The present technology relates to image signal processing. One aspect of the present technology involves analyzing reference imagery gathered by a camera system to determine which parts of an image frame offer high probabilities of—relative to other image parts—containing decodable signal data. Another aspect of the present technology whittles-down such determined image frame parts based on detected content (e.g., a cereal box) vs expected background within such determined image frame parts.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
Authenticity of a sticker (e.g., a mark-down sticker on a retail item), or integrity of a closure (e.g., on a delivery bag or package), is confirmed by reference to spatial information. In some embodiments a fingerprint is formed from parameters describing spatial placement of a sticker or pattern on a substrate. In some embodiments a digital watermark pattern provides a spatial frame of reference within which one or more other features can be located. In still other embodiments, a package is sealed with a shipping tape marked with a digital watermark. If the tape is slit to tamper with package contents, and is then repaired by an overlay of clear tape, the repair betrays itself by a forensic inspection that reveals a diminution in watermark strength. A great many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
An electronic device and related technology for activating a physical product is described. During operation, the electronic device may activate the product based at least in part on a context of the product, including: a Factory that produces the product, a zone in the Factory that produces the product, and/or a purchase order specifying the product. Then, the electronic device may pair or associate at least one unique identifier (or serial identification) of the product with a non-unique identifier of the product (such as a product type). Next, the electronic device may provide, addressed to the computer, information specifying the context, the at least one unique identifier and the non-unique identifier. This information may correspond to a digital twin of the activated product, which is generated and maintained by the computer. The digital twin may allow global production and/or a lifecycle of the product to be tracked, thereby reducing or eliminating intentional duplication or overproduction of other instances of the product, e.g., at the Factory.
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for elements within PDF files. One implementation encodes an artwork element under different encoding conditions, and selects a winner version based on resulting signal robustness and/or visibility. Other implementations generate PDF layer masks to help determine overall embedding robustness, including interference from layered elements. Other implementations are provided too.
A retail checkout system decodes machine-readable indicia from a composite image frame produced from a sequence of captured image frames. Different regions in the composite image are derived from different ones of the image frames in the captured sequence. Another embodiment generates a composite image frame from image frames captured with different camera focus settings. Still other embodiments concern neural networks, including their training to segment different items presented on a retail checkout surface. Other neural network embodiments discern on which of two items a machine readable indicia appears, when the visual context is ambiguous. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06V 10/25 - Determination of region of interest [ROI] or a volume of interest [VOI]
G06V 10/26 - Segmentation of patterns in the image fieldCutting or merging of image elements to establish the pattern region, e.g. clustering-based techniquesDetection of occlusion
6.
RECYCLING METHODS AND SYSTEMS, AND RELATED PLASTIC CONTAINERS
A plastic item, such as a beverage bottle, conveys two distinct digital watermarks, encoded using two distinct signaling protocols. A first, printed label watermark conveys a retailing payload, including a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) used by a point-of-sale scanner in a retail store to identify and price the item when presented for checkout. A second, plastic texture watermark conveys a recycling payload, including data identifying the composition of the plastic. The use of two different signaling protocols assures that a point-of-sale scanner will not spend its limited time and computational resources working to decode the recycling watermark, which lacks the data needed for retail checkout. In some embodiments, a recycling apparatus makes advantageous use of both types of watermarks to identify the plastic composition of the item (e.g., relating GTIN to plastic type using an associated database), thereby increasing the fraction of items that are correctly identified for sorting and recycling. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
H04N 23/00 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensorsControl thereof
G06F 21/16 - Program or content traceability, e.g. by watermarking
G09C 5/00 - Ciphering or deciphering apparatus or methods not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. involving the concealment or deformation of graphic data such as designs, written or printed messages
H04N 21/2389 - Multiplex stream processing, e.g. multiplex stream encrypting
H04N 21/44 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to encoded video stream scene graphs
H04N 21/8358 - Generation of protective data, e.g. certificates involving watermark
7.
SYSTEM FOR MITIGATING THE PROBLEM OF DEEPFAKE MEDIA CONTENT USING WATERMARKING
Watermarking media content, in combination with blockchain and distributed storage networks, prevents the proliferation of Deepfake content. Digital watermarks are embedded in the audio and video tracks of video clips of trusted content producers at the time the videos are captured or before they are distributed. The watermarks are detected at the social media network's portals, nodes, and back ends. The embedded watermark imparts a unique identifier to the video, that links it to a blockchain. The watermarks also allow video source tracking, integrity verification, and alteration localization. The watermark detectors can be standalone software applications, or they can be integrated with other applications. They are used to perform three main tasks: (1) they alert the Internet user when he watches an inauthentic news video, so that he may discard it, (2) they prevent a Deepfake content from propagating through the network (3) they perform forensic analysis to help track and remove Deepfake content postings.
A plastic item, such as a beverage bottle, conveys two distinct digital watermarks, encoded using two distinct signaling protocols. A first, printed label watermark conveys a retailing payload, including a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) used by a point-of-sale scanner in a retail store to identify and price the item when presented for checkout. A second, plastic texture watermark conveys a recycling payload, including data identifying the composition of the plastic. The use of two different signaling protocols assures that a point-of-sale scanner will not spend its limited time and computational resources working to decode the recycling watermark, which lacks the data needed for retail checkout. In some embodiments, a recycling apparatus makes advantageous use of both types of watermarks to identify the plastic composition of the item (e.g., relating GTIN to plastic type using an associated database), thereby increasing the fraction of items that are correctly identified for sorting and recycling. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G09C 5/00 - Ciphering or deciphering apparatus or methods not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. involving the concealment or deformation of graphic data such as designs, written or printed messages
H04N 21/2389 - Multiplex stream processing, e.g. multiplex stream encrypting
H04N 21/44 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to encoded video stream scene graphs
H04N 21/8358 - Generation of protective data, e.g. certificates involving watermark
9.
PREDICTING DETECTABILITY AND GRADING PRIOR TO PRINTING
The present disclosure relates generally to image signal processing, including encoding signals for image data or artwork. A color blend/print model is used to predict signal detectability and visibility as is printed on a particular substrate, which facilitates object grading prior to print runs.
The present disclosure relates to signal encoding and decoding, such as digital watermarking. One aspect of the technology relates a method of evaluating print quality of a test digital watermarking patch. The method includes: determining a reading window representing a distance in inches or centimeters from the test digital watermark patch and a camera utilized to collect a set of image frames depicting the test digital watermark patch, the test digital watermark patch comprising a first plural-bit payload, the reading window comprising a close edge and a far edge, the close edge representing a closest distance between the test digital watermark patch and the camera at which the first plural-bit payload can be decoded, and the far edge representing a farthest distance between the test digital watermark patch and the camera at which the first plural-bit payload can be decoded; determining a size ratio representing a size of the test digital watermark patch relative to the close edge and a size of the test digital watermark patch relative to the far edge; and utilizing the size ratio to evaluate the print quality of the test digital watermarking patch. Other aspects are described as well.
The present disclosure relates generally to image signal processing including digital watermarking. Digital watermarking can be used to prevent counterfeiting by binding or tying together digital imagery, products depicted in the digital imagery, and website hosting address information associated with the digital imagery. Various combinations and technology are described in this patent document and claims.
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for printed objects such as product packaging, labels and hangtags. One implementation obtains a color image representing CMY color channels, and alters the color image to include an encoded signal by altering values representing CIELAB a* and b*, all the while keeping L* on or within a predetermined tolerance of a contour representing a constant value. Other implementations are provided.
Items are identified in a waste stream for purposes of recycling, using deterministic and/or probabilistic techniques. Imagery of the waste stream from multiple viewpoints permit creation of a 3D depth draped image representation, from which one or more 2D planes can be synthesized. Phase-coherent patches of recoverable encoded data can be identified from among soiled and crumpled object surfaces, and used in combination to recover object identification information. Recognition of certain items can trigger further image processing that is specific to such items. (Detection of a catsup bottle, for example, can trigger image analysis to discern the presence of catsup residue.) Information about recognized objects can be provided to external data customers, e.g., to track grey market diversion of particular products into unlicensed territories. These and other features and advantages, which can be used alone or in combination, are detailed herein.
In a next-generation retail store, the presence of a shopper at a particular shelf location, at about the time that an item was removed from that shelf location, gives rise to a hypothesis that the item may have been picked for purchase by that shopper. An ensemble of different such hypotheses, about different items removed by different shoppers, is evaluated jointly to determine which hypotheses are most likely. Other factors can influence the determinations, such as a physical distance between picked products, together with a time interval between their picking. If cameras are used to detect removal of items from shelves, hand depictions captured by such cameras are further factors that may be considered, e.g., helping associate certain item removals with a common shopper. By generating purchase lists for each shopper with such methods, shoppers can be relieved of the need of having each item scanned at a checkout. Some embodiments are privacy-preserving—neither employing nor capturing personally-identifying information. Other embodiments don't require tracking movements of shoppers through the store. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
The present disclosure relates to generally to digital watermarking, non-fungible tokens ("NFTs") and smart contracts. One aspect of the disclosure describes embedding a digital watermark into digital content, the digital watermark includes a message that can be used to prove authenticity, origin, content integrity and/or a creator associated with an NFT. This technology will help protect and authenticate an NFT and its digital content. Related technology and methodologies are also described.
G06F 21/16 - Program or content traceability, e.g. by watermarking
G06F 21/64 - Protecting data integrity, e.g. using checksums, certificates or signatures
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
H04L 9/00 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols
16.
