Overlapping Slot Template for Single Image Double-Page Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic photo album layout techniques often result in low user satisfaction when a single image is allocated to a double-page spread, failing to provide an aesthetically pleasing layout.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that divides images into groups and determines a special template for double-page spreads with a single image, arranging the image in overlapping slots to create a unique and satisfying layout, while also performing image editing to prevent print resolution issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single image is allocated to a double-page spread using conventional layout methods, then the processing is simple and efficient, but the user satisfaction and aesthetic quality of the layout deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single image into multiple regions (first region and second region) and places them in separate slots (first slot and second slot) within the template. This segmentation allows the single image to occupy multiple slots creatively, transforming a simple allocation into an aesthetically pleasing layout that satisfies both efficiency and quality requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the second slot within or overlapping the first slot region. The second image (derived from the same source image) is positioned in the second slot which is nested or overlapped with the first slot, creating a layered visual effect that enhances layout quality while maintaining processing simplicity
2Ease of manufacture
If overlapping slots are used to creatively arrange a single image, then user satisfaction improves, but the template complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the slot arrangement specific to the situation where a single image is allocated to a double-page spread. The overlapping slot configuration is not applied universally but only in this specific context, allowing the template to remain simple for most cases while providing enhanced complexity only where needed for aesthetic improvement
Solution Approach 2:
The template structure is made dynamic by conditionally applying the overlapping slot configuration based on the number of images allocated. The determination unit dynamically selects whether to use the special overlapping template or a conventional template, allowing the system to adapt its complexity to the specific layout requirements
3Manufacturing precision
If image editing is performed to prevent print resolution issues, then print quality is ensured, but the processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs image editing in advance, before the layout is finalized and before printing. The editing unit pre-processes the image to ensure adequate print resolution, and only then are the edited images placed in the slots. This preliminary action prevents resolution issues from arising later in the workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects and corrects print resolution issues without requiring manual intervention. The editing unit self-adjusts the image processing parameters to ensure adequate resolution, and the determination unit automatically identifies when editing is needed based on the template and image characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing apparatus comprising: an obtaining unit that obtains images; a division unit that divides the obtained images into groups; a determination unit that determines a template to be used for a processing target group; and a layout unit that lays out the at least one image in the processing target group by using the template determined by the determination unit. In a case where the processing target group includes only a single image, the determination unit determines a first template as the template to be used for the processing target group, the first template including a first slot and a second slot overlapping the first slot. An image arranged in the first slot by the layout unit and an image arranged in the second slot by the layout unit are images based on the single image.