DIGITAL WATERMARKING USING PHASE-SHIFT STOCLUSTIC SCREENS

A system and method for digital watermark embedding and retrieval using phase shift stoclustic (stochastically clustered) screens. Watermarks are embedded based on the phase shift of clustered halftone screens. Therefore, the hidden information, or invisible watermark, can be detected and visualized by correlating clusters as opposed to the pixel-based correlation required by other methods. Therefore, the detection of watermarks is much easier, especially when distortions have been introduced into the embedded image. By replacing regular cluster halftone screens with stoclustic screens for hidden watermarks, watermarks can quickly be embedded and retrieved