2-D Image to Stereoscopic 3-D Conversion via Color Region Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for converting 2-D images to stereoscopic 3-D images are labor-intensive and require specialized computer graphics skills, as they involve creating virtual 3-D environments and models, which is time-consuming and requires significant manual labor, especially when dealing with animated objects and backgrounds.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that segment color regions of a 2-D image to apply a stereoscopic effect by identifying specific color values, generating a matte, and applying a uniform pixel color, allowing for the creation of corresponding left and right eye images with pixel offsets to achieve a 3-D effect, which can be automated through a user interface and computing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If virtual 3-D environments and models are created using traditional computer graphics methods, then stereoscopic 3-D effect quality is improved, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses depth maps as simplified copies or representations of the actual 3-D scene geometry. Instead of creating full virtual 3-D models with complex geometries and materials, the system captures depth information in a compressed map format that preserves essential spatial relationships. This copying approach maintains stereoscopic quality while dramatically reducing the computational and manual effort required for model creation and animation.
2Manufacturing precision
If virtual models are created to match animated object movement frame by frame, then stereoscopic rendering accuracy is improved, but time consumption and manual labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of frame-by-frame model adjustment with an automated computational system. The depth map processing pipeline automatically extracts spatial information, calculates pixel offsets, and generates stereoscopic pairs without requiring manual intervention for each frame. This substitution of automated algorithms for manual mechanical adjustment maintains rendering accuracy while eliminating time-consuming manual labor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the entire 2-D image is recreated in a virtual 3-D environment, then complete stereoscopic coverage is achieved, but labor intensity and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing task into distinct computational stages: depth map generation, region identification, pixel offset calculation, and stereoscopic pair construction. By dividing the overall conversion process into manageable segments, the system achieves complete stereoscopic coverage without requiring the complexity of recreating entire virtual environments. Each segment can be processed independently and efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations of the present invention involve methods and systems for converting a 2-D image to a stereoscopic 3-D image by segmenting one or more portions of the 2-D image based on one or more pixel color ranges. Further, a matte may be created that takes the shape of the segmented region such that several stereoscopic effects may be applied to the segmented region. In addition, ink lines that are contained within the segmented region may be removed to further define the corresponding matte. Implementations of the present disclosure also include a interface that provides the above functionality to a user for ease of segmentation and region selection. By utilizing the segmentation process, a 2-D image may be converted to a corresponding stereoscopic 3-D image with a perceived depth. Further, this process may be applied to each image of an animated feature film to convert the film from 2-D to 3-D.