Encoded Image Authentication via Hybrid Parameter Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for protecting electronic documents against counterfeiting and tampering are ineffective once the documents are printed, as they lack control over the printing process and are vulnerable to counterfeiting techniques such as bar-code generation and digital watermarking limitations.
Innovation Solution
An automated method for producing encoded images that combines user-supplied and non-user-supplied encoding parameters to create a unique authentication image, which can only be decoded using a specific optical decoding device, ensuring the document's integrity and authenticity even after printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If digital watermarking is used to protect electronic documents, then document authentication capability is improved, but reliability and consistency are worsened due to lack of control over printing process and vulnerability to counterfeiting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the authentication system into multiple independent components: machine-generated encoding parameters (first set), user-supplied encoding parameters (second set), and multiple authentication images. Each component contributes to the overall authentication code, making counterfeiting difficult because all components must be replicated correctly. The segmentation of control between system and user further enhances security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-generating authentication images and encoding parameters before document distribution. The machine generates encoding parameters and encodes authentication images into the document in advance, creating a built-in authentication mechanism that remains embedded throughout the document's lifecycle, providing continuous verification capability.
2Reliability
If bar codes are added to documents for authentication, then document verification capability is improved, but ease of manufacture is worsened due to availability of counterfeiting tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by using multiple varying encoding parameters (such as encoding frequency, orientation, position, and multiple authentication images) that are dynamically generated. This creates authentication codes with high complexity and variability, making them difficult to counterfeit while maintaining verification capability. The system can adapt parameters based on document type and security requirements.
3Reliability
If multiple authentication images are encoded using multiple parameter sets, then authentication reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional encoding system that can handle multiple authentication images and various encoding parameters through a single integrated process. The system universally applies the same encoding methodology across different authentication images and parameter sets, simplifying implementation despite the increased authentication capability. The decoder device also benefits from universal design, handling multiple encoded images through a unified decoding process.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated method of producing an encoded image for use in authenticating a printed version of a digital document is presented. The method comprises establishing at least one digitized authentication image, receiving at least one user-supplied encoding parameter, and determining at least one non-user-supplied encoding parameter. The method further comprises establishing a first encoding parameter set including the at least one user-supplied encoding parameter and the at least one non-user-supplied encoding parameter. The first encoding parameter set is usable to encode one or more of the at least one digitized authentication image. The method also comprises encoding one or more of the at least one digitized authentication image using the first encoding parameter set to produce a final encoded image.