Document Copy Protection via Integrated Data Glyph and Watermark

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for protecting confidential documents from unauthorized copying and distribution are inadequate, as digital watermarks can be easily removed or replicated, and security paper features may not prevent duplication on all copiers.

Innovation Solution

Integrating a data glyph, thumbprint, and watermark into documents, with a remote server managing unique IDs and copy protection settings, allowing users to set copy limits, password protection, and expiration dates, and verifying the integrity of printed documents through a secure connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If digital watermarks are used to protect documents, then document security is improved, but the watermarks can be easily removed or replicated by skilled persons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocument securityVSAvoidwatermark removal or replication
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple protection mechanisms (data glyphs, watermarks, and physical security features) into a single integrated document protection system. The data glyph contains both visible and invisible watermark information, creating a multi-layered security approach that is difficult to remove or replicate without detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a remote server as an intermediary that manages copy protection settings, tracks copy counts, and verifies document authenticity. This centralizes the security management and enables remote monitoring and control of document reproduction, making it harder to bypass protection measures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If security paper with physical features is used, then copying resistance is improved, but the features may not prevent duplication on all copiers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecopying resistanceVSAvoidcompatibility with different copiers
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal document protection system that works across different printing and copying devices. The data glyph and watermark system can be detected and verified by various copiers, scanners, and printers, providing consistent protection regardless of the specific device used, rather than relying on device-specific physical paper features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If copy protection settings are added to documents, then unauthorized copying is prevented, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveunauthorized copying preventionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service copy protection where the document itself contains embedded protection data (data glyphs with watermarks) that automatically trigger verification processes. The system uses built-in detection mechanisms that automatically verify document authenticity and enforce copy limits without requiring complex manual control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7588192B2Hard copy protection and confirmation method
Publication Date: 2009.09.15 XEROX CORP
  • US7588192B2 patent drawing
  • US7588192B2 patent drawing
  • US7588192B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The introduction of an integrated data glyph, watermark, and thumb print system enables copy protection via a multi-functional device. The device, working with a secure remote server, produces a unique data glyph for each document that the user wishes to protect. Different copy protection strengths are possible and the reproduction of the document is fully controllable.