AR Spin Image Generation via Virtual Object Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generating photorealistic spin images of objects for e-commerce requires a large number of images at controlled rotation angles, which is time-consuming and difficult using conventional methods like turntable photography or computer-generated imagery (CGI).
Innovation Solution
The use of augmented reality (AR) techniques to capture and process images of virtual objects within an AR scene, allowing for rapid generation of photorealistic spin images by overlaying virtual objects onto real-world environments, enabling manipulation and interaction with the environment for realistic reflections and lighting effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods like turntable photography or CGI are used to generate spin images, then photorealistic quality can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses augmented reality to create a virtual copy of the physical object that can be manipulated digitally. Instead of physically rotating the object on a turntable or using complex CGI, the system captures images of the actual object and uses AR to generate intermediate views by warping and blending these captured images, effectively copying the object's appearance in virtual space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical turntable system with an augmented reality software system. Rather than physically rotating the object and capturing images at discrete angles, the AR system uses image warping and blending algorithms to generate smooth rotational views from a limited set of captured images, eliminating the need for mechanical rotation devices
2Productivity
If a large number of images at controlled rotation angles are captured, then smooth spin image animation can be achieved, but the process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures only a limited number of images at key rotation angles (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) rather than capturing images at every desired output angle. The AR system then generates the intermediate frames through image warping and blending, performing only the necessary capture action and letting computation fill in the gaps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary image capture at strategic angles, then uses AR processing to pre-compute the intermediate rotational views. This preliminary action of capturing key frames and processing them in advance enables smooth animation playback without requiring extensive real-time capture during the animation generation phase
3Stability of the object's composition
If physical turntables and controlled environments are used, then consistent lighting and reflections can be achieved, but the setup complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures the object in its natural environment and uses AR to create virtual copies that can be viewed from any angle. The captured images preserve the actual lighting conditions and reflections present in the environment, and the AR processing maintains this authenticity while enabling virtual rotation, eliminating the need for controlled studio setups
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the image capture system universal by allowing objects to be captured in any environment without requiring specialized turntable equipment or controlled lighting setups. The same mobile device camera can capture objects in studios, retail environments, or outdoor settings, and the AR system processes all these diverse inputs uniformly
4Manufacturing precision
If traditional photography setups are used, then detailed object views can be captured, but accessibility to difficult environments becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional photography equipment (tripods, turntables, controlled lighting rigs) with mobile devices equipped with cameras and AR processing capabilities. This substitution enables detailed object capture in environments that would be inaccessible to traditional setups, such as outdoor locations, retail floors, or areas with limited space for equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the mobile device to perform multiple functions: capturing images, processing them through AR algorithms, and generating the spin image animation all in one device. This self-service capability eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment for each function, making the system adaptable to various environments where the device can be freely positioned
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, computer-readable media, and apparatuses are presented for generating a photorealistic viewable model using augmented reality (AR). An AR scene is generated by overlaying a virtual object onto a view of a physical environment. When placed into the AR scene, the virtual object can interact with the physical environment by, for example, reflecting or taking on colors, shadows, brightness, and other attributes of the physical environment. To generate the viewable model, the virtual object is manipulated (e.g., moved or rotated) within the AR scene and a plurality of images are generated by capturing the virtual object as the virtual object is being manipulated. The viewable model can be generated based on one or more of the images and can be output in the form of an interactive presentation, for example, a spin image.