Printed matter, data structure of printed matter, method for creating data of printed matter, and software for creating data of printed matter

Abstract

To provide a printed matter, a data structure of a printed matter, a method for creating data of a printed matter, and software for creating data of a printed matter, which enable formation of an invisible image enabling clear expression with a color by a single discriminator.SOLUTION: A plurality of units including an image line A1 which is arranged on a first direction in the first direction so as to be adjacent to an image line A2, and has a first color, and the image line A2 having a second color, and an image line A1' which is arranged on a second virtual line in parallel with the first direction at an interval so as to be adjacent to an image line A2' and has a first color, and the image line A2' having a second color are arranged, the image lines A1 and A2, and the image line A1' and A2' in each unit have negative-positive relations that when one thereof exists, the other does not exist, a positive image or a negative image of an invisible image is formed by the image line A1 and the image line A2, and the negative image or the positive image of the invisible image is formed by the image line A1' and the image line A2'.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to printed matter that requires prevention of counterfeiting or duplication, such as banknotes, stock certificates, bonds and other valuable securities, various certificates and important documents, the data structure of printed matter, a method for creating data for printed matter, and software for creating data for printed matter. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, various techniques are applied to valuable printed matter such as certificates to provide a counterfeit prevention effect, but in recent years, with the improvement of image quality of copying machines and the computerization of plate-making technology, the counterfeiting techniques for certificates have tended to become more diverse. In order to prevent these counterfeiting acts, there is a counterfeit prevention technique that uses special materials for printing to provide invisible images that are not visible under normal light but are visible under specific conditions.

[0003] However, technologies using special materials have the problem of being high cost, not only because the materials themselves are expensive, but also because it is necessary to introduce special machinery and equipment and dedicated facilities to verify the anti-counterfeiting effect.

[0004] As an anti-counterfeiting technology that does not use special materials, a printed matter has been proposed in which multiple units capable of forming images of approximately the same color and area are formed regularly at a fixed pitch, and within each unit, a pair of images are arranged opposite each other across the center, and one of the images is selected and formed while the other is not, creating a negative-positive relationship; when observed with a distinguishing tool, an invisible image becomes visible (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Alternatively, as an improved technology of Patent Document 1, a printed matter has been proposed in which an invisible image appears as a continuous tone image by constructing a pair of lines, one with a gradation and the other with the inverted gradation (see, for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4635160 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6016167 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the above-mentioned conventional printed matter, it was possible to form an invisible image having continuous gradation without using special materials. However, with conventional printed matter, although it is possible to produce a monochrome gradation image, it is not possible to produce a color image, so the freedom of expression is limited and it is not satisfactory in terms of aesthetics. Furthermore, it is not possible to produce an invisible image, such as a face image or a landscape painting, where color is preferable.

[0007] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a printed matter capable of forming an invisible image that can be clearly expressed in color using a single discriminator, a data structure for the printed matter, a method for creating data for the printed matter, and software for creating data for the printed matter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The printed matter of the present invention is characterized in that a plurality of units are arranged, each unit comprising a first image having a first color, a second image having a second color different from the first color, and a third image having the first color and a fourth image having the second color, which are arranged adjacent to each other with a gap in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first and second images, and the third and fourth images in each unit are in a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present the other is not present, the first and second images form a positive or negative image of the first invisible image, and the third and fourth images form a negative or positive image of the first invisible image.

[0009] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit further comprises a visible image image having a center in a direction different from the first direction and the second direction in an area where the first image line, the second image line, the third image line and the fourth image line are not present, and a visible image is formed by the visible image image line.

[0010] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit is characterized by further comprising a first density-relieving image line having a first color and a second density-relieving image line having a second color, which are arranged adjacent to a third imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and a second imaginary line parallel to the first direction, and a third density-relieving image line having the first color and a fourth density-relieving image line having the second color, which are arranged adjacent to a fourth imaginary line that is parallel to the third imaginary line at a predetermined distance and closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction.

[0011] In the printed matter of the present invention, the first density-relieved image line, the second density-relieved image line, the third density-relieved image line and the fourth density-relieved image line are characterized in that they have approximately the same color as the first image line, the second image line, the third image line and the fourth image line, respectively, and have an image area ratio that is approximately half that of the first image line, the second image line, the third image line and the fourth image line.

[0012] In the printed matter of the present invention, a plurality of units are arranged, each unit comprising a first object having a first color, a second object having a second color, and a third object having a third color, which are arranged adjacent to each other in a first direction, and a fourth object having the first color, a fifth object having the second color, and a sixth object having the third color, which are arranged adjacent to each other on a second virtual line parallel to the first direction, wherein the first color, the second color, and the third color are different from each other, and the first object, the second object, and the third object in each unit have a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present, the other is not present, and a positive or negative image of the first invisible image is formed by the first object, the second object, and the third object, and a negative or positive image of the first invisible image is formed by the fourth object, the fifth object, and the sixth object.

[0013] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit further comprises a visible image image having a center in an area where the first image line, the second image line, the third image line, the fourth image line, the fifth image line, and the sixth image line are not present and at a position that does not overlap with the first direction and the second virtual line, and a visible image is formed by the visible image image line.

[0014] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit further comprises a first density-relieving image having a first color, a second density-relieving image having a second color, and a third density-relieving image having a third color, which are arranged adjacent to a third imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and the second imaginary line, and a fourth density-relieving image having the first color, a fifth density-relieving image having the second color, and a sixth density-relieving image having the third color, which are arranged adjacent to a fourth imaginary line that is parallel to the third imaginary line at a predetermined interval and closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction, and wherein the first density-relieving image, the second density-relieving image, the third density-relieving image, the fourth density-relieving image, the fifth density-relieving image, and the sixth density-relieving image alleviate density imbalance caused by the first image, the second image, the third image, the fourth image, the fifth image, and the sixth image.

[0015] In the printed matter of the present invention, the first color, the second color, and the third color are each cyan, magenta, or yellow, or red, green, or blue.

[0016] In the printed matter of the present invention, a plurality of units are arranged, each of which includes a first object having a first color and a second object having a second color, which are adjacently arranged in a first direction, a third object having the first color and a fourth object having the second color, which are adjacently arranged on a second imaginary line that is parallel to the first direction, a fifth object having the first color and a sixth object having the second color, which are adjacently arranged on the third imaginary line along a second direction different from the first direction, and a seventh object having the first color and an eighth object having the second color, which are adjacently arranged on a fourth imaginary line that is parallel to the third imaginary line at a predetermined interval, and The first and second images and the third and fourth images have a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present the other does not exist, the first and second images form a positive or negative image of the first invisible image, the third and fourth images form a negative or positive image of the first invisible image, the fifth and sixth images and the seventh and eighth images have a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present the other does not exist, the fifth and sixth images and the seventh and eighth images form a positive or negative image of the second invisible image, and the seventh and eighth images form a negative or positive image of the second invisible image.

[0017] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit further includes a visible image image in an area where the first image line, the second image line, the third image line, the fourth image line, the fifth image line, the sixth image line, the seventh image line and the eighth image line are not present and has a center offset from the first direction, the second virtual line, the third virtual line and the fourth virtual line, and a visible image is formed by the visible image image line.

[0018] In the printed matter of the present invention, the unit includes a first density-relieving image having a first color and a second density-relieving image having a second color, which are disposed adjacent to a fifth imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and the second imaginary line; a third density-relieving image having a first color and a fourth density-relieving image having a second color, which are disposed adjacent to a sixth imaginary line that is parallel to the fifth imaginary line at a predetermined interval and closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction; a fifth density-relieving image having a first color and a sixth density-relieving image having a second color, which are disposed adjacent to a seventh imaginary line along the second direction between the third imaginary line and the fourth imaginary line; 10. The printed matter according to claim 9, further comprising: a seventh density-relieving image having a first color and an eighth density-relieving image having a second color, the seventh density-relieving image being disposed adjacent to an eighth imaginary line that is parallel to the fifth imaginary line at a predetermined interval and closer to the sixth imaginary line than the fifth imaginary line, wherein the first density-relieving image, the second density-relieving image, the third density-relieving image, and the fourth density-relieving image alleviate a density imbalance caused by the first image, the second image, the third image, and the fourth image, and the fifth density-relieving image, the sixth density-relieving image, the seventh density-relieving image, and the eighth density-relieving image alleviate a density imbalance caused by the fifth image, the sixth image, the seventh image, and the eighth image.

[0019] In the method for creating data of a printed matter of the present invention, the printed matter has a plurality of units arranged, each unit including a first object having a first color and a second object having a second color, which are adjacently arranged in a first direction, and a third object having the first color and a fourth object having the second color, which are adjacently arranged on a second virtual line parallel to the first direction, the first object and the second object in each unit, and the third object and the fourth object in each unit are in a negative-positive relationship in which when one object is present the other is not present, the first object and the second object form a positive image or a negative image of a first invisible image, and the third object and the fourth object form a positive image or a negative image of a first invisible image. A negative or positive image of the first invisible image is formed by the above, and a method for creating data for a print product comprises the steps of acquiring original image data of the first invisible image, color-separating the original image data into a plurality of color plates to create a plurality of separated image data, performing a binarization process on the plurality of separated image data to create a plurality of binarized color plate data, converting the binarized plurality of color plate data into a unit configuration to create a plurality of color plate data converted into a unit configuration, and combining the plurality of color plate data converted into a unit configuration to create data for the print product.

[0020] The present invention is characterized in that it is software for creating print data, which causes a computer to execute the method for creating print data of the present invention.

[0021] The data structure for producing a printed matter of the present invention causes a computer to execute the steps of acquiring original image data of a first invisible image, color-separating the original image data into a plurality of color plates to produce a plurality of separated image data, performing a binarization process on the plurality of separated image data to produce a plurality of binarized color plate data, converting the binarized plurality of color plate data into a unit configuration to produce a plurality of color plate data converted into a unit configuration, and combining the plurality of color plate data converted into a unit configuration to produce data for the printed matter, a first information representing a first object having a first color, a second information representing a second object having a second color, a third information representing a third object having the first color, a fourth information representing a fourth object having the second color, fifth information representing an arrangement relationship in which the first object and the second object are adjacently arranged in a first direction along a first direction on the printed matter, sixth information representing an arrangement relationship in which the third object and the fourth object are adjacently arranged on a second virtual line that is parallel to the first direction on the printed matter with a predetermined interval therebetween, and seventh information representing an arrangement relationship in which a plurality of units including the first object, the second object, the third object, and the fourth object are arranged on the printed matter; eighth information indicating that the first and second objects and the third and fourth objects in each unit are in a negative-positive relationship in which when one object is present, the other object is not present; Equipped with The first and second images form a positive or negative image of the first invisible image, and the third and fourth images form a negative or positive image of the first invisible image. Effect of the Invention

