Superpixel Annotation Workflow for Faster Accurate Image Labeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The annotation process for deep learning models, particularly in image or video analysis, is costly and time-consuming due to the need for substantial human effort in tagging label information for large datasets.

Innovation Solution

An annotation device and method using non-parametric segmentation technology to generate superpixels adaptively, allowing user-driven segmentation region recommendations and labeling, with features like Bayesian Adaptive Superpixel Segmentation and HDBSCAN clustering to optimize superpixel division and merging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual annotation is performed for large datasets, then labeling accuracy can be maintained, but human effort and time consumption increase substantially

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabeling accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The image is segmented into multiple superpixel regions using non-parametric segmentation algorithms. Each superpixel represents a homogeneous region that can be independently annotated. This segmentation reduces the annotation workload by dividing the complex task of annotating entire images into smaller, manageable units while maintaining labeling accuracy through the preservation of semantic information in each superpixel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically generates superpixel segments and provides preliminary annotations based on image content analysis. The annotation device can autonomously perform segmentation and generate initial labeling suggestions, reducing the need for manual intervention. Users can then review and refine these automatic annotations, significantly reducing overall time consumption while maintaining accuracy through human-in-the-loop verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If superpixel segmentation is performed to reduce annotation workload, then human effort decreases, but segmentation accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveannotation efficiencyVSAvoidsegmentation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs non-parametric segmentation algorithms that dynamically adjust segmentation parameters based on image characteristics. Instead of using fixed parameters, the algorithm adapts to the specific content, lighting conditions, and structural features of each image, ensuring high segmentation accuracy. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain both productivity through automated segmentation and precision through content-aware parameter adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The annotation device incorporates feedback mechanisms where users can review generated superpixel segments and provide corrections. The system uses this feedback to refine and improve subsequent segmentation results. This iterative feedback loop ensures that segmentation accuracy is continuously improved while maintaining high annotation efficiency through automated processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If adaptive superpixel generation is implemented, then annotation flexibility improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveannotation flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The annotation device is designed with multi-functional capabilities that can handle various annotation scenarios through a unified system. The same non-parametric segmentation framework can adapt to different image types, object categories, and annotation requirements without requiring separate specialized algorithms. This universality reduces system complexity by consolidating multiple functions into a single versatile platform while maintaining high annotation flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements dynamic superpixel generation where the number, size, and configuration of superpixels automatically adjust based on image content and annotation requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to flexibly handle diverse annotation tasks from simple to complex images without manual configuration. The dynamic nature of the segmentation process simplifies user interaction while maintaining versatility across different application scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4361960B1Annotation device and annotation method
Publication Date: 2026.03.04 DOOSAN ENERBILITY CO LTD
  • EP4361960B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4361960B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4361960B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed is an annotation device including at least one processor. The at least one processor generates a plurality of superpixels in an annotation target image based on a predetermined non-parametric segmentation method, recommends segmentation regions based on outlines of the plurality of superpixels, respectively, and performs labeling for each of the recommended segmentation regions based on a user input for labeing.