Multi-bit Data Embedding in Copy-guarded Images via Pattern Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current image processing systems can only embed limited amounts of data in copy guarded documents, typically restricted to one-bit information, which is insufficient for more complex data requirements.

Innovation Solution

The system embeds data into an original image by generating a processed image with multiple patterns that have a relative relationship, allowing for the embedding of multiple bits of information, and extracts this data by analyzing the relative relationship of the patterns in the image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a single pattern is used to embed data in copy guarded documents, then the embedding process is simple, but the data capacity is limited to one bit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata capacityVSAvoidpattern structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the data embedding into multiple segments by using multiple patterns (first pattern and second pattern) instead of a single pattern. Each pattern can represent one bit of data, enabling multi-bit data capacity while maintaining relatively simple individual pattern structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines multiple patterns (first pattern and second pattern) with different orientations into a unified embedded structure. The relative positional relationships between these patterns encode multi-bit information, achieving increased data capacity through combination rather than complexification of individual elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Quantity of substance

If multiple patterns with relative relationships are embedded, then multi-bit data capacity is achieved, but the detection and analysis complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata capacityVSAvoidpattern analysis
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses asymmetric orientation relationships between patterns (e.g., first pattern at 0 degrees and second pattern at 45 degrees) to encode data. This asymmetric arrangement creates distinct, easily distinguishable patterns that simplify detection and analysis while enabling multi-bit data capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the orientation parameter of patterns to encode data information. By varying the relative angles and positions of patterns, multi-bit data can be embedded and detected through simple angular measurements, reducing analysis complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If data is embedded in the original image, then document security is enhanced, but the image processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocument securityVSAvoidimage processing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention applies data embedding locally within the image by inserting patterns at specific positions (such as in the background or margin areas) rather than processing the entire image uniformly. This localized approach enhances document security while minimizing overall image processing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses simple geometric patterns that can be repeatedly copied and placed at different positions in the image. These pattern copies encode data through their relative arrangements, enhancing security through embedding while keeping the processing method simple and repetitive rather than complex

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS7609851B2Embedding data into document and extracting embedded data from document
Publication Date: 2009.10.27 RICOH CO LTD
  • US7609851B2 patent drawing
  • US7609851B2 patent drawing
  • US7609851B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus, method, system, computer program and product, each capable of embedding data into a document or extracting embedded data from document. The data to be embedded may be embedded in the form of a plurality of patterns having a relative relationship.