VIN-Based Vehicle Image Generation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle image representation methods, such as lot images and generic stock images, fail to accurately depict specific vehicle features and dealer information, leading to inadequate customer decision-making and increased marketing costs for dealers.
Innovation Solution
An automated system generates customized vehicle images in real-time based on a vehicle identification number (VIN), accurately representing the vehicle's trim and factory-ordered options, and overlays dealer-specific backgrounds and foregrounds to create composite images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If generic stock images are used to represent vehicles, then the dealer can use standardized images without customization, but the images do not accurately represent the specific vehicle features and factory-ordered options
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates customized vehicle images by copying and combining base images with specific vehicle features, options, and dealer branding elements. Instead of taking new photos, the system generates accurate representations by assembling pre-existing image components that match the specific vehicle configuration identified by the VIN.
Solution Approach 2:
The image generation process is divided into separate functional modules: VIN decoding to extract vehicle features, base image selection, feature overlay application, and dealer branding integration. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized while maintaining overall system accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If lot images are taken by the dealer to show actual vehicles, then the images capture the specific vehicle, but the images include artifacts like window glare and shadows that impede conveyance of vehicle features
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses professionally captured base images that show vehicles under optimal lighting conditions without artifacts. These base images serve as templates that are then customized with specific vehicle features through digital composition, eliminating the need for dealers to take photos that introduce glare and shadows.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical process of physical photography with automated digital image generation. Instead of using cameras that capture real-world lighting conditions (including artifacts), the system uses computational methods to assemble perfect representations from pre-captured base images and feature overlays.
3Loss of information
If customized vehicle images are generated for each dealer, then the images accurately represent the vehicle and dealer information, but the image generation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-capturing base images of vehicles under optimal conditions and pre-organizing feature overlay assets. When a specific vehicle needs to be represented, the system quickly assembles the appropriate combination of pre-prepared elements based on the VIN, rather than creating everything from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
The image generation system is designed to handle multiple vehicle types, options, and dealer branding requirements through a single unified platform. The modular architecture allows the same system to generate customized images for any vehicle configuration while maintaining consistent quality and accuracy.
4Adaptability or versatility
If lot images are used to show vehicles in the actual parking area, then the images show the real vehicle location, but the background provides little assistance in differentiating a dealer from competitors and increases marketing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates customized dealer backgrounds by copying and adapting base background images to match each dealer's specific branding, location, and marketing preferences. These customized backgrounds are then integrated with vehicle images, allowing each dealer to have unique, professionally presented images without the costs associated with physical photoshoots.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the invention is directed to a system that comprises one or more processors and a memory communicatively coupled to the one or more processors. Herein, the memory including logic that, upon executing by the one or more processors and in response to receiving information that uniquely identifies a vehicle, automatically generating a plurality of images of the vehicle. A vehicle identification number (VIN) may be used as the information that uniquely identifies a vehicle and causes automatic generation of the interior and exterior images for that specific vehicle.