[0022] In an invisible image that is revealed by a single discriminator, by forming the image with lines of a plurality of colors as a unit configuration, it is possible to provide a printed matter that can form an invisible image that can be clearly revealed in color by a single discriminator, a data structure of the printed matter, a method for creating data of the printed matter, and software for creating data of the printed matter. Furthermore, the invisible image of the present invention can be a full-color gradation image. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a printed matter and a distinguishing tool according to the first to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a pattern that is visually recognized when the printed matter is visually observed. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a pattern that is visually recognized when a discriminator is placed over the printed matter at a predetermined angle. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-1 of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool such as a lenticular lens is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing, in enlarged form, how a discrimination tool is placed on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 6, and how the print line is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-2 of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 11] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 10, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-3 of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 15] 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 14, and showing an enlarged view of the print line visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Figure 16] 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 14, and showing an enlarged view of the print line visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-4 of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 20] 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 19, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Figure 21] 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 19, and showing an enlarged view of the print line visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-5 of the present invention. [Diagram 23] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 24, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-6 of the present invention. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 28, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-7 of the present invention. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Diagram 32] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 32, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Diagram 34] 33 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 32, and showing an enlarged view of the print line visually recognized at this time. FIG. [Diagram 35] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-8 of the present invention. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 37] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 37, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 39]FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of the image line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 37, and showing an enlarged view of the image line visually recognized at this time. [Diagram 40] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-9 of the present invention. [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Diagram 42] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 42, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Diagram 44] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-10 of the present invention. [Diagram 45] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 46] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 46, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 48] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-11 of the present invention. [Figure 49] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 50] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 50, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 52] FIG. 51 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of the image line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 50, and showing an enlarged view of the image line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 53] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-12 of the present invention. [Figure 54] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which units of the printed matter are arranged in a matrix. [Figure 55] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a discriminating tool is placed on the printed matter and visually confirmed. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of a print line along one direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 55, and showing an enlarged view of the print line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 57] FIG. 56 is an explanatory diagram showing the placement of a discrimination tool on the center line of the image line along the other direction of the unit of the printed matter shown in FIG. 55, and showing an enlarged view of the image line that is visually recognized at this time. [Figure 58] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of one unit of lines in a printed matter according to embodiment 1-13 of the present invention. [Figure 59] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an apparatus for creating data for a print product according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 60] 11 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for creating data for a print product according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 61] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for creating data for the same print, in which an original invisible image is color-separated into C, M, and Y to generate multiple image data (C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data). [Figure 62] 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the binarization process performed on image data (C plate data, M plate data, Y plate data) in the method for creating data for the printed matter. FIG. [Figure 63] 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the application of a unit configuration to binarized image data (C plate data, M plate data, Y plate data) in the method for creating data for the same printed matter. FIG. [Figure 64] 6 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for creating print data using two original images in the method for creating print data. [Figure 65]A flowchart showing an example of a procedure for simultaneously performing, in a batch, the steps S202C, S202M, and S202Y in the flowchart shown in Figure 60, a process for converting into a unit configuration having lines A1 and A1', A2 and A2', and A3 and A3' having the colors C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow), and the steps S203C, S203M, and S203Y, a process for reducing density imbalances as necessary for each of the C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data converted into unit configurations. [Figure 66] FIG. [Figure 67] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an image T[v, h] prepared in step SS2. [Figure 68] FIG. [Figure 69] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing step SS6-1. [Figure 70] Schematic diagram showing step SS6-2. [Figure 71] FIG. [Figure 72] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing step SS7-1. [Figure 73] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing step SS7-2. [Figure 74] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an image T[v, h] converted into a unit configuration by the processes in steps SS1 to SS9. [Figure 75] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting a pre-transformation image S and units constituting a post-transformation image T used in the processing shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 76] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing the objects A1, A1', a1, and AE1 included in the unit used in the processing shown in FIG. 65; [Figure 77] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion in the process shown in FIG. 65 when all the units constituting an image S are white images. [Figure 78] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion in the process shown in FIG. 65 when all of the units constituting an image S are black images. [Figure 79]FIG. 67 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a white image, a black image, and a white image in the processing shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 80] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a black image, a white image, and a white image in the processing shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 81] FIG. 67 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a white image, a white image, and a black image in the processing shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 82] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a black image, a black image, and a white image in the process shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 83] FIG. 67 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a black image, a white image, and a black image in the processing shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 84] FIG. 66 is an explanatory diagram showing units constituting an image T after conversion when the units constituting an image S are a white image, a black image, and a black image in the processing shown in FIG. 65. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] Hereinafter, printed matter according to embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 of the present invention, a device for creating data of printed matter according to embodiment 2 of the present invention, a method for creating data of printed matter, software for creating data of printed matter, and a data structure of printed matter according to embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and various other modifications are included within the technical scope described in the claims.

[0025] The printed matter according to the embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 of the present invention can easily determine the authenticity of the printed matter 1 by superimposing the discriminating tool 2 on the printed matter 1 as shown in FIG. 1 to make the invisible image appear. The discriminating tool 2 is a line filter or a lenticular lens in which a plurality of straight lines are formed in one direction on a transparent filter. When the printed pattern 3 of the printed matter 1 is visually observed under normal visibility conditions, the printed pattern 3 including the visible image 4 consisting of any characters, numbers, designs, patterns, logos, etc. and the invisible image that is invisible to the naked eye under normal light is visually recognized, as shown in FIG. 2 for example. Note that the visual recognition of the invisible image in the present invention refers to a state in which the lines constituting the invisible image are visually recognized, but the invisible image cannot be recognized. Then, when the discriminating tool 2 is superimposed on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle described later, the invisible image 5 as shown in FIG. 3 is visualized and appears. Whether the invisible image 5 appears positive or negative depends on the relative positions between the discrimination tool 2 and the printed matter 1, and is within the scope of the effect of the present invention.

[0026] (1) Printed matter according to embodiment 1 1) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-1 A printed matter according to embodiment 1-1 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of the line configuration of the printed pattern 3 in the printed matter according to the present embodiment 1-1. Here, the length and width are 1 mm or less, for example, 340 μm. However, this value is not limited because it varies depending on the resolution of the printed matter to be created and the discriminator that visualizes the invisible image. A plurality of such units are regularly arranged on the surface of the substrate of the printed matter, as described later. Also, although the units in the embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 have a square shape, the shape of the units is not limited.

[0027] The substrate used for the printed matter is not particularly limited in material as long as it has a printable surface, and examples of the substrate that can be used include fine paper, coated paper, art paper, plastic, film, and composite substrates in which paper is coated with a film.

[0028] One unit has a line for each of two colors. The color means a combination of two different colors. The combination of the two colors may be any two of three colors, for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow), but it is not necessary to use this combination of colors. For example, the combination may be any two of three colors, R (red), G (green), and B (blue). Alternatively, the combination may be any two of four colors, C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow), which do not contain infrared absorbing pigment, and K (black), which contains infrared absorbing pigment, or any two of four colors, R (red), G (green), and B (blue), which do not contain infrared absorbing pigment, and K (black), which contains infrared absorbing pigment. In this way, there is no restriction on the specific colors, as long as at least two colors are used.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4(b1), the objects A1 and A1' of the same first color form a pair and are in a negative-positive relationship with each other. This negative-positive relationship means that, for example, when one is colored (on), the other is uncolored (off), and when the other is colored, the other is uncolored; both are not colored, and both are not uncolored. The objects A1 and A1' have the same area. The objects A1 and A1' are not visible under normal visibility conditions due to the existence of such objects, and the first invisible image (negative or positive), which is the invisible image 5, is formed only by the object A1, and the first invisible image (positive or negative) is formed only by the object A1'. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4(b2), the objects A2 and A2' of the second color form a pair and are in a negative-positive relationship with each other.

[0030] The objects A1 and A2 are adjacently arranged on a first virtual line L1, which is a virtual first center line parallel to a first direction (horizontal direction in the drawing). In this specification, adjacent does not only mean that adjacent objects are arranged with no gap between them, but also means that adjacent objects are arranged with a gap of a range not exceeding the vertical, horizontal and diagonal dimensions of one unit, for example, 42.5 μm. The first virtual line L1 is a straight line passing through the centers of the objects A1 and A2. In addition, the objects A1' and A2' are adjacently arranged on a second virtual line L2, which is a virtual second center line parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first virtual line L1 in a direction different from the first direction, for example, in a second direction (vertical direction in the drawing) perpendicular to the first direction. The predetermined interval is the interval between a first virtual line L1 along the first direction and a second virtual line L2 parallel to the first direction, and is the interval between the lenses of a discrimination tool that visualizes an invisible image, which will be described later. The numerical value of the interval is not limited as long as it is equal to or smaller than the dimensions of the unit. In this embodiment 1-1, after a color original image is separated into a first color and a second color, the image lines corresponding to the first color plate are composed of A1 and A1', and the image lines corresponding to the second color plate are composed of A2 and A2'.

[0031] The objects A1 and A2 form a set consisting of a first color plate and a second color plate, and a positive image of the first invisible image is formed by arranging multiple units. The objects A1' and A2' form a set consisting of a first color plate and a second color plate, and a negative image of the first invisible image is formed by arranging multiple units. Here, the negative image of the first invisible image does not mean an image inverted to a color located on the opposite side of the CMY or RGB color wheel, but means an image in which the hues of the first and second colors are the same and the gradations are inverted.

[0032] A set of objects A1-A2 and a set of objects A1'-A2' are paired together, so that the objects A1-A2 and A1'-A2' cancel each other out in gradation and are not visible to the naked eye under normal viewing conditions. A color gradation image appears when the center positions of the lenses of the discriminating tool 2 are superimposed on the centers of the objects A1 and A2, or on the centers of the objects A1' and A2'.

[0033] Although the object lines in the embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 have a rectangular shape, the shape of the object line is not limited to this and may be, for example, a square, a polygon, or a circle.

[0034] FIG. 5 shows an example in which units having the above configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps.

[0035] The objects A1 and A2, and the objects A1' and A2' are arranged in the horizontal direction in the figure, thereby forming parallel lines made up of the objects A1 and A2, and parallel lines made up of the objects A1' and A2'.

[0036] That is, the image configuration shown in FIG. 5 is in a state in which a first invisible image is applied by line phase modulation.

[0037] As shown in Figure 6, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0038] As shown in Figure 7(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the imaginary center line 7 of the objects A1 and A2 coincides with the center lines of the lenses in the discrimination tool 2. In this case, the center line 7 and the first imaginary line L1 described above are in the same position. Therefore, the objects A1 and A2 are located on the center line 7.

[0039] 7(b), due to the characteristics of the discriminating tool 2, the objects A1 and A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example, a positive image (or a negative image), appears. When the center line of the discriminating tool 2 is located at a position coinciding with the center lines of the objects A1' and A2', due to the characteristics of the discriminating tool 2, the objects A1' and A2' located on this center line are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example, a negative image (or a positive image), appears visually.

[0040] 2) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-2 A printed matter according to embodiment 1-2 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 8(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line configuration of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-2.

[0041] One unit has a line for each of three colors. The combination of the three colors may be, for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow), but is not necessarily limited to this combination of colors. For example, the three colors may be R (red), G (green), and B (blue). In this way, there is no specific limit to the colors, as long as at least three colors are used.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 8(b1), objects A1 and A1' of the same first color form a pair and are mutually negative-positive; as shown in FIG. 8(b2), objects A2 and A2' of the second color form a pair and are mutually negative-positive; and as shown in FIG. 8(b3), objects A3 and A3' of the third color form a pair and are mutually negative-positive.

[0043] The objects A1, A2, and A3 are arranged adjacent to each other on a first imaginary line L1 that is aligned in the first direction. The objects A1', A2', and A3 are arranged adjacent to each other on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0044] In this embodiment 1-2, after a color original image is separated into a first color, a second color, and a third color, the image lines corresponding to the first color plate are composed of A1 and A1', the image lines corresponding to the second color plate are composed of A2 and A2', and the image lines corresponding to the third color plate are composed of A3 and A3'. The objects A1, A2, and A3 form a set, and a positive image of the first invisible image is formed by arranging a plurality of units.

[0045] Moreover, the objects A1', A2', and A3' form a set, and a negative image of the first invisible image is formed by arranging a plurality of units. A set of objects A1 to A3 and a set of objects A1' to A3' are paired together, so that the objects A1 to A3 and A1' to A3' cancel each other out and are not visible to the naked eye under normal viewing conditions. A color gradation image appears by placing the center positions of the lenses of the discriminating tool 2 on the centers of the objects A1, A2, and A3 or on the centers of the objects A1', A2', and A3'.

[0046] FIG. 9 shows an example in which units having the above configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps.

[0047] The objects A1, A2, A3, A1', A2', A3' are arranged horizontally in the figure, forming parallel lines consisting of the objects A1, A2, A3 group, and parallel lines consisting of the objects A1', A2', A3' group. The object configuration shown in Figure 9 is in a state in which a first invisible image is applied by line phase modulation.

[0048] As shown in Figure 10, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 11(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center lines 7 of the images A1, A2, and A3 coincide with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0050] 11(b), due to the characteristics of the discriminating tool 2, the objects A1, A2, and A3 located on the center line 7 are magnified and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example, a positive image (or a negative image), appears when viewed with the naked eye. When the center line of the discriminating tool 2 is located at a position coinciding with the center lines of the objects A1', A2', and A3', the objects A1', A2', and A3' located on this center line are magnified and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example, a negative image (or a positive image), appears when viewed with the naked eye.

