Abstract: A method (1000) of measuring performance parameters of an imaging device (120, 160) is disclosed. The method (1000) maintains a test pattern image (1005), the test pattern image (1005) comprising alignment features and image analysis features. A test chart (110, 170) containing a representation of the test pattern image is next imaged using the imaging device (120, 160) to form a second image (1010). The test pattern image (1005) and the second image (1010) are then registered using region based matching (1035) operating on the alignment features. Finally, the performance parameters are measured by analysing (1060) the image analysis features.

Abstract: A method (200) of determining at least rotation and scale parameters of a transformation relating two images is disclosed. The method (200) starts by forming a spatial domain representation of each of the images that is invariant to translation of the images. A correlation in the log-polar domain is next performed between the representations. After detecting a magnitude peak in the correlation, the method (200) determines the rotation and scale parameters from the position of the magnitude peak.

Abstract: A method (400) is disclosed for estimating an affine relation between a first image and a second image. The first and second images each have at least 4 non-parallel lines therein. The method (400) starts by identifying (406) sets of intersection points of the lines appearing in each of the images. The method (400) then determines (412) whether a relation between intersection points exists. If the relation exists then the first and second images are affine related and the affine distortion may be inverted (418).

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program for generating a barcode (200) representing one or more portions of data is disclosed. A block-based correlatable pattern of data is generated and the generated data patterns are arranged according to a predetermined arrangement. The one or more portions of data are interdispersed with the arranged data patterns to generate the barcode (200).

Abstract: A method (500) of generating a matching key (599) for an image (501) is disclosed. The matching key (599) is substantially invariant to rotation, scale and translation. The method (500) starts by forming a spatial domain representation of the image (501) that is substantially invariant to translation of the image (501). Rotation and/or scaling in the spatial domain representation is next transformed (580) into translation to form a transformed image. A representation of the transformed image is then formed that is substantially invariant to translation of the transformed image. The representation of the transformed image is the matching key (599) for the image (501).

Abstract: An anti-tampering method for processing documents is disclosed. The method comprises, in regard to an encoding step, the steps of resolving (in a step 2303) in regard to an N-level image to be recorded, a pixel of the image into a major component having N possible values, selecting (in the step 2303) a pattern element depending upon the major component and the position of the pixel in the image, and recording the selected pattern element (in a step 2308) onto a transfer medium. In regard to a corresponding decoding step the method comprises extracting (in a step 2405) from the recorded document, a retrieved pattern element for said pixel, determining a pattern element (in a step 2407) depending upon a major component extracted from the retrieved pattern element and the position of the pixel on the recorded document, and comparing (in a step 2409) the retrieved pattern element and the said determined pattern element.

Abstract: A method (200) of enhanced peak detection in a correlation signal (g(x)) is disclosed. The method (200) comprises identifying (215) in the correlation signal (g(x)) positions where the modulus value of the correlation signal is above a first predetermined value. Each of the identified positions is then processed by forming (220) a sub-signal from the correlation signal by isolating a region of samples, the region comprising substantially equal numbers of samples on opposite sides of the identified position. The sub-signal is then up-sampled (221, 222, 225) to a higher resolution using Fourier interpolation. The up-sampled sub-signal is searched (230) for a peak value, and when the peak value is greater than a second predetermined value, parameters associated with the peak value is stored (236).

Abstract: A betting system (1) allows participants to place wagers on events, where those wagers are placed with an organiser. This particular system has been developed to cater for those participants who wish to place wagers on thoroughbred horse races. System (1) is implemented electronically with various computer servers, relays, switches and interfaces and the like.