Dual infrared gloss effect

Abstract

To provide a method, system and apparatus for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium.SOLUTION: A foreground pattern is rendered using a first ink composition comprising infrared absorbing colors, where the first ink composition is lightened with lightening parameters by addition of paper white holes, and a background pattern is rendered using a second ink composition comprising a process color or spot color, where the second ink composition is darkened with darkening parameters by addition of infrared absorbing colors that have different amounts of infrared absorbing colors than the infrared absorbing colors of the first ink composition. The lightening parameters and the darkening parameters are adjustable to ensure that each ink appears approximately the same at printed size. Anisotropic properties can be introduced to each ink, causing non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on a recording medium. An infrared (IR) signal can be embedded within the gloss effect so as to detect the gloss effect using an IR sensor or device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments relate to methods, systems, and devices for image processing. Embodiments also relate to the field of special imaging techniques. Embodiments further relate to the creation and rendering of special effects that can be incorporated into a rendered document. Embodiments further relate to improved gloss effects including a specular double infrared gloss effect.

Background Art

[0002] Security is an important requirement in many document creation applications. In the case of printing official documents or government documents, printing event tickets, printing financial products, etc., it is necessary to protect many documents against copying, forgery, and / or counterfeiting. To achieve this, printed documents often include security marks or security features that help prevent forgery and / or identify a document as an original.

[0003] Therefore, in security applications, it may be desirable to add information to a document in the form of security marks or security features that can prevent or impede alteration and forgery. Conventionally, special imaging has been used in printed matter to provide anti-counterfeiting and anti-forgery measures for such security applications. Some examples can be found in prescriptions, contracts, documents, coupons, and tickets. Typically, several special imaging techniques can be used at various positions in a document. In addition, these security elements may, in some cases, compromise the overall aesthetics of the document.

[0004] Special imaging can use standard media such as paper ink and toner, which is in contrast to current market security printing solutions that require special (expensive) materials. An example of a document that may require special imaging features for security purposes is a prescription that a pharmacist desires to be able to be highly confident that the document is genuine.

[0005] Examples of special imaging effects include, but are not limited to, features such as Xerox® MicroText Mark, Xerox® Correlation Mark, Xerox® GlossMark®, Xerox® Infrared Mark, and Xerox® Fluorescent Mark, which add security to static and variable information (VI) jobs by making forgery difficult. For certain applications, using multiple effects, including visible effects, makes it more costly to copy than to purchase the original. Special imaging can also be used to add visual interest and sophistication to a print job. Special imaging can also be used to add reflective text to enhance photographs, illustrations, and background colors.

[0006] Conventional digital printing systems may provide many of the above special security features (e.g., gloss marks, special toners (e.g., IR, UV, fluorescent), etc.). One type of special imaging feature or effect that has been implemented in security printing applications is “Micro Gloss” or “MicroGloss” (or Artistic Black for VIPP). The Micro Gloss effect can be achieved such that a watermark can appear or disappear depending on the angle of the light source and the observer. The Micro Gloss effect is particularly popular with customers because it does not require special tools (e.g., ultraviolet light or magnification) to decode for viewing and is particularly effective in preventing copying. The Micro Gloss effect can also be printed using standard media and toner instead of requiring special (expensive) materials.

[0007] Figure 1 shows an image 10 of a conventional micro gloss effect. Figure 2 shows an image 20 of an infrared micro gloss effect based on four inks. Figure 3 shows an image 30 showing an infrared micro gloss effect based on four inks. The Micro Gloss effect functions by having two different toner pile heights. This is limited to a small size (as shown in Figure 1 for example). The micro gloss effects shown in Figures 2 and 3 function with four inks to create a Micro Gloss watermark and an IR watermark in the same space. This is not a dual effect but is based on two different overlapping watermarks. These effects can function properly in some situations, but the IR marks have a low resolution and occupy a significant amount of space. The image 20 shown in Figure 2 is a zoomed-in image of the labeled section 32 illustrated in Figure 3.

[0008] Special imaging watermarks desirably have both visible and invisible dual watermarks. The visible part enables verification without any special tools or decoders, and the machine-readable invisible watermark can assist in deterring forgery. Even if a counterfeiter or forger could create the gloss effect, they might not even notice the invisible watermark. This feature is not currently available for gloss marks. Micro Gloss using infrared (IR) is available but has limitations.

Summary of the Invention

[0009] The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features specific to the disclosed embodiments and is not intended to be a complete description. A complete understanding of the various aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be obtained by grasping the specification as a whole, the claims, the drawings, and the abstract.

[0010] Therefore, one aspect of the embodiments is to provide an improved method, system, and device for image processing.

[0011] Another aspect of the embodiment is to provide a method, system, and device for generating an improved special imaging effect.

[0012] A further aspect of the present embodiment is to provide a method, system, and device for generating and rendering an improved gloss effect on a recording medium.

[0013] Also, an aspect of the present embodiment is to provide a method, system, and device for creating and rendering a gloss effect having a foreground and a background composed of two different pattern inks that appear to have substantially the same color and pattern at the printed size.