[0051] In FIG. 8, the first color, the second color, and the third color are arranged in this order from left to right in the drawing.

[0052] The arrangement of the colors is not limited to this, and the order may be different. For example, when C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) are arranged in order from the left, C (cyan) and M (magenta) are adjacent to each other, so B (blue) which is a mixture of these two colors is colored without any problem. Similarly, M (magenta) and Y (yellow) are adjacent to each other, so R (red) which is a mixture of these two colors is colored without any problem. However, C (cyan) and Y (yellow) are not adjacent to each other but are separated, so G (green) which is a mixture of these two colors has poor color development. Therefore, this arrangement example is advantageous for, for example, ukiyo-e, which has a lot of B (blue) and R (red), but is not suitable for forest landscapes which have a lot of G (green) components. In such a case, it is desirable to arrange Y (yellow) between C (cyan) and M (magenta) so that C (cyan) and Y (yellow) are adjacent to each other and the color development of G (green) is improved.

[0053] Alternatively, when all of the R (red), G (green), and B (blue) components are important, such as a landscape painting of a blue sky, red flowers, and green trees, the placement of C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) may be changed depending on the region.

[0054] 3) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-3 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-3 of the present invention will be described.

[0055] 12(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line configuration of the printed pattern 3 in the printed matter according to the present embodiment 1-3. The present embodiment 1-3 has two invisible images 5. Specifically, in addition to the first invisible image, it has a second invisible image.

[0056] One unit has a line for each of two colors. The combination of the two colors is not limited to the above, and it is sufficient that at least two colors are used.

[0057] As shown in Figures 12(b1) and (b2), along one direction (the horizontal direction in the figure), similar to embodiments 1-1 and 1-2 above, objects A1 and A1', and objects A2 and A2' constituting the first invisible image (positive or negative) are arranged in pairs, are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0058] Due to the presence of such objects A1 and A1', and objects A2 and A2', the objects A1-A2 and A1'-A2' cancel each other out in terms of their respective gradations and are not visible, so that the objects A1-A2 form a first invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects A1'-A2' form a second invisible image (positive or negative), respectively.

[0059] 12(c1) and (c2), objects B1 and B1', and objects B2 and B2' constituting a second invisible image (negative or positive) are arranged in pairs along another direction different from the one direction, for example, along another direction perpendicular to the one direction (the vertical direction in the figure), and are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and have the same color. Here, the one direction and the other direction are not limited to being perpendicular to each other, and may be at different angles.

[0060] Due to the presence of such objects B1 and B1', and objects B2 and B2', the objects B1 to B2 and B1' to B2' cancel each other out in tone and are not visible, and the objects B1 to B2 form a second invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects B1' to B2' form a second invisible image (positive or negative), respectively.

[0061] The objects A1 and A2 are disposed adjacent to each other on a first imaginary line L1 that runs along a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1' and A2' are disposed adjacent to each other on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0062] Furthermore, the objects B1 and B2 are arranged adjacent to each other on a third virtual line L3, which is an imaginary third center line along a direction different from the first direction, for example, a second direction (vertical direction in the drawing) that is orthogonal to the first direction. The third virtual line L3 is a straight line passing through the centers of the objects B1 and B2. The objects B1' and B2' are arranged adjacent to each other on a fourth virtual line L4, which is an imaginary fourth center line that is parallel to the second direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the third virtual line L3. The fourth virtual line L4 is a straight line passing through the centers of the objects B1' and B2'.

[0063] FIG. 13 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 12 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0064] In the printed pattern 3, the pairs of objects A1 and A1', and the pairs of objects A2 and A2' have a negative-positive relationship, so that the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0065] Similarly, the pairs of objects B1 and B1', and the pairs of objects B2 and B2' have a negative-positive relationship, so that the second invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0066] As shown in Figure 14, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can each be revealed as a color gradation image.

[0067] As shown in Figure 15(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 along one direction of the images A1-A2 (the horizontal direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 15(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the image lines A1-A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0069] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A2', the images A1' to A2' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0070] As shown in Figure 16(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that a center line 7' along the other direction (vertical direction in the figure) of the objects B1-B2 coincides with the center lines of the lenses in the discrimination tool 2. In this case, the center line 7' and the third virtual line L3 mentioned above are in the same position. Therefore, the objects B1 and B2 are located on the center line 7'.

[0071] As shown in Figure 16 (b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the image lines B1-B2 located on the center line 7' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0072] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images B1' to B2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, such as a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0073] 4) Printed matter according to embodiments 1-4 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-4 of the present invention will be described.

[0074] FIG. 17(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-4. One unit has lines for each of three colors, and the combination of the three colors is not limited to the above.

[0075] As shown in Figures 17(b1), (b2), and (b3), the objects A1 and A1', the objects A2 and A2', and the objects A3 and A3' that constitute the first invisible image (positive or negative) are arranged in pairs along one direction (the horizontal direction in the figures), are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0076] Due to the existence of such objects A1 and A1', objects A2 and A2', and objects A3 and A3', the objects A1 to A3 and A1' to A3' cancel each other out in terms of their respective gradations and are not visible, and the objects A1 to A3 form a first invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects A1' to A3' form a second invisible image (positive or negative).

[0077] As shown in Figures 17(c1), (c2), and (c3), along another direction perpendicular to the one direction (the vertical direction in the figures), objects B1 and B1', objects B2 and B2', and objects B3 and B3' which constitute a second invisible image (negative or positive) are arranged in pairs, are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0078] Due to the presence of such objects B1 and B1', objects B2 and B2', and objects B3 and B3', the objects B1-B2, B1'-B2', and B3-B3-B3' cancel each other out in terms of their respective gradations and are not visible, and the objects B1-B3 form a second invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects B1'-B3' form a second invisible image (positive or negative). The objects A1, A2, and A3 are adjacently disposed on a first imaginary line L1 that is aligned in a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1', A2', and A3' are adjacently disposed on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0079] Furthermore, objects B1, B2, and B3 are arranged adjacent to each other on a third imaginary line L3 along a direction different from the first direction, for example, a second direction (vertical direction in the drawing) perpendicular to the first direction. Also, objects B1', B2', and B3' are arranged adjacent to each other on a fourth imaginary line L4 parallel to the second direction at a predetermined distance from the third imaginary line L3.

[0080] FIG. 18 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 17 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0081] In the printed pattern 3, the pairs of objects A1 and A1', A2 and A2', and A3 and A3' are in a negative-positive relationship, so that the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0082] Similarly, the pairs of objects B1 and B1', B2 and B2', and B3 and B3' have a negative-positive relationship with each other, so that the second invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0083] As shown in Figure 19, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can each be revealed as a color gradation image.

[0084] As shown in Figure 20(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 along one direction of the images A1 to A3 (the horizontal direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 20(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the images A1 to A3 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0086] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0087] As shown in Figure 21(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle, more specifically, so that the center line 7 along the other direction of the images B1 to B3 (the vertical direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0088] As shown in Figure 21 (b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the images B1 to B3 located on the center line 7' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye. Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is located at a position coinciding with the center lines of the images B1', B2', and B3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0089] 5) Printed matter according to embodiments 1-5 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-5 of the present invention will be described.

[0090] FIG. 22(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-5. One unit has a line for each of two colors, and the combination of the two colors is not limited to the above.

[0091] As shown in Fig. 22(b1), the first color objects A1 and A1' form a pair, which are in a negative-positive relationship with each other and have the same area.Similarly, as shown in Fig. 22(b2), the second color objects A2 and A2' form a pair, which are in a negative-positive relationship with each other and have the same area.

[0092] Furthermore, in order to alleviate the density imbalance, the first density relaxed image AE1 shown in FIG. 22(c1) and the third density relaxed image a1 shown in FIG. 22(d1) are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship, and the second density relaxed image AE2 shown in FIG. 22(c2) and the fourth density relaxed image a2 shown in FIG. 22(d2) are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship.

[0093] A set of images A1-A2 consisting of the first and second color plates is paired with a set of images A1'-A2', and a set of images AE1-AE2 is paired with a set of images a1-a2, so that under normal viewing conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the images A1, A2 or A1', A2'.

[0094] The objects A1 and A2 are adjacently disposed on a first imaginary line L1 that runs along a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1' and A2' are adjacently disposed on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0095] Furthermore, the first and second density-relieved images AE1 and AE2 are adjacently disposed on a fifth virtual line L5, which is a fifth virtual center line along the first direction, between the first and second virtual lines L1 and L2. The fifth virtual line L5 is a straight line passing through the centers of the first and second density-relieved images AE1 and AE2. The third and fourth density relaxed images a1 and a2 are adjacent to each other on a sixth imaginary line L6, which is a sixth imaginary center line that is parallel to the fifth imaginary line L5 at a predetermined distance. The sixth imaginary line L6 is a straight line passing through the centers of the third and fourth density relaxed images a1 and a2.

[0096] FIG. 23 shows an example in which units having the above configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps.

[0097] Here, the objects A1 and A1', and the objects A2 and A2' are arranged opposite each other in the horizontal direction in the figure, forming parallel lines consisting of the objects A1 and A2, and parallel lines consisting of the objects A1' and A2'. Therefore, the object configuration shown in Figure 23 is in a state in which a first invisible image is applied by line phase modulation.

[0098] However, in the state shown in Figure 22(a), when observed with the naked eye, in the vicinity of units in which multiple objects A1 and multiple objects A1', and multiple objects A2 and objects A2' are arranged in a matrix, both objects A1 and A1', and objects A2 and A2', may appear to be on (colored) and to have a high density (darker).

[0099] Furthermore, in the vicinity of the units, both the objects A1 and A1', and the objects A2 and A2' may be off (uncolored) and appear low in density (pale). As a result, the density appears uneven to the naked eye, and a sufficient invisible image may not be realized. A density alleviation image for alleviating the density imbalance will now be described.

[0100] As described above, Figure 22(c1) shows an example of the placement within a unit of a first density-relaxed image AE1 for alleviating the density imbalance caused by image A1, and Figure 22(d1) shows an example of the placement within a unit of a third density-relaxed image a1 for alleviating the density imbalance caused by image A1'.

[0101] The first density-relieved image AE1 has a length in the vertical or horizontal direction that is about half that of the image A1, and an image area that is about half that of the image A1. Furthermore, the first density-relieved image AE1 is positioned such that the vertical center of the images A1 and A1' coincides with the center of the first density-relieved image AE1. The third density-relieved image a1 has approximately half the length in the vertical or horizontal direction and approximately half the image area of ​​the image A1'. The third density-relieved image a1 is positioned so that the vertical center of the images A1 and A1' coincides with the center of the third density-relieved image a1. The first density-relieved images AE1 and a1 are formed in approximately the same color to reduce the density of the image A1.

[0102] Similarly, as described above, Fig. 22(c2) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a second density relaxed object AE2 for relaxing the density imbalance caused by object A2, and Fig. 22(d2) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a fourth density relaxed object a2 for relaxing the density imbalance caused by object A2'. The object areas and central positions of the second density relaxed object AE2 and fourth density relaxed object a2 are similar to those of the first density relaxed object AE1 and third density relaxed object a1, and are formed in approximately the same color in order to relax the density of object A2.

[0103] FIG. 23 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 22 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0104] In the printed pattern 3, the pairs of objects A1 and A1', and the pairs of objects A2 and A2' have a negative-positive relationship, so that the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0105] As shown in Figure 24, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0106] As shown in Figure 25(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 of the images A1-A2 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 25(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the image lines A1-A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0108] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center lines of the images A1' and A2', the images A1' and A2' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0109] Furthermore, the density mitigation objects AE1, AE2, a1, and a2 mitigate the density imbalance caused by the objects A1, A2, A1', and A2', thereby achieving a sufficiently invisible image.

[0110] 6) Printed matter according to embodiments 1-6 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-6 of the present invention will be described.

[0111] FIG. 26(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-6.

