Mobile Camera Alignment Using Reference Image Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in capturing additional images of a scene from the same vantage point as a previously captured image, especially when unwanted objects are present or high-dynamic range (HDR) images need to be created from low-dynamic range (LDR) images.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device assists users by presenting a previously captured image as a translucent background on the display, aligning a preview image with it using similarity values, and automatically capturing images when alignment exceeds a threshold, aided by directional indicators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a user manually positions the mobile device to recapture a scene, then the user can capture additional images, but it is difficult to ensure the same vantage point and alignment with the reference image
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously compares the preview image with the reference image and provides real-time feedback through similarity values and directional indicators. This feedback loop guides the user to adjust the device position until optimal alignment is achieved, ensuring precise vantage point reproduction without requiring manual measurement or complex positioning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated image-based alignment system. Instead of relying on user skill to physically position the device, the system uses computer vision to compare images and provides digital guidance (directional indicators and similarity values) that substitutes for complex manual alignment procedures.
2Measurement precision
If the system provides detailed alignment guidance, then alignment accuracy improves, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment guidance is segmented into distinct components: similarity values (quantitative measure), directional indicators (qualitative guidance), and visual overlay (spatial reference). This segmentation allows the system to provide comprehensive alignment information without overwhelming the user, as each element serves a specific function and can be processed independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference image is captured and stored in advance as a template for alignment. This preliminary action establishes the target vantage point before the user attempts to recapture the scene, allowing the system to provide guidance based on a pre-defined reference rather than requiring real-time complex calculations during the alignment process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the user needs to recapture images from the same vantage point, then image consistency improves, but time is lost in repositioning and realigning
Solution Approach 1:
The real-time similarity value feedback allows the user to quickly assess whether the current device position achieves the desired image consistency. This immediate feedback eliminates the need for trial-and-error positioning, reducing the time required to achieve proper alignment while ensuring consistent vantage point reproduction across multiple images.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically captures images when alignment criteria are met, eliminating the need for manual timing or shutter control. This self-service capability reduces the time the user needs to spend at each position, as the system handles the capture process automatically once alignment is achieved.
Data Source
AI summary
A user may select an image of a scene captured by a mobile device as a reference image. The mobile device may present the reference image as a translucent background image on a display of the mobile device, and may display a preview image of the scene over the translucent background image so that the user can adjust a position and/or an orientation of the mobile device until the preview image is aligned with the translucent background image. In some aspects, the mobile device may determine a similarity value between the preview image and the translucent background image, and may present the similarity value on the display.