Virtual Camera Path Interpolation Using Key Frame Position Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating virtual camera paths using key frames often result in unintended movements of the virtual viewpoint, even when the intention is to keep the camera still, due to uniform interpolation techniques like spline interpolation.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that sets key frames representing virtual camera parameters such as position and orientation, and determines an appropriate interpolation method between these key frames to ensure the virtual camera path reflects the user's intended motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If uniform interpolation (spline interpolation) is used between key frames, then the virtual camera path is smooth and continuous, but the virtual viewpoint moves in unintended directions even when key frames are set at identical positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the interpolation parameter from fixed uniform interpolation to variable interpolation based on key frame position relationships. When adjacent key frames are at identical positions, the interpolation method switches to maintain stability; when positions differ, normal interpolation applies. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between smoothness and precision.
2Reliability
If multiple key frames are set at identical positions to maintain a stationary virtual viewpoint, then the camera should remain still, but uniform interpolation causes the virtual viewpoint to move between these key frames
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the position relationship between adjacent key frames during interpolation. When detecting that key frames are at identical positions, the system automatically adjusts the interpolation behavior to prevent unintended movement, providing reliable camera path generation while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If spline interpolation is used to create smooth transitions between key frames, then the virtual camera path is continuous, but it cannot accurately reflect user intent when key frames are set at the same position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the interpolation behavior context-dependent. Instead of using a single uniform interpolation method throughout, the system selectively applies different interpolation strategies based on local key frame characteristics. When key frames are at identical positions, a stability-preserving interpolation is used; otherwise, standard spline interpolation applies, thus preserving user intent locally while maintaining overall smoothness.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus comprising: a setting unit configured to set a plurality of key frames each representing a virtual camera parameter including a position and orientation of a virtual camera used for generating a virtual viewpoint image based upon a plurality of captured images obtained by image capture performed by a plurality of image capture apparatuses; and a determination unit configured to determine, based upon a virtual camera parameter of a first key frame and a virtual camera parameter of a second key frame adjacent to the first key frame among the plurality of key frames, an interpolation method of the virtual camera parameter between the first key frame and the second key frame.