Image Editing Device Using Email-Based Remote Area Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image processing devices can only perform partial image processing within image data, limiting the ability to make alterations to multiple parts of the image data.

Innovation Solution

An image editing device that divides original data into multiple areas, associates identification information with each area, generates an edit image by enclosing the area of interest with a section image and displaying identification information, and transmits this image via email for remote editing instructions, allowing for the updating and output of edited data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional image processing is used, then partial image processing within image data can be performed, but multiple parts within the image data cannot be altered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to alter multiple parts of image dataVSAvoidcomplexity of editing system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image data is divided into multiple separate image files, with each file representing a distinct editable part. This segmentation allows multiple parts to be independently altered while maintaining system simplicity, as each segmented image can be processed individually through conventional image processing tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A portable information device serves as an intermediary between the user and the image editing system. The device receives original image data, segments it into multiple editable parts, and manages the editing workflow, thereby enabling multi-part editing without requiring complex editing software on the user's end.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a word processor application is executed on a personal computer to re-edit original data, then editing functionality is available, but the process becomes complex and requires additional software

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of image editingVSAvoidrequirement for complex software
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The portable information device performs the image segmentation and editing coordination functions automatically without requiring the user to operate complex editing software. The system self-manages the workflow of dividing images, assigning identification information, and processing editing instructions, making the operation simple for the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The portable information device acts as an intermediary that simplifies the editing process by handling all complex operations locally. Users only need to input simple editing instructions on the portable device, while the system automatically manages the segmentation and processing, eliminating the need for complex word processor applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If image data is divided into multiple areas with identification information, then multiple parts can be edited independently, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapability to edit multiple specific areasVSAvoidcomplexity of area management system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of managing complex area data structures, the system creates simple image copies with embedded identification information. Each segmented image file contains its own identification data, allowing independent editing without requiring a complex central area management system. This copying approach simplifies the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

Each segmented image file contains local identification information specific to that area, rather than relying on a global area management system. This local quality approach allows each image part to be independently identified and edited, reducing the complexity of the overall area management mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9189776B2Image editing device, image editing method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium encoded with image editing program
Publication Date: 2015.11.17 KONICA MINOLTA INC
  • US9189776B2 patent drawing
  • US9189776B2 patent drawing
  • US9189776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The image editing device is provided with an area specifying portion to associate identification information for identifying an area of interest with each of a plurality of areas into which an image of original data is divided, an image generating portion to generate an edit image by disposing onto the image of the original data a section image enclosing the area of interest for each of a plurality of areas in association with an image indicating the identification information, a transmission portion to transmit a first electronic mail including the edit image, a reception portion to receive a second electronic mail transmitted back in response to the first electronic mail, an editing portion to generate edited data obtained by updating the original data based on an editing instruction included in the second electronic mail, and an output portion to output the edited data generated.