Methods and arrangements for configuring object localizers
The present technology relates to image signal processing. One aspect of the present technology involves analyzing reference imagery (e.g., depicting a conveyor belt) gathered by a camera system to determine which parts of an image frame offer higher probabilities of—relative to other image parts—containing content items. Image blocks representing localized content items can be provided to a signal detector to decode a signal.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06V 10/50 - Extraction of image or video features by performing operations within image blocksExtraction of image or video features by using histograms, e.g. histogram of oriented gradients [HoG]Extraction of image or video features by summing image-intensity valuesProjection analysis
2D machine readable symbologies are stylized and made aesthetically-appealing, facilitating their use to convey plural-symbol data within woven fabrics. Such stylized fabrics can be decoded by code readers analyzing imagery of the woven fabrics. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
18.
ARTWORK GENERATED TO CONVEY DIGITAL MESSAGES, AND METHODS/APPARATUSES FOR GENERATING SUCH ARTWORK
Features from a style image are adapted to express a machine-readable code. For example, grains of rice depicted in a style image may be positioned to create a pattern mimicking that of a machine-readable code. The resulting output image can then be used as a graphical component in product packaging (e.g., as a background, border, or pattern fill), while also serving to convey a product identifier to a compliant reader device (e.g., a retail point-of-sale terminal). In some embodiments, a neural network is trained to apply a particular style image to machine readable codes. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
A retail checkout system decodes machine-readable indicia from a composite image frame produced from a sequence of captured image frames. Different regions in the composite image are derived from different ones of the image frames in the captured sequence. Another embodiment generates a composite image frame from image frames captured with different camera focus settings. Still other embodiments concern neural networks, including their training to segment different items presented on a retail checkout surface. Other neural network embodiments discern on which of two items a machine readable indicia appears, when the visual context is ambiguous. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06V 10/82 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using neural networks
G06V 10/80 - Fusion, i.e. combining data from various sources at the sensor level, preprocessing level, feature extraction level or classification level
20.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR DIGITAL MARKING AND READING OF ITEMS, USEFUL IN RECYCLING
Images depicting items in a waste flow on a conveyor belt are provided to two analysis systems. The first system processes images to decode digital watermark payload data found on certain of the items (e.g., plastic containers). This payload data is used to look up corresponding attribute metadata for the items in a database, such as the type of plastic in each item, and whether the item was used as a food container or not. The second analysis system can be a spectroscopy system that determines the type of plastic in each item by its absorption characteristics. When the two systems conflict in identifying the plastic type, a sorting logic processor applies a rule set to arbitrate the conflict and determine which plastic type is most likely. The item is then sorted into one of several different bins depending on a combination of the final plastic identification, and whether the item was used as a food container or not. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06V 30/224 - Character recognition characterised by the type of writing of printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks
G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics
B07C 5/34 - Sorting according to other particular properties
B07C 5/342 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
B65G 47/49 - Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyors with distribution, e.g. automatically, to desired points according to bodily destination marks on either articles or load-carriers without bodily contact between article or load-carrier and automatic control device
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
H04N 23/56 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensorsControl thereof provided with illuminating means
H04N 23/73 - Circuitry for compensating brightness variation in the scene by influencing the exposure time
G06V 10/80 - Fusion, i.e. combining data from various sources at the sensor level, preprocessing level, feature extraction level or classification level
G06V 10/82 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using neural networks
G06V 10/44 - Local feature extraction by analysis of parts of the pattern, e.g. by detecting edges, contours, loops, corners, strokes or intersectionsConnectivity analysis, e.g. of connected components
The present disclosure relates to signal processing such as digital watermarking and other encoded signals. One claim recites a substrate comprising: a plurality of first areas and a plurality of second areas, in which each of the plurality of first areas comprises a color ink printed therein with a first clear topcoat layer printed over the color ink, and in which each of the plurality of second areas comprises the color ink printed therein, and a second clear topcoat layer printed over the color ink, in which the first clear topcoat layer and the second clear topcoat layer each comprise a different sheen relative to one another, and in which the plurality of second areas is arranged on the substrate in hole locations provided in the first clear topcoat layer, the second clear topcoat layer filling in the holes, the holes arranged according to a 2-dimensional pattern that is machine-readable from image data depicting such. Of course, other claims and combinations are provided in the specification with reference to specific implementations and related examples.
This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including signal encoding. One combination includes an apparatus comprising: memory for storing image data, the image data comprising a plurality of color separations or channels, in which the image data comprises at least a first type of machine-readable symbology comprising a 1D barcode represented therein and a second type of machine-readable symbology comprising a first signal represented therein, in which the second type of machine-readable symbology comprises a different type of machine-readable symbology relative to the first type of machine-readable symbology, the 1D barcode comprising a first plural-bit code and the first signal comprising a second plural-bit code; a barcode reader configured to analyze the image data to decode the 1D barcode to obtain the first plural-bit code; a signal decoder configured to analyze one or more color separations or channels of the plurality of color separations or channels to decode the first signal to obtain the second plural-bit code; one or more processors configured to determine whether the second plural-bit code and the first plural-bit code conflict; and to identify a conflict based on a conflict determination. Of course, other features and combinations are described as well.
This disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including encoded signals and digital watermarking. One claim is directed to a container comprising: a 3004 or 3003 aluminum alloy shell, the shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface; a first layer of transparent ink printed on the outer surface as a flood within a first region; a second layer of the transparent ink printed over the first layer of transparent ink within the first region, in which the second layer of the transparent ink is printed to include a plurality of holes without any transparent ink printed therein; an opaque ink printed within the plurality of holes of the second layer of transparent ink on first layer of transparent ink within the first region, in which: i) the outer surface/first layer/second layer, and ii) the outer surface/first layer/opaque ink comprise a spectral reflectance difference at a machine-vision wavelength in the range of 8%-35%, and in which the plurality of holes are arranged in a 2-dimensional pattern according to a machine-readable signal, the 2-dimensional pattern being machine-readable from imagery captured of the first region. Of course, other containers, methods, packages, objects, systems, technology and apparatus are described in this disclosure.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
B41J 3/413 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material for metal
B41M 3/00 - Printing processes to produce particular kinds of printed work, e.g. patterns
A waste stream is analyzed during recycling or waste sortation. Certain features of the technology allow identification of waste stream items, context aggregation associated with the items, and information management for counterfeit deterrence and supply chain management. A variety of further features and arrangements are also detailed.
In one aspect, the technology processes image data depicting a physical object to extract payload data that is encoded on the object in the form of tiled code blocks. The payload data is encoded in conjunction with an associated reference signal. To account for possible inversion of the imagery, the decoding includes determining spatial correspondence between the image data and the reference signal. A patch of the image data smaller than the block size is then selected, and correlated with a spatially-corresponding patch of the reference signal. From the correlation it may be concluded that the chosen patch exhibits inversion. In such case a subset of the image data is adjusted prior to decoding to compensate for the inversion. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
26.
METHODS AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR ASSESSING CAMERA SYSTEM PERFORMANCE
Performance metrics for an imaging system are assessed in the field, without the need for carefully-controlled conditions, such as lighting. In some embodiments, a hand-held test target is used to measure MTF, and to identify any undesired noise-reduction operation applied by an image signal processor. A metric-based heuristic enables prediction of whether an imaging system will be suitable to detect and decode a digital watermark signal of a particular resolution. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
27.
ARTWORK GENERATED TO CONVEY DIGITAL MESSAGES, AND METHODS/APPARATUSES FOR GENERATING SUCH ARTWORK
2D machine readable symbologies are stylized and made aesthetically-appealing, facilitating their use to convey plural-symbol data on product packaging and other articles. In some arrangements, symbologies are stylized by geometric transformations (e.g., by multiple rotation and/or mirroring operations) to develop tiles having organized geometric structures. Such stylized symbologies can be decoded by existing code readers. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G06K 1/12 - Methods or arrangements for marking the record carrier in digital fashion otherwise than by punching
28.
Color driven localization of 1D and 2D barcodes in digital capture systems
The present disclosures relates to decoding machine readable indicia (e.g., a 1D or 2D barcode) in imagery, and related image processing technology. One claim recites a method of locating a barcode within imagery, comprising: converting the imagery to greyscale imagery; evaluating a plurality of blocks within the greyscale imagery, each of the plurality of blocks comprising n×m pixels, where both n and m are positive integers; for each block of the plurality of blocks, determining a value representing pixel diversity within the block; masking the greyscale imagery based on values of the plurality of blocks, in which blocks with a value below a predetermined value of pixel diversity are masked out or excluded; searching the masked, greyscale imagery to determine whether is includes a barcode represented therein. Of course, other claims and combinations are provided too.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
29.
Sensor-based maximum-likelihood estimation of item assignments
A store includes first and second racks of shelving that are respectively viewed by first and second cameras. A computer system, including one or more processors and memory, defines a first convolutional neural network (CNN) trained to recognize a first set of items stocked on the first rack of shelving, and a second CNN trained to recognize a second set of items stocked on the second rack of shelving. (The first camera provides imagery for recognition by the first CNN, and the second camera provides imagery for recognition by the second CNN.) In such arrangement, the second neural network is trained to recognize a particular item that the first neural network is not trained to recognize, and the first neural network is trained to recognize a certain item that the second neural network is not trained to recognize. Many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A sequence of images depicting an object is captured, e.g., by a camera at a point-of-sale terminal in a retail store. The object is identified, such as by a barcode or watermark that is detected from one or more of the images. Once the object's identity is known, such information is used in training a classifier (e.g., a machine learning system) to recognize the object from others of the captured images, including images that may be degraded by blur, inferior lighting, etc. In another arrangement, such degraded images are processed to identify feature points useful in fingerprint-based identification of the object. Feature points extracted from such degraded imagery aid in fingerprint-based recognition of objects under real life circumstances, as contrasted with feature points extracted from pristine imagery (e.g., digital files containing label artwork for such objects). A great variety of other features and arrangements—some involving designing classifiers so as to combat classifier copying—are also detailed.
