Image Processing Apparatus for Efficient Light Field Browsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing techniques struggle to efficiently browse and switch between multiple images, particularly those generated from light field data, as they often treat images with refocus capabilities as independent entities, limiting user flexibility in switching between different focus distances and image files.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that allows for efficient browsing of image data by enabling switching between images generated from different image files and refocus images using distinct input operations, allowing users to switch between different focus distances and image files through intuitive directional inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If image data from which a plurality of images can be generated is handled as independent images, then the playback method can be simplified, but the ability to efficiently browse and switch between multiple images generated from the same light field data is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image browsing function into two distinct modes: switching between different image files and switching between refocus images generated from the same light field data. This segmentation allows each switching mode to be optimized independently, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension for image switching by distinguishing between file-level switching and data-level switching. This dimensional differentiation enables the system to handle both independent images and refocus images efficiently without increasing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple images are displayed simultaneously or images are skipped during browsing, then browsing efficiency is improved, but the ability to precisely control and switch between specific refocus images is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching behavior where the system adapts its response based on the type of image data being browsed. When light field data is detected, the system enables refocus image switching; when regular images are detected, it uses standard switching modes, optimizing both efficiency and control for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the switching parameter based on the image data type. By detecting whether the current image is light field data, the system dynamically adjusts the switching behavior to either file-level or refocus-level, thereby maintaining high browsing efficiency while preserving precise control capability.
3Ease of operation
If a single image switching method is used for all image types, then the operation method is simplified, but the flexibility to switch between different focus distances in light field data is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal image switching system that can handle multiple image types (independent images and light field data) through a unified interface. The system automatically detects the image type and applies the appropriate switching mode, providing both simplicity and versatility simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting whether the current image is light field data and selecting the appropriate switching mode without requiring user intervention. This self-detection and self-adjustment mechanism maintains operational simplicity while enabling refocus image switching flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing apparatus and control method thereof that enable image data from which a plurality of images can be generated to be browsed efficiently. In the case where a first image switching operation has been made through an input unit, a display is switched to display an image generated from a different image file from an image file used to generate an image currently being displayed, and in the case where a second image switching operation has been made through the input unit, the display is switched to display a different image generated from an image file used to generate the image being displayed.