Dynamic Parameter Switching for Virtual Viewpoint Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for generating virtual viewpoint images lack intuitive control over multiple parameters, such as camera position, orientation, and zoom, which limits user convenience in adjusting these parameters for realistic and dynamic camerawork.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with multiple controllers and a controller configuration that allows users to control virtual viewpoint parameters through distinct operation units, enabling precise adjustments of camera position, orientation, and zoom, as well as switching between parameter sets based on user input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple parameters (camera position, orientation, zoom, time) are controlled through fixed operation units, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the complexity of adjusting multiple parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The operation units are configured to dynamically change their control target parameters based on the flow of the moving image. The controller automatically switches which parameter each operation unit controls, allowing the same physical unit to control different parameters at different times, thus maintaining precision while improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically determines and switches parameter assignments without requiring manual reconfiguration by the user. The controller monitors the moving image flow and autonomously decides which parameters should be controlled by which operation units, making the system self-adjusting and user-friendly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If fixed parameter assignments are used for operation units, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates as users cannot adjust parameters according to their needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The parameter assignments for operation units are made dynamic rather than fixed. The controller automatically switches which parameter each operation unit controls based on the moving image flow, allowing the system to adapt to different viewing needs without requiring complex manual reconfiguration or increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Each operation unit is designed to control multiple different parameters at different times rather than being dedicated to a single parameter. This multi-functionality allows the same physical unit to serve different control purposes, increasing adaptability while maintaining simple device architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11323688B2Information processing apparatus and information processing method for generating a virtual viewpoint
Publication Date: 2022.05.03 CANON KK
  • US11323688B2 patent drawing
  • US11323688B2 patent drawing
  • US11323688B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus is configured to perform at least based on a first parameter set according to an operation on a first operation unit, and also based on an operation on a second operation unit, changing at least either of a position and a direction of a virtual viewpoint corresponding to a virtual viewpoint image, receiving a switching input for switching a parameter set according to an operation on the first operation unit from the first parameter to a second parameter, and based on the second parameter set according to an operation on the first operation unit performed after the switching input is received, and also based on an operation on the second operation unit, changing at least either of the position and the direction of the virtual viewpoint.