G06F 21/16 - Program or content traceability, e.g. by watermarking
G06V 10/24 - Aligning, centring, orientation detection or correction of the image
G06V 20/20 - ScenesScene-specific elements in augmented reality scenes
G06F 18/214 - Generating training patternsBootstrap methods, e.g. bagging or boosting
G06F 18/2413 - Classification techniques relating to the classification model, e.g. parametric or non-parametric approaches based on distances to training or reference patterns
G06V 10/774 - Generating sets of training patternsBootstrap methods, e.g. bagging or boosting
Aspects of the detailed technologies concern training and use of neural networks for fine-grained classification of large numbers of items, e.g., as may be encountered in a supermarket. Mitigating false positive errors is an exemplary area of emphasis. Novel network topologies are also detailed—some employing recognition technologies in addition to neural networks. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects
G06V 10/774 - Generating sets of training patternsBootstrap methods, e.g. bagging or boosting
G06V 10/46 - Descriptors for shape, contour or point-related descriptors, e.g. scale invariant feature transform [SIFT] or bags of words [BoW]Salient regional features
Items are identified in a waste stream for purposes of recycling, using deterministic and/or probabilistic techniques. Imagery of the waste stream from multiple viewpoints permit creation of a 3D depth draped image representation, from which one or more 2D planes can be synthesized. Phase-coherent patches of recoverable encoded data can be identified from among soiled and crumpled object surfaces, and used in combination to recover object identification information. Recognition of certain items can trigger further image processing that is specific to such items. (Detection of a catsup bottle, for example, can trigger image analysis to discern the presence of catsup residue.) Information about recognized objects can be provided to external data customers, e.g., to track grey market diversion of particular products into unlicensed territories. These and other features and advantages, which can be used alone or in combination, are detailed herein.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Computer software for steganography applications, namely, software to embed and detect digital watermarks in images, print, physical products and packages; computer software for steganography application software for use in a smart phone, laptop or other hardware device; Computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software development tools; computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media or information via computer and communication networks; computer software for tracking physical items; computer software for detecting and processing identifiers carried by physical items; computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; computer software for counterfeit deterrence of physical items; computer software for aggregating information associated with digital identities for physical items; computer software for enterprise resource planning; computer software for data management; computer software to maintain and operate cloud-based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; computer software for associating programmable rules for user engagement and network interactions with digital identities for physical items; computer software and communication networks for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; computer software for enabling detection and sorting of physical items. Providing consumer product information regarding products for use with the creation of a unique digital identity for physical items. Technical consultancy in respect of digital watermarking; digital watermarking; design of machine-readable codes for object sortation; design of machine-readable codes for recycling; providing technical information about product container recycling; design of machine-readable pattern on labels using software; providing online non-downloadable software for reading a machine-readable pattern on product labels and retrieving information related to that product; providing online non-downloadable software for creating labels with a machine-readable pattern; providing technical parameters and guidelines for using digital watermarking; providing temporary use of an online non-downloadable computer application for embedding watermarks in image content; providing a website featuring on-line non-downloadable software that enables users to apply a machine-readable pattern in image content; services in the field of designing machine-readable codes for recycling; providing technical information in the field of steganography; providing software for providing digital identification of products; decoding information provided in a digital watermark, quick response code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag; computer services, namely, connecting information provided in a digital watermark, quick response code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag with non-downloadable software that acts on such information in a predetermined manner; computer services, namely, creating cloud-based data repositories to host product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; design and implementation of software and technology solutions for the purpose of product, object, and document authentication and tracking; computer services, namely, monitoring and providing protection against counterfeiting, tampering and diversion; developing services to ensure the integrity of genuine products and documents; providing authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; providing digital identities for physical objects and information associated therewith; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; software-as-a-service for issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; developing services for creating digital identities for product; developing services for providing digital representations of physical products; services for providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement (or scan) of packages; computer service for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, quick response codes, scannable barcodes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; providing application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming tools containing programmable rules logic to support applications with product data; providing technical information associated with product items, namely packages, through dashboard interfaces and application programming interfaces (APIs).
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software development tools; computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media or information via computer and communication networks; computer software for tracking physical items; computer software for detecting and processing identifiers carried by physical items; computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; computer software for counterfeit deterrence of physical items; computer software for aggregating information and scan event data associated with digital identities for physical items; computer software for inventory management; computer software for data management and analytics; computer software for supply chain management of physical items; computer software to maintain and operate cloud-based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; computer software and communication networks for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; computer software for enabling detection and sortation of physical items. Marketing, advertising and promotion services; market research and business information services; promoting the goods and services of others via computer and communication networks; market intelligence and brand integrity services; inventory and supply chain management services rendered through online computerized networks; providing business reports concerning products and product information relating to lifecycles of physical products; providing consumer product information regarding products from searchable indexes and databases of information, including text, electronic documents, databases, graphics and audio visual information, on computer and communication networks, all for use with a unique digital identity for physical items. Providing access to computer, electronic and online databases; telecommunications services, namely, electronic transmission of data, messages and information; providing online communications links which transfer Web site users to other local and global Web pages; providing online chat rooms and electronic bulletin boards for transmission of messages among users in the field of general interest; audio, text and video broadcasting services over computer or other communication networks, namely, uploading, posting, displaying, tagging, and electronically transmitting data, information, audio and video images; providing an online information transmission network service that enables users to transfer product data to and share product data with and among multiple computer devices; providing an online forum for transmission of information among computer devices concerning the lifecycle of products and materials and exchanging of sourcing data via a computerized network. Product container recycling information services; packaging waste sortation services. Design and development services for computer hardware and software; computer programming; installation, maintenance and repair of computer software services; computer consultancy services; design and graphic arts designing services for the creation of web sites; design services in the field of websites, computers, computer software; computer services, namely, creating cloud-based data repositories to host product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; creating authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; creating supply chain and inventory management software associated with digital identities; computer services, namely, hosting software applications to organize, store and share information; application service provider (ASP) services, namely, hosting computer software applications; application service provider (ASP) services featuring providing software to enable or facilitate the uploading, downloading, posting, displaying, linking, sharing or otherwise providing electronic media or information over communication networks; providing temporary use of non-downloadable software applications to organize, store and share information; providing digital identities for physical objects and information associated therewith; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; providing machine-readable codes for object sortation; software-as-a-service for issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; software as a service for managing data from and about physical products; developing services for creating digital identities for product; developing services for creating digital identities for physical product items at product manufacture; developing services for providing digital representations of physical products; computer services for providing physical product attribute data about digitized products, namely, product size, color of the product, raw materials making up the product, price of the product, environmental information concerning the product, and supply chain steps for the product; computer services for providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement (or scan) of packages; computer services for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, quick response codes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; providing programmable rules logic to support applications with product data through application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming tools; providing technology information associated with product items through dashboard interfaces and application programming interfaces (APIs); product authentication services; providing software for providing digital identification of products.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software development tools; computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media or information via computer and communication networks; computer software for tracking physical items; computer software for detecting and processing identifiers carried by physical items; computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; computer software for counterfeit deterrence of physical items; computer software for aggregating information and scan event data associated with digital identities for physical items; computer software for inventory management; computer software for data management and analytics; computer software for supply chain management of physical items; computer software to maintain and operate cloud-based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; computer software and communication networks for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; and computer software for enabling detection and sortation of physical items (1) Marketing, advertising and promotion services; market research and business information services; promoting the goods and services of others via computer and communication networks; market intelligence and brand integrity services; inventory and supply chain management services rendered through online computerized networks; product authentication services; product container recycling information services; packaging waste sortation services; services for providing digital identification of products; providing reports and information relating to lifecycles of physical products; providing consumer product information regarding products from searchable indexes and databases of information, including text, electronic documents, databases, graphics and audio visual information, on computer and communication networks, all for use with a unique digital identity for physical items
(2) Providing access to computer, electronic and online databases; telecommunications services, namely, electronic transmission of data, messages and information; providing online communications links which transfer Web site users to other local and global Web pages; providing online chat rooms and electronic bulletin boards for transmission of messages among users in the field of general interest; audio, text and video broadcasting services over computer or other communication networks, namely, uploading, posting, displaying, tagging, and electronically transmitting data, information, audio and video images; providing an online information transmission network service that enables users to transfer product data to and share product data with and among multiple computer devices; providing an online forum for transmission of information among computer devices concerning the lifecycle of products and materials and exchanging of sourcing data via a computerized network
(3) Design and development services for computer hardware and software; computer programming; installation, maintenance and repair of computer software services; computer consultancy services; design and graphic arts designing services for the creation of web sites; design services in the field of websites, computers, computer software; computer services, namely, creating cloud-based data repositories to host product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; creating authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; creating supply chain and inventory management software associated with digital identities; computer services, namely, hosting software applications to organize, store and share information; application service provider (ASP) services, namely, hosting computer software applications; application service provider (ASP) services featuring providing software to enable or facilitate the uploading, downloading, posting, displaying, linking, sharing or otherwise providing electronic media or information over communication networks; providing temporary use of non-downloadable software applications to organize, store and share information; providing digital identities for physical objects and information associated therewith; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; providing machine-readable codes for object sortation; software-as-a-service for issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; software as a service for managing data from and about physical products; services for creating digital identities for product items; services for providing digital identities for physical product items at product manufacture; services for providing digital representations of physical products; services for providing physical product attribute data about digitized products, namely, product size, color, raw materials, price, environmental information, and supply chain steps; services for providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement (or scan); services for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, QR codes, barcodes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; providing programmable rules logic to support applications with product data through application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming tools; and providing information associated with product items through dashboard interfaces and application programming interfaces (APIs)