[0112] One unit has lines for each of three colors, which may be, for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), or R (red), G (green), B (blue).

[0113] The first color objects A1 and A1' form a pair, which are in a mutually negative-positive relationship and have the same area. Similarly, the second color objects A2 and A2' form a pair, which are in a mutually negative-positive relationship and have the same area, and the third color objects A3 and A3' form a pair, which are in a mutually negative-positive relationship and have the same area. The objects A1, A2, and A3 are adjacently disposed on a first imaginary line L1 that runs along a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1', A2', and A3' are adjacently disposed on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0114] Furthermore, in order to alleviate the density imbalance, the first density-relieved image AE1 and the third density-relieved image a1 are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship, the second density-relieved image AE2 and the fourth density-relieved image a2 are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship, and the fifth density-relieved image AE3 and the sixth density-relieved image a1 are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship.

[0115] Furthermore, the density-relieving objects AE1, AE2, and AE3 are disposed adjacent to each other on a fifth imaginary line L5, which is an imaginary fifth center line along the first direction between the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2. The fifth imaginary line L5 is a straight line passing through the centers of the density-relieving objects AE1, AE2, and AE3. The density-reduced images a1, a2, and a3 are adjacent to a sixth imaginary line L6, which is a sixth imaginary center line that is parallel to the fifth imaginary line L5 at a predetermined distance. The sixth imaginary line L6 is a straight line that passes through the centers of the density-reduced images a1, a2, and a3.

[0116] A set of images A1-A3 consisting of the first, second and third colour plates is paired with a set of images A1'-A3', and a set of images AE1-AE3 is paired with a set of images a1-a3, so that under normal visible conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a colour gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discriminating tool over the images A1-A3 or A1'-A3'.

[0117] Figure 26(b1) shows the relationship between objects A1 and A1'. In each of the multiple units, objects A1 and A1' are arranged opposite each other with a specified distance between them, and as described above, they are in a negative-positive relationship with each other.

[0118] Similarly, Figure 26(b2) shows the relationship between objects A2 and A2'. In each of the multiple units, objects A2 and A2' are arranged opposite each other with a specified distance between them, and are in a negative-positive relationship.

[0119] Similarly, Figure 26(b3) shows the relationship between objects A3 and A3'. In each of the multiple units, objects A3 and A3' are arranged opposite each other with a specified distance between them, and are in a negative-positive relationship.

[0120] FIG. 27 shows an example in which units having the above configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps.

[0121] Here, the objects A1 and A1', the objects A2 and A2', and the objects A3 and A3' are arranged in parallel opposite directions in the figure, forming parallel lines consisting of the objects A1, A2, and A3, and parallel lines consisting of the objects A1', A2', and A3'. Thus, the object configuration in Figure 27 is in a state in which a first invisible image is applied by line phase modulation.

[0122] However, in the state shown in Figure 27, when multiple objects A1 and multiple objects A1', multiple objects A2 and A2', and multiple objects A3 and A3' are arranged in a matrix pattern, it may be seen by the naked eye that both objects A1 and A1', objects A2 and A2', and multiple objects A3 and A3' are on (colored) and appear to have a high density (darker) in the vicinity of each other. Furthermore, in the vicinity of units in which a plurality of objects A1 and a plurality of objects A1', a plurality of objects A2 and a plurality of objects A2', and a plurality of objects A3 and a plurality of objects A3' are arranged in a matrix, the objects A1 and A1', the objects A2 and A2', and the objects A3 and A3' may all be off (uncolored) and appear to have a low density (pale).As a result, the densities appear uneven to the naked eye, and a sufficient invisible image may not be realized.

[0123] Therefore, the arrangement of density relaxation lines for relaxing the unevenness in density is shown in FIGS. 26(c1) to (c3) and 26(d1) to (d3).

[0124] Figure 26(c1) shows an example of the placement of a first density-relaxed image AE1 within a unit to alleviate the density imbalance caused by image A1, and Figure 26(d1) shows an example of the placement of a third density-relaxed image a1 within a unit to alleviate the density imbalance caused by image A1'.

[0125] The first density-relieved image AE1 has an image area that is approximately half that of the image A1, and is positioned so that the center of the first density-relieved image AE1 coincides with the center of the vertical direction between the images A1 and A1'. The third density-relieved image a1 has an image area that is approximately half that of the image A1', and is positioned so that the center of the vertical direction between the images A1 and A1' coincides with the center of the third density-relieved image a1. The first density-relieved images AE1 and a1 are formed in approximately the same color to reduce the density of the images A1 and A1'.

[0126] Similarly, Fig. 26(c2) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a second density relaxed object AE2 for relaxing the density imbalance caused by object A2, and Fig. 26(d2) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a fourth density relaxed object a2 for relaxing the density imbalance caused by object A2'. The object area and central position of the second density relaxed objects AE2, a2 ​​are similar to those of the first density relaxed objects AE1, a1, and are formed in approximately the same color in order to relax the density of objects A2, A2'.

[0127] Fig. 26(c3) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a fifth density-relieved object AE3 for relieving the density imbalance caused by object A3, and Fig. 26(d3) shows an example of the arrangement within a unit of a sixth density-relieved object a3 for relieving the density imbalance caused by object A3'. The object area and central position of the fifth density-relieved objects AE3 and a3 are similar to those of the density-relieved objects AE1, AE2, a1 and a2, and are formed in approximately the same color in order to ease the density of the objects A3 and A3'.

[0128] The objects A1, A2, and A3 are adjacently arranged on a first imaginary line L1 that is aligned in a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1', A2', and A3' are adjacently arranged on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0129] Between the first virtual line L1 and the second virtual line L2, the density-reduced objects AE1, AE2, and AE3 are adjacently disposed on a fifth virtual line L5 along the first direction. Also, the density-reduced objects a1, a2, and a3 are adjacently disposed on a sixth virtual line L6 that is parallel to the fifth virtual line L5 at a predetermined distance.

[0130] FIG. 27 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 26 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0131] Here, since the pairs of objects A1 and A1', A2 and A2', and A3 and A3' have a negative-positive relationship, the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0132] As shown in Figure 28, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0133] As shown in Figure 29(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 of the images A1 to A3 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0134] As shown in Figure 29(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the images A1 to A3 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0135] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0136] Furthermore, the density mitigation objects AE1, AE2, AE3, a1, a2, and a3 mitigate the density imbalance caused by the objects A1, A2, A3, A1', A2', and A3', thereby achieving a sufficiently invisible image.

[0137] 7) Printed matter according to embodiments 1-7 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-7 of the present invention will be described.

[0138] FIG. 30(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-7.

[0139] One unit has a line for each of two colors, and the combination of the two colors is not limited to the above.

[0140] As shown in Figures 30(b1) and (b2), along one direction (the horizontal direction in the figure), the objects A1 and A1', and the objects A2 and A2' which constitute the first invisible image (positive or negative) are arranged in pairs, are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0141] Due to the existence of such objects A1 and A1', and objects A2 and A2', the objects A1-A2 and A1'-A2' cancel each other out in terms of their respective gradations and are not visible, so that the objects A1-A2 form a first invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects A1'-A2' form a second invisible image (positive or negative), respectively.

[0142] As shown in Figures 30(c1) and (c2), along another direction perpendicular to the first direction (the vertical direction in the figure), objects B1 and B1', and objects B2 and B2' which constitute a second invisible image (negative or positive) are arranged in pairs, are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0143] Due to the existence of such objects B1 and B1', and objects B2 and B2', the tones of objects B1 to B2 and objects B1' to B2' cancel each other out and are not visible, and objects B1 to B2 form a second invisible image (negative or positive), and objects B1' to B2' form a second invisible image (positive or negative), respectively.

[0144] Furthermore, in order to alleviate the density imbalance, the first density-relaxed image AE1 shown in Figure 30(d1) and the third density-relaxed image a1 shown in Figure 30(e1) are paired in a negative-positive relationship, and the second density-relaxed image AE2 shown in Figure 30(d2) and the fourth density-relaxed image a2 shown in Figure 30(e2) are paired in a negative-positive relationship.

[0145] Similarly, in order to alleviate density imbalance, the seventh density-relaxed image BE1 shown in Figure 30(d3) and the eighth density-relaxed image b1 shown in Figure 30(e3) are paired in a negative-positive relationship, and the ninth density-relaxed image BE2 shown in Figure 30(d4) and the tenth density-relaxed image b2 shown in Figure 30(e4) are paired in a negative-positive relationship.

[0146] A set of images A1-A2 consisting of the first and second color plates is paired with a set of images A1'-A2', and a set of images AE1-AE2 is paired with a set of images a1-a2, so that under normal viewing conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the center line of images A1, A2, or over the center line of images A1', A2'.

[0147] Similarly, a set of images B1-B2 and a set of images B1'-B2' are paired, and a set of images BE1-BE2 and a set of images b1-b2 are paired, so that under normal viewing conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the center line of images B1 and B2, or over the center line of images B1' and B2'.

[0148] The objects A1 and A2 are adjacently disposed on a first imaginary line L1 that runs along a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1' and A2' are adjacently disposed on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0149] The first and second density moderated images AE1 and AE2 are adjacently disposed on a fifth virtual line L5 extending in the first direction between the first and second virtual lines L1 and L2. Also, the third density moderated images a1 and a2 are adjacently disposed on a sixth virtual line L6 which is parallel to the fifth virtual line L5 at a predetermined distance.

[0150] Furthermore, objects B1 and B2 are arranged adjacent to each other on a third imaginary line L3 that is aligned in a second direction different from the first direction, for example, the vertical direction. Objects B1' and B2' are arranged adjacent to each other on a fourth imaginary line L4 that is parallel to the second direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the third imaginary line L3.

[0151] The seventh and eighth density-relieved images BE1 and BE2 are adjacently disposed on a seventh virtual line L7, which is a seventh virtual center line along the second direction between the third and fourth virtual lines L3 and L4. The seventh virtual line L7 is a straight line passing through the centers of the seventh and eighth density-relieved images BE1 and BE2. The eighth density relaxed images b1 and b2 are adjacent to each other on an eighth virtual line L8, which is an eighth imaginary center line parallel to the seventh center line at a predetermined distance. The eighth virtual line L8 is a straight line passing through the centers of the eighth density relaxed images b1 and b2.

[0152] FIG. 31 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 30 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0153] In the printed pattern 3, the pairs of objects A1 and A1', and the pairs of objects A2 and A2' have a negative-positive relationship, so that the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0154] Similarly, the pairs of objects B1 and B1', and the pairs of objects B2 and B2' have a negative-positive relationship, so that the second invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0155] Furthermore, since the pairs of objects AE1 and a1, and the pairs of objects AE2 and a2 have a negative-positive relationship, the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0156] Furthermore, since the pairs of objects BE1 and b1, and the pairs of objects BE2 and b2 have a negative-positive relationship, the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0157] As shown in Figure 32, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can each be revealed as a color gradation image.

[0158] As shown in Figure 33(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 along one direction of the images A1-A2 (the horizontal direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0159] As shown in Figure 33(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the images A1-A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0160] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is located at a position coinciding with the center of the images A1'-A2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1'-A2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0161] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 34(a), the discrimination tool 2 is superimposed on the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7' along the other direction of the image lines B1-B2 (vertical direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0162] As shown in Figure 34(b), due to the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2, the images B1-B2 located on the center line 7' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0163] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is located at a position coinciding with the center of the images B1' to B2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, such as a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0164] Furthermore, the density relief images AE1, AE2, BE1, BE2, a1, a2, b1, and b2 relieve the density imbalance caused by the images A1, A2, B1, B2, A1', A2', B1', and B2', thereby achieving a sufficiently invisible image.

[0165] 8) Printed matter according to embodiments 1-8 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-8 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 35(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-8.

[0166] One unit has lines for each of three colors, and the combination of the three colors is not limited to the above.

