 shows a block diagram of a printing system (or image rendering system) 100 that may be suitable for carrying out various aspects of the exemplary embodiments described herein. It should be noted that, as used herein, the words “printer” and “printing system” may include any device and / or system such as digital copiers, electrophotographic and copier printing systems, bookbinding machines, facsimile machines, multifunction machines, inkjet machines, continuous feed and sheet-feed printing devices, which may include print controllers and print engines and may perform print output functions for any purpose.

[0090] The printing system 100 shown in Figure 16 can function as a digital color printing system in some embodiments and may include a user interface 110, a digital front-end (DFE) controller 120, and a printing engine 130 that can access printing media 135 (e.g., substrates) of various sizes and / or costs for print jobs. A “print job” or “document” is usually a set of related sheets, typically a set of original print job sheets from a particular user, or one or more aligned copies reproduced from page images of an electronic document, or other set of related sheets. Digital data can usually be sent to the printing system 100 for submission of a print job (or customer job). The DFE controller 120 shown in Figure 16 can be implemented by the DFE controller 120 shown in Figure 15. That is, the DFE controller 120 shown in Figure 15 can be incorporated into the printing system 100 shown in Figure 16.

[0091] In one embodiment, a sorter can operate after or with the print engine 130 to manage the configuration of hardcopy outputs, including cutting functions, to facilitate printing / rendering jobs. Users can access and operate the print system 100 using the user interface 110 or via a data processing device. The data processing device can communicate with the print system 100 via a communication network 160.

[0092] User profiles, print output, media libraries, and various print job parameters can be stored in a database or memory 170 accessible by a data processing device or printing system 100 via the network 160, or such data can be accessed directly via the printing system 100. As is known in the art, one or more color sensors (not shown) can be embedded in the printer paper path.

[0093] The claims, specification, and drawings of this application may describe one or more of the technologies in operation / function language, for example, as a set of operations performed by a computer. In most cases, such operation / function descriptions may be of specifically configured hardware (for example, a de facto general-purpose computer becomes a dedicated computer when programmed to perform a particular function in accordance with instructions from program software). Note that the data processing systems and devices considered herein may be implemented as general-purpose computers or dedicated computers in some embodiments. That is, a data processing system may be programmed to become substantially a dedicated computer by executing the aforementioned specific instructions. In some situations, a printing device or printing system may be a dedicated computer. Thus, the DFE controller 120 shown in Figure 15 may be implemented as a dedicated computer or in conjunction with a dedicated computer in some embodiments. Similarly, in other embodiments, the DFE controller 100 shown in Figure 16 may be implemented as a dedicated computer or in conjunction with a dedicated controller.

[0094] Based on the foregoing, it can be understood that several embodiments, including preferred and alternative embodiments, are disclosed herein. For example, in one embodiment, a method for rendering a watermark having a quasi-perfect infrared color may include: providing an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; replacing the color having a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color including a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; matching the replacement color with the color having a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum in the visible spectrum; and rendering a watermark including a metameric color pair including the infrared pattern ink and the replacement color.

[0095] In one embodiment, a metameric color pair may include a pair of metameric pattern inks.

[0096] In one embodiment, a metameric color pair can display a visible signal on an infrared camera.

[0097] In one embodiment, the watermark can be rendered by a printing system.

[0098] In one embodiment, the processor may include a digital front-end (DFE) controller.

[0099] In one embodiment, the watermark can be rendered by a printing system, and the processor may include a digital front-end controller.

[0100] In another embodiment, a method for rendering an imaging effect in the same space on a recording medium may include defining, using a processor, a first color pattern having a higher reflectivity in the infrared spectrum compared to a second color pattern having a CMYK value derived from a specific LAB value having a lower toner stack and a second CMYK value derived from the same LAB value, and rendering the first and second color patterns on the recording medium in a small size such that the first and second color patterns appear as a single LAB color in the same space on the recording medium.

[0101] In one embodiment, the first color pattern may include one or more of the following: a microgloss effect or an IR effect.

[0102] In one embodiment, the second color pattern may include one or more of the following: a microgloss effect or an IR effect.

[0103] In one embodiment, the first color pattern may include a micro-gloss effect, and the second color pattern may include an IR effect.

[0104] In one embodiment, the first color pattern may include an IR effect, and the second color pattern may include a micro-gloss effect.

[0105] One embodiment may further include providing a watermark that includes a first color pattern and a second color pattern rendered on a recording medium.

[0106] In one embodiment, the first color pattern and the second color pattern can be rendered on a recording medium by a printing system.

[0107] In another embodiment, a printing system for rendering a watermark having a near-perfect infrared color may include a processor adapted to provide an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum, to swap the color with the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color including a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum, and to match the replacement color with the color with the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum in the visible spectrum.

[0108] In one embodiment, the printing system may include a printer capable of rendering a watermark that includes a pair of metallic colors, which may include infrared pattern inks and interchangeable colors.

[0109] In one embodiment of the printing system, a metallic color pair may include a pair of metallic pattern inks.

[0110] In one embodiment of the printing system, a pair of metallic colors can display a visible signal on an infrared camera.

[0111] In one embodiment of the printing system, a metameric color pair comprises a pair of metameric pattern inks, and the metameric color pair can display a visible signal on an infrared camera.

[0112] One embodiment of the printing system may include a digital front-end controller.

[0113] It will be understood that the features and functions disclosed above, as well as other features and functions, or variations thereof, may preferably be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements not currently anticipated or expected may be made later by those skilled in the art and are intended to be covered by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method for rendering a watermark with near-perfect infrared color, comprising: providing an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; replacing the color having the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color comprising a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; matching the replacement color in the visible spectrum with the color having the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; rendering a device-independent watermark comprising a metameric color pair comprising the infrared pattern ink and the replacement color; A method comprising:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metallic color pair comprises a pair of metallic pattern inks.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metameric color pair exhibits a visible signal in an infrared camera.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the watermark is rendered by a printing system.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the processor comprises a digital front-end controller.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the watermark is rendered by a printing system and the processor comprises a digital front-end controller.

7. 1. A printing system for rendering a watermark having near-perfect infrared color, comprising:

1. A processor, comprising: providing an infrared pattern ink having a color with a lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; replacing the color having the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum with a replacement color comprising a combination of colors having a higher spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; matching the replacement color in the visible spectrum with the color having the lower spectral reflectance in the infrared spectrum; a processor adapted to Printing system.

8. The printing system of claim 7 further comprising a printer that renders a watermark that includes a metallic color pair that includes the infrared pattern ink and the interchangeable color.

9. The printing system of claim 8 , wherein the metameric color pair comprises a pair of metameric pattern inks.

10. The metallic color pair includes a pair of metallic pattern inks, The printing system of claim 8 , wherein the metameric color pair exhibits a visible signal in an infrared camera.

11. The metameric color pair exhibits a visible signal on an infrared camera. The printing system according to claim 8 .

12. The printing system of claim 7 , wherein the processor comprises a digital front end controller.

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