3d Manipulations Patents (Class 345/679)
  • Patent number: 8416268
    Abstract: In an image display device, an image controller controls a floating image and a direct view image so as to be linked to each other. The image controller displays a given object as the floating image, and displays the floating image such that the given object displayed as the floating image is shifted in a specified first direction from a displayed position of the floating image to a second image screen. The image controller executes a process associated with the given object during or after the shift of the given object, and displays, on the second image screen, a two-dimensional image on which the executed process is reflected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Pioneer Corporation
    Inventors: Isao Tomisawa, Masaru Ishikawa, Takehiro Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8405676
    Abstract: A method for determining interior coordinates is disclosed. The method includes receiving information specifying an object having a plurality of sites and a boundary. Interior coordinates associated with each of the plurality of sites are determined based on the boundary. The interior coordinate associated with each of the plurality of sites represent a system of coordinates that satisfy several properties, including non-negativity and interior locality. At least one value associated with the plurality of sites is then interpolated using the interior coordinates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Pixar
    Inventors: Tony DeRose, Mark Meyer
  • Patent number: 8330811
    Abstract: Methods and an apparatus responsive to sensed orientation and translatory position of an image acquisition device with respect to a three-dimensional reference frame of an object space for providing and storing successive computer generated images with respect to a three-dimensional frame of reference of an image space synchronized with successive images acquired by the electronic image acquisition device with respect to the three-dimensional reference frame of the object space, the successive computer generated images having a changing point of view that changes direction between images, the successive computer generated images stored on a storage medium for playback and presentation to a viewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Simulated Percepts, LLC
    Inventor: Francis J. Macguire, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8330812
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of (1) navigating an image acquisition device with both translatory and attitudinal movements while acquiring successive images in an object space and at the same time sensing the translatory and attitudinal movements of the device with respect to a three-dimensional reference frame of the object space, (2) providing successive computer generated (CG) images produced by a computer workstation from the successive images captured by the device in synchronization with the sensed translatory and attitudinal movements of the device with respect to the three-dimensional reference frame, and (3) storing the successive CG images on a non-transitory storage medium for later retrieval by a playback device for presentation by the playback device of said successive CG images to at least one eye of a viewer in an image space for perception of the successive CG images. A non-transitory storage medium storing the successive CG images is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Simulated Percepts, LLC
    Inventor: Francis J. Maguire, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8310481
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present technology provides a the method comprises the steps of: Converting B-spline networks to T-splines, Converting NURBS into T-spline surfaces, Adding control points to local regions, Scaling or optimizing weights across the mesh, and merging between NURBS and T-spline surfaces. The technology overcame some of the issues with implementing simultaneous multiple surface design methodology when dealing with groups of lenses and reflectors, by improving seed patch junction continuity, elimination of ripples and holes, and precisely adding control points where required. In at least one embodiment of the technology, the t-splines topology allowed for refined control over the optical surface. Control points were reduced by conversion of a NURBS into a T-spline. T-splines were used to produce new loft lenses which were further refined and merged to spline patches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Edward Ernest Bailey
  • Patent number: 8291324
    Abstract: A network management system allows a network administrator to intuitively manage all components of a heterogeneous networked computer system using views of any component or any set of components. These views are generated in a multi-dimensional, virtual reality environment. Navigation tools are provided that allow an operator to travel through the network hierarchy's representation in the virtual environment using an automatic flight mode. Automatic flight mode determines a reasonable trajectory to a network component that avoids collisions with intervening objects in the virtual environment. Since the system is capable of managing a world-wide network, city, building, subnet, segment, and computer, a view may also display internal hardware, firmware, and software of any network component. Views of network components may be filtered so only components pertaining to a specific business or other interest are displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: CA, Inc.