[0167] As shown in Figures 35(b1), (b2), and (b3), the objects A1 and A1', the objects A2 and A2', and the objects A3 and A3' that constitute the first invisible image (positive or negative) are arranged in pairs along one direction (the horizontal direction in the figures), are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0168] Due to the presence of objects A1 and A1', objects A2 and A2', and objects A3 and A3', the tones of objects A1 to A3 and objects A1' to A3' cancel each other out and are not visible, and objects A1 to A3 form a first invisible image (negative or positive), and objects A1' to A3' form a second invisible image (positive or negative).

[0169] As shown in Figures 35(c1), (c2), and (c3), along another direction perpendicular to the one direction (the vertical direction in the figures), the objects B1 and B1', the objects B2 and B2', and the objects B3 and B3' which constitute a second invisible image (negative or positive) are arranged in pairs, are in a negative-positive relationship with each other, have the same area, and each have the same color.

[0170] Due to the existence of such objects B1 and B1', objects B2 and B2', and objects B3 and B3', the objects B1 to B3 and objects B1' to B3' cancel each other out in terms of their respective gradations and are not visible, so that the objects B1 to B3 form a first invisible image (negative or positive), and the objects B1' to B3' form a second invisible image (positive or negative).

[0171] Furthermore, in order to alleviate the density imbalance, the first density-relaxed image AE1 shown in Figure 35(d1) and the third density-relaxed image a1 shown in Figure 35(e1) are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship, the second density-relaxed image AE2 shown in Figure 35(d2) and the fourth density-relaxed image a2 shown in Figure 35(e2) are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship, and further the fifth density-relaxed image AE3 shown in Figure 35(d3) and the sixth density-relaxed image a1 shown in Figure 35(e3) are paired and arranged in a negative-positive relationship.

[0172] Similarly, in order to alleviate density imbalances, the seventh density-relaxed image BE1 shown in Figure 35(d4) and the eighth density-relaxed image b1 shown in Figure 35(e4) are paired in a negative-positive relationship, the eighth density-relaxed image BE2 shown in Figure 35(d5) and the tenth density-relaxed image b2 shown in Figure 35(e5) are paired in a negative-positive relationship, and further the density-relaxed image BE3 shown in Figure 35(d6) and the density-relaxed image b3 shown in Figure 35(e6) are paired in a negative-positive relationship.

[0173] A set of images A1-A3 consisting of the first, second and third color plates is paired with a set of images A1'-A3', and a set of images AE1-AE3 is paired with a set of images a1-a3, so that under normal viewing conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the images A1, A2 and A3 or over the images A1', A2' and A3'.

[0174] Similarly, a set of images B1 to B3 are paired with a set of images B1' to B3', and a set of images BE1 to BE3 are paired with a set of images b1 to b3, so that under normal viewing conditions the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the images B1, B2, B3 or over the images B1', B2', B3'.

[0175] The objects A1, A2, and A3 are adjacently arranged on a first imaginary line L1 that is aligned in a first direction (the horizontal direction in the drawing). The objects A1', A2', and A3' are adjacently arranged on a second imaginary line L2 that is parallel to the first direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the first imaginary line L1.

[0176] Between the first virtual line L1 and the second virtual line L2, the first density-reduced objects AE1, AE2, and AE3 are adjacently disposed on a third virtual line L3 along the first direction, and the third density-reduced objects a1, a2, and a3 are adjacently disposed on a fourth virtual line L4 parallel to the third virtual line L3 at a predetermined distance.

[0177] Furthermore, the objects B1, B2, and B3 are adjacently arranged on an imaginary fifth center line that is aligned in a second direction different from the first direction, for example, the vertical direction. The objects B1', B2', and B3' are adjacently arranged on an imaginary sixth center line that is parallel to the second direction and spaced a predetermined distance from the fifth center line.

[0178] Between the fifth and sixth center lines, seventh density-reduced images BE1, BE2, and BE3 are adjacently disposed on an imaginary seventh center line along the second direction, and eighth density-reduced images b1, b2, and b3 are adjacently disposed on an imaginary eighth center line parallel to the seventh center line at a predetermined distance.

[0179] The second density relaxed image AE2 shown in Fig. 35(d2) and the eighth density relaxed image BE2 shown in Fig. 35(d5) overlap in the same region corresponding to the center of the unit. When only one of the second density relaxed image AE2 and the eighth density relaxed image BE2 exists, only the color that exists is printed. However, when both the second density relaxed image AE2 and the eighth density relaxed image BE2 exist, a color obtained by combining the colors of both is printed. For example, when the color of the second density relaxed image AE2 is M (magenta) and the color of the eighth density relaxed image BE2 is also M (magenta), the color M (magenta) common to both is printed. In this case, the area of ​​the second density relaxed image AE2 and the eighth density relaxed image BE2 may be the same as the area of ​​the second density relaxed image AE2 or the eighth density relaxed image BE2, or may be twice this area, i.e., approximately the same as the area of ​​images A, B, etc.

[0180] FIG. 36 shows an example in which units having the configuration shown in FIG. 35 are arranged continuously and regularly in a matrix shape without gaps.

[0181] In the printed pattern 3, the pairs of objects A1 and A1', A2 and A2', and A3 and A3' are in a negative-positive relationship, so that the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0182] Similarly, the pairs of objects B1 and B1', B2 and B2', and B3 and B3' have negative-positive relationships with each other, so that the second invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0183] Furthermore, since the pairs of objects AE1 and a1, AE2 and a2, and AE3 and a3 have a negative-positive relationship, the first invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0184] Furthermore, since the pairs of objects BE1 and b1, BE2 and b2, and BE3 and b3 have a negative-positive relationship with each other, the second invisible image is invisible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0185] As shown in Figure 37, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can each be revealed as a color gradation image. As shown in Figure 38(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 along one direction of the images A1 to A3 (the horizontal direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0186] When the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line 7, the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1 to A3 to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, as shown in Figure 38(b), and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0187] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0188] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 39(a), the discrimination tool 2 is superimposed on the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7' along the other direction of the images B1 to B3 (vertical direction in the figure) coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0189] When the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line 7', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1 to B3 located on the center line 7' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0190] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images B1' to B3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), appears when viewed visually.

[0191] Furthermore, the density relaxation lines AE1, AE2, AE3, BE1, BE2, BE3, a1, a2, a3, b1, b2, and b3 mitigate the density imbalance caused by the lines A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, A1', A2', A3', B1', B2', and B3', thereby achieving a sufficiently invisible image.

[0192] Next, the visible image formed by the visible image object C will be described.

[0193] A visible image includes any pattern consisting of characters, figures, symbols, etc. that can be seen by the naked eye under normal light conditions. It should be noted that the visible image formed by the visible image line C is not an essential element. If no visible image is arranged, a single-color solid image will be visible to the naked eye.

[0194] Moreover, the visible image image C is arranged at a position where the image constituting the invisible image and, if the invisible image includes a density-reduced image, the visible image image C is arranged at a position where the density-reduced image does not exist. The visible image line C constituting such a visible image can be added to any of the printed matter according to the first to eighth embodiments described above, but the following describes the case where it is added to the printed matter according to the fifth to eighth embodiments.

[0195] 9) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-9 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-9 of the present invention will be described.

[0196] FIG. 40(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-9.

[0197] The printed matter according to the present embodiment 1-9 corresponds to the printed matter according to the above embodiment 1-5 to which a visible image object C constituting a visible image 4 has been further added. The same elements as those in the embodiment 1-5 are designated by the same numbers and their explanations are omitted.

[0198] The visible image image C is printed in any color necessary to form the visible image 4, and the color is not limited.

[0199] A visible image image C is formed in the area shown in Figure 40(e) where the images A1 and A1' shown in Figure 40(b1), the images A2 and A2' shown in Figure 40(b2), the first density relaxed image AE1 shown in Figure 40(c1), the second density relaxed image AE2 shown in Figure 40(c2), the third density relaxed image a1 shown in Figure 40(d1), and the fourth density relaxed image a2 shown in Figure 40(d2) are not present.

[0200] An example in which units having the above-mentioned configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps is shown in Fig. 41. A visible image 4 based on a visible image object C can be seen by the naked eye under normal light.

[0201] As shown in Figure 42, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0202] As shown in Figure 43(a), when the discrimination tool 2 is superimposed on the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically so that the center line 7 of the images A1-A2 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2, the images A1-A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, as shown in Figure 43(b), and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0203] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0204] 10) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-10 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-10 of the present invention will be described.

[0205] FIG. 44(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-10.

[0206] The printed matter according to this embodiment 1-10 corresponds to the printed matter according to the above embodiment 1-6 to which a visible image object C constituting a visible image 4 has been further added. The same elements as those in embodiment 1-6 are designated by the same numbers and their explanations are omitted.

[0207] The visible image image C is printed in any color necessary to form the visible image 4, and the color is not limited.

[0208] A visible image image C is formed in the area shown in Figure 44(e) where there are no objects A1 and A1' shown in Figure 44(b1), no objects A2 and A2' shown in Figure 44(b2), no objects A3 and A3' shown in Figure 44(b3), no first density relaxed object AE1 shown in Figure 44(c1), no second density relaxed object AE2 shown in Figure 44(c2), no fifth density relaxed object AE3 shown in Figure 44(c3), no third density relaxed object a1 shown in Figure 44(d1), no fourth density relaxed object a2 shown in Figure 44(d2), or no sixth density relaxed object a3 shown in Figure 44(d3).

[0209] An example in which units having the above-mentioned configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps is shown in Fig. 45. A visible image 4 based on a visible image object C can be seen by the naked eye under normal light.

[0210] As shown in Figure 46, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image 4 applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0211] As shown in Figure 47(a), when the discrimination tool 2 is superimposed on the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically so that the center line 7 of the images A1 to A3 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2, the images A1 to A3 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, as shown in Figure 43(b), and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0212] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0213] 11) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-11 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-11 of the present invention will be described.

[0214] FIG. 48(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-11.

[0215] The printed matter according to this embodiment 1-11 corresponds to the printed matter according to the above embodiment 1-7 to which a visible image object C constituting a visible image 4 has been further added. The same elements as those in embodiment 1-7 are designated by the same numbers and their explanations are omitted.

[0216] The visible image image C is printed in any color necessary to form the visible image 4, and the color is not limited.

[0217] 48(f), where there are no objects A1 and A1' shown in FIG. 48(b1), no objects A2 and A2' shown in FIG. 48(b2), no objects B1 and B1' shown in FIG. 48(c1), no objects B2 and B2' shown in FIG. 48(c2), no first density-relaxed object AE1 shown in FIG. 48(d1), no second density-relaxed object AE2 shown in FIG. 48(d2), no seventh density-relaxed object BE1 shown in FIG. 48(d3), no eighth density-relaxed object BE2 shown in FIG. 48(d4), no third density-relaxed object a1 shown in FIG. 48(e1), no fourth density-relaxed object a2 shown in FIG. 48(e2), no eighth density-relaxed object b1 shown in FIG. 48(e3), and no tenth density-relaxed object b2 shown in FIG. 48(e4).

[0218] An example in which units having the above-mentioned configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps is shown in Fig. 49. A visible image 4 based on a visible image object C can be seen by the naked eye under normal light.

[0219] As shown in Figure 50, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image 4 and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0220] As shown in Figure 51(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 of the images A1 to A2 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0221] As shown in FIG. 51(b), the image lines A1-A2 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), appears to the naked eye.

[0222] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0223] As shown in Figure 52(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7' of the images B1-B2 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0224] As shown in Figure 52(b), the image lines B1-B2 located on the center line 7' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0225] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images B1' to B2', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B2' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0226] 12) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-12 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-12 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 53(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of line construction of the print pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-12.

[0227] The printed matter according to this embodiment 1-12 corresponds to the printed matter according to the above embodiment 1-8 to which a visible image object C constituting a visible image 4 has been further added. The same elements as those in embodiment 1-8 are designated by the same numbers and their explanations are omitted. The visible image image C is printed in any color necessary to form the visible image 4, and the color is not limited.

