Image Processing Undo Redo Job List Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing applications require complex user operations to undo or redo specific image processing functions, especially as the number of correction functions increases, making it difficult for users to intuitively manage process histories.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus with an input unit for process information, a registration unit for managing jobs in a list, a specifying unit for selecting jobs of interest, and a processing execution unit that executes jobs in a predetermined order, allowing users to intuitively undo or redo operations by designating jobs in a simplified manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional undo/redo function is used to cancel or redo specific image processing functions, then the function can be implemented, but the user operation becomes complex and non-intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the process history into multiple lists organized by processing type (e.g., exposure correction list, white balance correction list, saturation correction list). Each list contains only jobs of the same processing type, allowing users to selectively undo or redo specific processing functions by simply selecting from the appropriate list, thereby simplifying user operation while maintaining system functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple correction functions are added to photo retouch applications, then the application functionality is improved, but the complexity of managing process histories increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides process history management into multiple segmented lists based on processing types. Each list (exposure correction list, white balance correction list, etc.) manages only its specific processing type, making it easier to track and manage histories even as the number of correction functions increases. This segmentation approach maintains versatility while reducing management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new organizational dimension for process history by categorizing jobs not just chronologically but also by processing type. This creates a two-dimensional structure (time × processing type) that allows users to navigate and manage histories more efficiently, accommodating increased application functionality without proportionally increasing management complexity.
3Ease of operation
If undo function is used to cancel a target process, then the process can be undone, but subsequent corrections that have already been done must be redone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments process history into type-specific lists, allowing users to undo only the target processing function by selecting it from the appropriate list, while preserving other processing functions in their original state. This eliminates the need to redo subsequent corrections, saving user time and improving operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary organization of process history into structured lists by processing type before the undo operation occurs. This preliminary structuring enables selective undoing of specific functions without affecting other corrections, preventing the need to redo subsequent operations and reducing time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
When a user inputs an image addition instruction from a UI input unit, a job registration unit registers a job corresponding to the instruction in a job list for each type of processing. When undo is input from the UI input unit, a current position pointer prepared for each type of processing returns to the immediately preceding job. When redo is input, the current position pointer moves to the immediately succeeding job. When a processing execution instruction is input, out of jobs registered in the job list, the job indicated by the current position pointer and preceding jobs are executed in a predetermined order.