3D Face Model Modification for Natural Image Blending

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing techniques fail to naturally modify a subject's face image, lacking the ability to efficiently transform and combine three-dimensional models with two-dimensional images while maintaining natural appearance and user interaction.

Innovation Solution

An image processing method and apparatus that create a three-dimensional proto-model of a subject, project and map the subject's image onto this model, allow for shape transformation, and then project the transformed model in the opposite direction to combine with the original image, enabling natural and intuitive modification of face images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing image processing techniques are used to modify a subject's face image, then the image can be modified, but the modification does not appear natural and comfortable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenatural appearance of modified imageVSAvoidcomplexity of image processing process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the traditional two-dimensional image modification approach into a three-dimensional modeling approach. By creating a 3D model of the subject's face and performing transformations in three-dimensional space, the system achieves more natural and intuitive modifications that respect the underlying facial geometry and structure, thereby improving the natural appearance while providing a systematic processing framework

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a three-dimensional model as an intermediary between the original two-dimensional image and the final modified image. This 3D model serves as a mediator that captures the essential geometric features of the subject's face, allowing transformations to be performed in a way that maintains natural appearance while simplifying the overall processing pipeline

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate image processes are used to achieve modification, then comprehensive modification is possible, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensiveness of modification capabilityVSAvoidnumber of separate processing steps
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate image processing operations into a unified three-dimensional modeling framework. By combining feature detection, 3D model construction, transformation operations, and image reconstruction into a single integrated pipeline, the system achieves comprehensive modification capability while reducing the complexity associated with coordinating multiple independent processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The three-dimensional model serves as a universal representation that can accommodate various types of modifications through standardized transformation operations. This multi-functional approach allows the same 3D model to be used for different modification goals (shape changes, pose adjustments, etc.) without requiring separate processing pipelines for each type of modification

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

3Reliability

If three-dimensional modeling is implemented for image modification, then natural transformation is achieved, but immediate visual feedback and user interaction are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenatural appearance of modified imageVSAvoiduser interaction and visual feedback
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that allow users to interact with the three-dimensional model and observe transformations in real-time or near-real-time. By providing visual feedback during the modeling and transformation process, the system maintains user engagement and allows for iterative refinement of modifications while preserving the natural appearance achieved through 3D modeling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7548236B2Image processing method, image processing apparatus, image processing program, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2009.06.16 OM DIGITAL SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US7548236B2 patent drawing
  • US7548236B2 patent drawing
  • US7548236B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing method includes creating a three-dimensional proto-model of a subject, creating a three-dimensional model of the subject by projecting to map a photographed image of the subject on the surface of the three-dimensional proto-model, displaying the three-dimensional model on the display, transforming or modifying the shape of the three-dimensional model, creating a two-dimensional modified subject image of the transformed or modified three-dimensional model, combining the two-dimensional modified subject image with the photographed image, and displaying the combined image as the modified photographed image on the display.