[0228] 53(b1), the objects A2 and A2' shown in FIG. 53(b2), the objects A3 and A3' shown in FIG. 53(b3), the objects B1 and B1' shown in FIG. 53(c1), the objects B2 and B2' shown in FIG. 53(c2), the objects B3 and B3' shown in FIG. 53(c3), the first density-relaxed object AE1 shown in FIG. 53(d1), the second density-relaxed object AE2 shown in FIG. 53(d2), the fifth density-relaxed object AE3 shown in FIG. 53(d3), the seventh density-relaxed object B shown in FIG. 53(d4), A visible image image C is formed in the area shown in Figure 53(f) where there are no density relaxed image lines E1, 8th density relaxed image line BE2 shown in Figure 53(d5), 8th density relaxed image line BE3 shown in Figure 53(d6), 3rd density relaxed image line a1 shown in Figure 53(e1), 4th density relaxed image line a2 shown in Figure 53(e2), 6th density relaxed image line a3 shown in Figure 53(e3), 8th density relaxed image line b1 shown in Figure 53(e4), 10th density relaxed image line b2 shown in Figure 53(e5), or 11th density relaxed image line b3 shown in Figure 53(e6).

[0229] An example in which units having the above-mentioned configuration are regularly arranged in a matrix with no gaps is shown in Fig. 54. A visible image 4 based on a visible image object C is visible to the naked eye under normal light.

[0230] As shown in Figure 55, by placing the discrimination tool 2 over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 and visually observing it from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printed matter 1, the first invisible image and the second invisible image applied to the printed pattern 3 can be made to appear as a color gradation image.

[0231] As shown in Figure 56(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7 of the images A1 to A3 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0232] As shown in Figure 56 (b), the objects A1 to A3 located on the center line 7 are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), appears to the naked eye. Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images A1' to A3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images A1' to A3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a first invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0233] As shown in Figure 57(a), the discrimination tool 2 is placed over the printed pattern 3 on the printed matter 1 at a predetermined angle to the printed pattern 3, more specifically, so that the center line 7' of the images B1 to B3 coincides with the center lines of each lens in the discrimination tool 2.

[0234] As shown in Figure 57(b), the objects B1 to B3 located on the center line 7' are enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a positive image (or negative image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0235] Furthermore, when the center line of the discrimination tool 2 is in a position coinciding with the center line of the images B1' to B3', the characteristics of the discrimination tool 2 cause the images B1' to B3' to be enlarged and expanded at a predetermined magnification, and a second invisible image, which is a color gradation image, for example a negative image (or positive image), is revealed to the naked eye.

[0236] 13) Printed matter according to embodiment 1-13 A printed matter according to an embodiment 1-13 of the present invention will be described.

[0237] Fig. 58(a) shows a partially enlarged view of one unit, which is a unit of the line configuration of the printed pattern 3 in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-13. This embodiment 1-13 corresponds to an expansion of the configuration of the above embodiment 1-2, in which the objects A1 to A3 and the objects A1' to A3' are arranged for three types of colors, to four types.

[0238] The combination of four colors may be, for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) containing an infrared absorbing pigment such as carbon, but it is not necessary to use this combination of colors. In other words, there is no restriction on the specific colors, as long as four colors are used.

[0239] As shown in Fig. 58(b1), the objects A1 and A1' in the first color form a pair, have a mutually negative-positive relationship, and are the same in area. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 58(b2), the objects A2 and A2' in the second color form a pair, have a mutually negative-positive relationship, and are the same in area, as shown in Fig. 58(b3), the objects A3 and A3' in the third color form a pair, have a mutually negative-positive relationship, and are the same in area, and further, as shown in Fig. 58(b4), the objects A4 and A4' in the fourth color form a pair, have a mutually negative-positive relationship, and are the same in area. In this embodiment 1-13, after a color original image is separated into a first color, a second color, a third color, and a fourth color, the image corresponding to the first color plate is composed of A1 and A1', the image corresponding to the second color plate is composed of A2 and A2', the image corresponding to the third color plate is composed of A3 and A3', and the image corresponding to the fourth color plate is composed of A4 and A4'.

[0240] A set of images A1 to A4 consisting of a first color plate, a second color plate, a third color plate, and a fourth color plate is paired with a set of images A1' to A4', so that the respective gradations cancel each other out and are not visible under normal viewing conditions, and a color gradation image appears by positioning the lens of the discrimination tool over the images A1 to A4 or A1' to A4'.

[0241] A set of images A1, A2, A3, A4 form a positive image of the first invisible image, and a set of images A1', A2', A3', A4' form a negative image of the first invisible image.

[0242] The configuration in which objects are arranged for every four colors as in the printed matter according to this embodiment 1-13 may be expanded and applied to, for example, the configuration of embodiment 1-4 above in which objects A1 to A3, A1' to A3', B1 to B3, and B1' to B3' are arranged for every three colors; the configuration of embodiment 1-6 above in which objects A1 to A3, A1' to A3', density-relaxed objects AE1 to AE3, and density-relaxed objects a1 to a3 are arranged for every three colors; the configuration of embodiment 1-8 above in which objects A1 to A3, A1' to A3', B1 to B3, B1' to B3', density-relaxed objects AE1 to AE3, density-relaxed objects a1 to a3, density-relaxed objects BE1 to BE3, and density-relaxed objects b1 to b3 are arranged for every three colors; and embodiment 1-10 and embodiment 1-12 above in which visible image object C of visible image 4 is provided. Alternatively, the strokes can be arranged in groups of five or more colors.

[0243] According to the printed matter of the above embodiments 1-1 to 1-13, a single discriminator can be used to form an invisible image that can be clearly expressed in color, thereby improving the freedom of expression and making it possible to form desired images such as facial images and landscape paintings as invisible images.

[0244] (2) Print Data Creation Device According to Embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 The device for creating data of a printed matter using a printed matter according to the embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 59 showing the configuration thereof.

[0245] This creation device comprises an input unit 401, a processing unit 402, a storage unit 403, and an output unit 404, and can also be realized as, for example, a computer equipped with these functions.

[0246] An input unit 401 inputs original image data necessary for creating a printout, and provides the input to a processing unit 402. The original image data refers to invisible image data that is the original image of an invisible image, and visible image data that is the original image of visible image 4 if visible image 4 is included.

[0247] If the original image data acquired by the input unit 401 is not bitmap binary image data or outline graphic data (hereinafter referred to as "digital data"), it needs to be converted into digital data. For this reason, the input unit 401 needs a data conversion processing function for converting the original image data into digital data. Therefore, the input unit 401 may be a reading device such as a scanner having a data conversion processing function for converting the acquired original image data into digital data in addition to the input processing function, or an imaging device such as a digital camera, video camera, or mobile terminal. By configuring the input unit 401 to have such a data conversion processing function, it becomes possible to acquire an image and convert it into digital data at the same time.

[0248] The processing unit 402 stores the data provided from the input unit 401 in a storage unit 403 , and also performs arithmetic processing and image processing required for creating a printout, and provides the obtained results to an output unit 404 .

[0249] The output unit 404 outputs the data provided from the processing unit 402 to an external device, such as a printer (not shown) or an image display unit. The type of printer may be an electrophotographic printer, an inkjet printer, or a laser printer, and any type of printer may be used. Printing is also possible with expensive color multifunction machines and digital printers, as well as simple printers for general household use and mobile printers that run on rechargeable batteries.

[0250] (3) Printed matter data creation method, creation software, and printed matter data structure according to embodiments 1-1 to 1-13 A method for creating data for a print according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 60 showing the procedure. This creation method corresponds to the procedure of processing by input unit 401 in the creation device described above, and processing by processing unit 402 given the original image data acquired by input unit 401.

[0251] First, the input unit 401 acquires original image data, for example, a color image of C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow), which is the original image of the invisible image. The original image data can be acquired by taking a face photograph, a landscape photograph, or the like, or image information input in advance can be used.

[0252] Next, in step S101, the processing unit 402 separates the original image data into a plurality of color plates to generate a plurality of separated image data, for example, C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data. Fig. 61(a) shows the original image before color separation, and Figs. 61(b), 61(c), and 61(d) show the images of the C plate, M plate, and Y plate after color separation, respectively. The generated plurality of separated image data are stored in the memory unit 403.

[0253] When separating the original image data into a plurality of color plates, the separation may be into colors other than C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow).

[0254] The color separation process can be performed using image processing software (for example, Adobe Photoshop) or a special color separation device (for example, a BARCO special color separation device).

[0255] In steps S201C, S201M, and S201Y, the processing unit 402 performs binarization processing, which is commonly performed in image processing, on each of multiple decomposed image data, for example, C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data, to create multiple binarized color plate data.

[0256] Binarization is a process that extracts objects from an image and separates the background from the figures in order to analyze the image's features, and converts a grayscale image with density values ​​into an image represented by two values, 0 and 1.

[0257] Figures 62(a), 62(b), and 62(c) show images of the C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data before binarization processing is performed. The C plate data after binarization processing, in which light parts are made white and dark parts are made black, is shown in Figure 62(d), the M plate data in Figure 62(e), and the Y plate data in Figure 62(f).

[0258] The data is a plurality of color plane data that have been binarized by the processing unit 402. The C plane data, M plane data, and Y plane data are converted into a unit configuration in which the above-mentioned objects are arranged, and a plurality of color plane data converted into the above-mentioned unit configuration is generated. That is, in step S202C, the data is converted into a unit configuration in which objects A1 and A1' having a color of C (cyan) are arranged, and the converted image is shown in FIG. 63(d). In step S202M, the data is converted into a unit configuration in which objects A2 and A2' having a color of M (magenta) are arranged, and the converted image is shown in FIG. 63(e). In step S202Y, the data is converted into a unit configuration in which objects A3 and A3' having a color of Y (yellow) are arranged, and the converted image is shown in FIG. 63(f). Similarly, when arranging objects B1' to B3', the configuration is converted to a unit configuration in which objects B1 and B1' having the color C (cyan) are arranged, then converted to a unit configuration in which objects B2 and B2' having the color M (magenta) are arranged, and finally converted to a unit configuration in which objects B3 and B3' having the color Y (yellow) are arranged.

[0259] In steps S203C, S203M, and S203Y, a process is performed to reduce the density imbalance as necessary for each of the C plane data, M plane data, and Y plane data converted into a unit configuration. The process of reducing the density imbalance will be described later.

[0260] In step S204, the C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data, which are the plurality of color plate data converted into the above-mentioned unit configuration, are synthesized to generate data for a print product.

[0261] FIG. 64 shows a method for creating the data for the printed matter. A And original image of name etc. B The procedure for creating print data using the two original images shown in Fig. 64 is as follows. The print data shown in Fig. 64 has two invisible images.

[0262] In the input unit 401, a first invisible image, that is, an invisible image R A The original image O is a color image such as a face photograph that contains C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow). A Get the data.

[0263] In step S101A, the processing unit 402 performs the process of A The data is separated into multiple color plates and the C plate data is output as multiple separated image data. A S 1 , M version data O A S 2 , Y version data O A S 3 Create a.

[0264] In the processing unit 402, in steps S201CA, S201MA, and S201YA, binarization processing is performed on each of the multiple decomposition image data, and C plate data O, which is the binarized multiple color plate data, is generated. A S 1 ', M version data O A S 2 ', Y version data O A S 3 ' to create a '.

[0265] In the processing unit 402, in steps S202CA, S202MA, and S202YA, the data of the plurality of color planes that have been subjected to the binarization process are converted into a unit configuration, and in steps S203CA, S203MA, and S203YA, the data of the plurality of color planes that have been converted into a unit configuration are created. Then, for each piece of data, a process is performed to reduce density imbalances as necessary, and the C plane data R is generated. A S 1 , M version data R A S 2 , Y version data R A S 3 Create a.

[0266] In step S204A, the multiple color separation data converted into the unit configuration is synthesized to generate an invisible image R A Create a. The above process is performed on the original image O of the name, etc., which is the second invisible image. B This is also done for the data.

[0267] That is, in step S101B, the original image O B The data is separated into multiple color plates and the C plate data is output as multiple separated image data. B S 1 , M version data O B S 2 , Y version data O B S 3 Create a.

[0268] In steps S201CB, S201MB, and S201YB, binarization processing is performed on each of the multiple separation image data, and C-plane data O, which is the binarized multiple color plane data, is generated. B S 1 ', M version data O B S 2 ', Y version data O B S 3 ' to create a '.