[0014] Here, the above aspects and other objects and advantages can be achieved as described herein. In an embodiment, a method for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium includes rendering a foreground pattern using a first ink composition including an infrared-absorbing color, wherein the first ink is lightened with a lightening parameter by addition of a paper white hole; rendering a background pattern using a second ink composition including a process color or a spot color, wherein the second ink is darkened with a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared-absorbing color having an amount of infrared-absorbing color different from that of the infrared-absorbing color of the first ink composition; adjusting the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same at the printed size; introducing anisotropic characteristics into the first ink and the second ink to cause non-uniformity in reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a renderable gloss effect on the recording medium; and embedding an infrared (IR) signal within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or an IR device. It should be noted that only one of the pattern inks has K (e.g., black) therein, which is the same ink having white paper holes.

[0015] Embodiments of the method can involve rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium.

[0016] In embodiments of the method, the first ink can include micro-sized paper white holes that further enhance the brightening effect, and the second ink can include a process color or spot color matched to achieve a visually similar appearance in the printed size.

[0017] Embodiments of the method can involve adjusting the brightening parameters and darkening parameters by similar color matching to facilitate the integration of the foreground pattern and the background pattern.

[0018] In embodiments of the method, the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink can be achieved through manipulation of the particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation, resulting in distinct visual effects when under a light source.

[0019] In embodiments of the method, the infrared-absorbing colors added to the first ink and the second ink can be selected to enhance the darkening effect of the second ink and the brightening effect of the first ink.

[0020] In embodiments of the method, the darkening effect of the second ink and the brightening effect of the first ink can promote similarity in the appearance of the printed size of the recording medium.

[0021] In embodiments of the method, the gloss effect can be seen by tilting the printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, and the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink can be revealed.

[0022] In an embodiment, a system for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium can include at least one processor and a memory. The memory causes the at least one processor to render a foreground pattern using a first ink composition that includes an infrared-absorbing color, where the first ink is lightened by a lightening parameter by the addition of paper white holes, to render a background pattern using a second ink composition that includes a process color or spot color, where the second ink is darkened by a darkening parameter by the addition of an infrared-absorbing color in an amount different from the infrared-absorbing color of the first ink composition, to adjust the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same in the printed size, to introduce anisotropic properties into the first ink and the second ink to create non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on the recording medium, and to embed an infrared (IR) signal within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or IR device. Note that in the above system, only one pattern ink may have K (e.g., black) therein, which is the same ink having white paper holes.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present system, the instructions can further cause the at least one processor to render a gloss effect on the recording medium.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present system, the first ink can include micro-sized paper white holes that can further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink can include a process color or spot color that can be matched to achieve a visually similar appearance in the printed size.

[0025] In an embodiment of the present system, the instruction can further cause at least one processor to adjust the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter by similar color matching to facilitate the integration of the foreground pattern and the background pattern.

[0026] In an embodiment, the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink can be achieved through manipulation of the particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation, and can provide distinct visual effects when under a light source.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present system, the infrared absorbing colors added to the first ink and the second ink can be selected to enhance the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present system, the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink can promote similarity in appearance at the printed size of the recording medium.

[0029] In an embodiment of the present system, the gloss effect can be viewed by tilting the printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, and can reveal the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink.

[0030] In an embodiment, an apparatus for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium includes a foreground pattern electronically created using a first ink composition including an infrared absorbing color, wherein the first ink is lightened by a lightening parameter by addition of a paper white hole, the foreground pattern, and a background pattern electronically created using a second ink composition including a process color or a spot color, wherein the second ink is darkened by a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared absorbing color in an amount different from the infrared absorbing color of the first ink composition, and the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter are adjustable to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same in the printed size, the background pattern, anisotropic characteristics introduced into the first ink and the second ink to create non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on the recording medium, and an infrared (IR) signal embedded within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or an IR device. The gloss effect can be rendered on the recording medium. Note that in the above apparatus, only one pattern ink may have K (e.g., black) therein, which is the same ink having a white paper hole.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] Like reference numerals refer to the same or functionally similar elements throughout the separate figures, and the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of this specification, further illustrate the present invention and serve to explain the principles of the present invention together with the detailed description of the present invention.

[0032]

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[0033] It is important to note that the drawings and figures presented herein are shown in black and white, but they may originally have been created and displayed in color. As a result, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that even if the images and figures do not show color, they may actually depict features in color.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0034] The specific values and configurations discussed in these non-limiting examples are subject to change and are cited merely to illustrate one or more embodiments and are not intended to limit their scope.

[0035] Next, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification and illustrate certain exemplary embodiments, the subject matter will be described in more detail hereinafter. However, the subject matter can be embodied in various different forms, and accordingly, the subject matter being targeted or claimed is intended to be construed as not being limited to any of the exemplary embodiments described herein, and the exemplary embodiments are provided merely for illustration. Similarly, a reasonably broad scope is intended with respect to the claimed subject matter or the subject matter being targeted. In particular, for example, the subject matter can be embodied as a method, device, component, or system. Accordingly, the embodiments can take the form of, for example, hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof (other than software itself). Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense.

[0036] Throughout this specification and the claims, terms may have subtly different meanings suggested or implied in the context beyond the explicitly described meaning. Similarly, phrases such as "in one embodiment" or "in an exemplary embodiment" and their variations, when used in this specification, do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and phrases such as "in another embodiment" or "in another exemplary embodiment" and their variations, when used in this specification, may or may not refer to different embodiments. For example, the claimed subject matter is intended to include, in whole or in part, combinations of exemplary embodiments.

