3D Texture Map Segmentation for Faster Model Customization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D modeling software limits the ability to efficiently select and apply textures to multiple portions of a 3D model, requiring manual manipulation and leading to time-consuming and error-prone processes, especially when dealing with large numbers of different surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A system that maps a selected point on a 3D model to texture space and uses a segmentation algorithm, such as the 'Segment Anything Model', to identify and segment related portions of the texture map, allowing for automatic selection and modification of textures across the model without manual manipulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual manipulation of the 3D object is used to select and change textures, then the customization can be performed, but the process becomes tedious and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetexture selection processVSAvoidtime required for customization

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation of the 3D object with an automated image processing system. Users simply provide a 2D reference image, and the system automatically performs texture mapping, segmentation, and application to the 3D model, eliminating tedious manual operations and significantly reducing customization time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables the 3D model to serve itself by automatically identifying and applying textures based on the provided reference image. The automated segmentation and texture mapping processes allow the model to customize itself without requiring manual intervention, improving ease of operation and reducing time loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If automated texture mapping is implemented, then productivity is improved, but precision in selecting specific texture portions may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization speedVSAvoidtexture selection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation to divide the texture map into distinct portions based on the reference image. This allows the automated system to accurately identify and select specific texture regions corresponding to different parts of the 3D model, maintaining precision while enabling high-speed automated processing of the entire model

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from 3D manual manipulation to 2D image-based automation. By working in the 2D domain of reference images and texture maps, the system achieves both automated efficiency and precise selection through image processing algorithms, resolving the contradiction between productivity and precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12614337B2System and methods for customizing 3D models

Publication Date: 2026.04.28 SHOPIFY INC

AI summary

A computer-implemented method is disclosed. The method includes: receiving an indication of a first point on a three-dimensional (3D) model; determining a second point in a texture map of the 3D model that corresponds to the first point; performing segmentation of the texture map for identifying portions of the texture map that are related to the second point; and outputting a 3D representation of the identified related portions of the texture map.