Image File Metadata Structure for Synchronous Grouping and Accuracy Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image file formats, such as HEIF, lack a comprehensive metadata configuration to assess the synchronicity of image groups obtained through synchronous shooting, making it difficult to determine the synchronization accuracy of images shot simultaneously, which is crucial for applications like generating 3D images.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that generates an image file with a structured metadata configuration, including synchronous group information and indicator information, to evaluate the synchronization accuracy of images shot synchronously, using a processor to determine and store the synchronization status of image data and reference time information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If images are grouped and stored as a synchronous group within a single image file, then the convenience of displaying and processing the images is improved, but the ability to evaluate the synchronization accuracy of the image group is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The metadata structure is segmented into distinct functional components: synchronous group information for grouping images, indicator information for synchronization accuracy evaluation, and determination reference information for verification criteria. This segmentation allows each component to serve its specific function independently while working together as a unified metadata system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension of metadata information beyond simple grouping. By incorporating indicator information and determination reference information, the system transitions from a single-dimensional grouping structure to a multi-dimensional metadata structure that simultaneously provides grouping functionality and synchronization evaluation capability.
2Device complexity
If a simple synchronous group metadata structure is used, then the file format complexity is reduced, but the ability to determine simultaneity of shooting is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The determination reference information is prepared and stored in advance within the metadata structure. This reference information establishes the criteria for synchronization accuracy evaluation before the actual evaluation is performed, enabling systematic assessment of image group simultaneity without adding excessive complexity to the file format.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator information acts as an intermediary between the synchronous group information and the determination reference information. It connects the grouping data with the evaluation criteria, facilitating the determination of simultaneity while maintaining a structured and organized metadata configuration.
3Measurement precision
If detailed metadata including determination reference is stored, then the synchronization accuracy can be evaluated, but the image file size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a balanced approach by storing essential determination reference information and indicator information without including all possible metadata details. This partial action approach provides sufficient synchronization accuracy evaluation capability while avoiding excessive file size increases, achieving an optimal balance between measurement precision and data quantity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus generates an image file including a first region storing a plurality of instances of image data and a second region storing metadata. The metadata includes group information that groups image data shot synchronously with respect to time, the group information indicating image data belonging to a group, and indicator information that indicates an indicator of grouping for the group. The apparatus sets a reference indicating whether the image data has been shot synchronously with respect to time, determines whether the image data has been shot synchronously with respect to time, configures the group information grouping the image data to have been shot synchronously with respect to time, configures the indicator information including at least information of the reference, and generates the file storing the plurality of instances of image data, the group information, and the indicator information.