Image Embedding Patterns for Readability and Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for embedding information in printed originals, such as watermark printing and information embedding methods, face challenges when applied to the same region on a print sheet, leading to reduced visual readability and decreased functionality due to small density differences between background and latent image regions.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that includes units for obtaining original images, region information, and embedding information. It embeds patterns with directivity in high-density regions and patterns with fewer adjacent printed pixels in low-density regions, ensuring the embedded information is distinguishable during reading while maintaining visual readability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If both watermark printing and information embedding are applied to the same region on a print sheet, then additional information can be embedded to prevent forgery, but visual readability decreases due to small density differences between background and latent image regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different embedding patterns to different regions of the print sheet. High-density regions (first regions) use patterns with more adjacent printed pixels, while low-density regions (second regions) use patterns with fewer adjacent printed pixels. This local differentiation ensures that embedded information maintains sufficient contrast and visibility in each region without uniformly degrading visual readability across the entire document.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pattern parameters (number of adjacent printed pixels) based on the density characteristics of each region. By adjusting this parameter locally, the system optimizes the balance between embedded information visibility and background readability, preventing the harmful effect of reduced visual readability while maintaining information embedding functionality.
2Measurement precision
If patterns with many adjacent printed pixels are used in low-density regions, then embedded information can be reliably read, but visual readability of the document decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent tailors the pattern characteristics to match the local density properties of each region. In low-density regions, patterns with fewer adjacent printed pixels are used, which provides sufficient contrast for reliable information reading while minimizing the impact on overall visual readability. This localized adaptation ensures that each region's pattern optimally serves its specific function.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform patterns are used across all regions, then the embedding process is simple, but the density difference between background and latent image regions becomes insufficient for reliable reading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the print sheet into multiple regions based on density characteristics and applies different pattern parameters to each region. This localized approach ensures that patterns in high-density regions have more adjacent printed pixels while patterns in low-density regions have fewer, thereby maintaining sufficient density differences for reliable information reading across all regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts pattern parameters based on the density characteristics of each region rather than using a fixed uniform pattern. This adaptive strategy ensures optimal information embedding and reading accuracy for each region's specific density properties, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes: a first obtaining unit configured to obtain an original image; a second obtaining unit configured to obtain region information indicating first and second regions, the first region read in reading of a print original to have a higher density than the second region, the second region read in the reading to have a lower density than the first region; an embedding unit configured to embed information in the original image by embedding a pattern with a directivity in the first region and embed, in the second region, a pattern in which the number of pixels printed adjacent to printed pixels is smaller than that in the first region; and a control unit configured to perform control of outputting the print original by using a print image in which the patterns of the first and second regions are embedded by the embedding unit.