Content Layout Matching Using Image Feature Vectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing layout generation techniques, such as those described in Patent Literature 1, are inefficient due to the random determination of positioning coordinates, leading to a large number of inappropriate layout images that require manual evaluation, thus increasing the workload.

Innovation Solution

A layout support system and apparatus that utilize an information accumulation apparatus to extract and associate image feature vectors with layout information for existing contents, and a layout support apparatus to calculate similarities and detect matching layout information for target contents based on priority orders, thereby improving efficiency in layout generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If positioning coordinates are randomly determined for automatic layout generation, then automation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to generation of many inappropriate layout images

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of layout generationVSAvoidquality of generated layout images

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by extracting image feature vectors from existing high-quality layout images and storing them in advance in a database. When generating new layouts, the system compares feature vectors of generated images with stored vectors to automatically identify and select appropriate layouts, eliminating the need for manual evaluation of each randomly generated layout.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the mechanical manual evaluation process with an automated computer vision-based comparison system. By using image feature vector extraction and comparison algorithms, the system automatically identifies appropriate layouts without human intervention, resolving the contradiction between automation and precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a large number of layout images are generated randomly, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to the need to evaluate each image individually

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevariety of layout optionsVSAvoidlayout generation efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual evaluation of each generated layout image with automated image feature vector comparison. The layout support apparatus automatically compares feature vectors of generated images with stored vectors from the database, instantly identifying appropriate layouts without human intervention, thereby dramatically improving productivity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by enabling the layout generation process to automatically evaluate and select appropriate layouts through automated feature vector comparison. The system serves itself by using its own generated images and comparing them against the database, eliminating the need for external manual evaluation and improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If manual evaluation of generated layout images is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to individual evaluation of each image

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality control of layoutsVSAvoidtime for layout generation

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the slow manual evaluation process with rapid automated image feature vector comparison. By using computer vision algorithms to extract and compare feature vectors, the system maintains high quality control through automated means, dramatically reducing the time required for layout generation while preserving manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-extracting and storing image feature vectors from existing high-quality layouts in the database. This preparation enables rapid comparison and quality assessment of generated layouts without requiring time-consuming manual evaluation, thus reducing time loss while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12573107B2Layout support system, layout support apparatus, information accumulation apparatus, and storage medium

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 NEC CORP

AI summary

This invention contributes to improvement in efficiency in generation of a layout. A layout support system includes: an information accumulation apparatus that extracts image feature vectors of a plurality of existing contents and stores, in a database, the image feature vectors in association with pieces of layout information; and a layout support apparatus that detects, on the basis of similarities between the image feature vectors stored in the database and a comparative feature vector generated for a target content, a piece of layout information matching the target content, from among the pieces of layout information stored in the database. The layout support system can support decision-making regarding layout determination.