[0269] In the processing unit 402, in steps S202CB, S202MB, and S202YB, each of the color plane data that has been subjected to the binarization process is converted into a unit configuration, and further, in steps S203CB, S203MB, and S203YB, a process is performed to reduce density imbalances as necessary for each of the color plane data that has been converted into a unit configuration, and the C plane data R B S 1 , M version data R B S 2 , Y version data R B S 3 Create a.

[0270] In step S204B, the respective color separation data converted into the unit configuration are synthesized to generate an invisible image R B Create a.

[0271] In step S204AB, the invisible image R A and invisible image R B and combine them to create a data structure for producing printed matter 1.

[0272] Next, referring to FIG. 65, an example of a procedure in which the following steps are performed simultaneously in one go: step S202C converts the data into a unit configuration in which objects A1 and A1' having the color C (cyan), step S202M converts the data into a unit configuration in which objects A2 and A2' having the color M (magenta), and step S202Y converts the data into a unit configuration in which objects A3 and A3' having the color Y (yellow), and steps S203C, S203M, and S203Y reduce density imbalances as necessary for each of the C plate data, M plate data, and Y plate data converted into unit configurations.

[0273] In step SS1, binary images of each of the colors C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) of the original image are read and are defined as images S[v, h].

[0274] FIG. 66 is a schematic diagram showing step SS1. The image S[20,20] shown in the upper figure is an image with 20 pixels vertically and 20 pixels horizontally. In the following, when explaining each step with specific pixel numbers, the image will be explained as having 20 pixels vertically and 20 pixels horizontally. When the image S[20,20] shown in the upper figure is subjected to binarization processing, it becomes the image S[20,20] as shown in the lower figure. Here, v indicates the number of pixels counted vertically from the top of the binary image along the Y direction (vertical direction), and h indicates the number of pixels counted horizontally from the left of the binary image along the horizontal direction (X direction).

[0275] Next, in step SS2, an image T[v, h] is prepared as a source image for generating an invisible image after conversion into the above-mentioned configuration of units in which the image lines are arranged.

[0276] FIG. 67 is a schematic diagram showing image T[v,h] prepared in step SS2. Image T[v,h] is an image having the same number of pixels as the image shown in step SS1, with all pixels being white with a value of "0". Specifically, image S shown in step SS1 is an image of 20 pixels vertically and 20 pixels horizontally, so image T[20,20] having the same number of pixels as image S[20,20] is prepared. Image T[v,h] becomes an invisible image after being converted into a unit configuration through the processes of steps SS3 to SS9.

[0277] Next, in step SS3, it is determined whether the variable j is a numerical value equal to or less than v, and if it is not equal to or less than v, the process exits the loop from step SS3 to step SS9, which is a repeated process, and proceeds to step SS10. Here, "variable j" is "a natural number equal to or greater than 1."

[0278] Next, the loop from step SS3 to step SS9 will be described. In the present invention, a loop refers to an iterative process in which a variable j or i is incremented by 1 from 1 to v or 1 to h. Here, the "variable i" is a "natural number equal to or greater than 1". The loop in step SS3 is a loop in which the variable j is incremented by 1 from 1 to v. For example, in the case of an image having 20 pixels vertically and 20 pixels horizontally, the variable j is counted from 1 to 20. The loop in step SS4 is a loop in which the variable i is incremented by 1 from 1 to h. Thus, the variable i is counted from 1 to 20. The loop in step SS4 is structured to loop inside step SS3. This means that after the variable i is counted from 1 to 20 once in the loop in step SS4 and the process returns to step SS3 by step SS9, when step SS4 is reached, the variable i returns to 1, and the step in which the variable i is counted from 1 to 20 again is performed in the loop in step SS4.

[0279] Next, in step SS4, it is determined whether the variable i is a numerical value equal to or less than h. If the variable i is not equal to or less than h, the process leaves the loop from step SS4 to step SS8, which is a repeated process, and proceeds to step SS9.

[0280] In step SS5, it is determined whether the jth pixel counting from the top vertically and the ith pixel counting from the left horizontally in the image S[v,h] read in in step SS1 is black ("1"), and if the determination is "Yes", the process proceeds to step SS6; if the pixel is white ("0"), the process proceeds to step SS7.

[0281] First, a case where the determination in step SS5 is "No" will be described. FIG. 68 is a schematic diagram showing step SS5. Step SS5 judges whether or not "S[j, i] = 1". For example, when j = 1, i = 1, which is the first loop, judges whether or not "S[1, 1] = 1". That is, judgement is made for the pixel that is the first pixel counting vertically from the top and the first pixel counting horizontally from the left in image S[20, 20] shown in FIG. 68. When it is judged whether the pixel in FIG. 68 is black "1", the corresponding pixel is white, so "S[1, 1] = 0". In that case, the judgment is "No" instead of "S[j, i] = 1", and the process proceeds to step SS7.

[0282] It should be noted that steps SS5 through SS7 to step SS7-1 or SS7-2 correspond to steps for converting into a unit configuration, and by going through the processing of these steps, one pixel is converted into a unit configuration in which the above-mentioned image line is arranged.

[0283] Next, a case where the determination in step SS5 is "Yes" will be described. If it is determined in step SS5 that the pixel in question is black, "S[1,1] = 1." In this case, the determination becomes "Yes," and the process proceeds to step SS6.

[0284] If the determination in step SS5 is "Yes", in step SS6, it is determined whether the j+1th pixel counting from the top end in the vertical direction and the ith pixel counting from the left end in the horizontal direction in the image S[v,h] is black "1". In other words, it determines the pixel adjacent to the pixel determined in step SS5 in the vertical direction. If the determination is "Yes", proceed to step SS6-1, and if the determination is "No", proceed to step SS6-2. Here, if j and v are the same value, there is no j+1th pixel counting from the top end in the vertical direction in the image S[v,h], so it is not possible to make a determination. In such a case, it is considered that there is a white "0" pixel at the j+1th position. If it is considered that there is a white "0" pixel, the determination in SS6 is "No", and proceed to step SS6-2. At this time, the pixel considered to be at the j+1th position does not have to be white "0", but may be black "1". If it is considered that there is a black "1" pixel, the determination in SS6 is "Yes", and proceed to step SS6-1.

[0285] A case where the determination in step SS6 is "Yes" will be described. Figure 69 is a schematic diagram showing step SS6-1. As an example, in step SS6-1, when j=3, i=4, image T[3,4]+=A1. This means that the third pixel counting vertically from the top and the fourth pixel counting horizontally from the left in image T[20,20] is converted into unit A1 in which object A1 is located. When step SS6-1 is completed, the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0286] A case where the determination in step SS6 is "No" will be described. 70 is a schematic diagram showing step SS6-2. In step SS6-2, the jth pixel counting from the top end in the vertical direction and the ith pixel counting from the left end in the horizontal direction in the image T[v,h] is converted into a unit obtained by adding a third density-reduced object a1 to the object A1. When step SS6-2 is completed, the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0287] As an example, in step SS6-2, when j=4, i=3, image T[4,3]+=A1+a1 is obtained. This means that the fourth pixel counting vertically from the top and the third pixel counting horizontally from the left in image T[20,20] is converted into a unit in which a third density-reduced image a1 is added to image A1.

[0288] If the determination in step SS5 is "No", in step SS7, it is determined whether the j+1th pixel counting from the top end vertically and the i-th pixel counting from the left end horizontally in image S[v,h] is black "1", and if the determination is "Yes", proceed to step SS7-1, and if the determination is "No", proceed to step SS7-2. In step SS7, if j and v are the same value, it is considered that the j+1th pixel is a white "0" or black "1" pixel. If it is determined that there is a white "0" pixel, the determination in SS7 is "No", and proceed to step SS7-2. If it is determined that there is a black "1" pixel, the determination in SS7 is "Yes", and proceed to step SS7-1.

[0289] FIG. 71 is a schematic diagram showing step SS7. Step SS7 is a process for judging whether "S[j+1,i]=1". For example, when j=1,i=1, the process is to judge "S[1+1,1]=1". This means that a judgment is made for the pixel that is 1+1=2nd vertically counting from the top and 1st horizontally counting from the left in image S[20,20]. In FIG. 71, if the corresponding pixel is black "1", then "S[j+1,i]=1", the judgment is "Yes", and the process proceeds to step SS7-1. If the corresponding pixel is white "0", then the judgment is not "S[j+1,i]=1", but "No", and the process proceeds to step SS7-2.

[0290] If the judgment in step SS7 is "Yes", in step SS7-1, the jth pixel in image T[v,h] counting from the top end vertically and the ith pixel counting from the left end horizontally is converted into a unit in which the first density-reduced image AE1 is placed.

[0291] 72 is a schematic diagram showing step SS7-1. For example, if step SS7-1 sets j=2, i=4, image T[2,4]+=AE1. This means that the pixel that is the second pixel counting vertically from the top and the fourth pixel counting horizontally from the left in image T[20,20] is converted into a unit in which the first density-reduced image AE1 is placed. When step SS7-1 is completed, the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0292] If the judgment in step SS7 is "No", in step SS7-2, the jth pixel counting from the top end vertically and the ith pixel counting from the left end horizontally in the image T[v,h] is converted into a unit for placing the third density-reduced image A1'.

[0293] Fig. 73 is a schematic diagram showing step SS7-2. In step SS7-2, when j=1, i=1, image T[1,1]+=A1'. This means that the pixel that is the first pixel counting vertically from the top and the first pixel counting horizontally from the left in image T[20,20] becomes unit A1'. When step SS7-2 is completed, the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0294] In step SS8, the process returns to step SS4. At this time, i is incremented by 1, and if i=1, for example, it becomes i=2. In the next step SS5, since j=1 and i=2, it is determined that "S[1,2]=1" and the process continues sequentially. In step SS4, it is determined whether i is a value equal to or less than h, and if it is not equal to or less than h, the process proceeds to step SS9 as described above.

[0295] In step SS9, the process returns to step SS3. At this time, j is incremented by 1, and if j=1, for example, it becomes j=2. In the next step SS5, since j=2 and i=1, it is determined that "S[2,1]=1" and the process continues sequentially. In step SS3, it is determined whether j is a value equal to or less than v, and if it is not equal to or less than v, the process proceeds to step SS10 as described above.

[0296] 74 is a schematic diagram showing an image T[v,h] converted into a unit configuration by the processes from step SS1 to step SS9, which is an image T[20,20]. The image T[v,h] is stored as step SS10.

[0297] Through the above processing, the image S[v,h] is converted into the image T[v,h].

[0298] Here, the units constituting the image S before transformation and the units constituting the image T after transformation are shown in Figure 75. The units constituting the image S include units S[j,i], S[j+1,i], S[j+2,i] arranged in the Y direction, and units T[j,i], T[j+1,i], T[j+2,i] arranged in the Y direction.

[0299] FIG. 76 shows four types of units including an object A1, an object A1', a third moderate-density object a1, and a first moderate-density object AE1.

[0300] Assuming three units are arranged in the Y direction, there are eight possible line layout patterns, as shown below. The processing for each of these eight layout patterns will be explained below.

[0301] i) When all three units that make up image S are white images As shown in FIG. 77, if the units making up images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are all white images, the processing in step SS5 will be "No", the processing in step SS7 will be "No", and the processing in step SS7-2 will result in the lines of the units making up the converted images T[j,i], T[j+1,i], and T[j+2,i] becoming "A1'".

[0302] ii) When all three units that make up image S are black images As shown in FIG. 78, if the units making up images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are all black images, the processing in step SS5 will be "Yes", the processing in step SS6 will be "Yes", and the processing in step SS6-1 will result in the lines of the units making up the converted images T[j,i], T[j+1,i], and T[j+2,i] becoming "A1".

[0303] iii) When the three units that make up image S are "white-black-white" As shown in Fig. 79, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "white-black-white", the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "No", the process in step SS7 is "Yes", and the process in step SS7-1 results in the image T[j,i] having an object line of "AE1". The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "Yes", the process in step SS6 is "No", and the process in step SS6-2 results in the image T[j+1,i] having an object line of "A1+a1". The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "No", the process in step SS7 is "No", and the process in step SS7-2 results in the image T[j+2,i] having an object line of "A1'".

