Virtual Viewpoint Video Parameter Setting with Dynamic Range Constraints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for setting virtual camera paths in virtual viewpoint video technology can degrade image quality due to restrictive camera installation positions, limiting the flexibility and quality of the virtual viewpoint video.

Innovation Solution

A method that allows users to set parameters for virtual viewpoint videos by determining a settable range of parameters based on user input, considering factors like image quality degradation, to enhance the flexibility of virtual camera settings while maintaining image quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the installation position of the virtual camera is restricted to prevent image quality degradation, then image quality is improved, but the flexibility and degree of freedom in virtual camera setting deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidflexibility of virtual camera setting
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the virtual camera path adjustable and modifiable after generation. Users can change the installation positions and movement paths of virtual cameras dynamically, allowing the system to adapt to different needs while maintaining image quality through the calculated settable ranges that prevent degradation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes parameters by introducing a settable range for virtual camera installation positions based on calculated image quality degradation. Instead of fixed restrictions, the system allows parameter adjustment within determined ranges, enabling flexible camera positioning that maintains image quality while adapting to various virtual viewpoint video requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the virtual camera path is set with excessive restrictions to ensure image quality, then image quality is maintained, but the complexity of the setting process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcomplexity of virtual camera setting
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling users to independently adjust virtual camera parameters within the calculated settable ranges without requiring expert knowledge or complex manual calculations. The system automatically determines safe parameter ranges that prevent image quality degradation, allowing users to freely adjust settings within these bounds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating the settable ranges for virtual camera parameters before the user performs setting operations. This preliminary calculation of safe parameter ranges eliminates the need for users to understand complex image quality criteria, simplifying the setting process while ensuring image quality maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the settable range of virtual camera parameters is expanded to increase flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but the risk of image quality degradation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedegree of freedom in virtual camera settingVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by using the calculated image quality degradation information to define settable parameter ranges. The system provides feedback to users about which parameter values will maintain image quality, enabling flexible adjustment within safe bounds while preventing values that would cause degradation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11526267B2Setting apparatus, setting method, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2022.12.13 CANON KK
  • US11526267B2 patent drawing
  • US11526267B2 patent drawing
  • US11526267B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A setting method for setting a parameter of a virtual viewpoint relating to a virtual viewpoint video to be generated based on images captured by a plurality of cameras includes receiving a first user operation relating to a first parameter relating to a position of a virtual viewpoint, determining a settable range of a second parameter of the virtual viewpoint by using the first parameter based on the received first user operation, and setting the first parameter based on the received first user operation and the second parameter that is based on a second user operation different from the first user operation and falls within the determined settable range as parameters of the virtual viewpoint.