    Inventors: Reuven Battat, Michael Her, Chandrasekha Sundaresh, Anders Vinberg, Sidney Wang
  • Patent number: 8290247
    Abstract: A method and system for segmenting tubular structures in 3D images is disclosed. User inputs identifying a first region on the image inside of a tubular structure and a second region of the image outside of the tubular structure are received. Based on this information, an ordered series of pearls are generated along the tubular structure. Pearls are spheres, each having a center location and a radius determined based on the center locations and radii of previous pearls and on local voxel intensities in the image. A continuous model of the tubular structure can be generated by interpolating the center locations and radii of the ordered series of pearls. The ordered series of pearls can be displayed and easily edited in response to user input, thus providing an efficient and flexible method for interactive segmentation of a potion of interest in a tubular structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gregory G. Slabaugh, Gozde Unal, Tong Fang, Brian Whited, Jaroslaw Rossignac
  • Patent number: 8284159
    Abstract: An input processing device comprises a display screen and a pointing device for inputting corresponding 2-dimensional coordinates on the display screen. A 3-dimensional space is displayed on the display screen and the 2-dimensional coordinates inputted from the pointing device are detected. Next, shift amounts, per unit of time, of the detected 2-dimensional coordinates are calculated based on a predetermined calculation start condition. And the calculated shift amounts are converted to 3-dimensional coordinate shift amounts in the 3-dimensional space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideki Konno, Yoshitaka Ajioka, Yasushi Ebisawa, Kiyoshi Mizuki
  • Patent number: 8276091
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for assessing a hazard associated with an object are disclosed. The apparatus includes a haptic input/output device coupled to a computer with haptic modeling software and a display device. A virtual object and a virtual passageway are displayed on the display device. The virtual passageway includes a haptic layer along a surface thereof. Force applied by a user to the haptic input/output device causes a cursor on the display device to move the virtual object into the virtual passageway. An interaction of the virtual object with the haptic layer generates a virtual contact force which may be determined by the user sensing a corresponding tactile feedback force generated by the haptic input/output device and/or by the computer processor. The magnitude of the virtual contact force may be used to assess a hazard associated with the virtual object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Ram Consulting
    Inventors: Robert Altkorn, Xiao Chen, Scott Milkovich, John Owens, Brian Rider, Eugene Rider, Daniel Stool
  • Patent number: 8194067
    Abstract: Techniques are described for providing an environment for modeling and depicting a three-dimensional (3D) representation of a patient's dental arch to assist practitioners in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment. A system is described, for example, that includes modeling software executing on a computing device to provide a three-dimensional (3D) environment. The modeling software includes a rendering engine that renders a digital representation of a dental arch within the 3D environment, and a user interface that displays a planar guide within the 3D environment as a visual aid to a practitioner in the placement of an orthodontic appliance relative to the dental arch. By interacting with the system, orthodontic practitioners are able to visualize the 3D representation of the dental arch, and precisely position “virtual” orthodontic appliances relative to the modeled dental arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Richard E. Raby, Nicholas A. Stark
  • Patent number: 8159477
    Abstract: An electromagnetic interference shielding apparatus and method for manufacturing an electromagnetic interference apparatus are provided. The apparatus includes a frame mounting a display module, a conductive rear cover mounted to a rear side of a frame, a shielding member disposed on a front side of the display module and comprising a conductive layer, a conductive member conductively connecting the shielding member with the rear cover, and a conductive adhesive member conductively connecting the conductive member with the shielding member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-min Cho
  • Patent number: 8102403
    Abstract: A method for determining interior coordinates is disclosed. The method includes receiving information specifying an object having a plurality of sites and a boundary. Interior coordinates associated with each of the plurality of sites are determined based on the boundary. The interior coordinate associated with each of the plurality of sites represent a system of coordinates that satisfy several properties, including non-negativity and interior locality. At least one value associated with the plurality of sites is then interpolated using the interior coordinates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Pixar
    Inventors: Tony DeRose, Mark Meyer
  • Patent number: 8094153
    Abstract: A game apparatus includes a first LCD and a second LCD, and on the first LCD, a two-dimensional game screen including objects positioned in a two-dimensional coordinate is displayed. When a two-dimensional coordinate of a specific object out of the objects positioned in the two-dimensional coordinate satisfies a predetermined condition, a three-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects is calculated on the basis of the two-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects. The object is modeled in the calculated three-dimensional coordinate, moved by a predetermined animation, and then shot by a virtual camera. Accordingly, a game screen of an image (animation) of the three-dimensional virtual space shot by the virtual camera is displayed on the second LCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Saito, Yasunari Watanabe, Kenichi Yokoo
