Microdot Embedding for Source Identification in Scanned Documents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for embedding information in scanned documents do not provide variable information that can trace the source of the document, making it difficult to identify the origin or authenticity of scanned documents.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that embeds variable information, such as user and device identifiers, in scanned documents using machine-readable patterns of small dots that are invisible to the naked eye but detectable by suitable equipment, allowing for traceability and authenticity verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pattern of small dots is embedded in a document for security purposes, then document identification and authenticity verification are improved, but the ability to trace the source of scanned documents deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the source identification information into multiple segments by embedding separate machine-readable patterns (microdots) at different locations throughout the document. Each microdot contains a portion of the source information, and collectively they provide complete source identification while maintaining authenticity verification capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional visible watermarks to machine-readable microdot patterns that operate in a different dimension of detection. These patterns are invisible to the naked eye but detectable by specialized equipment, adding a new dimension for both authenticity verification and source tracing
2Loss of information
If machine-readable patterns are embedded in scanned documents, then source traceability is improved, but the document's appearance and visibility are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses microdots in yellow color that are specifically chosen to be less visible to the human eye while remaining detectable by machine reading equipment. This color selection optimizes the balance between maintaining document appearance and enabling source traceability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds machine-readable patterns that are copied from the original document during scanning, ensuring the source information is captured and encoded without altering the original document's visual appearance. The microdots are superimposed in a way that preserves the underlying document content
3Loss of information
If variable information is embedded in documents, then source identification capability is improved, but the complexity of the embedding system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal microdot embedding system that can handle multiple types of variable information (user identifiers, device identifiers, timestamps) through a single standardized mechanism. The same microdot technology and detection equipment can process different information types, reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An embedding component is described which embeds information in a scanned document. The embedding component includes a document acquisition component, which acquires a scanned document from an associated scanning device. An information acquisition component acquires variable information associated with the scanned document. An encoding component generates a machine-readable representation of the variable information. A pattern insertion component uses the machine-readable representation to insert at least one machine readable pattern in the scanned document, to generate a modified document. An output component outputs the modified document to an associated output device, such that when the modified document is rendered on print media, the machine-readable pattern is not noticeable to the unaided eye of a person. A processor implements the document acquisition component, information acquisition component, encoding component, pattern insertion component, and output component.