Adjusting Perceived Depth in Images Using Non-Linear Mappings

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing methods struggle to effectively and intuitively adjust the perceived depth of objects in images in a photorealistic manner, requiring skilled artistic intervention and time-consuming learning.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that receives a desired change in perceptibility of depth, determines image characteristics, and applies image processes with non-linear mappings to alter depth perception, allowing for global or local adjustments in foreground and background regions, using techniques like depth maps and user interactions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If photorealistic image processing is applied to adjust perceived depth, then the perceived depth accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring skilled artistic intervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperceived depth accuracyVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces depth maps as an intermediary representation that separates the complex photorealistic processing from user interaction. Users interact with simplified depth map controls rather than directly manipulating complex image parameters, enabling intuitive depth adjustment while maintaining photorealistic quality through automated processing pipelines.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual artistic manipulation with automated image processing algorithms. Computer-based processing systems execute complex photorealistic adjustments based on depth map data, substituting the need for skilled artistic intervention with algorithmic processing that consistently achieves photorealistic depth effects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If photorealistic image processing methods are used, then the perceived depth quality is improved, but the time consumption increases due to skilled artistic intervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperceived depth qualityVSAvoidtime consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service through automated processing pipelines that independently execute photorealistic image adjustments based on depth map inputs. The algorithms automatically analyze image characteristics, apply appropriate processing parameters, and optimize results without requiring time-consuming manual artistic intervention, thereby maintaining high quality while reducing processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of image characteristics and pre-computes processing parameters before actual image adjustment. By pre-processing depth maps and determining optimal processing settings in advance, the system prepares all necessary data structures and parameters, enabling rapid execution of photorealistic adjustments without time-consuming manual intervention during the actual processing phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If simple image processing is applied, then the ease of operation is improved, but the perceived depth quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidperceived depth quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses depth maps as an intermediary that bridges simple user interaction and complex photorealistic processing. Users interact with intuitive depth map controls for easy operation, while the system automatically translates these simple inputs into sophisticated image processing operations that maintain high perceived depth quality through automated algorithmic processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces simple but ineffective manual processing with automated algorithms that execute complex photorealistic adjustments. Computer-based processing systems analyze image characteristics and apply sophisticated processing techniques automatically, substituting simple manual operations with intelligent automated processing that achieves high perceived depth quality without requiring user expertise.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10198794B2System and method for adjusting perceived depth of an image

Publication Date: 2019.02.05 CANON KK

AI summary

A system and computer-implemented method of altering perceptibility of depth in an image. The method comprises receiving a desired change in the perceptibility of depth in the image; receiving a depth-map corresponding to the image; and determining at least one characteristic of the image. The method further comprises applying an image process to the image, the image process varying in strength according to the depth map, and in accordance with a non-linear predetermined mapping relating a strength of the applied image process to a change in the perceptibility of depth, the mapping being determined with respect to the identified characteristic.