Image Asset Generation via Automatic Polygon Tracing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating assets in interactive entertainment, such as video games, are limited by the capabilities of interface controllers and the complexity of incorporating depth information, which can be expensive and cumbersome, especially when trying to separate objects from a digital image.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a digital image capture device to automatically trace the outline of objects in a digital image, generating two-dimensional polygons that encompass objects, and separates them from the background, allowing for the creation of assets for simulated environments without relying on further user input, and can generate both avatars and terrain features from a single image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If depth sensing camera is used to capture depth information, then object separation capability is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a regular camera to capture images and creates a copied height field representation through software processing rather than using an expensive depth sensing camera. The system copies the visual information from standard camera images and processes it to generate height field data, avoiding the need for specialized depth sensing hardware while achieving similar functional results for terrain generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical depth sensing system with a software-based image processing system. Instead of using specialized depth sensing camera hardware, the system uses standard camera images combined with computational algorithms to infer depth and generate height fields, substituting a simpler mechanical system with a software solution.
2Measurement precision
If depth sensing camera is used to separate objects from scene, then object segmentation capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a software-based copy of depth information from standard camera images through height field generation, eliminating the need for expensive depth sensing camera hardware while achieving functional equivalence for object separation and terrain generation purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive regular camera equipment instead of expensive depth sensing cameras, accepting that the camera may need to be replaced or upgraded more frequently but significantly reducing the initial manufacturing and deployment cost of the system.
3Device complexity
If interface controller with buttons and joysticks is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation for drawing tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera serve multiple functions: it captures images for both visual reference and direct asset generation, eliminates the need for separate drawing tools, and enables users to create game assets by simply pointing and shooting rather than requiring specialized drawing interfaces or controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically processes the captured images to generate height fields and separate objects without requiring user intervention for complex operations. The software automatically performs the tasks that would otherwise require manual drawing or manipulation, making the interface self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional controls.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and apparatus for generating an asset for a simulated environment using digital image capture are disclosed. An outline of an object in a digital image is automatically traced to generate data representing a two-dimensional polygon that encompasses the object. The outline is traced without relying on further input from a user once the digital image of the object has been captured. A portion of the digital image bounded by the two-dimensional polygon is separated from a remaining portion of the digital image. The portion of the image bounded by the two-dimensional polygon is associated with an asset in the simulated environment.