Automated Subject Data Extraction for Machine Learning Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current information processing systems for machine learning require manual selection of subject images from captured images, which is inefficient and labor-intensive, especially when dealing with large datasets or dynamic imaging scenarios.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus equipped with a processor that automatically identifies and extracts specific subject data from images captured by an image sensor, using features like focus operations and similarity evaluation values to distinguish and isolate subject regions, thereby facilitating the collection of training data for machine learning algorithms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual selection of subject images is used, then accuracy of subject identification can be maintained, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubject identification accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging apparatus performs self-service by automatically identifying and extracting subject images using focus operation information and similarity evaluation values, eliminating the need for manual selection while maintaining identification accuracy through automated processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical selection with automated computational processing, using algorithms that evaluate image similarity and focus characteristics to automatically identify subject images, thereby reducing time consumption while preserving accuracy

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

2Loss of time

If automated extraction of subject images is implemented, then time consumption is reduced, but complexity of the processing system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime consumptionVSAvoidprocessing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by capturing focus operation information and pre-calculating similarity evaluation values during the imaging process, so that subject image extraction can be performed efficiently without requiring complex real-time processing, thus reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the complex processing into distinct functional components: focus operation information capture, similarity evaluation value calculation, and subject image extraction, making each component simpler and more manageable while achieving automated processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If focus operation information is used for subject identification, then accuracy in dynamic scenarios improves, but requirements for imaging conditions increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubject identification accuracyVSAvoidimaging condition requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system adapts to varying imaging conditions by dynamically adjusting the evaluation parameters based on focus operation information, allowing accurate subject identification across different scenarios without requiring fixed, restrictive imaging conditions, thus improving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20230131704A1Information processing apparatus, learning device, imaging apparatus, control method of information processing apparatus, and program
Publication Date: 2023.04.27 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US20230131704A1 patent drawing
  • US20230131704A1 patent drawing
  • US20230131704A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes a processor and a memory connected to or built in the processor. In a case in which imaging accompanied by a focus operation in which a specific subject is used as a focus target region is performed by an image sensor, the processor outputs specific subject data related to a specific subject image indicating the specific subject in a captured image obtained by the imaging as data used in machine learning.