[0037] In general, terms can be understood at least in part from their use in context. For example, terms such as "and", "or", or "and / or" can have various meanings when used herein, depending at least in part on the context in which such terms are used. Typically, "or" when used to associate a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C in an inclusive sense in this case, and A, B, or C in an exclusive sense in this case. Further, the term "one or more" when used herein can, depending at least in part on the context, be used to describe any feature, structure, or property in a singular sense, or a combination of features, structures, or properties in a plural sense. Similarly, terms such as "a", "an", or "the" can also be understood, depending at least in part on the context, to convey a singular use or a plural use. Further, the term "based on" is not necessarily intended to convey an exclusive set of factors, but rather can be understood, again depending at least in part on the context, to allow for the presence of additional factors that are not necessarily explicitly described. Further, the term "at least one" when utilized herein can refer to "one or more" in some cases. For example, "at least one widget" can refer to "one or more widgets".

[0038] As used herein, the term "data" refers to a physical signal that represents or includes information. An "image" as a physical pattern of light, or a collection of data representing physical light, can include characters, words, and text, as well as other features such as graphics.

[0039] When considered broadly, a "digital image" can be an image represented by a collection of digital data. An image can be divided into "segments", each of which is an image in itself. The segments of an image can be of any size, including the entire image. When the terms "image object" or "object" are used in this specification, they are considered to be generally equivalent to the term "segment" in the art and are used interchangeably herein.

[0040] In a digital image composed of data representing physical light, each element of the data may be called a "pixel", which is a common usage in the art and refers to a picture element. Each pixel has a position and a value. Each pixel value is a set of bits in the "binary format" of the image, a grayscale value in the "grayscale format" of the image, or color space coordinates in the "color coordinate format" of the image, and the binary format, grayscale format, and color coordinate format are each two-dimensional arrays that define the image. Operations can perform "image processing" on data items related to a part of the image.

[0041] L * a * The terms L, a, and b (also referred to as Lab or LAB) when used in this specification are related to the CIELAB color space (L * a * b), which is a color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). L * a * b represents color as three values, where L * is perceptual lightness, a * and b *They are red, green, blue, and yellow, which are the four unique colors of human vision. CIELAB is intended as a uniform perceptual space, and a given numerical change corresponds to a similar perceived color change. The LAB space is not truly perceptually uniform, but nevertheless, it is useful in the industry for detecting slight differences in color.

[0042] The term CMYK, as used herein, relates to the CMYI color model, and CYMK refers to the four ink plates used, namely cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black). The CMYK model functions by partially or fully masking color on a brighter, usually white background. The ink reduces the light that would normally be reflected. Such a model is considered subtractive because the ink "subtracts" red, green, and blue from white light. What remains after subtracting red from white light is cyan, what remains after subtracting green from white light is magenta, and what remains after subtracting blue from white light is yellow. An example of an additive color model is the RGB color model, in which the primary colors of red, green, and blue light are added together to reproduce a wide range of colors. "RGB" relates to the three primary colors, namely red, green, and blue. RGB (i.e., the RGB color model) can be used for the perception, representation, and display of images in electronic systems such as televisions and computers.

[0043] When the term "watermark" is used herein, it can relate to a portion of a transparent text, image, logo, or other marking that can be applied to a medium (e.g., document, paper, photograph, image, etc.), and this watermark can make it more difficult to copy or forge the medium (to which the watermark is applied via security printing) or to use it without permission. A "watermark" can be a special-purpose text or pattern that can be printed over one or more pages. For example, instead of stamping words such as Copy, Draft, Confidential on a document before distribution, those words can be added as a watermark.

[0044] The disclosed embodiments relate to an enhanced imaging effect for a watermark composed of both foreground and background elements made from two separate pattern inks. These inks can be intentionally selected to exhibit a similar color and pattern appearance when printed in various sizes. One of the inks, for example, can undergo a lightening process by incorporating paper white holes and can simultaneously be darkened using an infrared-absorbing color. The goal is to balance the lightening effect and the darkening effect and ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear visually almost identical. The second ink can use process color or spot color instead of using paper. For example, tools such as Xerox's color tool kit (CTK) can be used to accurately match these colors, similar to the halftoning process. It should be noted that achieving results similar to Xerox's CTK (Color Tool Kit) can be accomplished using various other tools and software solutions designed for color matching and manipulation.

[0045] In particular, these inks have distinct anisotropic properties in their light reflection methods. This property can create a gloss effect when the printed material is tilted under a light source, particularly due to the various ways in which the ink interacts with light and reflects it. Furthermore, both inks can incorporate infrared (IR) signals within the watermark, adding an additional layer of security and uniqueness to the printed material.

[0046] Figure 4 shows an image 40 of a gloss effect with improved IR resolution based on two inks with dual properties according to an embodiment. Figure 4 shows the gloss effect displayed via a computer monitor. The IR resolution of the gloss effect shown in image 40 was created by changing from four inks to two inks with dual properties. This gloss effect was based on a combination of Micro Gloss and IR using only standard media and toner / ink.