  • Patent number: 8050491
    Abstract: A 3D object modeling system and method system and method captures a 2D representation of the object to be modeled and breaks the 2D image into its geometric elements. The 3D stereoscopic image is then fitted to the geometric elements generated from the 2D image to generate the final model. The 3D stereoscopic image may be compared with the geometric elements to detect distortions in the object, allowing the distortions to be corrected in the final model to ensure that the model accurately depicts the original object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Janakiraman Vaidyanathan
  • Patent number: 8046714
    Abstract: A menu displaying method for displaying a menu containing a plurality of menu items on a display screen comprises a menu item arrangement step of arranging the menu items in a prescribed three-dimensional virtual body to squarely face the display screen so that each menu item will have at least a viewable part that is not screened by other menu items in front of the menu item and a menu item moving step of moving the menu items arranged in the menu item arrangement step according to a prescribed user operation while keeping the menu items squarely facing the display screen. By the menu displaying method, a large number of menu items can be displayed on a screen while minimizing deterioration of viewability of the menu items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Clarion Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takao Yahiro, Manae Suwa
  • Patent number: 8019490
    Abstract: An imaging and display system provides helicopter pilots with an unobstructed display of a landing area in a brownout or whiteout condition by capturing a high resolution image of the landing area prior to obscuration. Using inertial navigation information from the aircraft or an independent system, the system transforms the image to a desired viewpoint and overlays a representation of the helicopter's current position relative to the landing area. The system thus greatly improves orientation and situational awareness, permitting safe and effective operation under zero visibility brownout conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Applied Minds, LLC
    Inventors: Bran Ferren, W. Daniel Hillis, Michael Harvey Peterson
  • Patent number: 7999811
    Abstract: An image processing device that models, based on a plurality of frame images being results of time-sequential imaging of an object in motion, a motion of the object using a three-dimensional (3D) body configured by a plurality of parts is disclosed. The device includes: acquisition means for acquiring the frame images being the imaging results; estimation means for computing a first matrix of coordinates of a joint of the 3D body and a second matrix of coordinates of each of the parts of the 3D body, and generating a first motion vector; computing means for computing a second motion vector; and determination means for determining the 3D body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Yuyu Liu, Weiguo Wu, Takayuki Yoshigahara
  • Patent number: 7948451
    Abstract: An interactive method of presenting information in an image to a user, who carries a head-mounted display device that presents an image of the surroundings. The user's head position and direction are established in relation to the surroundings and a calculating device establishes, based on this, which part of the surroundings is positioned in front of the user's head. Furthermore, the calculating device establishes where in a chain of information the user is positioned and, based on this, presents information in the form of a virtual image which is mixed with the real image. A central part of the image is then defined and fields and/or objects outside this area are shown in a non-disturbing way until the user's gaze has left the central part. The user informs the calculating device that he/she has received the information and, respectively, performed the current operations by looking at the fields/objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignees: Totalförsvarets Forskningsinstitut, Försvarets Materielverk
    Inventors: Torbjörn Gustafsson, Per Carleberg, Peter Sohlberg, Bo Persson, Christina Aldrin
  • Patent number: 7884822
    Abstract: A game apparatus includes a first LCD and a second LCD, and on the first LCD, a two-dimensional game screen including objects positioned in a two-dimensional coordinate is displayed. When a two-dimensional coordinate of a specific object out of the objects positioned in the two-dimensional coordinate satisfies a predetermined condition, a three-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects is calculated on the basis of the two-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects. The object is modeled in the calculated three-dimensional coordinate, moved by a predetermined animation, and then shot by a virtual camera. Accordingly, a game screen of an image (animation) of the three-dimensional virtual space shot by the virtual camera is displayed on the second LCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Saito, Yasunari Watanabe, Kenichi Yokoo
  • Patent number: 7844106
    Abstract: A method for determining a pose of an object from a range image is presented. A distribution of poses for an object is determined from a model of the object. A set of reference poses is selected according to the distribution, such that more reference poses are selected for more probable poses than less probable poses. A reference image for each reference pose is generated, and the reference pose used to generate the reference image that best matches a range image including the object is assigned as the pose of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, Inc
