Image Processing Apparatus for Consistent Object Color Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing techniques for evaluating object colors are influenced by the shape of the object and image capturing conditions, leading to inconsistent color evaluations.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that acquires color information of an object while considering the direction of image capture, light source direction, and object normal, using shape data, light source data, and reflection characteristic data to output color information, thereby isolating color evaluation from object shape and capturing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional image processing techniques are used to evaluate object colors, then the evaluation process is simple, but the color evaluation results are inconsistent when object shape or image capturing conditions change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms color evaluation from direct image pixel analysis to spectral reflectance parameter analysis. By converting image data through BRDF modeling and spectral reconstruction, the system evaluates color based on intrinsic material properties rather than appearance-dependent parameters, achieving consistency across different shapes and capturing conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spectral reflectance as an intermediary parameter between image capture and color evaluation. The complex relationship between image data and color is mediated through BRDF decomposition and spectral reconstruction, isolating color information from shape and lighting conditions
2Measurement precision
If the evaluation considers object shape and capturing conditions, then color evaluation accuracy improves, but the processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary BRDF decomposition and spectral reflectance calculation during the image processing stage. By pre-computing these transformations and storing spectral characteristics, the actual color evaluation requires only retrieving pre-computed spectral data and comparing it against reference values, significantly reducing real-time processing requirements
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus according to the present invention including a first acquisition unit configured to acquire color information of a first object obtained by capturing an image of the first object illuminated with light emitted by a light source, a second acquisition unit configured to acquire color information of a second object based on a condition determined by a direction of capturing the image of the first object, a direction of illuminating the first object with light from the light source, and a direction of a normal of the first object, and an output unit configured to output information according to the color information of the first object and the color information of the second object.