Image Processing Preview for Color Modification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image processing apparatuses require users to determine image processes through a trial and error process, making operations cumbersome and complicated.

Innovation Solution

An image processing method and apparatus that displays candidate image processes, including color modification, allows users to select and preview the result of the process before applying it to the image data, using a multifunction peripheral with a touch panel for easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional image processing apparatuses apply predetermined image processes to thumbnail images, then image processing can be performed, but user operation becomes cumbersome and complicated due to trial and error processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser operationVSAvoidtrial and error time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by displaying a preview image that shows the result of the selected image process before the user commits to applying it. The preview display unit generates and displays a preview image based on the selected thumbnail image and selected image process, allowing users to see the outcome beforehand and avoid unnecessary trial and error operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional image processing apparatuses display thumbnail images for selection, then multiple image data can be confirmed, but the process of determining which image process to apply becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage process selectionVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by providing visual feedback through the preview display unit that shows users the result of selecting a particular image process. This feedback mechanism allows users to make informed decisions about which image process to apply, simplifying the selection process while maintaining versatility in image processing options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the image processing workflow into distinct steps: selecting a thumbnail image, selecting an image process, previewing the result, and then applying the process. This segmentation of the operation flow makes each step simpler and more manageable, reducing overall operation complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of information

If image processing apparatuses apply image processes without preview, then processing speed is maintained, but users cannot visually confirm the result before application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual confirmationVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent generates a preview image before the user applies the image process, allowing visual confirmation of the result. This preliminary preview step prevents information loss by enabling users to see what the processed image will look like before committing to the operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the thumbnail image as a preview image that displays the result of the selected image process. This copying approach allows users to view the processed result without permanently applying the process, maintaining the ability to visually confirm outcomes while managing processing complexity efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10559099B2Image processing method displaying processed image representing result of color modification process
Publication Date: 2020.02.11 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US10559099B2 patent drawing
  • US10559099B2 patent drawing
  • US10559099B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing method includes: (a) displaying a plurality of candidate image processes to be performed on image data, the plurality of candidate image processes including a color modification process; (b) receiving an instruction indicating the color modification process selected from among the plurality of candidate image processes; (c) displaying a display image corresponding to the image data on the display; (d) designating a display image; and (e) displaying a processed display image that represents a result of the selected color modification process performed on the image data corresponding to the designated display image before the selected color modification process on the image data corresponding to the designated display image is performed.