Image Generating Apparatus for Automated Collage Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image collage technologies are cumbersome for users, requiring manual selection of images and layouts, and lack efficient methods for automatically generating composite images based on temporal or spatial relationships between images.
Innovation Solution
An image generating apparatus and method that automatically selects a reference image and extracts related images based on temporal or spatial criteria, using a layout that defines the composition, size, and positional arrangement of images to generate a composite image, with options for quick collage modes and direct collage modes to simplify user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual selection of images and layouts is used for collage generation, then user control over image selection and layout design is improved, but user effort and operation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically extracts related images based on temporal or spatial relationships and selects appropriate layouts without requiring manual user intervention. The collage generation apparatus performs self-service by autonomously completing tasks that would otherwise require significant user effort, while still allowing users to initiate the process with a single image selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-extracts related images and pre-selects layout options based on the reference image before the user makes final selections. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of the main operation by having the system prepare candidate images and layouts in advance, allowing users to simply choose from pre-processed options.
2Extent of automation
If automatic extraction of related images is implemented, then user effort is reduced, but automation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical selection processes with automated computational methods. Instead of users manually browsing and selecting related images, the system uses automated extraction based on temporal or spatial relationships, substituting human cognitive and manual operations with algorithmic processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary extraction mechanism that automatically identifies and selects related images based on predefined criteria (temporal or spatial relationships). This intermediary layer handles the complexity of image relationship analysis, shielding users from the underlying complexity while achieving automatic extraction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple layout options are provided for collage generation, then design flexibility is improved, but selection complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-prepares multiple layout options based on the reference image and extracted related images before user selection. By performing layout preparation in advance, the system ensures that when users do need to select a layout, the options are already optimized and ready, reducing selection time while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts layout parameters such as image sizes, positions, and arrangements based on the characteristics of the reference image and extracted related images. This parameter optimization reduces the need for users to manually adjust layouts, decreasing selection and adjustment time while maintaining design flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
In an image generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, the reference image selecting unit selects an image as a reference image. The image extracting unit extracts at least one related image related to the reference image. The image generating unit generates a new composite image by using the reference image and the at least one related image according to a layout including a definition of at least one kind of information selected from a group including a background image, the number of images to be used, a size of each image to be used, and positional relation among images to be used. The basic control unit issues an instruction to make the reference image selecting unit select an image being displayed as the reference image and make the image generating unit generate the new composite image based on the reference image.