Abstract: A form of stochastic random distribution is used to print an invisible watermark using a typical, e.g., 600 dpi, printer. The watermark contains such information as “Do Not Copy,” or other such information. Although the watermark is not visible on a first generation version of a document that is printed, various techniques are used to print the watermark in such a way that it becomes readily apparent when the first generation document is photocopied. The preferred embodiment of the invention is concerned with a technique for improving such techniques, for example so that gray levels are improved to address variations from printer to printer. Another preferred embodiment of the invention is also concerned with a technique for performing error diffusion watermarking without the need for performing a calibration step.

Abstract: A form of stochastic random distribution is used to print an invisible watermark using a typical, e.g., 600 dpi, printer. The watermark contains such information as “Do Not Copy,” or other such information. Although the watermark is not visible on a first generation version of a document that is printed, various techniques are used to print the watermark in such a way that it becomes readily apparent when the first generation document is photocopied. The preferred embodiment of the invention is concerned with a technique for improving such techniques, for example so that gray levels are improved to address variations from printer to printer. Another preferred embodiment of the invention is also concerned with a technique for performing error diffusion watermarking without the need for performing a calibration step.

Abstract: A form of stochastic random distribution is used to print an invisible watermark using a typical, e.g., 600 dpi, printer. The watermark contains such information as “Do Not Copy,” or other such information. Although the watermark is not visible on a first generation version of a document that is printed, various techniques are used to print the watermark in such a way that it becomes readily apparent when the first generation document is photocopied. The preferred embodiment of the invention is concerned with a technique for improving such techniques, for example so that gray levels are improved to address variations from printer to printer. Another preferred embodiment of the invention is also concerned with a technique for performing error diffusion watermarking without the need for performing a calibration step.

Abstract: A Wafer Image Modeling and Prediction System (“WIMAPS”) is described that includes systems and methods that generate and/or apply models of resolution enhancement techniques (“RET”) and printing processes in integrated circuit (“IC”) fabrication. The WIMAPS provides efficient processes for use by designers in predicting the RET and wafer printing process so as to allow designers to filter predict printed silicon contours prior to application of RET and printing processes to the circuit design.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided to smooth a jagged outline of a reconstructed text generated through any of a variety of systems, such as, for example, an image scanner. Given the reconstructed text with a jagged outline, the methods smooth the outline of the text first through location of horizontal and vertical edges, and subsequent gray scale reconstruction of the edge ink level from a one-bit or a low number of bits edge pattern. The methods then provide identification of the local text outline pattern and corresponding ink level adjustment of the center pixel. The methods produce text having very smooth horizontal and vertical edges. The methods then smooth slanted edges, mend holes in the text, and remove isolated pixels of ink.

Abstract: A form of stochastic random distribution is used to print an invisible watermark using a typical, e.g. 600 dpi, printer. The watermark contains such information as “Do Not Copy,” or other such information. While the watermark is not visible on a first generation version of a document that is printed, various techniques are used to print the watermark in such a way that it becomes readily apparent when the first generation document is photocopied. The preferred embodiment of the invention is concerned with a technique for improving such techniques, for example so that gray levels are improved to address variations from printer to printer. Another preferred embodiment of the invention is also concerned with a technique for performing error diffusion watermarking without the need for performing a calibration step.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for converting binary image data at a first resolution to binary image data at a second resolution, the methods including detecting the edges of the binary image data, sampling a corresponding point on or substantially near each of the edges, fitting a curve between the sampled points, and re-sampling the curve at the second resolution.

Abstract: A text detection technique comprises local ramp detection, identification of intensity troughs (candidate text strokes), determination of stroke width, preliminary detection of text based on contrast and stroke width, and a consistency check.

Abstract: A Wafer Image Modeling and Prediction System (“WIMAPS”) is described that includes systems and methods that generate and/or apply models of resolution enhancement techniques (“RET”) and printing processes in integrated circuit (“IC”) fabrication.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided to smooth a jagged outline of a reconstructed text generated through any of a variety of systems, such as, for example, an image scanner. Given the reconstructed text with a jagged outline, the methods smooth the outline of the text first through location of horizontal and vertical edges, and subsequent gray scale reconstruction of the edge ink level from a one-bit or a low number of bits edge pattern. The methods then provide identification of the local text outline pattern and corresponding ink level adjustment of the center pixel. The methods produce text having very smooth horizontal and vertical edges. The methods then smooth slanted edges, mend holes in the text, and remove isolated pixels of ink.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for converting binary image data at a first resolution to binary image data at a second resolution, the methods including detecting the edges of the binary image data, sampling a corresponding point on or substantially near each of the edges, fitting a curve between the sampled points, and re-sampling the curve at the second resolution.

Abstract: A text detection technique comprises local ramp detection, identification of intensity troughs (candidate text strokes), determination of stroke width, preliminary detection of text based on contrast and stroke width, and a consistency check.

Abstract: A text detection technique comprises local ramp detection, identification of intensity troughs (candidate text strokes), determination of stroke width, preliminary detection of text based on contrast and stroke width, and a consistency check.

Abstract: A form of stochastic random distribution is used to print an invisible watermark using a typical, e.g. 600 dpi, printer. The watermark contains such information as “Do Not Copy,” or other such information. While the watermark is not visible on a first generation version of a document that is printed, various techniques are used to print the watermark in such a way that it becomes readily apparent when the first generation document is photocopied. The preferred embodiment of the invention is concerned with a technique for improving such techniques, for example so that gray levels are improved to address variations from printer to printer. Another preferred embodiment of the invention is also concerned with a technique for performing error diffusion watermarking without the need for performing a calibration step.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided to smooth a jagged outline of a reconstructed text generated through any of a variety of systems, such as, for example, an image scanner. Given the reconstructed text with a jagged outline, the methods smooth the outline of the text first through location of horizontal and vertical edges, and subsequent gray scale reconstruction of the edge ink level from a one-bit or a low number of bits edge pattern. The methods then provide identification of the local text outline pattern and corresponding ink level adjustment of the center pixel. The methods produce text having very smooth horizontal and vertical edges. The methods then smooth slanted edges, mend holes in the text, and remove isolated pixels of ink.

Abstract: A text detection technique comprises local ramp detection, identification of intensity troughs (candidate text strokes), determination of stroke width, preliminary detection of text based on contrast and stroke width, and a consistency check.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided to smooth a jagged outline of a reconstructed text generated through any of a variety of systems, such as, for example, an image scanner. Given the reconstructed text with a jagged outline, the methods smooth the outline of the text first through location of horizontal and vertical edges, and subsequent gray scale reconstruction of the edge ink level from a one-bit or a low number of bits edge pattern. The methods then provide identification of the local text outline pattern and corresponding ink level adjustment of the center pixel. The methods produce text having very smooth horizontal and vertical edges. The methods then smooth slanted edges, mend holes in the text, and remove isolated pixels of ink.

Abstract: The quality of spiral images depends on whether actual k-space sampling points are at their nominal positions. Although newer gradient systems can provide more accurate gradient waveforms, timing mis-registration between data acquisition and gradient systems can significantly distort the positions of samples. Even after the timing of data acquisition is tuned, minor residual errors can still cause shading artifacts which are problematic for quantitative MRI applications, such as the phase-contrast method. Although ideally measuring the actual k-space trajectory can correct for the timing errors, it requires additional data acquisition and scan time. The present invention employs off-centered spiral trajectories which are more robust against timing errors and applies them to the phase-contrast method. The new trajectories turn shading artifacts into a slowly-varying linear phase in reconstructed images without affecting the magnitude of images.