Depth-Based Image Editing With Automatic Object Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for displaying and editing images with depth information on electronic devices are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring complex user interfaces and redundant user inputs, which waste time and energy, particularly in battery-operated devices.

Innovation Solution

Implement methods and interfaces that utilize depth information to dynamically adjust simulated lighting levels and selectively edit image elements based on depth ranges, reducing the need for redundant user inputs and conserving power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing techniques are used to display and edit images, then image display functionality is provided, but the user interface becomes complex and time-consuming requiring multiple key presses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser interface simplicityVSAvoidtime for image display and editing

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple image editing functions (display, edit, delete) into a single unified interface where all operations can be performed through minimal user input. The system merges the functionality of separate editing tools into an integrated workspace that responds to simple gestures or commands, eliminating the need for multiple key presses or complex navigation sequences.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides automatic image processing and editing capabilities that reduce the need for manual user intervention. Features such as automatic depth-based segmentation, intelligent object recognition, and automated editing operations allow the system to perform tasks autonomously, minimizing the time users need to spend on routine editing operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If existing techniques are used for image editing, then editing functionality is provided, but device energy is wasted due to redundant user inputs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage editing efficiencyVSAvoiddevice energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary processing of images by pre-segmenting objects based on depth information before the user initiates editing operations. Depth maps are generated and stored in advance, allowing the system to quickly identify and isolate specific regions for editing without requiring users to manually select or navigate through multiple menus, thereby reducing both time and energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes depth information as an additional parameter to optimize image editing operations. By incorporating depth data, the system can automatically adjust editing parameters such as selection boundaries, transformation targets, and processing regions, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust these settings and reducing redundant input operations that consume energy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If complex user interfaces are used, then comprehensive editing control is provided, but cognitive burden on users increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecognitive burden reductionVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces depth information as a new dimension for interacting with 2D images. By utilizing depth maps and three-dimensional spatial information, the system enables users to select and edit objects based on their spatial position and depth characteristics rather than navigating through complex two-dimensional menu structures. This additional dimension simplifies the user interface by providing intuitive, gesture-based control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Productivity

If multiple key presses are required, then precise editing control is achieved, but user time is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveediting speedVSAvoidtime per editing operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical input methods (multiple key presses, button clicks) with alternative interaction mechanisms such as touch gestures, voice commands, or automated system responses. The system substitutes complex sequential input sequences with single-action commands that leverage depth-based object identification and automatic selection algorithms, dramatically reducing the time required to perform editing operations while maintaining precise control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12394077B2Displaying and editing images with depth information

Publication Date: 2025.08.19 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to displaying and editing an image with depth information. In response to an input, an object in the image having a one or more elements in a first depth range is identified. The identified object is then isolated from other elements in the image and displayed separately from the other elements. The isolated object may then be utilized in different applications.