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Computer software for steganography applications, namely, software to embed and detect digital watermarks in images, print, physical products and packages; computer software for steganography application software for use in a smart phone, laptop or other hardware device; computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software development tools; computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media or information via computer and communication networks; computer software for tracking physical items; computer software for detecting and processing identifiers carried by physical items; computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; computer software for counterfeit deterrence of physical items; computer software for aggregating information associated with digital identities for physical items; computer software for enterprise resource planning; computer software for data management; computer software to maintain and operate cloud-based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; computer software for associating programmable rules for user engagement and network interactions with digital identities for physical items; computer software and communication networks for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; and computer software for enabling detection and sorting of physical items (1) Technical consultancy in respect of digital watermarking; services for embedding digital watermarks; providing machine-readable codes for object sortation; providing machine-readable codes for recycling; services for providing product container recycling information; providing a machine-readable pattern on labels using software; providing online non-downloadable software for reading a machine-readable pattern on product labels and retrieving information related to that product; providing online non-downloadable software for creating labels with a machine-readable pattern; providing technical parameters and guidelines for using digital watermarking; providing temporary use of an online non-downloadable computer application for embedding watermarks in image content; providing a website featuring on-line non-downloadable software that enables users to apply a machine-readable pattern in image content; services in the field of designing machine-readable codes for recycling; providing technical information in the field of steganography; services for providing digital identification of products; determining information provided in a digital watermark, QR code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag; connecting information provided in a digital watermark, QR code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag with non-downloadable software that acts on such information in a predetermined manner; providing consumer product information regarding products for use with the creation of a unique digital identity for physical items; computer services, namely, creating cloud-based data repositories to host product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; design and implementation of software and technology solutions for the purpose of product, object, and document authentication and tracking; anti-counterfeiting, anti-tampering, and anti-product diversion services; services to ensure the integrity of genuine products and documents; providing authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; providing digital identities for physical objects and information associated therewith; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; software-as-a-service for issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; services for creating digital identities for product items; services for providing digital representations of physical products; services for providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement (or scan); services for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, QR codes, scannable barcodes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; providing programmable rules logic to support applications with product data through application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming tools; and providing information associated with product items through dashboard interfaces and application programming interfaces (APIs)
2D code patterns, such as digital watermark patterns, are formed on plastic objects by injection molding. In some implementations, a marked cell of the code pattern is not formed by a single mark on the mold surface, but by multiple discrete marks. Such marks can be exceedingly small (e.g., 50 microns or less - smaller than the width of a human hair), yet the resulting code pattern on the molded object is still readable from a distance. The small scale of the marks assures that the code pattern does not detract from object aesthetics, while also speeding the mold-marking process. Style transfer networks are employed in some implementations. The detailed technologies facilitate digital marking and identification of a great number of consumer plastic objects, thereby aiding recovery of such objects for recycling. Many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A surface is laser-etched to convey a 2D machine-readable code pattern. Various strategies are detailed to minimize the etching time. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to reduce a path length traveled by the laser. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to make it sub-optimal, i.e., making the code pattern a less-faithful approximation of an ideal code pattern. In some embodiments the etched surface is the surface of a plastic container, and the code pattern conveys information indicating the type of plastic of which the container is manufactured. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
This disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including encoded signals and digital watermarking. One claim is directed to a container comprising: a 3004 or 3003 aluminum alloy shell, the 3004 or 3003 aluminum alloy shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface; a 5182 aluminum alloy lid attached to the 3004 or 3003 aluminum alloy shell; and an opaque ink printed on the outer surface in a 2-dimensional pattern according to a machine-readable signal. The outer surface and the opaque ink printed on the outer surface comprise a spectral reflectance difference at a machine-vision wavelength in a range of 8%-30%, and the machine-readable signal is detectable from imagery representing the opaque ink printed on the outer surface. Of course, other containers, technology, methods, packages, objects, systems and apparatus are described in this disclosure.
B41J 3/413 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material for metal
B41M 3/00 - Printing processes to produce particular kinds of printed work, e.g. patterns
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
This disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including encoded signals and digital watermarking. One claim is directed to a container comprising: a 3004 or 3003 aluminum alloy shell, the shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface; a first layer of transparent ink printed on the outer surface as a flood within a first region; a second layer of the transparent ink printed over the first layer of transparent ink within the first region, in which the second layer of the transparent ink is printed to include a plurality of holes without any transparent ink printed therein; an opaque ink printed within the plurality of holes of the second layer of transparent ink on first layer of transparent ink within the first region, in which: i) the outer surface/first layer/second layer, and ii) the outer surface/first layer/opaque ink comprise a spectral reflectance difference at a machine-vision wavelength in the range of 8%-35%, and in which the plurality of holes are arranged in a 2-dimensional pattern according to a machine-readable signal, the 2-dimensional pattern being machine-readable from imagery captured of the first region. Of course, other containers, methods, packages, objects, systems, technology and apparatus are described in this disclosure.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
B41J 3/413 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material for metal
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41M 3/00 - Printing processes to produce particular kinds of printed work, e.g. patterns
The present disclosure relates to color localizing machine-readable indicia (e.g., a 1D or 2D barcode) found in imagery, and related image processing technology. One implementation involves locating regions associated with a first color and locating regions associated with a second color and creating a centroid for each of the located regions. A metric can be established for a color region couple comprising a located first color region and a located second color region, the metric including: i) a distance between a located first color region centroid and a located second color region centroid, and ii) a ratio of areas of the located first color region and the located second color region. Of course, other implementations, technology and combinations are provided.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
42.
Tamper detection arrangements, and point of sales systems employing same
Authenticity of a sticker (e.g., a mark-down sticker on a retail item), or integrity of a closure (e.g., on a delivery bag or package), is confirmed by reference to spatial information. In some embodiments a fingerprint is formed from parameters describing spatial placement of a sticker or pattern on a substrate. In some embodiments a digital watermark pattern provides a spatial frame of reference within which one or more other features can be located. A great many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
In one aspect, a method of fast data compression operates on input data comprising plural J-bit bytes (e.g., 16-bit bytes). The method computes a first difference value between one pair of the input J-bit bytes, and determines that this first difference value can be represented by K bits, where K
H04N 19/426 - Methods or arrangements for coding, decoding, compressing or decompressing digital video signals characterised by implementation details or hardware specially adapted for video compression or decompression, e.g. dedicated software implementation characterised by memory arrangements using memory downsizing methods
A thermoplastic resin is molded to define a container bearing a surface 2D code signal, such as a digital watermark pattern. In some arrangements, the mold dimensions are tailored, and process parameters are selected, so that an indentation in the mold gives rise to a corresponding indentation—rather than a corresponding protrusion—in the shaped plastic. In other arrangements, a metal mold is provided with a patterned resin on its surface to define the 2D code signal. The resin may take the form of a rigid or non-rigid insert that can be removed or re-worked to change the code signal without changing the metal mold. A variety of other improvements and arrangements are also detailed.
A thermoplastic resin is molded to define a container bearing a surface 2D code signal, such as a digital watermark pattern. In some arrangements, the mold dimensions are tailored, and process parameters are selected, so that an indentation in the mold gives rise to a corresponding indentation - rather than a corresponding protrusion - in the shaped plastic. In other arrangements, a metal mold is provided with a patterned resin on its surface to define the 2D code signal. The resin may take the form of a rigid or non-rigid insert that can be removed or re-worked to change the code signal without changing the metal mold. A variety of other improvements and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
Digital watermarking is adapted for the variable data printing. A reference signal serves as a proxy for optimizing the embedding a watermark in a host image to be printed. Using the reference signal, embedding parameters are generated, which are a function of constraints such as visual quality and robustness of the machine readable data. Adjustments needed to embed a unique payload in each printed piece are generated using the embedding parameters. These adjustments are stored in a manner that enables them to be efficiently obtained and applied within the RIP or press during operation of the press. Various other methods, system configurations and applications are also detailed.
In computer vision systems that need to decode machine-readable indicia from captured imagery, it is critical to select imaging parameters (e.g., exposure interval, exposure aperture, camera gain, intensity and duration of supplemental illumination) that best allow detection of subtle features from imagery. In illustrative embodiments, a Shannon entropy metric or a KL divergence metric is used to guide selection of an optimal set of imaging parameters. In accordance with other aspects of the technology, different strategies identify which spatial locations within captured imagery should be successively examined for machine readable indicia, in order to have a greatest likelihood of success, within a smallest interval of time. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06T 5/40 - Image enhancement or restoration using histogram techniques
G06V 10/22 - Image preprocessing by selection of a specific region containing or referencing a patternLocating or processing of specific regions to guide the detection or recognition
G06V 10/46 - Descriptors for shape, contour or point-related descriptors, e.g. scale invariant feature transform [SIFT] or bags of words [BoW]Salient regional features
H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
H04N 19/44 - Decoders specially adapted therefor, e.g. video decoders which are asymmetric with respect to the encoder
H04N 19/91 - Entropy coding, e.g. variable length coding [VLC] or arithmetic coding
Image data depicting a 2D machine-readable code is up-sampled and compressed with a lossy compression process before being sent from a client device to a remote server for code reading. The remote server decompresses the sent information, extracts a payload from the machine-readable code, and causes result information to be sent back to the client device for display or other action. The up-sampling and compression operations performed on the client device can employ software instructions that are downloaded to, and executed by, browser software on the client device. Many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
H04N 19/132 - Sampling, masking or truncation of coding units, e.g. adaptive resampling, frame skipping, frame interpolation or high-frequency transform coefficient masking
H04N 19/12 - Selection from among a plurality of transforms or standards, e.g. selection between discrete cosine transform [DCT] and sub-band transform or selection between H.263 and H.264
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
49.
