Voxel-Based Virtual Object Creation from Real-World Tracing

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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 within a computer-generated environment, utilizing sensors and user interfaces to manipulate and transform voxels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional methods are used to construct three-dimensional virtual objects in computer-generated environments, then the objects can be created with detailed geometry and structure, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevirtual object construction precisionVSAvoidtime required for constructing virtual objects
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system copies real-world objects into the virtual environment by capturing their geometry, texture, and other properties using imaging devices. This allows users to create accurate virtual representations of physical objects without manually modeling them, significantly reducing creation time while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical modeling processes with automated image processing and computational algorithms. Instead of requiring users to manually construct 3D models through complex interfaces, the system automatically generates virtual objects from captured images using computer vision and processing techniques.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional methods are used to construct three-dimensional virtual objects, then the objects can be created with accurate geometry, but the user interface and process become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevirtual object geometry accuracyVSAvoidease of creating virtual objects
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically capturing, processing, and generating virtual objects without requiring extensive user input or manual intervention. The imaging device and processing system work autonomously to transform real-world objects into virtual representations, eliminating the need for users to navigate complex modeling interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

By copying real-world objects directly into the virtual environment through image capture and processing, the system preserves geometric accuracy while simplifying the user experience. Users simply need to point the imaging device at the object rather than manually modeling it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual methods are used to create virtual objects, then users have full control over the creation process, but the process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser control over creation processVSAvoidspeed of virtual object creation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically capturing and pre-processing object data before the user needs to use it. The imaging device captures multiple images from different angles, and the processing system pre-computes the 3D model, texture mapping, and other necessary data, so that when the user needs the virtual object, it is ready for immediate use without time-consuming manual creation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates virtual objects by copying real-world objects through automated image capture and processing. This maintains user adaptability by allowing selection and modification of copied objects while dramatically increasing creation speed compared to manual modeling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS12437494B2Systems and methods of creating and editing virtual objects using voxels
Publication Date: 2025.10.07 APPLE INC
  • US12437494B2 patent drawing
  • US12437494B2 patent drawing
  • US12437494B2 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.