Faux Group Image Creation Using Segmented Subject Photos

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current group photography methods face challenges such as coordinating large groups, accurate name association, artistic adjustments, and the need for expensive equipment, making it difficult to capture and edit high-quality group images efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A method involving capturing digital images of subjects, linking them with biographical data, and automatically generating a faux group image by selecting a format and background, allowing for proportional sizing and positioning, and enabling easy adjustments without requiring all subjects to be present.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If a single large group photo is shot, then the photography session time is reduced, but it becomes impossible to create subset group photos and requires additional photo shoots

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotography session timeVSAvoidability to create subset group photos
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the group photo creation process by capturing individual subject photos separately and then computationally assembling them into various group configurations. This allows the main group photo and subset photos to be generated from the same individual captures, eliminating the need for additional photo shoots for subsets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary capture of all individual subject photos in advance, storing them for later retrieval and assembly. This preliminary action enables flexible creation of different group compositions without requiring subjects to be present again, resolving the contradiction between time efficiency and versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If manual positioning and sizing of individuals is performed, then artistic adjustments can be made, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires advanced technical expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of artistic adjustmentVSAvoidtime to create group photo
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic positioning, sizing, and arrangement of individual photos into group compositions using computational algorithms. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual artistic adjustment by experts, making the process both easier to operate and faster, while still producing high-quality results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical positioning and sizing operations with automated computational image processing. Algorithms automatically determine optimal placement, scaling, and composition of individual photos, substituting expert manual work with automated digital processing that is both faster and more accessible.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If expensive camera equipment is used, then high-quality group photos can be captured, but the cost becomes prohibitive for average individuals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcost of equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates high-quality group photos by capturing and processing digital images using standard equipment, then using computational methods to assemble and enhance them. This copying and processing approach achieves professional-quality results without requiring expensive specialized camera equipment, making the process accessible to average individuals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses affordable digital cameras and software to create group photos, replacing the need for expensive professional photography equipment. The digital nature of the process allows for unlimited copies and edits at minimal marginal cost, dramatically reducing the barrier to entry while maintaining quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Loss of information

If biographical information is collected on cards, then names can be associated with subjects, but the information is vulnerable to being shuffled, lost, damaged or not turned in

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebiographical information accuracyVSAvoidinformation collection process
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces physical card-based information collection with digital data entry and storage. Biographical information is captured electronically and automatically associated with corresponding subject photos through digital identifiers, eliminating the physical handling risks of shuffling, losing, or damaging cards while simplifying the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8780230B2Faux group image and method
Publication Date: 2014.07.15 CANDID COLOR SYST
  • US8780230B2 patent drawing
  • US8780230B2 patent drawing
  • US8780230B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method to create a faux group by using at least one digital image combined with at least one other digital image is provided. Associated with each digital image is data that is linked, which identifies the image and biographical data elements associated with the subject appearing in the image. From the digital images and linked data, a faux group image is created. On the faux group image, biographical data elements such as names or other identifiers are optionally displayed. If displayed, each biographical data element is linked to the associated individual digital image in the order it appears. Any rearrangement, movement or adjustment to either the digital image or associated biographical data element in the faux group image causes the digital image and biographical data element to be updated relative to all of the other digital images and biographical data element in the order that the subject of each individual digital image appears. The faux group is arranged by a matrix that establishes the rows and columns of images, or arranges the digital images. The digital images are automatically and proportionally sized relative to the digital images around them within the faux group image. This creates a natural appearance.