3D Sketching Technique Interprets 2D Strokes as Continuous Curves

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current three-dimensional (3D) sketching techniques face challenges in interpreting imprecise user strokes as continuous curves and converting two-dimensional (2D) input into accurate 3D data, limiting the ability to create complex and non-planar 3D models.

Innovation Solution

The method involves a 3D sketching technique that enables users to create a 3D curve network by interpreting 2D strokes in 3D space, allowing for editing and conversion of curves into a consistent network, with tools for adding depth and manipulating surface normals, facilitating the creation of complex 3D shapes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If 2D sketch input is used for 3D modeling, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to difficulty in correctly sketching existing objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of sketchingVSAvoidaccuracy of 3D model
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that takes imprecise 2D sketch input and automatically generates accurate 3D models. The system acts as a mediator between the user's casual sketching and the precise 3D representation, using algorithms to interpret stroke sequences, infer 3D geometry, and resolve ambiguities automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by automatically interpreting and converting user sketches into 3D models without requiring manual correction or precise input. The algorithm autonomously handles stroke analysis, curve fitting, and 3D reconstruction, allowing users to benefit from both ease of sketching and high precision output.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If imprecise user strokes are accepted as input, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in interpreting loose drawings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecasual sketching capabilityVSAvoidprecision of curve interpretation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the algorithm continuously refines its interpretation of user strokes. By analyzing stroke sequences, detecting patterns, and iteratively improving curve fitting, the system provides feedback that enhances precision while maintaining the casual nature of input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates multiple representations or copies of the original sketch input at different levels of abstraction. The system generates intermediate representations, curve fits, and 3D model versions, allowing it to work with imprecise input while producing precise output through progressive refinement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If 2D sketch input is converted to 3D data, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to interpret and convert between dimensions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to create 3D models from 2D inputVSAvoidcomplexity of interpretation system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex conversion process into distinct modular stages: stroke input acquisition, stroke sequence analysis, 3D geometry inference, curve fitting, and model generation. Each module handles a specific aspect of the conversion, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves universality by designing a multi-functional platform that can handle various types of sketch inputs, different 3D model types, and multiple interpretation algorithms. This universal framework reduces complexity by providing a single integrated solution rather than separate systems for different tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10019440B2Methods and apparatus for three-dimensional (3D) sketching
Publication Date: 2018.07.10 ADOBE INC
  • US10019440B2 patent drawing
  • US10019440B2 patent drawing
  • US10019440B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus for 3D sketching may provide an interface for creating 3D drawings from 2D and 3D input, and for creating 3D curve networks. The technique may provide tools for 2D sketching that enable 2D sketching in 3D space, and for creating a network of intersecting 3D curves. The technique may provide user interface elements and techniques that facilitate the curve drawing tasks. For 2D sketching, the technique may provide methods for interpreting imprecise user 2D strokes as continuous, high-quality 3D curves. The technique may provide the ability to edit existing 3D curves using sketched 2D strokes. The technique may enable sketching of 3D curves by rotating a drawing plane and/or by creating drawing surfaces on which curves may be added. The technique may provide user interface elements for converting curves in 3D space into a curve network.