2D Barcode Authentication Using Unpredictable Print Variations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing document security methods, such as invisible watermarks and 2D barcodes, face challenges in minimizing space usage while ensuring easy authentication, with 2D barcodes having limited storage capacity and vulnerability to degradation.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a 2D barcode with cells comprising two areas, where one area represents a symbol and the other a smaller matrix of dots with unpredictable print variations, allowing for efficient storage and easy authentication by comparing geometric characteristics of printed dots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 2D barcodes are used for document protection, then authentication capability is improved, but space consumption increases and makes documents less attractive
Solution Approach 1:
The 2D barcode is divided into multiple cells, where each cell contains a set of two areas: a first area representing a symbol and a second area representing a matrix of dots. This segmentation allows for efficient space utilization while maintaining authentication capability through the matrix of dots in each cell.
Solution Approach 2:
Within each cell of the 2D barcode, a matrix of dots is nested inside the area representing the symbol. The matrix of dots has dimensions smaller than the cell dimensions, allowing it to be contained within the cell structure. This nesting enables multiple layers of information (symbol + authentication matrix) in a compact space.
2Reliability
If 2D barcodes are used for document protection, then authentication capability is improved, but the barcode becomes fragile and vulnerable to degradation
Solution Approach 1:
Each cell in the 2D barcode has different local qualities: the first area contains a symbol that can be read for information, while the second area contains a matrix of dots with geometric characteristics (dimensions, shape, position) that are specifically designed to be fragile and sensitive to print variations. This local differentiation allows the matrix of dots to serve as a robust authentication element that detects degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix of dots in the second area is designed with geometric characteristics (dimensions, shape, position) whose order of magnitude matches the average amplitude of unpredictable print variations. This parameter selection makes the matrix sensitive to print degradation while remaining readable, enabling authentication that accounts for normal print variations but detects abnormal degradation.
3Ease of manufacture
If watermarks are used for document protection, then invisibility is achieved, but verification requires very specific means and is complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using invisible watermarks that require special verification equipment, the invention uses a visible 2D barcode that can be captured and authenticated using standard imaging devices. The barcode is printed on the document and can be read by cameras or scanners, eliminating the need for specialized verification means while maintaining security through the matrix of dots with unpredictable print variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method (30) for securing a document, which comprises:a step (301) of statistically determining the average magnitude of an unpredictable print variation;a step (302) of generating a message representative of at least one predefined print variation rate;a step (307) of encoding the message in a 2D barcode comprising a plurality of cells, the cells comprising two areas:a first area representing a symbol anda second area, representing a matrix of dots of dimensions smaller than the dimensions of the second area and having at least one geometric characteristic similar to the amplitude of the statistically determined unpredictable print variation; anda step (310) of printing the document with the barcode, the print causing the unpredictable variation.