Neural Network Chroma Key Alpha Matte Generation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing chroma keying solutions are difficult to use, require advanced expertise, and are time-consuming due to the need for manual parameter tuning and post-processing adjustments, limiting their usability for novice users and being sensitive to noise such as wrinkles and shadows.

Innovation Solution

A digital design system employing a lightweight neural network trained with customized and augmented data to generate alpha matte representations of images and videos, using a seven-layer convolutional network with pixel and gradient loss functions to improve robustness and reduce manual adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional chroma keying solutions are used, then chroma keying functionality is provided, but the system becomes difficult to use and requires advanced expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveusabilityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically generating alpha mattes through machine learning without requiring user intervention for parameter tuning. The neural network autonomously processes input images, augments training data, and produces results without manual configuration, making the system accessible to novice users while maintaining high functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If manual parameter tuning is performed, then chroma keying accuracy can be adjusted, but the process becomes time-consuming and resource intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechroma keying accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-training the neural network on augmented training data that includes various noise conditions before actual use. This pre-processing of learning data allows the model to automatically adapt to different chroma keying scenarios without requiring manual parameter tuning during execution, significantly reducing processing time while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual tuning process with an automated machine learning system. Instead of requiring users to manually adjust parameters, the neural network uses computational algorithms to automatically optimize chroma keying results, substituting human expertise with an automated intelligent system that is both faster and consistently accurate.

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

3Reliability

If traditional chroma keying is used, then background separation is achieved, but the system is sensitive to noise such as wrinkles and shadows

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechroma keying reliabilityVSAvoidnoise sensitivity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system converts the harmful effect of noise (wrinkles, shadows) into a beneficial training opportunity. By augmenting training data with synthetic noise and various lighting conditions, the neural network learns to recognize and ignore these harmful factors during inference. This transforms what would normally be sources of error into training examples that improve the model's robustness and reliability in handling real-world variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS12106398B2Machine learning-based chroma keying process
Publication Date: 2024.10.01 ADOBE INC
  • US12106398B2 patent drawing
  • US12106398B2 patent drawing
  • US12106398B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments are disclosed for a machine learning-based chroma keying process. The method may include receiving an input including an image depicting a chroma key scene and a color value corresponding to a background color of the image. The method may further include generating a preprocessed image by concatenating the image and the color value. The method may further include providing the preprocessed image to a trained neural network. The method may further include generating, using the trained neural network, an alpha matte representation of the image based on the preprocessed image.