Infrared Mark Image Path for MFP Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing systems, such as multi-function printers (MFPs), lack the capability to implement and detect infrared (IR) marks during copying or scanning, limiting their applicability in security printing applications where IR marks are needed for anti-counterfeiting measures.
Innovation Solution
An enhanced image path is integrated into the image processing apparatus, enabling the rendering, detection, and management of infrared marks within the system, including functions like IR mark blanking and information extraction, which can be performed in the L*a*b* color space, allowing IR marks to be effectively integrated with regular image processing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional IR marks are implemented only in print job creation process upstream of MFPs, then IR mark functionality is available for printing, but IR mark capability is not available for copying and scanning operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements IR mark detection and rendering capabilities across multiple operations (printing, copying, scanning) by integrating the image path with IR mark processing functions. The scan processing part and copy logic are enhanced to detect and handle IR marks, making the system universally capable of handling IR marks in all operations rather than仅限于 printing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges IR mark processing functions with the existing image path of the MFP. By combining IR mark detection, rendering, and management capabilities with the regular image processing pipeline, the system achieves unified handling of IR marks across different operations without requiring completely separate systems.
2Reliability
If multiple specialty imaging techniques are used for security marks, then security protection level increases, but document aesthetics and simplicity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies IR marks at specific locations within the document (such as watermarks or security zones) rather than throughout the entire document. This localized application provides security protection where needed while maintaining the aesthetic quality and simplicity of the rest of the document.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes infrared wavelength properties to create security marks that are invisible under normal visible light but detectable under infrared illumination. This color/wavelength-based approach provides security functionality without adding visible complexity or affecting the document's appearance under normal conditions.
3Reliability
If IR mark detection and management functions are integrated into the image path, then security features are enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments IR mark processing into distinct functional modules within the image path, including detection modules, rendering modules, and management functions. This modular segmentation allows each component to handle specific tasks efficiently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive security capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image path layer that mediates between the input document and the output, handling IR mark detection and rendering operations. This intermediary structure isolates the complexity of IR mark processing from the core printing/copying/scanning functions, making the system more manageable and maintainable.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a method of rendering an infrared mark, can involve providing an image path for an image processing apparatus, wherein the image path integrates infrared mark related functions with regular image processing functions of the image processing apparatus, and rendering the infrared red mark with the image processing apparatus, after subjecting the infrared mark to the infrared mark related functions in the image path of the image processing apparatus.