Seam Selection for Seamless Image Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for combining overlapping images from different locations are laborious and inefficient, requiring additional processing to achieve smooth transitions, which is often manual and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An image processing method that automatically selects a seam between two overlapping images by generating difference values for each portion of the overlapping region and selecting a path based on these values to minimize differences, allowing for efficient and unnoticeable combination of images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional methods are used to combine overlapping images, then the images can be combined, but additional laborious processing is required to achieve smooth transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates difference values for all portions of the overlapping region before selecting the seam. This preliminary analysis of image differences enables automatic seam selection without requiring subsequent manual adjustment, thereby reducing overall processing time while maintaining ease of combination
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically selects the optimal seam path by evaluating difference values and minimizing transitions, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The algorithm self-adjusts to find the best combination path, reducing both labor and time requirements
2Manufacturing precision
If manual processing is used to achieve smooth transitions, then transition quality improves, but labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and adjustment with an automated algorithm that calculates difference values and selects optimal seam paths. This mechanical-to-algorithmic substitution maintains high transition quality through systematic evaluation while dramatically improving operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses difference values as feedback to automatically adjust seam selection. By continuously evaluating the difference between overlapping image portions and selecting paths that minimize these differences, the algorithm achieves smooth transitions equivalent to manual processing without the labor intensity
3Manufacturing precision
If additional processing is applied to achieve unnoticeable transitions, then image quality improves, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the overlapping region into discrete portions and calculates difference values for each segment. This segmentation approach simplifies the overall problem by breaking it down into manageable units that can be evaluated independently, reducing processing complexity while maintaining transition quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter evaluation from subjective visual assessment to objective quantitative difference values. By measuring pixel intensity differences and using these as the basis for seam selection, the patent achieves high transition quality through a relatively simple computational process
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for selecting a seam between two overlapping images of an area of interest. It includes generating a difference value associated with each portion of the overlapping region, wherein the difference value associated with a portion is derived from the difference between at least one property of the portion in the two images It also includes selecting, through the overlapping region, a path between two points located at the edge of the overlapping region based on the sum of the difference values of the portions along the path. The path is set as the seam. The seam may be used for combining the overlapping images into one image. The invention also relates to a unit, an apparatus, a computer program and an image.