Voxel Object Creation From Real-World Contour Sampling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Constructing three-dimensional virtual objects in computer-generated environments is complex and time-consuming, especially for beginners.

Innovation Solution

A voxel representation is created by sampling a real-world object using an input device, allowing for the automatic generation and editing of virtual objects in a computer-generated environment, with features like preview voxels and transformation modes to facilitate intuitive creation and manipulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional methods are used to construct three-dimensional virtual objects in computer-generated environments, then the objects can be created with high precision and complexity, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming and complex for users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of creating virtual objectsVSAvoidtime to construct virtual objects
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses photogrammetry to capture images of real-world objects and automatically generates three-dimensional virtual models by processing these images. This copying approach allows users to create complex virtual objects quickly by simply photographing real objects, eliminating the need for manual modeling while preserving geometric accuracy and detail

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical modeling operations with automated computational image processing. Instead of requiring users to manually construct three-dimensional models through complex interface operations, the system automatically generates virtual objects from captured images using photogrammetric algorithms, significantly reducing time and complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If detailed three-dimensional virtual objects are constructed manually, then high precision and complexity are achieved, but the operation becomes complex and difficult for beginners

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of virtual object constructionVSAvoidease of operating the creation interface
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By copying geometric information directly from real-world objects through photography, the system achieves high construction precision without requiring users to understand complex modeling operations. The photogrammetric process automatically extracts accurate three-dimensional geometry from multiple two-dimensional images

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs automatic object recognition and model generation without requiring user intervention in the complex modeling process. The software independently handles image processing, feature detection, and three-dimensional reconstruction, making the operation simple while maintaining high precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If automated voxel generation from real-world objects is implemented, then creation time is reduced and ease of use is improved, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of creating virtual objectsVSAvoidcomplexity of the voxel creation system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a photogrammetry processing system as an intermediary between simple image capture and voxel generation. This intermediary automatically handles the complex tasks of three-dimensional reconstruction and mesh processing, converting captured images into voxel representations without requiring users to understand the underlying complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12536762B2Systems and methods of creating and editing virtual objects using voxels
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 APPLE INC
  • US12536762B2 patent drawing
  • US12536762B2 patent drawing
  • US12536762B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A three-dimensional computer-generated environment can be presented to a user. The user can create a virtual representation of a real-world object within the computer-generated environment by directing an input device towards the real-world object and tracing contours of the real-world object. The virtual representation can include voxels. The user can edit the virtual representation or create a new virtual object formed of voxels by depositing or removing voxels at virtual locations within the computer-generated environment based on selection inputs, release inputs, and optionally movement inputs detected by the input device. In some cases, the user can provide inputs via another input source, such as a hand of the user, that are detected by additional sensors or devices.