Image Tile Decoding for Digital Identifier Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital identifier encoding methods, such as bar codes and two-dimensional patterns, occupy valuable space and can be aesthetically unpleasing, while their decoding processes are not robust enough for commercial applications, especially when used on marketing materials.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that divide an image of a pattern into tiles, assigning digital bits based on pixel values to determine a digital identifier, allowing for efficient use of space and robust decoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional bar codes or two-dimensional patterns are used to encode digital identifiers, then digital data can be represented on physical objects, but the patterns occupy valuable surface area and can be aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from dedicated pattern areas to utilizing the entire image space by embedding digital identifier information within the pixel values of the marketing material image itself. This dimensional approach allows the pattern to be integrated into the existing visual content rather than occupying separate space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the marketing material image with the digital identifier pattern by encoding the identifier information directly within the pixel structure of the marketing image. This merging eliminates the need for separate pattern areas while preserving both the aesthetic appeal and the encoding functionality.
2Loss of information
If dedicated patterns are placed on marketing materials to encode digital identifiers, then digital data can be accessed by photographing, but the patterns distract the human user's attention from the physical object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the digital identifier pattern with the marketing material image so that they become a unified visual element. This integration ensures that the identifier does not stand out as a separate distracting element but rather forms part of the overall marketing design, maintaining user attention on the intended message.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different regions of the image by encoding specific pixel values to represent identifier information while maintaining the overall visual quality and aesthetic properties of the marketing material. This allows local encoding without compromising global visual appeal or user attention.
3Loss of information
If two-dimensional marketing materials are photographed and processed to recognize identity, then digital content can be transmitted, but the processing is not sufficiently robust for commercial application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image into discrete pixel units, where each pixel's optical attribute values serve as a reliable encoding element. This segmentation approach allows for systematic decoding by analyzing individual pixel properties, making the recognition process more robust and less susceptible to variations in photographing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in pixel optical attribute parameters (such as intensity, color values) to encode digital identifier information. By mapping identifier data to specific parameter ranges within the pixel values, the system achieves reliable recognition that is insensitive to variations in lighting, camera quality, or image resolution, thereby ensuring commercial-grade robustness.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for decoding an image of a pattern on an object to determine a digital identifier. An image of a pattern on the object is received. The image includes a plurality of pixels, each of the pixels having an optical attribute with a corresponding value. The image is divided into a plurality of tiles, each of the tiles containing a contiguous plurality of the pixels of the image. A digital bit is assigned to each of the tiles based on the values of the optical attribute of the pixels in the tile. A digital identifier is determined based on the digital bits assigned to the tiles.