Methods and arrangements for optical code classification
An optical code reader classifies a code depicted in input imagery, so that appropriate decoding actions can be invoked. This classification may identify, e.g., (a) whether the code is of a continuous tone or sparse mark variety, (b) which one of different reference signals it includes, and (c) which one of different protocols is used in expressing reference and payload signal components of the code. A great variety of other features and technologies are detailed as well.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A method for transforming an input array of pixel data into an output array of data, to yield enhanced expression of a digital watermark signal in the output array. One such method includes, for each pixel in the input array, generating a first datum that indicates a value difference between said pixel and a neighboring pixel in a first direction, the first data thereby collectively comprising a first directional difference array. Similarly, for each such pixel in the input array, generating a second datum that indicates a value difference between said pixel and a neighboring pixel in a second direction, the second data thereby collectively comprising a second directional difference array. One or more transforms to a spatial frequency domain are then performed, using these first and second directional difference arrays as input data. First and second results from the one or more transformations are then combined to yield an output array. The just detailed process causes the digital watermark signal in the output array to exhibit a greater signal-to-noise ratio than in the digital watermark signal in the input array. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
An image processing method determines a geometric transform of a suspect image by efficiently evaluating a large number of geometric transform candidates in environments with limited processing resources. Processing resources are conserved by using complementary methods for determining a geometric transform of an embedded signal. One method excels at higher geometric distortion, and specifically, distortion caused by greater tilt angle of a camera. Another method excels at lower geometric distortion, for weaker signals. Together, the methods provide a more reliable detector of an embedded data signal in image across a larger range of distortion while making efficient use of limited processing resources in mobile devices.
G06T 3/00 - Geometric image transformations in the plane of the image
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06T 3/40 - Scaling of whole images or parts thereof, e.g. expanding or contracting
A decade from now, a visit to the supermarket will be a very different experience than the familiar experiences of decades past. Product packaging will come alive with interactivity—each object a portal into a rich tapestry of experiences, with contributions authored by the product brand, by the store selling the product, and by other shoppers. The present technology concerns arrangements for authoring and delivering such experiences. A great variety of other features and technologies are also detailed.
In an illustrative system, a point-of-sale scanner is equipped to respond to multiple different symbologies printed on a single product. The scanner captures many frames per second, as products are swiped through a viewing volume. Each frame is decoded, yielding one or more payloads. A reconciliation module compares each newly-decoded payload against a list of payloads previously output by the module, to determine if the current payload is semantically-equivalent to a previously-output payload. If so, the previously-output payload is output again, in lieu of the just-decoded payload. If no equivalent is found, the current payload is output and added to the list for comparison against future payloads. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
45 - Legal and security services; personal services for individuals.
Goods & Services
Downloadable computer software for steganography applications, namely, software to embed and detect digital watermarks in images, print, physical products and packages; Downloadable computer steganography application software for use in a smart phone, laptop and other hardware device, namely, personal computer to embed and detect digital watermarks in images, print, physical products and packages; Downloadable computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; Downloadable computer software development tools; Downloadable computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) namely, for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; Downloadable computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media and information via computer and communication networks; Downloadable computer software for tracking physical items; Downloadable computer software for detecting and processing identifiers carried by physical items; Downloadable computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; Downloadable computer software for counterfeit deterrence of physical items; Downloadable computer software for aggregating information associated with digital identities for physical items; Downloadable computer software for enterprise resource planning; Downloadable computer software for data management; Downloadable computer software to maintain and operate cloud-based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; Downloadable computer software for associating programmable rules for user engagement and network interactions with digital identities for physical items; Downloadable computer software and communication software, namely, for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; Downloadable computer software for enabling detection and sorting of physical items Maintaining registries of digital identities for physical objects and information associated therewith; providing consumer product information regarding products for use with the creation of a unique digital identity for physical items; computer services, namely, providing an on-line cloud-based database for product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; Providing consumer production information namely, providing digital identification of products relating to consumer products via the internet Providing online non-downloadable software for reading a machine-readable pattern on product labels and retrieving information related to that product; providing online non-downloadable software for creating labels with a machine-readable pattern; Testing, analysis, and evaluation of technical parameters and guidelines to assure compliance with using digital watermarking according to industry standards; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable computer application software for embedding watermarks in image content; providing a website featuring on-line non-downloadable software that enables users to apply a machine-readable pattern in image content; computer design service in the field of designing machine-readable codes for recycling; providing technical information in the field of digital steganography; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for determining information provided in a digital watermark, two-dimensional bar code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for connecting information provided in a digital watermark, two-dimensional bar code, scannable barcode, radio frequency identification or near field communication tag with non-downloadable software that acts on such information in a predetermined manner; design and implementation of computer software and technology solutions for the purpose of product, object, and document authentication and tracking to protect against counterfeiting, tampering, and diversion; Design and implementation of software and technology solutions for the purpose of product and document authentication and tracking, and brand monitoring and protection, to ensure the integrity of genuine products and documents; providing on-line non-downloadable authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; Providing online non-downloadable software for creating digital identities for physical products; Providing graphic design services for providing digital representations of physical products; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement and scanner; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, two-dimensional bar codes, scannable barcodes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for providing programmable rules logic to support applications with product data through application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming tools; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for providing information associated with product items through dashboard interfaces and application programming interfaces (APIs) Anti-counterfeiting, anti-tampering, and anti-product diversion consulting in the fields of product and document authentication and tracking, and brand monitoring and protection, to protect against counterfeiting, tampering, and diversion, and to ensure the integrity of genuine products and documents
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Providing access to computer, electronic and online databases; telecommunications services, namely, electronic transmission of data, messages and information; providing online communications links which transfer Web site users to other local and global Web pages; audio and video broadcasting services over computer or other communication networks; electronic transmission of data, information, audio and video images; providing online information transmission services via digital networks that enables users to transfer product data to and share product data with and among multiple computer devices Providing information in the field of product container recycling Downloadable computer software for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; Downloadable computer software development tools; Downloadable computer software for use as application programming interfaces (APIs) for use with creating a unique digital identity for physical items; Downloadable computer software to enable uploading, downloading, accessing, posting, displaying, tagging, linking, sharing and transmitting electronic media or information via computer and communication networks; Downloadable computer software for tracking physical items; Downloadable computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items; Downloadable computer software for authenticating and verifying physical items for the purpose of counterfeit deterrence of physical items; Downloadable computer software for inventory management; Downloadable computer software for supply chain management of physical items; Downloadable computer software to maintain and operate cloud- based repositories for physical item information and physical item lifecycle information; Downloadable computer software provided via communication networks for providing information associated with digital identities of physical items; Downloadable computer software for enabling detection and sorting of physical items Marketing, advertising and promotion services; market research and business information services; promoting the goods and services of others via computer and communication networks; market intelligence and brand integrity evaluation services; Providing a website for connecting sellers with buyers, namely, buyer to supplier matching services in the field of marketing, advertising and promotion services rendered through an online computerized network; inventory and supply chain management services rendered through online computerized networks; Providing marketing reports and business information in the field of lifecycles of physical products; providing consumer product information relating to products from searchable indexes and databases of information, namely, text, electronic documents, databases, graphics and audio visual information, via computer and electronic communication networks, all for use with a unique digital identity for physical items Design and development services for computer hardware and software; computer programming; installation, maintenance and repair of computer software; computer software consultancy services; Design of computer databases services, namely, creating cloud-based data repositories to host product information and lifecycle data associated with digital identities, where the digital identities correspond to physical products; creating authentication software to validate products associated with digital identities over communication networks; creating supply chain and inventory management software associated with digital identities; computer services, namely, hosting computer software applications of others to organize, store and share information; application service provider (ASP) services featuring software for use in enabling and facilitating the uploading, downloading, posting, displaying, linking, sharing or otherwise providing electronic media or information over communication networks; providing temporary use of non-downloadable software applications to organize, store and share information; platform as a service (PaaS) featuring computer software platforms for use in connection with consumer and commercial products and services, namely, for digitally identifying products; providing graphic design of machine-readable codes for object sortation; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for use in issuing and managing digital identities for physical products; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for use in managing data from and about physical products; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for use in creating digital identities for product items; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for use in providing digital identities for physical product items at product manufacture; Graphic design services for providing digital representations of physical products; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for use in providing a uniform resource locator for an end user application engagement; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for managing multiple identifiers to support the use of a physical tagging system, namely, digital watermarks, two-dimensional bar code readers, barcodes, near field communications, and radio frequency identification; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software program development tools for use in creating programmable rules logic to support applications with product data through application programming interfaces (APIs); consumer packaged goods product authentication services; Services for providing digital identification of products, namely, digital authentication of consumer package goods
2D code patterns, such as digital watermark patterns, are formed on plastic objects by injection molding. In some implementations, a marked cell of the code pattern is not formed by a single mark on the mold surface, but by multiple discrete marks. Such marks can be exceedingly small (e.g., 50 microns or less—smaller than the width of a human hair), yet the resulting code pattern on the molded object is still readable from a distance. The small scale of the marks assures that the code pattern does not detract from object aesthetics, while also speeding the mold-marking process. Style transfer networks are employed in some implementations. The detailed technologies facilitate digital marking and identification of a great number of consumer plastic objects, thereby aiding recovery of such objects for recycling. Many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
The present disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including: i) rapid localization for machine-readable indicia including, e.g., 1-D and 2-D barcodes; and ii) barcode reading and decoders. One claim recites: an image processing method comprising: obtaining 2-dimensional (2D) image data representing a 1-dimensional (1D) barcode within a first image area; generating a plurality of scanlines across the first image area; for each of the plurality of scanlines, synchronizing the scanline, including decoding an initial set of numerical digits represented by the scanline, in which said synchronizing provides a scale estimate for the scanline; using a path decoder to decode remaining numerical digits within the scanline, the path decoder decoding multiple numerical digits in groups, in which the scale estimate is adapted as the remaining numerical digits are decoded; and providing decoded numerical digits as an identifier represented by the scanline. Of course, other combinations and claims are described within the present disclosure.
