Multi-Camera Positioning Verification for Virtual Viewpoint Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems that capture images of an imaging region using multiple image capturing apparatuses from different directions face challenges in determining whether the apparatuses collectively satisfy predetermined conditions for generating high-quality virtual viewpoint images, as individual parameter determination does not guarantee adequate coverage and direction alignment.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus is used to obtain and analyze parameters for specifying the positions and orientations of multiple image capturing apparatuses, determining their image capturing appropriate ranges and checking if the apparatuses collectively meet conditions such as adequate direction spacing and resolution for capturing images from multiple directions, thereby facilitating the generation of high-quality virtual viewpoint images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If parameters of individual image capturing apparatuses are determined separately, then the position and orientation of each apparatus can be specified, but it becomes difficult to determine whether the plurality of apparatuses collectively satisfy predetermined conditions for high-quality virtual viewpoint image generation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition and orientation specificationVSAvoidcollective condition verification
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the verification process into two segments: individual apparatus parameter determination and collective condition verification. The information processing apparatus first determines parameters for each image capturing apparatus separately, then performs a second determination to check whether the plurality of apparatuses collectively satisfy predetermined conditions for high-quality virtual viewpoint image generation. This segmentation allows both precise individual specification and comprehensive collective verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The information processing apparatus acts as an intermediary between the multiple image capturing apparatuses and the user. It receives parameters from each apparatus, processes them to determine collective satisfaction of predetermined conditions, and provides unified feedback. This intermediary role simplifies the complex multi-apparatus verification process into a single actionable determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Area of stationary object

If multiple image capturing apparatuses are installed to capture images from different directions, then comprehensive coverage of the imaging region is achieved, but it becomes complex to verify whether adequate direction spacing and coverage are satisfied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging region coverageVSAvoidverification process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the information processing apparatus determines whether the plurality of image capturing apparatuses collectively satisfy predetermined conditions, and provides this determination result back to the user. This feedback loop enables users to verify whether adequate direction spacing and coverage are achieved without manually analyzing complex geometric relationships between multiple apparatuses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual verification of geometric conditions with an automated information processing system. Instead of requiring users to manually check direction spacing, coverage areas, and angular relationships between multiple apparatuses, the system automatically processes parameters and determines collective satisfaction of predetermined conditions, substituting mechanical verification with computational analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12262147B2Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2025.03.25 CANON KK
  • US12262147B2 patent drawing
  • US12262147B2 patent drawing
  • US12262147B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus 10 determines the positions and orientations of a plurality of image capturing apparatuses 11, which capture an imaging region from respective different directions. The information processing apparatus 10 outputs, based on the determination, information that enables recognition of a satisfying state of a predetermined condition regarding image capturing of the imaging region from a plurality of directions, the satisfying state being a state that changes at least in accordance with a relationship between the plurality of directions.