Latent Image Embedding in RGB to CMYK Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for embedding infrared latent images in documents using CMYK colors face challenges when converting between RGB and CMYK color spaces, leading to destruction of latent image information and difficulties in integrating with general document creation applications that only support RGB colors.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that extracts and composes latent image information with background information to generate a latent-image-embedded image, allowing for secure printing without modifying the application, using a latent image composition unit, extraction units, and addition units to manage CMYK color data effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If CMYK color conversion is performed to embed latent image information, then security protection is improved, but compatibility with general RGB-based document creation applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing workflow into two independent parts: (1) the document creation application generates RGB image data without latent image information, and (2) the image processing apparatus separately adds latent image information by converting RGB to CMYK and embedding security data. This segmentation allows RGB applications to remain simple while security features are added by the dedicated processing apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing apparatus acts as an intermediary between the RGB-based document creation application and the printing system. It receives RGB image data, converts it to CMYK color space, embeds latent image information containing security data, and outputs the processed image data. This intermediary role enables compatibility with RGB applications while achieving security protection through CMYK conversion.
2Measurement precision
If latent image information is embedded in CMYK color space, then infrared detection capability is improved, but color conversion processes destroy the latent image information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary conversion of RGB image data to CMYK color space and embeds latent image information containing infrared detection data before any subsequent color conversion operations. By establishing the CMYK color space with embedded latent image information early in the processing chain, the system ensures that infrared detection capability is preserved even though later RGB conversions may occur in the application software.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure conversion and printing of document data from arbitrary applications by separating latent image conversion and addition operations from the application's workflow, preserving latent image information and maintaining compatibility with RGB-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
since the CMY color materials transmit infrared light and the K color material containing general carbon black has a property of absorbing infrared light, in the infrared sensing device, the CMY color materials do not appear and only a portion in which the black color material is embedded appears as an infrared latent image
Data Source
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AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes a latent image composition unit (263), a latent-image-embedded image addition unit (264), and at least one of a latent image information extraction unit (261) and a background information extraction unit (266). The latent image composition unit (263) is configured to compose background information with latent image information to generate a latent-image-embedded image. The latent-image-embedded image addition unit (264) is configured to add the latent-image-embedded image to print data. The latent image information extraction unit (261) is configured to extract the latent image information from the print data. The background information extraction unit (266) is configured to extract the background information from the print data.