[0047] The improved gloss effect can be created based on the following methodology. 1) Select a common base color for both pattern inks (e.g., CMYK 255 0 0 0) 2) Select a common geometric pattern for both pattern inks 3) Write the background base color of pattern ink 1 (e.g., yellow) 4) Write the color and pattern from steps 1 and 2 opaquely onto the output of step 3 to create pattern ink 1. 5) Darken the color from step 1 with an infrared-absorbing ink (e.g., black) 6) Write the background base color of pattern ink 2 (e.g., white or paper) 7) Write the pattern from step 2 and the color from step 5 opaquely onto the output of step 6 to create pattern ink 2. 8) Write a text box, for example, from pattern ink 2 9) Erase the text within the text box with pure white 10) Write the text with pattern ink 1 11) Printing on a medium (e.g., a gloss medium)

[0048] FIG. 5 shows an image 50 of a zoomed double gloss effect with IR resolution according to an embodiment. The image 50 shown in FIG. 5 can be created as a result of the implementation of the above steps / operations. In the image 50, the characters IR and a are shown in the indicated zoomed gloss effect. The double gloss effect shown in the image 50 of the figure can be created using the above methodology for constructing an improved gloss effect suitable for use as a watermark or together with a watermark.

[0049] Note that in the above methodology, only one pattern ink has K in it, which is the same ink having a white paper hole. When zooming in on the image 50 shown in FIG. 5, one ink is cyan and yellow, and the other is cyan having 25% black / white paper. In the above context, "K" can represent black ink. In color printing, the CMYK model is commonly used, and "K" represents black. The CMYK model can include four color channels, namely, cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and key (K), and "key" can refer to the black channel. Thus, for example, when it is said that "pattern ink 2 has paper / white and K", this can indicate that the second ink pattern includes black ink together with a paper or white element.

[0050] FIG. 6 shows an image 60 of a sample sheet at angle 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 shows an image 70 of the sample sheet at angle 2 according to an embodiment. The images shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 are images of the same medium sheet at two angles. In order to be considered functional, it must be almost invisible at one angle and visible at another angle. The fourth magenta patch in the group closer to the bottom clearly demonstrates that the gloss effect shown in the images 60 and 70 of FIGS. 6 and 7 functions.

[0051] Figure 6 represents an image 60 of a sample sheet captured from angle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. Similarly, Figure 7 displays an image 70 of the same sample sheet from angle 2 according to an embodiment. The important observation here is that these images shown in both Figure 6 and Figure 7 depict the same media sheet from two different angles. When the sheet appears almost invisible from one angle and visible from another, the functionality is considered to be effective. A notable example to verify this gloss effect is the fourth magenta patch within the group closer to the bottom. This specific patch clearly demonstrates the successful operation of the gloss effect, as evident in both images 60 and 70 of Figure 6 and Figure 7.

[0052] Figure 8 shows an image 80 of the gloss effect according to an embodiment. Figure 9 shows another image 90 of the gloss effect according to an embodiment. Figure 10 shows an image 95 of the IR effect on the same paper sheet used in the images illustrated in Figure 8 and Figure 9 according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 11 shows a high-level flow chart of an operation illustrating the logical operation steps of a method 100 for constructing a dual IR gloss effect according to an embodiment. As shown in block 101, a basic color selection step or operation can be performed, involving the selection of a common basic color for both pattern inks, such as CMYK 255 0 0 0. Next, as illustrated in block 102, a geometric pattern selection step or operation can be performed, involving identifying a geometric pattern common to both pattern inks. Next, as shown in block 103, a background basic color operation (pattern ink 1) can be performed, involving establishing the background basic color of pattern ink 1, which is yellow for example.

[0054] Thereafter, the steps or operations involving the opaque application of color and pattern (Pattern Ink 1) can be implemented as shown in block 104 by opaquely applying the color and pattern from blocks 101 and 102 onto the output of the operation shown in block 103 to create Pattern Ink 1. Next, as shown in block 105, steps or operations for darkening with IR-absorbing ink can be implemented, which may involve using an infrared-absorbing ink such as black to darken the color from block 101. Thereafter, as shown in block 106, a background base color (Pattern Ink 2) can be implemented that involves defining the background base color of Pattern Ink 2, which can be white or the color of the paper.

[0055] Next, as shown in block 107, steps or operations for the opaque application of color and pattern (Pattern Ink 2) can be implemented, which may involve opaquely writing the pattern from block 102 and the color of block 105 onto the output of block 106 to create Pattern Ink 2. Next, as shown in block 108, a text box creation (Pattern Ink 2) operation involving introducing a text box using Pattern Ink 2 can be implemented. Next, as shown in block 109, a text erasure operation involving erasing the text in the text box using pure white can be implemented. Next, a text application (Pattern Ink 1) involving writing text using Pattern Ink 1 can be implemented as shown in block 110. Thereafter, as illustrated in block 111, operations for printing on a medium (e.g., a gloss medium) can be implemented, which involves performing a printing process on the gloss medium to achieve the intended gloss effect. Note that printing on a gloss medium is not essential but can improve the gloss effect.

[0056] Method 100 can bring about an improved gloss effect suitable for watermark applications, involving careful selection of colors, patterns, and strategic application techniques. The combination of pattern inks and their application to a glossy surface contributes to a visually appealing and unique watermark with enhanced visibility and delicacy.

[0057] Method 100 can be applied to create a gloss effect. In Method 100, the gloss effect can involve a foreground and a background, both using two separate pattern inks that appear to be of the same color and pattern visually at the printed size. One of the inks can undergo a lightening process by the addition of paper white holes and a darkening process by the incorporation of infrared-absorbing colors. The combination of lightening and darkening is carefully calibrated to achieve visual similarity between the first ink and the second ink.

