Virtual Viewpoint Imaging Control for High-Resolution ROI Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems struggle to generate high-resolution virtual viewpoint images efficiently, particularly in dynamic environments like a soccer stadium, where capturing and processing images from multiple viewpoints are required to provide an optimal viewing experience for spectators.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that controls multiple imaging devices to capture and generate high-resolution virtual viewpoint images by adjusting position, direction, focal length, and imaging conditions based on viewer instructions or predicted gaze points, using a combination of fixed and movable cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple imaging apparatuses are used to capture images from different directions, then the quality of virtual viewpoint images is improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the imaging task into multiple segments by using multiple imaging apparatuses positioned at different locations. Each apparatus captures images of specific regions, and the information processing apparatus synthesizes these segmented views into a complete virtual viewpoint image, resolving the contradiction between image quality and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus acts as an intermediary that receives images from multiple imaging apparatuses, processes them through synthesis algorithms, and generates the final virtual viewpoint images. This intermediary component manages the complexity by centralizing the synthesis process.
2Area of stationary object
If the imaging range of cameras is expanded to cover more areas, then the coverage of virtual viewpoint images is improved, but the resolution and detail of specific regions decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by capturing images at high resolution in specific regions of interest using multiple imaging apparatuses positioned strategically. The information processing apparatus then synthesizes these high-resolution local images into a virtual viewpoint image that maintains both wide coverage and high detail in key areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a two-dimensional trade-off between coverage area and resolution to a three-dimensional solution by utilizing multiple imaging apparatuses at different spatial positions and angles. This adds a spatial dimension to the imaging system, allowing simultaneous achievement of wide coverage and high resolution through volumetric image synthesis.
3Adaptability or versatility
If camera positions and directions are dynamically adjusted to follow subjects, then the relevance of virtual viewpoint images is improved, but the processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning multiple imaging apparatuses to cover anticipated subject movement paths and regions of interest. The information processing apparatus also pre-processes images and maintains buffer storage, allowing dynamic adjustment to subject movement without significant processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous useful action by having multiple imaging apparatuses continuously capture images in parallel, with the information processing apparatus continuously synthesizing virtual viewpoint images. This continuous parallel processing ensures that subject tracking remains relevant without interruption or significant time loss.
4Measurement precision
If high-resolution images are captured from multiple viewpoints, then the quality of virtual viewpoint images is improved, but the data processing load and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus extracts and processes only the essential image data needed for virtual viewpoint synthesis from the multiple high-resolution images captured by different imaging apparatuses. By selecting and processing only relevant data portions rather than all captured data, the system maintains high output resolution while reducing processing load and storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a processor capable of generating a virtual viewpoint image based on a plurality of captured images acquired by imaging with a plurality of imaging apparatuses, and a memory built in or connected to the processor. The processor generates a control signal for a control target imaging apparatus among the plurality of imaging apparatuses based on at least one of an instruction given from an outside regarding generation of the virtual viewpoint image or a subject.