Composite Image Code Recognition via Trained Visual Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Two-dimensional codes are not well-suited for environments where they are used, as they often have a unique appearance that can be conspicuous and inappropriate for the setting.

Innovation Solution

A composite image is generated using a code image and a cover image, where the recognition unit recognizes the code image from the composite image using a trained recognizer that ensures the recognition results for the code and composite images are identical.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a two-dimensional code is used with a unique appearance according to schemes, then the code can be reliably recognized by computer vision, but the code becomes conspicuous and inappropriate for the environment where it is used

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecode recognition reliabilityVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the copying principle by creating a composite image that copies the appearance of the cover image (environmental context) while embedding the code image. The composite image is generated by superimposing the code image on the cover image, so that the overall appearance matches the environmental context (e.g., natural scenery, architectural patterns) rather than displaying the unique code appearance. This allows the code to be recognized by computer vision while being visually adapted to the environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If the code image is made invisible to human eyes by blending with cover image, then the code can be seamlessly integrated into the environment, but the code recognition capability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental adaptabilityVSAvoidcode recognition reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the functional components into distinct regions: the code image contains the recognizable code patterns (QR code, barcode, etc.) while the cover image provides the environmental context. The composite image combines these segments such that the code region maintains its recognizability to computer vision systems while the overall image appearance matches the environment. This segmentation allows different parts of the image to serve different functions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by making different regions of the composite image have different properties: the code image region maintains high contrast and distinct patterns for reliable machine recognition, while the cover image region provides environmental context and visual harmony. The composite image structure allows the code portion to have 'code-like' quality for recognition while the overall image has 'environment-matched' quality for aesthetic integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12236316B2Information processing device and information processing method
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US12236316B2 patent drawing
  • US12236316B2 patent drawing
  • US12236316B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing device includes a recognition unit that recognizes, from a composite image generated using a code image and a cover image, the code image. The recognition unit recognizes the code image from the composite image using a recognizer trained so that a recognition result of the code image and a recognition result of the composite image are identical to each other.