[0058] Furthermore, another ink in the gloss effect utilizes process color or spot color instead of paper. A computer program such as a color toolkit is used to ensure color matching similar to halftoning. The inks in this method have different anisotropic properties, which means they exhibit non-uniformity in different directions when reflecting light. This anisotropy creates a prominent gloss effect when the printed material is tilted, especially under a light source. Additionally, an embedded infrared (IR) signal can be integrated into the same gloss effect, adding a functional aspect to the visual enhancement.

[0059] FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of a printing system 200 suitable for implementing one or more of the disclosed embodiments. FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of a digital front end 300 useful for implementing one or more of the disclosed embodiments. The printing system 200 and / or the digital front end 300 can be used to render (e.g., print) a recording medium (e.g., a document or a substrate) having the gloss effect described herein. In some embodiments, the digital front end 300 shown in FIG. 13 can be used to implement the digital front end 220 shown in FIG. 13.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 12, a printing system (or, an image rendering system) 200 is shown that is suitable for implementing various aspects of the exemplary embodiments described herein. The printing system 200 can perform rendering operations such as scanning a document via a scanner and printing the document via a printer, and this document can include the disclosed improved gloss effect. The printing system 200 can be used, for example, to implement the method 100 described herein with respect to FIG. 11.

[0061] The term "scanner", as used herein, may refer to an image scanner, which is a device or system capable of optically scanning an image, printed text, handwriting, or an object and converting it into a digital image. Note that an example of a scanner is a flatbed scanner that can place a document (e.g., a sheet of paper) to be imaged on a glass window for scanning. A scanner can also be incorporated into a multi-function device (MFD) that may also have a printing function and a photocopying function in some cases. A scanner can also be incorporated into a printing system, such as the printing system 200 shown in FIG. 12, for example. For example, a scanner 229 is illustrated in FIG. 12 as part of the printing system 200. As an alternative to, or in addition to, the scanner 229 included as part of the printing system 200, a scanner 261 and / or a scanner 262 may communicate with the printing system 200 via a network 260.

[0062] The terms "printer", "printing device", and "printing system" can be used interchangeably herein to refer to the same rendering device or system and can include any device and / or system. It can include any device and / or system such as a digital copier, an electrophotographic and copy printing system, a bookbinding machine, a facsimile machine, a multifunction machine, an inkjet machine, a continuous feed sheet printing device, etc., which can include a print controller and a print engine and can perform a print output function for any purpose.

[0063] A "printing device" or "printing system" is an electronic device that receives commands and / or data and, in response, can print characters and / or images on a substrate. The printing device can include, but is not limited to, network printers, production printers, copiers, and other devices that use ink or toner, as well as scanners. The printing device can also perform a combination of functions such as printing and scanning, in which case such a device can be regarded as a multi-functional device.

[0064] The printing system 200 can include one or more printing engines such as a user interface 210, a digital front-end (DFE) 220, and a printing engine 230. The printing engine 230 can access printing media 235 of various sizes and, in some cases, costs for a printing job. In some embodiments, the printing system 200 can include a color printer having a plurality of color marking materials.

[0065] A "printing job" or "document" is usually a set of related sheets, usually a set of original printing job sheets from a specific user or other relevant user, or a set of one or more collated copies copied from page images of an electronic document. Digital data can be sent to the printing system 200 for the submission of a normal printing job (or customer job).

[0066] After a job is printed by the printing engine 230, a sorter 240 can operate to manage the arrangement of the hard copy output, including a cutting function. The user can access and operate the printing system 200 using the user interface 210 or via a data processing system such as a workstation 250. The workstation 250 can communicate bidirectionally with the printing system 200 via a communication network 260.

[0067] The user profile, the work product for printing, the media library, and various print job parameters can be stored in a database or memory 270 that is accessible via the network 260 by the workstation 250 or the printing system 200, or such data can also be accessed directly via the printing system 200. One or more color sensors (not shown) can be embedded in the printer paper path in some embodiments.

[0068] With reference to FIG. 13, an exemplary DFE (Digital Front End) 300 is shown in more detail. The DFE 300 can include one or more processors, such as a processor 306 that can execute machine-executable program instructions. The processor 306 can function as a DFE processor. The DFE shown in FIG. 13 can be used as, or together with, the digital front end 220 of the printing system 200 shown in FIG. 12. It should be noted that the term "processor" as used herein can relate to a component of an electronic device that executes programming instructions. The term "processor" can refer to either a single processor or a multi-processor that performs various steps of a process together. Unless the context clearly indicates whether a single processor or a multi-processor is required, the term "processor" can include both single and multi embodiments.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the processor 306 can communicate via a bus 302 (e.g., a backplane interface bus, a crossover bus, or a data network, etc.). The digital front end 300 may also include a main memory 304 that is used to store machine-readable instructions. The main memory 304 can also store data. The main memory 304 may alternatively include a random access memory (RAM) to support reprogramming and flexible data storage. A buffer 366 can be used to temporarily store data for access by the processor 306.

[0070] The program memory 364 may include, for example, an executable program capable of implementing the embodiments described herein. The program memory 364 can store at least a subset of the data contained in the buffer. The digital front end 300 may include a display interface 308 capable of transferring data from the communication bus 302 (or from a frame buffer not shown) to the display 310. The digital front end 300 may also include a secondary memory 312 that includes, for example, a hard disk drive 314 and / or a removable storage drive 316, which can read from and write to removable storage devices 318 such as floppy disks, magnetic tapes, optical disks, etc., that can store computer software and / or data.