    Inventors: Hanspeter Pfister, In Kyu Park, Marcel German, Michael D. Breitenstein
  • Patent number: 7822294
    Abstract: In a method for producing three-dimensionally structured surfaces of objects as a reproduction of an original surface, the topology of the original surface is determined, and the data are used for controlling a machining tool. The determined topology and a random topology of a reproduction surface are brought closer to one another via a series of proximity comparisons until all items of height information of the reproduction surface are successively replaced by items of height information from the original surface, and that once an established similarity between the topologies of the reproduction surface and the original surface is obtained, the items of height information of the reproduction surface are provided for controlling the machine tool serving to machine the surface of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Benecke-Kaliko AG
    Inventors: Rainer Ohlinger, Günter Vogt, Roland Wolff
  • Patent number: 7813124
    Abstract: An electronic information board includes a frame, a flat display element and electronic equipment for controlling the display element. The information board includes a display casing for the display element and a device casing for the electronic equipment, such as a control unit and power supply. The display element is supported preferably with flexible support elements to the display casing so that there is a gap between the front and back surfaces of the display element and the walls of the display casing enabling the circulation of air. Cooling system transfers heat from the display casing and the device casing to the outside of the casings. The cooling system includes circulating fans placed in the fan casing with which an air flow is generated through the display casing and the device casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Symbicon Oy
    Inventor: Pasi Karppanen
  • Patent number: 7755621
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and program products for detecting user manipulation of one or more elements of a presentation of a complex solid represented by a solid history tree. A reduced history representation of the complex solid is created. The reduced history tree is repeatedly evaluated to recreate the presentation of the complex solid in response to the user manipulation of the one or more elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Autodesk, Inc.
    Inventor: Jiri Kripac
  • Patent number: 7746344
    Abstract: A renderer for performing stroke-based rendering determines whether two given overlapping strokes depict an occlusion in a three-dimensional scene. The renderer may then use this information to determine whether to apply an occlusion constraint between the strokes when rendering an image or a frame from an animation. In one implementation, the renderer determines whether the two strokes together depict a single view patch of surface in the scene (i.e., a single portion of three-dimensional surface in the scene as seen from the rendering viewpoint). The renderer builds an image-space patch of surface defined from the union of the two overlapping strokes and then determines whether there exists a single three-dimensional view patch of surface that projects onto the image-space patch and that contains both strokes' three-dimensional anchor points. Which stroke occludes the other can be determined by the relative three-dimensional depth of the strokes' anchor points from the rendering viewpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Auryn Inc.
    Inventors: Stephane Grabli, Robert Kalnins, Amitabh Agrawal, Nathan LeZotte
  • Publication number: 20100091038
    Abstract: An input processing device including a display screen and a pointing device for inputting corresponding 2-dimensional coordinates on the display screen. A 3-dimensional space is displayed on the display screen and the 2-dimensional coordinates inputted from the pointing device are detected. Next, shift amounts, per unit of time, of the detected 2-dimensional coordinates are calculated based on a predetermined calculation start condition. And the calculated shift amounts are converted to 3-dimensional coordinate shift amounts in the 3-dimensional space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideki Konno, Yoshitaka Ajioka, Yasushi Ebisawa, Kiyoshi Mizuki
  • Publication number: 20100013863
    Abstract: An apparatus including: an integral display for displaying a graphical user interface having three orthogonal dimensions; an integral first user input device, operable by a user to move within the graphical user interface in a first dimension and a second dimension, orthogonal to the first dimension, when the first user input device is in a first mode, and to move within the graphical user interface in a third dimension, orthogonal to the first dimension and to the second dimension, when the first user input device is in a second mode; and an integral second user input device, operable by a user to change the mode of the first user input device between the first mode and the second mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Ciaran Harris
  • Publication number: 20090262145
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an information display device for presenting, to a user, a correspondence between a position in an actual landscape and a position on a map image. In an information display device (IDA, IDAr), a photographed image acquisition section (1) acquires a photographed image (IC), a map information storage section (4) stores map information (IG) so as to generate a map image (IM), an image display section (7, 8) displays the photographed image (IC) and the map image (IM), an input section (6) designates at least one structure (Rc/Rg) which is displayed in either the photographed image (IC) or the map image (IM) based on an operation performed by the user, and a structure correspondence acquisition section (5) acquires a correspondence (ICb) between the designated structure displayed in either the photographed image (IC) or the map image (IM) and a structure displayed in the other image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Takashi Akita, Takahiro Kudoh, Tsuyoshi Kindo
