Hair Simulation Method Using Segmented Representation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current hair simulation methods for medical and cosmetic applications, such as hair transplantation, are labor-intensive and unsuitable for providing realistic pre- and post-procedure visualizations, limiting patients' ability to understand the outcome of hair restoration procedures.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for simulating hair on a 3D model using different approaches based on the stage of hair loss, involving projected or volumetric hair representation, with blending to match natural hair color and density, allowing for realistic visualization from various angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If labor-intensive hair simulation methods are used, then realism of hair representation is improved, but time consumption and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverealism of hair representationVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments hair representation into two distinct approaches: projected hair for sparse areas and volumetric hair for dense areas. This segmentation allows the system to apply computationally expensive volumetric methods only where necessary while using efficient projected methods elsewhere, thereby maintaining realism while reducing overall time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different quality levels of hair representation to different regions based on local needs. Projected hair with lower computational requirements is used in areas where detail is less critical, while volumetric hair with higher realism is applied in areas requiring detailed representation. This local quality approach optimizes the balance between realism and efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Device complexity

If a single hair representation approach is used, then simplicity of implementation is improved, but adaptability to different hair loss stages deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of implementationVSAvoidadaptability to different hair loss stages
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic selection mechanism that automatically chooses between projected and volumetric hair representation based on the detected hair loss stage. The system adapts its complexity level according to the patient's specific condition, using simpler projected hair for early stages and more complex volumetric hair for advanced stages, thereby achieving both simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the representation parameter (projected vs. volumetric) based on the hair loss stage parameter. By linking the representation approach to the detected stage of hair loss, the system achieves adaptability across different conditions while maintaining a relatively simple implementation structure that automatically adjusts based on input parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If detailed hair simulation is performed, then accuracy of outcome prediction is improved, but computational resources required increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of outcome predictionVSAvoidcomputational resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies detailed volumetric hair simulation only partially, specifically in regions where hair density requires it, rather than applying it excessively across the entire scalp. This partial action approach maintains prediction accuracy in critical areas while reducing overall computational resource consumption by using lighter projected hair methods in other regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9202312B1Hair simulation method
Publication Date: 2015.12.01 VENUS CONCEPT INC
  • US9202312B1 patent drawing
  • US9202312B1 patent drawing
  • US9202312B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems are provided for generating/simulating hair on a 3D model taking into consideration some information from an image of a person, such as for example, the stage of hair loss, to determine which methodology or algorithm to use to generate the hair. The methods and systems of the present application are especially useful in those applications where it is desirable to display the existing hair together with newly simulated hair.