Mobile Device Image Scaling via Flash Reflection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in determining their size when capturing self-images with mobile devices, particularly when trying on clothing, as they often guess sizes that may not fit correctly, leading to uncertainties until the item is received.
Innovation Solution
A method using a mobile device to capture images with a flash, where the flash's reflection is used to locate the device in the image, allowing for edge detection and measurement, and a scaling factor is determined to identify the device's dimensions, enabling the sizing of clothing and other objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users guess their size for clothing, then they can place orders, but the measurement precision is poor leading to incorrect sizing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual estimation with automated image processing techniques. The system captures an image of the user and uses computer vision algorithms to automatically detect body contours, calculate dimensions, and determine clothing sizes. This substitution of mechanical/manual measurement with automated digital processing eliminates guesswork and provides precise size information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the user's appearance through image capture and processing. By generating a scaled representation of the user's body from the captured image, the system can accurately determine dimensions and suggest appropriate clothing sizes without requiring the user to physically measure themselves or provide manual input.
2Ease of operation
If users take self-captured images, then they can see themselves in clothing, but the device complexity increases due to need for flash reflection detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to automatically perform size determination without requiring user intervention. The image processing system autonomously detects the user in the captured image, identifies body contours, calculates dimensions, and provides size recommendations. This self-service capability eliminates the need for users to manually measure or provide input, making the process simple and automated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the reflection of the flash in the mirror as an intermediary marker to locate and identify the user in the captured image. By detecting this distinctive reflection pattern, the system can automatically determine the user's position and dimensions without requiring complex active participation from the user, thereby simplifying the overall operation while managing processing complexity through a reliable detection marker.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate sizing of clothing and other objects in self-captured images, providing users with immediate information on clothing sizes and recommendations for matching items, enhancing the shopping experience by reducing guesswork.
Implementation Method 1
a flash produced by the flash element is visible in the captured image
Data Source
AI summary
Image processing techniques for self-captured images are disclosed. An image can be captured during activation of an illumination element of a mobile device. Presence of a representation of the mobile device can be determined in the captured image based at least in part upon locating a reflection of an illumination produced by the illumination element. Dimensions of the representation of the mobile device can be determined and compared to actual dimensions of the mobile device to provide a scaling factor. The scaling factor can be used to determine the size of various objects, including articles of clothing, in the image.