Imaging Position Determination for Omnidirectional Video Frames

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a technology that can effectively determine imaging position information for omnidirectional images generated by image-processing devices and utilize this information to provide users with enhanced image-based services, such as virtual market experiences, by performing post-processing on the images.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that involve a service server receiving frame information from an image-processing device, determining imaging position information for each frame, and generating user-provided images through post-processing, allowing for the provision of various services like virtual market experiences by matching imaging position information with frames and performing image processing to exclude overlapping or undesired parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If omnidirectional images are captured using multiple cameras or rotating cameras, then the field of view and coverage are improved, but the complexity of determining accurate imaging position information for each frame increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of viewVSAvoidcomplexity of determining imaging position information
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an imaging position determination module that acts as an intermediary between the omnidirectional image capture system and the post-processing system. This module automatically determines imaging position information (GPS coordinates, azimuth, elevation) for each frame by analyzing image content and matching it with pre-acquired environment information, thereby resolving the complexity of tracking camera positions in omnidirectional systems without requiring complex hardware modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical position tracking systems (such as encoders on rotating cameras or precise mechanical mounting systems) with an information-based approach. By using image content analysis, GPS data, and environmental map matching, the system determines imaging positions computationally rather than through mechanical measurement, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining accuracy.

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

2Measurement precision

If imaging position information is determined for every frame in a video sequence, then the precision of location-based services is improved, but the processing time and computational resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of imaging position informationVSAvoidprocessing time for determining imaging position
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by determining imaging position information selectively rather than for every single frame. The system identifies key frames (such as those with significant content changes or at regular intervals) and determines precise imaging positions for these frames, while using interpolation or approximation for intermediate frames. This approach maintains sufficient precision for location-based services while significantly reducing processing time and computational resource requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Manufacturing precision

If post-processing is performed on all captured frames, then the quality of user-provided images is improved, but the productivity and speed of service delivery decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of user-provided imagesVSAvoidspeed of service delivery
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing selective post-processing on only those frames that have been determined to contain valuable imaging position information. The system pre-identifies key frames through content analysis and applies sophisticated post-processing (such as stitching, rendering, or enhancement) only to these selected frames, while using simpler processing or skipping intermediate frames. This maintains high quality for critical images while improving overall productivity and service delivery speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11055876B2Method of determining information about imaging position and apparatus for performing the same
Publication Date: 2021.07.06 LINKFLOW CO LTD
  • US11055876B2 patent drawing
  • US11055876B2 patent drawing
  • US11055876B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for determining imaging location information and a device for performing same. A method for generating imaging position information may comprise the steps in which: a service server receives information on a plurality of frames from an image processing device; the service server determines each of a plurality of pieces of imaging location information on each of the plurality of frames; and the service server generates an image to be provided to user by post-processing the plurality of frames on the basis of the plurality of pieces of imaging location information.