Image Data Anonymization via Color-Based Rectangle Overwriting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing image data lack an efficient and automated way to anonymize sensitive information embedded in pixel color values, particularly for encryption and security purposes, especially when dealing with various forms of information like embedded texts and images.
Innovation Solution
A method that processes image data by identifying and overwriting pixel regions with specific color values using a rectangle-based approach, where overlapping rectangles are combined to anonymize the data, allowing for real-time automated anonymization independent of the information form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual image processing is used to anonymize sensitive information, then the anonymization can be performed with existing tools, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical image processing operations with an automated computer-based system that uses color value analysis and rectangle combination algorithms to automatically identify and anonymize sensitive information in images, eliminating the need for manual intervention while achieving real-time processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from manual region selection to automated detection based on pixel color value parameters. By analyzing color value distributions and spatial relationships (maximum pixel spacing), the system automatically identifies sensitive regions and applies anonymization without manual input
2Manufacturing precision
If general image processing programs are used for anonymization, then various image formats can be handled, but the process lacks precision in identifying specific pixel regions to be anonymized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality analysis by examining color value characteristics of specific pixel regions rather than treating the entire image uniformly. By detecting regions with specific color values and their spatial relationships, the system precisely identifies sensitive information while preserving other parts of the image
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal anonymization method that can handle various forms of sensitive information (texts, tables, images) regardless of their specific format or content. The color-value-based detection approach works across different image types and sensitive information formats, providing broad applicability
3Reliability
If overlapping rectangles are combined multiple times to anonymize pixel regions, then complete coverage of sensitive information is achieved, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the anonymization process into distinct stages: first identifying individual pixel regions with specific color values, then constructing initial rectangles around these regions, and finally combining overlapping rectangles through systematic iterations. This segmentation makes the complex task manageable and efficient
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by first constructing rectangles around individual pixel regions before combining them. By pre-identifying and marking all regions with specific color values and their spatial relationships, the system prepares the data structure in advance, making the subsequent rectangle combination process more efficient and reliable
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for processing image data, wherein the image data are given by an image bitmap including pixels, wherein each pixel has exactly one pixel color value. Regions including pixels having a prespecifiable first color value and a prespecifiable maximum pixel spacing are overwritten by a rectangle having a prespecifiable second color value. This method advantageously allows for anonymization of selected image data on the basis of pixel color values to be carried out. The method may be used universally, independently of the form of the information to be anonymized (e.g., embedded texts, tables, images).