G06V 10/42 - Global feature extraction by analysis of the whole pattern, e.g. using frequency domain transformations or autocorrelation
H04N 19/44 - Decoders specially adapted therefor, e.g. video decoders which are asymmetric with respect to the encoder
H04N 19/90 - Methods or arrangements for coding, decoding, compressing or decompressing digital video signals using coding techniques not provided for in groups , e.g. fractals
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for elements within PDF files. One implementation encodes an artwork element under different encoding conditions, and selects a winner version based on resulting signal robustness and/or visibility. Other implementations generate PDF layer masks to help determine overall embedding robustness, including interference from layered elements. Other implementations are provided too.
Optical code signal components are generated and then transformed into signal bearing art that conveys machine readable data. The components of an optical code are optimized to achieve improved signal robustness, reliability, capacity and/or visual quality. An optimization program can determine spatial density, dot distance, dot size and signal component priority to optimize robustness. An optical code generator transforms tiles of an optical code or image embedded with the optical code into signal-bearing art using stipple, Voronoi, Delaunay or other graphic drawing methods so as to retain prioritized components of the optical code. The optical code is merged into a host image, such as imagery, text and graphics of a package or label, or it may be printed by itself, e.g., on an otherwise blank label or carton. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including steganographic embedding and digital watermarking. One combination includes an image processing method comprising: obtaining data representing a digital image; using one or more processors, embedding an information signal within the data representing a digital image, the information signal comprising a synchronization component and a message component, said embedding yielding altered data; transforming the altered data to estimate a print and optical capture process, said transforming yielding transformed, altered data; for each of a plurality of regions within the transformed, altered data, generating detectability measures, in which a first detectability measure comprises a measure corresponding to synchronization component strength within region of the transformed, altered data, and in which a second measure comprises a measure corresponding to message component strength within the region of the transformed, altered data; based on a combination of the detectability measures from each of the plurality of regions, determining a likelihood that the altered data, once printed on a physical substrate, will be detectable from optical scan data representing such. Of course, other features and combinations are described as well.
This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including signal encoding and digital watermarking. Image areas are selected in an encoded digital design, and corresponding areas from a printed version of the encoded digital design are evaluated to determined signal robustness after printing. One claim recites an image processing method for selecting image areas to test for robustness of encoded signals, the method comprising: obtaining digital artwork comprising a plurality of colors, the digital artwork comprising multiple instances of an encoded signal; selecting a set encoding tiles, and for each encoding tile determining encoding detectability measure associated therewith; creating a bin for each encoding technology used to encode the encoded signal; for each bin, removing any encoding tile having a detectability measure below a predetermined threshold; for each bin, prioritizing remaining encoding tiles; selecting an encoding tile based on the prioritization per bin, and spatially locating the selected encoding tile relative to the digital artwork. Other technology is described in this patent document.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A waste stream is analyzed and sorted to segregate different items for recycling. Certain features of the technology improve the accuracy with which waste stream items are diverted to collection repositories. Other features concern adaptation of neural networks in accordance with context information sensed from the waste. Still other features serve to automate and simplify maintenance of machine vision systems used in waste sorting. Yet other aspects of the technology concern marking 2D machine readable code data on items having complex surfaces (e.g., food containers with integral ribbing for structural strength or juice pooling), to mitigate issues that such surfaces can introduce in code reading. Still other aspects of the technology concern prioritizing certain blocks of conveyor belt imagery for analysis. Yet other aspects of the technology concern joint use of near infrared spectroscopy, artificial intelligence, digital watermarking, and/or other techniques, for waste sorting. A variety of further features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
63.
Data hiding through optimization of color error and modulation error
The present disclosure relates generally to data hiding for retail product packaging and other printed objects such as substrates. One embodiment embeds an information signal in a spot color for printing on various substrates. The spot color is screened, and overprinted with process color tint. The tint is modulated prior to overprinting with optimized signal tweaks. The optimization can include consideration of a detector spectral dependency (e.g., red and/or green illumination). Many other embodiments and combinations are described in the subject patent document.
G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
H04N 1/32 - Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver
G06V 10/56 - Extraction of image or video features relating to colour
A waste stream is analyzed and sorted to segregate different items for recycling. Certain features of the technology improve the accuracy with which waste stream items are diverted to collection repositories. Other features concern adaptation of neural networks in accordance with context information sensed from the waste. Still other features serve to automate and simplify maintenance of machine vision systems used in waste sorting. Yet other aspects of the technology concern marking 2D machine readable code data on items having complex surfaces (e.g., food containers with integral ribbing for structural strength or juice pooling), to mitigate issues that such surfaces can introduce in code reading. Still other aspects of the technology concern prioritizing certain blocks of conveyor belt imagery for analysis. Yet other aspects of the technology concern joint use of near infrared spectroscopy, artificial intelligence, digital watermarking, and/or other techniques, for waste sorting. A variety of further features and arrangements are also detailed.
B07C 5/342 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
B65G 47/26 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors arranging the articles, e.g. varying spacing between individual articles
G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
65.
Multi-mode audio recognition and auxiliary data encoding and decoding
Audio signal processing enhances audio watermark embedding and detecting processes. Audio signal processes include audio classification and adapting watermark embedding and detecting based on classification. Advances in audio watermark design include adaptive watermark signal structure data protocols, perceptual models, and insertion methods. Perceptual and robustness evaluation is integrated into audio watermark embedding to optimize audio quality relative the original signal, and to optimize robustness or data capacity. These methods are applied to audio segments in audio embedder and detector configurations to support real time operation. Feature extraction and matching are also used to adapt audio watermark embedding and detecting.
G10L 19/00 - Speech or audio signal analysis-synthesis techniques for redundancy reduction, e.g. in vocodersCoding or decoding of speech or audio signals, using source filter models or psychoacoustic analysis
G10L 19/018 - Audio watermarking, i.e. embedding inaudible data in the audio signal
G10L 19/02 - Speech or audio signal analysis-synthesis techniques for redundancy reduction, e.g. in vocodersCoding or decoding of speech or audio signals, using source filter models or psychoacoustic analysis using spectral analysis, e.g. transform vocoders or subband vocoders
A waste stream is analyzed and sorted to segregate different items for recycling. Certain features of the technology improve the accuracy with which waste stream items are diverted to collection repositories. Other features concern adaptation of neural networks in accordance with context information sensed from the waste. Still other features serve to automate and simplify maintenance of machine vision systems used in waste sorting. Yet other aspects of the technology concern marking 2D machine readable code data on items having complex surfaces (e.g., food containers with integral ribbing for structural strength or juice pooling), to mitigate issues that such surfaces can introduce in code reading. Still other aspects of the technology concern prioritizing certain blocks of conveyor belt imagery for analysis. Yet other aspects of the technology concern joint use of near infrared spectroscopy, artificial intelligence, digital watermarking, and/or other techniques, for waste sorting. A variety of further features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
67.
SERIALIZED DIGITAL WATERMARKING FOR VARIABLE DATA PRINTING
Variable data printing workflows are enhanced for use with content that includes 2D code patterns, such as digital watermark data. One arrangement includes applying a filter to a content stream within a PDF document to extract both first variable pattern data for a first watermark pattern and second variable pattern data for a second watermark pattern. A first composite watermark pattern is then defined based on the extracted first variable watermark pattern data in conjunction with static watermark pattern data, and a second composite watermark pattern is defined based on the extracted second variable watermark pattern data in conjunction with the static watermark pattern data. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
Consumer product labels sometime include 2D machine readable codes, such as digital watermark patterns. When such label artwork is printed on a plastic sleeve that is then heat-shrunk to conform to a plastic container, the code can become distorted and unreadable. Various techniques are detailed to cope with this problem. Additionally, methods are disclosed to assess—before a heat-shrink label is applied to a product—the expected final readability of any machine readable code included in the label artwork. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A vector graphics file includes at least one artwork layer and at least one watermark layer. The watermark layer comprises a pattern of vector graphics primitives, each of which is filled with a color that is a tinted variant of the color of the location in the artwork that the primitive overlies. Such layered arrangement enables the watermark to be added or omitted, and varied in strength, payload and appearance, at will. Yet the artwork is left unchanged through such manipulations. In some embodiments the watermark conveys a multi-symbol Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), and the file is used to generate a label or packaging for a food or general merchandise retail item. A great number of other arrangements, features and advantages are also detailed.
