Image Layout System Using Learned User Preferences

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for generating photograph album layouts require user intervention to decide image layouts, which is time-consuming and limits variations, failing to reflect user preferences effectively.

Innovation Solution

An image layout apparatus and method that generates layouts based on user preferences by calculating image quality parameters, weighting images, and feeding back user feedback to adjust layout rules, allowing for personalized and efficient layout generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If user manually decides layout of images, then layout can be customized according to user preferences, but operation becomes troublesome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelayout operationVSAvoidtime for layout operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs layout generation by analyzing image characteristics and applying learned user preferences, eliminating the need for manual user intervention in layout decisions while still producing personalized results

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system learns from user feedback on generated layouts and continuously improves its layout generation algorithm, adapting to user preferences over time without requiring repeated manual adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If layout methods are fixed according to image orientation combinations, then layout generation is simplified, but layout variations are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelayout variationVSAvoidlayout rule complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The layout generation system dynamically adjusts layout rules based on image characteristics and learned user preferences, transitioning from fixed orientation-based rules to adaptive, context-aware layout generation that produces diverse variations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes layout parameters such as image selection, positioning, and sizing based on analyzed image characteristics and user preference data, enabling versatile layout variations without requiring complex manual rule definitions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If pre-registered printing conditions are used, then setting operations are simplified, but user preferences cannot be freely reflected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesetting operationVSAvoiduser preference reflection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically analyzes user behavior patterns and image characteristics to generate personalized layouts without requiring users to manually register or configure printing conditions, while still reflecting individual preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system learns from user interactions with generated layouts and continuously adapts its behavior to reflect user preferences, combining the simplicity of automated operation with the flexibility of personalized results

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7668399B2Apparatus and method for laying out images and program therefor

Publication Date: 2010.02.23 FUJIFILM CORP

AI summary

A layout image is generated by laying out images in a background area according to a predetermined rule. An instruction to edit the layout image is received from a user, and the layout image is edited. Based on a result of editing according to the instruction, user preference information representing preference of the user is generated. The user preference information is fed back in subsequent layout image generation.