Image Merging via Pixel Difference Path Stitching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for merging images with a foreground subject at different locations on the same background often result in blurry or artificial-looking images, particularly when using digital cameras and photo editing software.

Innovation Solution

A method that determines pixel difference images, identifies foreground subject locations, calculates a minimum path of pixel differences, and stitches the images along this path while adjusting pixels within a specific width to create a seamless merged image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two photographs are placed over each other and made semi-transparent to merge images, then the foreground subject appears at different locations on the same background, but the resulting image appears blurry

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforeground subject positioningVSAvoidimage clarity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the image into foreground subject and background components using pixel difference analysis. By identifying regions where pixel values differ between the two photographs, the system separates the moving foreground subject from the static background, allowing precise control over which regions are merged and how, thereby maintaining image clarity while achieving the double exposure effect.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different processing qualities to different regions of the image. The foreground subject regions are identified and treated differently from the background regions through localized pixel difference analysis. This allows the foreground to be precisely positioned at different locations while the background remains consistent and sharp, avoiding the blurriness that would result from uniform semi-transparent overlaying.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If photo editing software is used to manually copy and paste the foreground subject to a different location, then the foreground subject can be positioned precisely, but the resulting image appears artificial

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforeground subject positioningVSAvoidartificial appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs automated algorithms that perform pixel difference analysis, path determination, and image merging without manual intervention. The system automatically identifies the foreground subject, calculates the minimum path through pixel difference space, and executes the merging process, eliminating the artificial appearance associated with manual copy-paste operations while maintaining precise positioning control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the merging process from discrete manual operations to a continuous parameter-based approach. By determining a minimum path through pixel difference space and adjusting pixel values along this path, the system creates smooth transitions and natural blending effects that avoid the harsh, artificial boundaries characteristic of manual copy-paste methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional film based camera is used for double exposure, then creative photographs can be captured, but the process cannot be implemented with digital camera using simple methods

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedouble exposure capabilityVSAvoidimplementation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical double exposure process of traditional film cameras with a digital image processing system. Instead of physically exposing film twice, the system uses pixel difference analysis, computational path determination, and digital merging algorithms to achieve the same creative effect, making the process adaptable to digital cameras while maintaining the artistic quality of double exposure photography.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8275215B2Merging images

Publication Date: 2012.09.25 ARCSOFT SHANGHAI TECH

AI summary

A method for merging first and second images includes determining a pixel difference image from the first and the second images, determining first and second locations of the foreground subject from the pixel difference image, determining a minimum path of values from the pixel difference image for a region between the first and the second locations of the foreground subject, forming a merged image by stitching the first and the second images along the minimum path, and adjusting pixels of the merged image within a width of the minimum path.