A sequence of images depicting an object is captured, e.g., by a camera at a point-of-sale terminal in a retail store. The object is identified, such as by a barcode or watermark that is detected from one or more of the images. Once the object's identity is known, such information is used in training a classifier (e.g., a machine learning system) to recognize the object from others of the captured images, including images that may be degraded by blur, inferior lighting, etc. In another arrangement, such degraded images are processed to identify feature points useful in fingerprint-based identification of the object. Feature points extracted from such degraded imagery aid in fingerprint-based recognition of objects under real life circumstances, as contrasted with feature points extracted from pristine imagery (e.g., digital files containing label artwork for such objects). A great variety of other features and arrangements—some involving designing classifiers so as to combat classifier copying—are also detailed.
In some arrangements, product packaging is digitally watermarked over most of its extent to facilitate high-throughput item identification at retail checkouts. Imagery captured by conventional or plenoptic cameras can be processed (e.g., by GPUs) to derive several different perspective-transformed views—further minimizing the need to manually reposition items for identification. Crinkles and other deformations in product packaging can be optically sensed, allowing such surfaces to be virtually flattened to aid identification. Piles of items can be 3D-modelled and virtually segmented into geometric primitives to aid identification, and to discover locations of obscured items. Other data (e.g., including data from sensors in aisles, shelves and carts, and gaze tracking for clues about visual saliency) can be used in assessing identification hypotheses about an item. Logos may be identified and used—or ignored—in product identification. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06V 10/40 - Extraction of image or video features
G06F 3/147 - Digital output to display device using display panels
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distributionInventory or stock management
A method for transforming an input array of pixel data into an output array of data, to yield enhanced expression of a digital watermark signal in the output array. One such method includes, for each pixel in the input array, generating a first datum that indicates a value difference between said pixel and a neighboring pixel in a first direction, the first data thereby collectively comprising a first directional difference array. Similarly, for each such pixel in the input array, generating a second datum that indicates a value difference between said pixel and a neighboring pixel in a second direction, the second data thereby collectively comprising a second directional difference array. One or more transforms to a spatial frequency domain are then performed, using these first and second directional difference arrays as input data. First and second results from the one or more transformations are then combined to yield an output array. The just detailed process causes the digital watermark signal in the output array to exhibit a greater signal-to-noise ratio than in the digital watermark signal in the input array. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including steganographic embedding and digital watermarking. One combination disclosed in the description includes an image processing method. The method includes: obtaining an image comprising a plurality of color channels; for each color channel of the plurality of color channels, creating a grayscale version of the color channel and creating an inverted greyscale version of the color channel; analyzing the grayscale inverted version and the grayscale non-inverted version to locate image areas including an encoded signal, said analyzing yielding a plurality of image areas; generating one or more detectability measures corresponding to the encoded signal for each of the plurality of image areas; for each color channel selecting only one (1) image area as a validation point based on one or more generated detectability measures for that color channel; and generating information associated with a spatial location of each of the validation points in the image. Of course, other features and combinations are described as well.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06V 10/50 - Extraction of image or video features by performing operations within image blocksExtraction of image or video features by using histograms, e.g. histogram of oriented gradients [HoG]Extraction of image or video features by summing image-intensity valuesProjection analysis
74.
Determining spatial distance using encoding signals
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for containers such as shipping boxes, food containers, wrapped items such as pallets. One aspect of the technology relates to an image processing method for determining spatial dimensions of an encoded surface. The method comprises: obtaining an image depicting the encoded surface, in which the encoded surface comprises one or more raw data signal tiles printed thereon, with each tile comprising a side length N in inches or centimeters; detecting each of the one or more raw data signal tiles from the obtained image; determining a total number of tiles in a vertical direction, and determining a total number of tiles in a horizontal direction; determining a height and length of the encoded surface by multiplying each of the total number of tiles in a vertical direction and the total number of tiles in a horizontal direction by the side length N. Other aspects are described as well.
B65H 7/14 - Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles by feelers or detectors by photoelectric feelers or detectors
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
75.
Color managed embedding system for embedding signals in color artwork
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding. Digital files representing artwork for printed objects, e.g., product packaging, labels and hangtags, can be encoded to carry information. One implementation obtains a color image representing CMY color channels, and alters the color image to include an encoded signal by altering values representing CIELAB a* and b*, all the while keeping L* on or within a predetermined tolerance of a contour representing a constant value. Other implementations are provided.
This disclosure relates to image signal processing technology including signal encoding. One claim recites a method of detecting plural-bit code conflicts within an image, the image includes at least one color separation. The image includes a first plural-bit code carried by a first symbology, and a second plural-bit code carried by a second symbology, the first symbology and the second symbology comprising different symbology types. The method includes: accessing a subset of the image that comprises the first plural-bit code carried by the first symbology; analyzing the subset of the image to decode the first plural-bit code; analyzing the at least one color separation to spatially locate and decode the second plural-bit code carried by the second symbology; comparing the first plural-bit code and the second plural-bit code; and outputting information if a conflict is identified by said act of comparing, in which the information comprises a spatial location within the image of the conflict. Of course, other claims, features and combinations are described as well.
In an illustrative embodiment, watermark decoding reliability is increased, for images of watermarked objects captured at close distances, by reducing influence of pixel noise (e.g., shot noise). In the same or different embodiment, watermark decoding reliability is increased, for images of watermarked objects captured from far distances, by reducing image under-sampling. A particular implementation down-samples input imagery twice—a first time by a fixed factor, preparatory to performing an FFT, and a second time by a variable factor, preparatory to submitting the image for decoding, where the variable factor is determined using results from the FFT. A number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
Signal processing devices and methods estimate a geometric transform of an image. One method measures correlation between a transformed reference signal component and an image, updates, based on the measured correlation that is below a threshold, coordinates of the reference signal component to a location within a neighborhood around the coordinates of the transformed reference signal component; determines a new geometric transform that transforms the reference signal components to updated coordinates; and applies the new geometric transform to extract encoded digital data from the image.
In one aspect, a 2D machine readable code is mimicked by a collection of graphic elements. This can involve choosing a location, within an input 2D code block, at which correlation between a first graphic element and the input 2D code block is maximized. An area around this location is then disqualified from further consideration. A second location is next chosen, within the input 2D code block but outside the disqualified area, at which correlation between a second graphic element and the input 2D code block is maximized. The process continues in this fashion, adding graphics and removing additional areas from consideration, until a threshold number of graphic elements has been placed. The elements are then assembled in their corresponding locations to yield a composite image block that provides features mimicking that of the input 2D code block, thereby enabling the composite image block to be decoded by a compliant code reader. A great variety of other signal rich art arrangements are also detailed.
In one aspect, an elongated lighting module includes plural colors of LEDs that flash in a cyclical sequence to provide multi-spectral illumination. Several such modules can be arranged end-to-end to span a conveyor system that transports a stream of plastic waste items in a recycling center, enabling capture of differently-illuminated image frames depicting the items. Each module may include N LEDs of a first color (e.g., red) and M LEDs of a second color (e.g., blue), where N and M are different. Drive circuitry can be simplified by configuring the LEDs in strings of common colors, but with different counts. Electrical noise due to switching transients can be reduced by operating the LEDs at a low current when not being flashed. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A steganographic digital watermark signal is decoded from host imagery without requiring a domain transformation for signal synchronization, thereby speeding and simplifying the decoding operation. In time-limited applications, such as in supermarket point-of-sale scanners that attempt watermark decode operations on dozens of video frames every second, the speed improvement allows a greater percentage of each image frame to be analyzed for watermark data. In battery-powered mobile devices, avoidance of repeated domain transformations extends battery life. A great variety of other features and arrangements, including machine learning aspects, are also detailed.
This disclosure details image and audio signal processing methods and associated equipment to robustly encode transaction parameters in rendered displays, printed objects and audio. It also details corresponding decoding methods and equipment to recover these parameters. Further, it details object authentication processing and equipment to validate a transaction for an object, employing a trust network protocol for maintaining a trusted transaction history of the object. Various alternative forms of this technology are described.
G10L 19/018 - Audio watermarking, i.e. embedding inaudible data in the audio signal
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions
H04N 19/136 - Incoming video signal characteristics or properties
Inventory on a rack of store shelves is monitored by a camera-equipped system that senses when items have been removed. Image data is desirably sensed at plural spectral bands, to enhance item identification by digital watermark and/or other image recognition techniques. The system can be alert to the presence of nearby shoppers, and change its mode of operation in response, e.g., suppressing flash illumination or suspending image capture. The system may self-calibrate to the geometry of shelving in its field of view, and affine-correct captured imagery based on the camera's viewpoint. A great many other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
H04N 5/235 - Circuitry for compensating for variation in the brightness of the object
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A plastic item, such as a beverage bottle, can convey two distinct digital watermarks, encoded using two distinct signaling protocols. A first, printed label watermark conveys a retailing payload, including a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) used by a point-of-sale scanner in a retail store to identify and price the item when presented for checkout. A second, plastic texture watermark may convey a recycling payload, including data identifying the composition of the plastic. The use of two different signaling protocols assures that a point-of-sale scanner will not spend its limited time and computational resources working to decode the recycling watermark, which may lack data needed for retail checkout. In some embodiments, a recycling apparatus makes advantageous use of both types of watermarks to identify the plastic composition of the item (e.g., relating GTIN to plastic type using an associated database), thereby increasing the fraction of items that are correctly identified for sorting and recycling. In other embodiments the plastic item (or a label thereon) bears only a single watermark. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
The present disclosure relates to signal decoding and icon (e.g., a logo, shape, icon, etc.) detection. In some implementations, a series of filters are applied to scanlines to determine whether an icon is present. Other aspects, combinations and implementations are described as well.
