Emergable Watermark Superimposing Method for Copy Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preventing copying of still and moving image data are limited, as they either rely on dot size readable by copying machines or require image display systems that are not widely popularized, making it difficult to effectively restrict copying of image data handled by PCs.
Innovation Solution
An emergable watermark superimposing method that superimposes a copy indicator on image data, which becomes visible when the image is converted, using a process that involves acquiring influential pixel positions, performing clarifying and unclarifying processes, and adding or subtracting image values to form a stego image that restricts unauthorized copying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dot size readable by copying machine is used for watermark, then copying restriction is achieved, but application to still image data and moving image data handled by PCs is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter basis from physical dot size readable by copying machines to pixel-based parameters that can be processed by PC software. Specifically, it uses the relationship between original image pixels and reduced image pixels (where one original pixel corresponds to multiple reduced pixels) to embed watermarks that become visible after conversion, enabling application to digital image data while maintaining copying restriction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of copying machines that read physical dot patterns with a software-based pixel processing system. Instead of relying on physical dot size thresholds, the system uses software to embed watermarks in pixel relationships that become apparent during digital conversion and reduction processes, substituting mechanical reading with software-based detection.
2Reliability
If image display system is used for copying restriction, then copying of image data can be disabled, but the system is not widely popularized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal watermarking method that works across multiple platforms and software applications. By embedding watermarks in the pixel relationships of image data itself rather than relying on a specific display system, the technique can be applied to still images and moving images handled by various PC software applications, achieving wide compatibility while maintaining copying restriction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the concept of creating a modified copy of the original image data with embedded watermark information. The watermark is embedded in the relationship between original pixels and reduced pixels, creating a stego image that appears normal but reveals copyright information when reduced, allowing the technique to be copied and applied across different software platforms without requiring a proprietary system.
3Reliability
If watermark is superimposed on image data, then unauthorized copying is deterred, but the watermark may affect image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality modification by embedding watermark information in specific pixel relationships rather than uniformly across the entire image. The watermark is embedded in the relationship between original image pixels and their corresponding reduced image pixels, affecting only the local pixel values necessary for watermark encoding while preserving the overall image quality in visible areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by embedding watermark information in only the necessary pixel relationships required for copyright protection. Rather than modifying the entire image data, the watermark is embedded in the specific pixel correspondence relationships between original and reduced images, applying the minimum necessary modification to achieve copying restriction while minimizing impact on image quality.
Data Source
AI summary
In an emergable watermark superimposing method for superimposing a superimposition image on either a cover still image or a still image formed from a cover moving image, when an image after the superimposition image is superimposed thereon is converted, or a screen which displays thereon the image after the superimposition image is superimposed is photographed, the superimposition image is superimposed so as to be more emphasized.