[0071] The secondary memory 312 may alternatively include other similar mechanisms for enabling a computer program or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system. Such mechanisms can include, for example, a removable storage unit 322 adapted to exchange data via an interface 320. Examples of such mechanisms can include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM or PROM) and associated socket, and other removable units and interfaces that enable software and data to be transferred.

[0072] The digital front end (DFE) controller 300 may include a communication interface 324 that functions as an input and output interface and enables software and data to be transferred between the digital front end controller 300 and an external device. Examples of communication interfaces can include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a PCMCIA slot, and a card.

[0073] A computer program (also referred to as computer control logic) can be stored in the main memory 304 and / or the secondary memory 312, including one or more modules. A computer program or module can also be received via the communication interface 324. When such a computer program or module is executed, it may enable the computer system to perform the features and capabilities provided herein. The software and data transferred via the communication interface can be in the form of signals, such as, for example, electrical, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals that can be received by the communication interface.

[0074] These signals can be provided to a communication interface via a communication path (i.e., a channel) that conveys the signals and that can be implemented using wires, cables, and optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, RF, or other communication channels.

[0075] A portion of the data stored in the secondary memory 312 for access during operation of the DFE can be a set of conversion tables capable of converting incoming color signals into physical machine signals.

[0076] This color signal can be expressed as any of three components such as colorimetric values, i.e., usually L * a * b * and can be converted into physical exposure signals for four toners of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. These tables can be created and downloaded outside the DFE, but optionally can also be created within the DFE in a so-called characterization step. A portion of the data stored in the secondary memory 312 can also be the aforementioned conversion tables.

[0077] Some aspects of the data processing system are next presented with reference to various systems and methods. These systems and methods are described in the following detailed description and are illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, modules, components, circuits, steps, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as "elements"). These elements can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such elements are implemented as hardware or as software depends on the particular application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0078] As an example, an element, or any portion of an element, or any combination of elements can be implemented using a "processing system" that includes one or more processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gate logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionalities described throughout this disclosure. One or more processors within the processing system can execute software. Software is to be broadly construed to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise. A mobile "app" is an example of such software.

[0079] Accordingly, in one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, the functions can be stored or encoded on a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or code. A computer-readable medium includes a computer storage medium. The storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer.

[0080] The disclosed exemplary embodiments are described herein at least in part with reference to flowcharts and / or block diagrams and / or schematic diagrams of methods, systems, and computer program products and data structures according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of those diagrams, and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus for generating a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the block.

[0081] For clarity, some embodiments may be implemented in the context of, for example, a special purpose computer or general purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device or system. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, a data processing apparatus or system can be implemented as a combination of a special purpose computer and a general purpose computer. A computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program instructions for causing a processor to execute aspects of the embodiments.

[0082] The computer program instructions described above can also be stored in a computer readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable memory (e.g., steps / operations) include instruction means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the various blocks, flowcharts, and other architectures illustrated and described herein, thereby generating a manufactured article. Examples of such instructions include the various steps or operations shown in the various blocks of method 100 illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0083] Computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed thereon, thereby generating a computer-implemented process, whereby the instructions executed on that computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions / acts specified in the blocks.

[0084] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments (e.g., preferred embodiments or alternative embodiments). In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram illustrated and described herein may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions that can include one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function.

[0085] In some alternative implementations, the functions described within the blocks can be performed in an order different from that depicted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks can, depending upon the relevant functionality, sometimes be executed in the reverse order. It should also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart diagrams, as well as combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart diagrams, can be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or act, or by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0086] The functionality described herein can be implemented as complete and non-abstract physical hardware, as completely physical non-abstract software (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or in combination of non-abstract software implementation and hardware implementation, which may sometimes be referred to herein as "circuit", "module", "engine", "component", "block", "database", "agent", or "system". Further, aspects of the present disclosure can take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more non-transitory computer-readable media in which computer-readable and / or executable program code is embodied.

[0087] The following discussion is intended to provide a brief and general description of a suitable computing environment in which the system and method can be implemented. Although not required, the disclosed embodiments are described in a general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a single computer. In most cases, a "module" (also referred to as an "engine") can be a component that can make up a software application, but can also be implemented as both software and hardware (i.e., a combination of software and hardware).

[0088] In general, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, subroutines, software applications, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific data types and instructions. Further, those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed methods and systems can be practiced using other computer system configurations, such as, for example, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, data networks, microprocessor-based or programmable household appliances, networked PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, servers, etc.

[0089] Note that when the term "module" is used herein, it may refer to a collection of routines and data structures that perform a particular task or implement a particular data type. A module can consist of two parts: an interface that lists constants, data types, variables, and routines that can be accessed by other modules or routines, and an implementation that typically can be made private (e.g., accessible only to that module) and includes the source code that actually implements the routines within that module. The term "module" may also simply refer to an application, such as a computer program designed to assist in performing a particular task, such as word processing, accounting, inventory management, etc.

[0090] In some exemplary embodiments, the term "module" may also refer to a modular hardware component, or a component that is a combination of hardware and software. It should be understood that the implementation and processing of such modules by the techniques described herein can result in improvements in processing speed, as well as energy savings and efficiency improvements, in a data processing system such as the printing system 200 shown in FIG. 12 and / or the DFE controller 300 shown in FIG. 13. A "module" can execute various steps, operations, or instructions described herein, such as the steps and operations described with respect to FIG. 11 and elsewhere in this specification.