This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including signal encoding and digital watermarking. Image areas are selected in an encoded digital design, and corresponding areas from a printed version of the encoded digital design are evaluated to determined signal robustness after printing. One claim recites an image processing method for selecting image areas to test for robustness of encoded signals, the method comprising: obtaining digital artwork comprising a plurality of colors, the digital artwork comprising multiple instances of an encoded signal; selecting a set encoding tiles, and for each encoding tile determining encoding detectability measure associated therewith; creating a bin for each encoding technology used to encode the encoded signal; for each bin, removing any encoding tile having a detectability measure below a predetermined threshold; for each bin, prioritizing remaining encoding tiles; selecting an encoding tile based on the prioritization per bin, and spatially locating the selected encoding tile relative to the digital artwork. Other technology is described in this patent document.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
This disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including encoded signals and digital watermarking. One implementation is directed to a printed object comprising: a white substrate or background comprising a first area; an ink mixture printed at a first plurality of spatial locations within the first area, the ink mixture printed such that the first area comprises a second plurality of spatial locations without the ink mixture, the ink mixture comprising extender white and Green 7 ink, the ink mixture comprising a volume or weight ratio of 97.5% to 99.75% white extender and 2.5%-0.25% Green 7 ink; in which the first plurality of spatial locations is arranged in a pattern conveying an encoded signal, and in which the white substrate or background and the ink mixture comprise a spectral reflectivity difference at or around 660 nm in a difference range of 8%-30%. Of course, other implementations, methods, packages, systems and apparatus are described in this patent document.
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for flexographic printing plates. One aspect is a flexographic, photopolymer printing plate having transparent layers to allow encoded signal printed or laser ablated thereon to be detectable from both sides of the printing plate. Another aspect is a flexographic, photopolymer printing plate having an encoded signal formed in a photocured layer. Still another aspect is a system for tracking such printing plates, including managing location, print impression count, location tracking, etc. Other aspects are described as well.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
B41N 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
B41N 1/12 - Printing plates or foilsMaterials therefor non-metallic other than stone
89.
Artwork generated to convey digital messages, and methods/apparatuses for generating such artwork
2D machine readable symbologies are stylized and made aesthetically-appealing, facilitating their use to convey plural-symbol data on product packaging and other articles. In some arrangements, a symbology is mimicked as a collage of excerpts from a style image (e.g., a photograph or other artwork). To human viewers, the stylized symbology resembles the style image, rather than the 2D symbology. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
H04N 1/32 - Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver
90.
ENCODING SIGNALS ON FLEXOGRAPHIC PRINTING PLATES TO ENABLE TRACKING AND MANAGEMENT
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for flexographic printing plates. One aspect is a flexographic, photopolymer printing plate having transparent layers to allow encoded signal printed or laser ablated thereon to be detectable from both sides of the printing plate. Another aspect is a flexographic, photopolymer printing plate having an encoded signal formed in a photocured layer. Still another aspect is a system for tracking such printing plates, including managing location, print impression count, location tracking, etc. Other aspects are described as well.
B32B 7/03 - Layered products characterised by the relation between layers Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers with respect to the orientation of features
C08F 299/02 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by interreacting polymers involving only carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bond reactions, in the absence of non-macromolecular monomers from unsaturated polycondensates
G03C 5/08 - PhotoprintingProcesses or means for preventing photoprinting
A plastic item, such as a beverage bottle, conveys two distinct digital watermarks, encoded using two distinct signaling protocols. A first, printed label watermark conveys a retailing payload, including a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) used by a point-of-sale scanner in a retail store to identify and price the item when presented for checkout. A second, plastic texture watermark conveys a recycling payload, including data identifying the composition of the plastic. The use of two different signaling protocols assures that a point-of-sale scanner will not spend its limited time and computational resources working to decode the recycling watermark, which lacks the data needed for retail checkout. In some embodiments, a recycling apparatus makes advantageous use of both types of watermarks to identify the plastic composition of the item (e.g., relating GTIN to plastic type using an associated database), thereby increasing the fraction of items that are correctly identified for sorting and recycling. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G09C 5/00 - Ciphering or deciphering apparatus or methods not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. involving the concealment or deformation of graphic data such as designs, written or printed messages
H04N 21/2389 - Multiplex stream processing, e.g. multiplex stream encrypting
H04N 21/44 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to encoded video stream scene graphs
H04N 21/8358 - Generation of protective data, e.g. certificates involving watermark
H04N 23/00 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensorsControl thereof
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for elements within PDF files. One implementation encodes an artwork element under different encoding conditions, and selects a winner version based on resulting signal robustness and/or visibility. Other implementations generate PDF layer masks to help determine overall embedding robustness, including interference from layered elements. Other implementations are provided too.
The present disclosure relates generally to signal encoding for printed objects. One implementation selects an embed direction based on a minimal visibility axis of a 1 JND ellipse at a certain color center. One claim recites an apparatus comprising: memory for storing chromatic contrast sensitivity data representing multiple color encoding angles; one or more multi-core processors configured for: using the stored chromatic contrast sensitivity data, generating an ellipse around a first color center; and from the ellipse, determining a signal encode direction, the signal encode direction comprising an angle α representing a negative angle between the ‘a*’ axis in an CIELAB space and a direction of minimum sensitivity of an encoded signal, in which the angle α comprises −9 degrees≥α≥−25 degrees. Other technology described.
The present disclosure relates to signal processing such as image processing, signal encoding, digital watermarking and data hiding. One claim recites a method including: capturing imagery corresponding to a printed object with a red or blue illumination source, the red or blue illumination source having an illumination wavelength at or around 660 nm or an illumination wavelength in the range of 60 nm centered around 460 nm, said capturing imagery yielding captured data; wherein the printed object includes a clear coat printed thereon, the clear coat including a material that has a peak absorbance at or around 660 nm or in the range of 60 nm centered around 460 nm, the clear coat printed in a manner to convey an encoded plural-bit message, the encoded plural-bit message corresponding to product information; analyzing the captured data with one or more programmed multi-core processors to decode the encoded plural-bit message, said analyzing yielding the product information; and providing the product information as an output. Of course, other claims, technology and combinations are disclosed.
G06K 7/12 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using a selected wavelength, e.g. to sense red marks and ignore blue marks
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G07D 7/00 - Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of valuable papers or for segregating those which are unacceptable, e.g. banknotes that are alien to a currency
The parameters of an optical code are optimized to achieve improved signal robustness, reliability, capacity and/or visual quality. An optimization program can determine spatial density, dot distance, dot size and signal component priority to optimize robustness. An optical code generator employs these parameters to produce an optical code at the desired spatial density and robustness. The optical code is merged into a host image, such as imagery, text and graphics of a package or label, or it may be printed by itself, e.g., on an otherwise blank label or carton. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A surface is laser-etched to convey a 2D machine-readable code pattern. Various strategies are detailed to minimize the etching time. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to reduce a path length traveled by the laser. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to make it sub-optimal, i.e., making the code pattern a less-faithful approximation of an ideal code pattern. In some embodiments the etched surface is the surface of a plastic container, and the code pattern conveys information indicating the type of plastic of which the container is manufactured. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
A surface is laser-etched to convey a 2D machine-readable code pattern. Various strategies are detailed to minimize the etching time. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to reduce a path length traveled by the laser. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to make it sub-optimal, i.e., making the code pattern a less-faithful approximation of an ideal code pattern. In some embodiments the etched surface is the surface of a plastic container, and the code pattern conveys information indicating the type of plastic of which the container is manufactured. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A surface is laser-etched to convey a 2D machine-readable code pattern. Various strategies are detailed to minimize the etching time. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to reduce a path length traveled by the laser. Some strategies include modifying the code pattern to make it sub-optimal, i.e., making the code pattern a less-faithful approximation of an ideal code pattern. In some embodiments the etched surface is the surface of a plastic container, and the code pattern conveys information indicating the type of plastic of which the container is manufactured. A variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.
A thermoplastic resin, such as PET, is molded to define a 2D code signal, such as a digital watermark pattern. The mold can comprise an array of hole or spike features, some of which are directly vented to atmospheric pressure. A network of channels can link the other features to the directly-vented features, so all features are vented. A mold comprising spike features can form a digital watermark pattern on an item such that the watermark payload is decodable both from the side of the item that contacted the mold, and also from the opposite, non-contact side of the item. To aid entry of viscous thermoplastic among the very fine elemental features of a mold representing a watermark signal pattern, the features can be overlapped, forming a connected binary mark having larger features. A variety of other improvements and arrangements are also detailed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
A thermoplastic resin, such as PET, is molded to define a 2D code signal, such as a digital watermark pattern. The mold can comprise an array of hole or spike features, some of which are directly vented to atmospheric pressure. A network of channels can link the other features to the directly-vented features, so all features are vented. A mold comprising spike features can form a digital watermark pattern on an item such that the watermark payload is decodable both from the side of the item that contacted the mold, and also from the opposite, non-contact side of the item. To aid entry of viscous thermoplastic among the very fine elemental features of a mold representing a watermark signal pattern, the features can be overlapped, forming a connected binary mark having larger features. A variety of other improvements and arrangements are also detailed.
B29C 59/02 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossingApparatus therefor by mechanical means, e.g. pressing
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
B29C 59/00 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossingApparatus therefor
