Global Graphics Software granted US patent for solving PDF file headache
Global Graphics Software has been granted a patent in the US for methods and systems for identifying and tagging outlined or converted texts in PDF files.
The company, based at Cambourne Park Science and Technology Campus, says the breakthrough will help brand owners who want to maintain control over their artwork while saving time and resources.
Its technology enables live text properties of a PDF file to be preserved, while preventing unauthorised editing or font substitution. When brand owners send their artwork to reprographic studios for different printing processes for presses, the studios often outline fonts in a PDF file to avoid licensing issues and ensure the integrity of the artwork.
The downside of this is that the archived file has no live text and can therefore not easily be searched or edited.
Nigel Wild, product owner at Global Graphics Software and co-inventor of the patent, said: “This invention provides a solution that combines security and flexibility for PDF files with live text properties. The challenge was to find a way to protect the PDF file from unwanted changes, while allowing the user to access the live text properties if needed.
“For example, if a text change must be made to a printed label, such as an ingredient change, the user would have to manually read all the files that could be affected and determine which ones need to be updated. This could be a very time-consuming and error-prone task.
“This invention solves this problem by creating a hidden layer in the PDF file that contains the live text properties, such as the actual live text at outlining stage, the location, font, style, size, and colour of the text.
“The user can then extract this data and store it for review. Now hundreds of thousands of files can be searched very quickly for a specific text string and files that need to be updated can be identified in seconds rather than months. Moreover, it also enables the user to reactivate the text if legitimate edits are required.”
Justin Bailey, managing director of Global Graphics Software, added: “Our SmartDFE for labels and packaging has prepress and workflow components that are being enhanced through the application of this invention, creating additional value for our OEM partners and subsequently their end user customers.
“I am pleased that by securing this important patent other operating companies in the Hybrid Software Group will benefit, particularly HYBRID Software, whose PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW applications are focused on label and packaging markets, where this invention will enable new efficiencies in their customers’ standard operating procedures.”
