Systems and methods for generating individualized 3D head models

Abstract

Systems and methods are disclosed for generating a substantially life-like, individualized three-dimensional (3D) head model. In one example, the method includes reconstructing a 3D face mask from the input image data of an individual's head or face. Detected facial landmarks of the reconstructed face mask are aligned with corresponding facial landmarks of a generic head model, and the remainder of the head is reconstructed by generating a blend fit head model from a weighted combination of basis head models. The blend fit model is then deformed to more accurately reflect the facial and / or head geometry of the individual. The method may further include associating an animation rig with the individualized 3D head model that allows for simulated movement of the 3D head model in, for example, personalized media content.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to the following United States provisional patent applications, each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to be considered part of this specification:[0002]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 989,251, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING A 3D MODEL OF A HEAD AND FACE”;[0003]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 014,353, filed Dec. 17, 2007, and entitled “INTERACTIVE ADVERTISING AND NETWORK ACCESSIBLE CONTENT”;[0004]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 014,680, filed Dec. 18, 2007, and entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VOICE PERSONALIZATION OF VIDEO CONTENT”; and[0005]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 015,083, filed Dec. 19, 2007, and entitled “USER COMPOSITION TOOLS AND METHODS FOR CUSTOMIZING IMAGE DATA.”[0006]The present application is also related to the following applications filed on even date here...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables users to create highly accurate, customizable 3D head models for various media applications, including video games, advertisements, and interactive content, improving accuracy and user accessibility while reducing costs.

Problems solved by technology

One of the most intriguing and difficult problems in computer graphics is the creation of life-like human models and the photorealistic animation of those human models.

This technique often results in a distorted image that varies substantially from the individual's actual head proportions.

The accuracy of this technique may be high for reproducing a life-like model, but such systems can be prohibitively expensive for most consumers.

As can be seen, these and other model-generation techniques, have significant drawbacks in that (i) they do not accurately reproduce a model of a user's head, (ii) they can require substantial knowledge to operate, and / or (iii) they are not applicable in many applications in which the average consumer desires them.