Real-time Composite Image Creation via Layer Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inefficiencies in creating composite images, as they must separately capture and post-process multiple elements, which is time-consuming and requires remembering the intended composition until post-processing.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that allows users to select and capture objects within a scene using a digital camera, combining them into a composite image in real-time, using a processor and memory to overlay selected objects onto a background image, enabling immediate creation of composite images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users separately capture and post-process multiple elements to create composite images, then the quality and creativity of composite images can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and requires remembering the intended composition until post-processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by capturing and storing individual elements (foreground objects, background, transparency layers) separately before final composition. The system pre-processes each layer during capture, organizing them in memory with their respective transparency and positioning data, so that the actual compositing operation only requires retrieving and combining these pre-prepared layers, significantly reducing post-processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple capture operations and post-processing functions into a single integrated system. The camera device combines the capture of transparent objects, background scenes, and composition logic into one unified apparatus that can create composite images during capture itself, eliminating the need for separate post-processing software and operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users capture multiple separate elements for composite images, then creative control is maintained, but the process requires remembering the intended composition until post-processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary composition system that acts as a mediator between the user's creative intent and the final image. This system includes memory structures to store composition instructions, transparency layer data, and positioning information, effectively externalizing the memory burden from the user to the device while preserving full creative control over the compositing process.
3Ease of manufacture
If digital cameras are made small and inexpensive, then accessibility and usage increase, but post-processing capabilities and computational power are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the composite image creation process into distinct, manageable layers (foreground transparent objects, background scenes, transparency layers) that can be processed independently. Each layer is captured and stored separately with its own metadata, allowing the system to perform complex compositing operations through simple layer-by-layer combination rather than requiring sophisticated real-time image processing algorithms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, apparatus, and computer product for: causing a first image to be displayed to a user, the first image comprising one or more selectable objects; receiving a first user input selecting at least one selectable object from the first image; subsequent to receiving the first user input, causing a second image to be captured; combining the at least one selected object and the second image to create a composite image; and causing the composite image to be stored.