[0304] iv) When the three units that make up image S are "black-white-white" As shown in Fig. 80, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "black-white-white," the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "No," and the process in step SS6-2 results in the image T[j,i] having a line of "A1+a1" for the units constituting the converted image T[j,i]. The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "No," and the process in step SS7-2 results in the image T[j+1,i] having a line of "A1'." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "No," and the process in step SS7-2 results in the image T[j+2,i] having a line of "A1'."

[0305] v) When the three units that make up image S are "white-white-black" As shown in Fig. 81, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "white-white-black," the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "No," and the process in step SS7-2 results in the image T[j,i] having an object line of "A1'." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "Yes," and the process in step SS7-1 results in the image T[j+1,i] having an object line of "AE1." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "Yes," and the process in step SS6-1 results in the image T[j+2,i] having an object line of "A1."

[0306] vi) When the three units that make up image S are "black-black-white" As shown in Fig. 82, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "black-black-white," the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "Yes," and the process in step SS6-1 results in the image T[j,i] having an "A1" line of the units constituting the converted image T[j+1,i]. The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "No," and the process in step SS6-2 results in the image T[j+1,i] having an "A1+a1" line of the units constituting the converted image T[j+2,i]. The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "No," and the process in step SS7-2 results in the image T[j+2,i] having an "A1'" line of the units constituting the converted image T[j+2,i].

[0307] vii) When the three units that make up the image S are "black-white-black" As shown in Fig. 83, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "black-white-black," the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "No," and the process in step SS6-2 results in the image T[j,i] having a line of "A1+a1." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "Yes," and the process in step SS7-1 results in the image T[j+1,i] having a line of "AE1." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "Yes," and the process in step SS6-1 results in the image T[j+2,i] having a line of "A1."

[0308] viii) When the three units that make up image S are "white-black-black" As shown in Fig. 84, when the units constituting images S[j,i], S[j+1,i], and S[j+2,i] are "white-black-black," the process in step SS5 for image S[j,i] is "No," the process in step SS7 is "Yes," and the process in step SS7-1 results in the image T[j,i] having an object line of "AE1." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+1,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "Yes," and the process in step SS6-1 results in the image T[j+1,i] having an object line of "A1." The process in step SS5 for image S[j+2,i] is "Yes," the process in step SS6 is "Yes," and the process in step SS6-1 results in the image T[j+2,i] having an object line of "A1."

[0309] The software for creating data of a printed matter of the present invention causes a computer to execute the data structure for creating a printed matter obtained by the above-mentioned method for creating data of a printed matter, and the software can create data of a printed matter. The created data can be stored in the storage unit 403.

[0310] According to the printed matter, the data structure of the printed matter, the method for creating data of the printed matter, and the software for creating data of the printed matter in the above-described embodiments, it is possible to form an invisible image that can be clearly expressed in color using a single discrimination tool.

[0311] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, this embodiment is presented as an example and is not intended to limit the technical scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the technical scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0312] 1 Printed matter 2. Discrimination tool 3 Printing pattern 4. Visible images 5. Invisible Images 7 Center line A1, A1', A2, A2', A3, A3', B1, B1', B2, B2', B3, B3' AE1 First density relief line AE2 Second density relief line a1 Third density relief line a2 Fourth density relief line L1 First virtual line L2 Second virtual line L3 Third virtual line L4 Fourth virtual line L5 Fifth virtual line L6 6th virtual line 401 Input section 402 Processing section 403 Storage section 404 Output section

Claims

1. a first object having a first color and a second object having a second color different from the first color, the first object being adjacently arranged in a first direction; a third object having the first color and a fourth object having the second color, the third object and the fourth object being adjacently arranged with a space therebetween in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; A plurality of units each having A printed matter characterized in that the first and second images, and the third and fourth images in each of the units are in a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present the other is not present, the first and second images form a positive or negative image of a first invisible image, and the third and fourth images form a negative or positive image of the first invisible image.

2. The unit comprises: a visible image image having a center in a direction different from the first direction and the second direction in an area where the first image image, the second image image, the third image image, and the fourth image image are not present; 2. The printed matter according to claim 1, wherein a visible image is formed by the visible image lines.

3. The unit comprises: a first density-relieving image having the first color and a second density-relieving image having the second color, the first density-relieving image being disposed adjacent to a third imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and the second imaginary line parallel to the first direction; a third density-reduced image line having the first color and a fourth density-reduced image line having the second color, the third density-reduced image line being disposed adjacent to a fourth imaginary line that is parallel to the third imaginary line with the predetermined interval therebetween and is closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction; The printed matter according to claim 1 , further comprising:

4. 4. The printed matter according to claim 3, wherein the first, second, third and fourth density gentle lines have substantially the same color as the first, second, third and fourth image lines, respectively, and have substantially half the image area ratio of the first, second, third and fourth image lines.

5. a first image having a first color, a second image having a second color, and a third image having a third color, the first image being adjacently arranged in a first direction; a fourth object having the first color, a fifth object having the second color, and a sixth object having the third color, the fourth object being adjacently disposed on a second imaginary line parallel to the first direction; A plurality of units each having the first color, the second color, and the third color are different from one another; a positive image or a negative image of a first invisible image formed by the first image line, the second image line, and the third image line, and a negative image or a negative image of the first invisible image formed by the fourth image line, the fifth image line, and the sixth image line in each unit are in a negative-positive relationship with each other such that when one of the images is present, the other is not present, and a positive image or a negative image of the first invisible image formed by the fourth image line, the fifth image line, and the sixth image line.

6. The unit comprises: a visible image object having a center in an area where the first object, the second object, the third object, the fourth object, the fifth object, and the sixth object are not present and at a position not overlapping the first direction and the second virtual line, 6. The printed matter according to claim 5, wherein a visible image is formed by the visible image lines.

7. The unit comprises: a first density-relieving image having the first color, a second density-relieving image having the second color, and a third density-relieving image having the third color, the first density-relieving image being disposed adjacent to a third imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and the second imaginary line; a fourth density-relieving image line having the first color, a fifth density-relieving image line having the second color, and a sixth density-relieving image line having the third color, the fourth density-relieving image line being disposed adjacent to a fourth imaginary line that is parallel to the third imaginary line with the predetermined interval therebetween and closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction; Further equipped with 6. The printed matter according to claim 5, wherein the first density-relieved image line, the second density-relieved image line, the third density-relieved image line, the fourth density-relieved image line, the fifth density-relieved image line, and the sixth density-relieved image line ease density imbalances caused by the first image line, the second image line, the third image line, the fourth image line, the fifth image line, and the sixth image line.

8. 8. The printed matter according to claim 7, wherein the first color, the second color, and the third color are cyan, magenta, and yellow, or red, green, and blue.

9. a first image having a first color and a second image having a second color, the first image and the second image being adjacent to each other in a first direction; a third object having the first color and a fourth object having the second color, the third object and the fourth object being disposed adjacent to each other on a second imaginary line parallel to the first direction; a fifth object having the first color and a sixth object having the second color, the fifth object and the sixth object being disposed adjacent to each other on a third imaginary line along a second direction different from the first direction; a seventh object line having the first color and an eighth object line having the second color, the seventh object line and the eighth object line being disposed adjacent to a fourth imaginary line parallel to the third imaginary line at a predetermined interval; A plurality of units each having the first and second images, and the third and fourth images in each unit have a negative-positive relationship in which when one image is present the other does not exist, and a positive or negative image of a first invisible image is formed by the first and second images, and a negative or positive image of the first invisible image is formed by the third and fourth images; A printed matter characterized in that the fifth and sixth images, and the seventh and eighth images are in a negative-positive relationship in which when one is present the other is not present, the fifth and sixth images form a positive or negative image of a second invisible image, and the seventh and eighth images form a negative or positive image of the second invisible image.

10. The unit comprises: a visible image object having a center in an area where the first object, the second object, the third object, the fourth object, the fifth object, the sixth object, the seventh object, and the eighth object are not present and at a position not overlapping the first direction, the second virtual line, the third virtual line, and the fourth virtual line, 10. The printed matter according to claim 9, wherein a visible image is formed by the visible image lines.

11. The unit comprises: a first density-relieving image having the first color and a second density-relieving image having the second color, the first density-relieving image being disposed adjacent to a fifth imaginary line along the first direction between the first direction and the second imaginary line; a third density-reducing image line having the first color and a fourth density-reducing image line having the second color, the third density-reducing image line being disposed adjacent to a sixth imaginary line that is parallel to the fifth imaginary line with the predetermined interval therebetween and is closer to the second imaginary line than the first direction; a fifth density-relieving image having the first color and a sixth density-relieving image having the second color, the fifth density-relieving image being disposed adjacent to a seventh imaginary line extending along the second direction between the third imaginary line and the fourth imaginary line; a seventh density-reducing image line having the first color and an eighth density-reducing image line having the second color, the seventh density-reducing image line being disposed adjacent to an eighth imaginary line that is parallel to the seventh imaginary line with the predetermined interval therebetween and is closer to the sixth imaginary line than the fifth imaginary line; Further equipped with the first density-relieving image, the second density-relieving image, the third density-relieving image, and the fourth density-relieving image alleviate density imbalances caused by the first image, the second image, the third image, and the fourth image, 10. The printed matter according to claim 9, wherein the fifth density-relieving image line, the sixth density-relieving image line, the seventh density-relieving image line and the eighth density-relieving image line ease density imbalances caused by the fifth image line, the sixth image line, the seventh image line and the eighth image line.

12. A method for creating data for a print product, comprising the steps of: The printed matter is a first image having a first color and a second image having a second color, the first image and the second image being adjacent to each other in a first direction; a third object having the first color and a fourth object having the second color, the third object and the fourth object being disposed adjacent to each other on a second imaginary line parallel to the first direction; A plurality of units each having the first and second images, and the third and fourth images in each unit have a negative-positive relationship in which when one image is present, the other image is not present, and a positive or negative image of a first invisible image is formed by the first and second images, and a negative or positive image of the first invisible image is formed by the third and fourth images; The method for creating data for a print product comprises: obtaining raw image data of the first invisible image; color-separating the original image data into a plurality of color plates to generate a plurality of separated image data; performing a binarization process on the plurality of separated image data to generate a plurality of binarized color plane data; a step of converting the binarized plurality of color plane data into the unit configuration to generate a plurality of color plane data converted into the unit configuration; a step of synthesizing the plurality of color separation data converted into the unit configuration to generate data for the printed matter; A method for creating data for a print product, comprising:

13. Software for creating print data for causing a computer to execute the print data creating method according to claim 12.

14. A data structure for producing a printed matter, comprising: obtaining raw image data of a first invisible image; color-separating the original image data into a plurality of color plates to generate a plurality of separated image data; performing a binarization process on the plurality of separated image data to generate a plurality of binarized color plane data; a step of converting the binarized color plane data into a unit configuration to generate a plurality of color plane data converted into the unit configuration; a step of synthesizing the plurality of color separation data converted into the unit configuration to generate data for the printed matter; A data structure for causing a computer to execute the following: The data structure comprises: first information representing a first image having a first color and second information representing a second image having a second color; third information representing a third image having the first color, and fourth information representing a fourth image having the second color; fifth information representing a positional relationship in which the first image line and the second image line are adjacently arranged in a first direction along the first direction on the printed matter; sixth information representing a positional relationship in which the third image line and the fourth image line are adjacently arranged on a second virtual line on the printed matter, the second virtual line being parallel to the first direction at a predetermined interval; seventh information representing a layout relationship in which a plurality of units, each including the first object line, the second object line, the third object line, and the fourth object line, are arranged on the printed matter; and eighth information indicating that the first and second objects and the third and fourth objects in each of the units have a negative-positive relationship in which when one object is present, the other object is not present; Equipped with A data structure of a printed matter, characterized in that the first image line and the second image line form a positive image or a negative image of a first invisible image, and the third image line and the fourth image line form a negative image or a positive image of the first invisible image.

Images