[0091] For example, the method 100 shown in FIG. 11 may be partially implemented in the context of a computer program product that includes a module that can be executed, for example, by a DFE controller 220 (or DFE 300 of FIG. 13). The computer program product can include a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, such as a disk, hard drive, etc., capable of recording (e.g., storing) a control program. Note that when the term "recording medium" is used herein, it may be related to such non-transitory computer-readable recording media.

[0092] As a general form of a non-transitory computer-readable medium, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or any other magnetic storage medium, a CD-ROM, a DVD, or any other optical medium, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, or other memory chip or cartridge, or any other non-transitory medium that can be read and used by a computer may be mentioned. The computer program product may be integrated with the DFE controller 220 (for example, an internal hard drive of the RAM), or may be separate (for example, an external hard drive operably connected to a printer), or may be separate and accessed via a digital data network such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet (for example, via a digital network such as the network 260 shown in FIG. 12, an inexpensive disk or a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) or other network server storage device that can be indirectly accessed by the DFE controller 220).

[0093] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or instructions in the disclosed process or method is an example of an illustrative approach. For example, the various steps, operations, or instructions discussed herein can be executed in a different order. Similarly, the various steps and operations of the disclosed examples discussed herein can be modified and processed in a different order. It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of such steps, operations, or instructions in the process or method discussed and illustrated herein can be rearranged based on design preferences. The appended claims, for example, present the elements of various steps, operations, or instructions in a sample order and do not mean to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0094] In order to improve computer technology by improving the efficiency in such computer technology, the inventor has realized a non-abstract technical solution to the technical problem. The disclosed embodiments provide a technical improvement to computer technology such as a data processing system, and further provide a non-abstract improvement to computer technology through the technical solution to the technical problem specified in the Background section of the present disclosure. Such an improvement can be obtained by implementing the embodiments. The claimed solution can be based on computer technology to overcome problems that particularly occur in the fields of computers, computer networks, and printing and scanning. The claimed solution can also involve non-abstract devices such as security devices that include non-abstract features such as a printing medium (e.g., paper) on which a security device (e.g., a watermark) can be rendered.

[0095] Based on the above, it can be understood that several different embodiments are disclosed herein. For example, in an embodiment, a method for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium is to render a foreground pattern using a first ink composition containing an infrared-absorbing color, wherein the first ink described above is rendered by a lightening parameter by the addition of a paper white hole, the rendering; and to render a background pattern using a second ink composition containing process colors or spot colors, wherein the second ink described above is rendered by a darkening parameter by the addition of an infrared-absorbing color containing a different amount of infrared-absorbing color from the infrared-absorbing color of the first ink composition, the rendering; adjusting the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same in the printed size; introducing anisotropic properties into the first ink and the second ink to cause non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on the recording medium; and embedding an infrared (IR) signal into the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or an IR device. It should be noted that in the above method, only one pattern ink has K (for example, black) therein, which is the same ink having a white paper hole.

[0096] Embodiments of the method can involve rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium.

[0097] In an embodiment of the method, the first ink can include micro-sized paper white holes that further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink includes process colors or spot colors matched to achieve a visually similar appearance in the printed size.

[0098] Embodiments of the method can involve adjusting the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter by similar color matching to facilitate the integration of the foreground pattern and the background pattern.

[0099] In an embodiment of the method, the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink can be achieved through manipulation of particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation, resulting in distinct visual effects when under a light source.

[0100] In an embodiment of the method, the infrared absorbing colors added to the first ink and the second ink can be selected to enhance the darkening effect of the second ink and the brightening effect of the first ink.

[0101] In an embodiment of the method, the darkening effect of the second ink and the brightening effect of the first ink can promote similarity in appearance at the printed size of the recording medium.

[0102] In an embodiment of the method, the gloss effect can be viewed by tilting the printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, and can reveal the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink.

[0103] In another embodiment, a system for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium can include at least one processor and a memory, the memory causing the at least one processor to render a foreground pattern using a first ink composition that includes an infrared-absorbing color, the first ink being lightened by a lightening parameter by addition of a paper white hole, to render a background pattern using a second ink composition that includes a process color or spot color, the second ink being darkened by a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared-absorbing color that includes a different amount of infrared-absorbing color than the infrared-absorbing color of the first ink composition, to adjust the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same in the printed size, to introduce anisotropic properties into the first ink and the second ink to create non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on the recording medium, and to embed an infrared (IR) signal within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or IR device. Note that in the above system, only one pattern ink may have K (e.g., black) therein, which is the same ink having a white paper hole.

[0104] In an embodiment of the present system, the instructions can further cause the at least one processor to render a gloss effect on the recording medium.

[0105] In an embodiment of the present system, the first ink can include micro-sized paper white holes that can further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink can include a process color or spot color that can be matched to achieve a visually similar appearance in the printed size.

[0106] In an embodiment of the present system, the instruction can further cause at least one processor to adjust the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter by similar color matching to facilitate the integration of the foreground pattern and the background pattern.

[0107] In an embodiment, the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink can be achieved through manipulation of the particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation, and can provide distinct visual effects when under a light source.

[0108] In an embodiment of the present system, the infrared-absorbing color added to the first ink and the second ink can be selected to enhance the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink.

