Ordered Image Sequence Display for Virtual Tours
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image search engines fail to provide static images within defined boundaries in an ordered or sequential manner, often directing users to videos instead, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming for comprehending information.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that receive a search query with a start and end point, collect and display images within the defined boundary in an ordered sequence, using metadata such as geographical information and user-end inputs to arrange images, allowing users to view static images in a virtual tour format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If image search engines provide static images in response to search queries, then users can access visual information, but the images are not displayed in an ordered or sequential manner making it difficult to comprehend information efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically arranging images in sequential order based on metadata analysis before the user views them. The images are pre-processed and organized according to spatial relationships, timestamps, or other relevant criteria, so that when users receive search results, the images are already in the optimal viewing sequence, eliminating the need for users to manually sort or organize them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary component that acts as a mediator between the image database and the user interface. This intermediary automatically sequences images based on metadata and presents them in an organized manner, bridging the gap between raw image data and user comprehension needs. The intermediary handles the complexity of image organization transparently, allowing users to simply view sequentially arranged images without understanding the underlying sorting logic.
2Adaptability or versatility
If image search engines refer users to videos for boundary-defined queries, then users can obtain dynamic visual information, but it becomes cumbersome and time-consuming for users who specifically need static images in order
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by making the image display system adaptable to different user needs while maintaining automatic sequencing. The sequencing mechanism can dynamically adjust based on the type of query, metadata available, and user preferences. For boundary-defined queries, the system automatically determines the appropriate sequencing method (spatial, temporal, or other relevant criteria) and applies it to present static images in a meaningful order, providing versatility without requiring manual user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying how images are organized and presented based on the search query characteristics. When a boundary-defined query is detected, the system changes the organization parameter from random or relevance-based sorting to spatial or temporal sequencing. This parameter change allows the system to adapt its behavior to different query types while maintaining the convenience of automatic image arrangement, eliminating the need to redirect users to videos.
3Extent of automation
If images are collected within a defined boundary using metadata, then images can be automatically organized, but the system requires sophisticated metadata processing and analysis capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling images to organize themselves automatically based on their embedded metadata. Each image carries metadata such as GPS coordinates, timestamps, or other identifying information, and the system automatically processes this metadata to determine the correct sequence without requiring complex manual intervention or sophisticated external processing systems. The images essentially sort themselves through automated metadata analysis, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high automation.
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanisms for displaying an ordered sequence of images are provided. The mechanisms receive a search query as input from a user. The search query includes a start point and an end point of a virtual tour. The start point and the end point determine a boundary of the virtual tour. Based on the search query, images that are within the boundary of the virtual tour defined in the search query are collected. At least a subset of the collected images are displayed in an ordered sequence in accordance with the boundary of the virtual tour.