[0109] In an embodiment of the present system, the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink can promote similarity in appearance at the printed size of the recording medium.

[0110] In an embodiment of the present system, the gloss effect can be viewed by tilting the printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, and can reveal the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink.

[0111] In yet another embodiment, an apparatus for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium includes a foreground pattern electronically created using a first ink composition including an infrared-absorbing color, the first ink being lightened by a lightening parameter by addition of a paper white hole, the foreground pattern, and a background pattern electronically created using a second ink composition including a process color or a spot color, the second ink being darkened by a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared-absorbing color different in amount of the infrared-absorbing color from that of the first ink composition, the lightening parameter and the darkening parameter being adjustable to ensure that the first ink and the second ink appear substantially the same in the printed size, the background pattern, anisotropic characteristics introduced into the first ink and the second ink to create non-uniformity in reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect renderable on the recording medium, and an infrared (IR) signal embedded within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or an IR device. The gloss effect can be rendered on the recording medium. It should be noted that only one pattern ink may have K (e.g., black) therein, which is the same ink having a white paper hole.

[0112] It will be understood that the features and functions disclosed above, as well as other features and functions, or variations of those alternatives, can desirably be combined into many other different systems or applications. It will also be understood that various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements, not presently anticipated or expected, can later be implemented by those skilled in the art, and these are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium, comprising the steps of: Rendering a foreground pattern using a first ink composition including an infrared absorbing color, the first ink being lightened with a lightening parameter by the addition of a paper white hole; Rendering a background pattern using a second ink composition comprising a process color or a spot color, the second ink being darkened with a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared absorbing color comprising an amount of the infrared absorbing color different from the infrared absorbing color of the first ink composition; adjusting the lightening and darkening parameters to ensure that the first and second inks look approximately the same at printed size; and introducing anisotropic properties into said first ink and said second ink to produce non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect that can be rendered on a recording medium; embedding an infrared (IR) signal within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or device.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising rendering the gloss effect on the recording medium.

3. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first ink contains micro-sized paper white holes to further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink contains a matched process color or spot color to achieve a visually similar appearance at printed size.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising adjusting the lightening and darkening parameters by similar color matching to facilitate integration of the foreground and background patterns.

5. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink are achieved through manipulation of particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation to produce distinct visual effects when under a light source.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the infrared absorbing colors added to the first ink and the second ink are selected to enhance the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink promote a similarity in appearance at printed size on the recording medium.

8. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the gloss effect can be viewed by tilting a printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, revealing the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink.

9. 1. A system for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium, comprising: At least one processor and a memory, the memory providing to the at least one processor: Rendering a foreground pattern using a first ink composition including an infrared absorbing color, the first ink being lightened with a lightening parameter by the addition of a paper white hole; Rendering a background pattern using a second ink composition comprising a process color or a spot color, the second ink being darkened with a darkening parameter by addition of an infrared absorbing color comprising an amount of the infrared absorbing color different from the infrared absorbing color of the first ink composition; adjusting the lightening and darkening parameters to ensure that the first ink and the second ink look approximately the same at printed size; introducing anisotropic properties into said first ink and said second ink to produce non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect that can be rendered on a recording medium; embedding an infrared (IR) signal within the gloss effect to enable detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or device, the system storing instructions causing the system to execute the steps of:

10. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first ink includes micro-sized paper white holes to further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink includes a matched process color or spot color to achieve a visually similar appearance at printed size.

11. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processor to adjust the lightening and darkening parameters by similar color matching to facilitate integration of the foreground and background patterns.

12. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink are achieved through manipulation of particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation to produce distinct visual effects when under a light source.

13. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the infrared absorbing color added to the first ink and the second ink is selected to enhance a darkening effect of the second ink and a lightening effect of the first ink.

14. The system of claim 13 , wherein the darkening effect of the second ink and the lightening effect of the first ink promote a similarity in appearance at a printed size on the recording medium.

15. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the gloss effect can be viewed by tilting a printed substrate on which the gloss effect is rendered under a light source, revealing the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink.

16. 1. An apparatus for rendering a gloss effect on a recording medium, comprising: a foreground pattern electronically created using a first ink composition comprising an infrared absorbing color, said first ink being lightened with a lightening parameter by the addition of a paper white hole; a background pattern electronically created using a second ink composition comprising a process color or a spot color, the second ink being darkened with darkening parameters by the addition of an infrared absorbing color comprising an amount of the infrared absorbing color different from that of the first ink composition, the lightening and darkening parameters being adjustable to ensure that the first and second inks look approximately the same at printed size; anisotropic properties introduced into the first ink and the second ink, which cause non-uniformity in the reflection of light in different directions when viewed under a light source, thereby creating a gloss effect that can be rendered on a recording medium; an infrared (IR) signal embedded within the gloss effect, enabling detection of the gloss effect using an IR sensor or device.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 , further comprising: rendering the gloss effect on the recording medium.

18. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the first ink includes micro-sized paper white holes to further enhance the lightening effect, and the second ink includes a matched process color or spot color to achieve a visually similar appearance at printed size.

19. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the lightening and darkening parameters are further adjustable by similar color matching to facilitate integration of the foreground and background patterns.

20. 20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the anisotropic properties of the first ink and the second ink are achieved through manipulation of particle size, particle shape, or particle orientation to produce distinct visual effects when under a light source.

Images