  • Patent number: 7568171
    Abstract: A posing system for three-dimensional characters and other models uses a stroke-based gestural language to position elements of the characters in a three-dimensional environment. A user draws a stroke in a two-dimensional interface in connection with a portion of model. The drawn stroke corresponds to an element of the model, such as a particular body part. A software program interprets the stroke and applies it to the placement or posing of the corresponding element. Additional elements are posed as necessary to further define the way in which the model as a whole should be posed. With a number of appropriate strokes for each of the elements, an animator can position the model in the scene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Pacific Data Images LLC
    Inventor: Terran Boylan
  • Patent number: 7546176
    Abstract: A method of forming an assembly from a plurality of components, the plurality of components each having a component volume and a respective locus point, is described. The method includes selecting a target volume by defining a target volume and respective locus point. The method further includes determining a solution group of components comprising a list of components having a component volume positioned at least one of within the target volume and a predetermined distance from the target volume. The method further includes displaying the solution group of components forming an assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Alex V. Botvinnik, Michael R. Holle, Deborah L. Hartley
  • Patent number: 7536655
    Abstract: Three-dimensional-model processing apparatus, three-dimensional-model processing methods, and computer programs are provided. In a three-dimensional-model processing apparatus, method, and computer programs, it is determined whether relative positions or relative attitudes of a plurality of three-dimensional objects shown on an image display unit satisfy a predetermined processing execution condition. When it is determined that the processing execution condition is satisfied, distinction information indicating that processing such as pickup or joining of objects is possible is presented. For example, display mode is changed or sound is output for the objects. A user is allowed to immediately find without stress whether an object is at a position where pickup or joining is possible. This improves the efficiency of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Yuichi Abe, Hiroyuki Segawa, Akio Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 7532223
    Abstract: This invention is an application of 4D human form modeling technology enabled by high-speed data processes and a temporal adjustment scheme for teaching and understanding external and/or cosmetic changes on the human form. The potential applications of this technology are limitless within the confines of external human modeling and are only confined by the system's ability to process human form data. A source is defined by content to be replicated and displayed, and all associated components. The source may be either data captured in real-time or in some mannequin form or component already available. The source is processed and displayed on a medium that is appropriate for the distribution of the source. Since there are varying systems for displaying information and display technology is a dynamic medium, this invention is applicable to all existing and planned display apparatus for the foreseeable future.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Teri Lynn Dougherty
  • Patent number: 7479956
    Abstract: A method of garment fitting, selection and creation is provided. The invention provides for the scanning of an individual to provide a photo-realistic virtual 3-D image of the individual in a physically simulated 3-D garment and provides for the use of measurements of the individual to intelligently recommend garments, produce patterns for custom made garments, provide alteration suggestions to fit a garment to the particular individual. The measurements and the photo-realistic 3-D information is stored so that an individual does not need to re-input information or undergo multiple scans, and can shop from home using the previously obtained information profile. Measurements and suggestions can be used by the individual or automatically sent to a manufacturer, dressmaker or tailor for the creation or alteration of a garment to achieve a correct fit for the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Unique Solutions Design LTD.
    Inventor: Tanya Anne Shaw-Weeks
  • Patent number: 7446784
    Abstract: A method (700) of displaying a plurality of images is disclosed. The method (700) displays the images in a stack arrangement. The stack may be a perspective stack and a non-perspective stack. Another method (1200) of displaying a plurality of images is also disclosed. The method (1200) displays the images in a stack following any arbitrary path. The methods (700) and (1200) are particularly advantageous for displaying a collection of images of irregular sizes and aspect ratios. The methods (700) and (1200) maintain the regular geometric layout of a stack of images and also ensure that the size of the minimum visible area of each image in the stack remains the same irrespective of the aspect ratio of a particular image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Laurence Crew, Andrew John Shellshear
  • Patent number: 7420556
    Abstract: An information processing method and information processing apparatus facilitate selection of components which form a geometric model. Of a plurality of components which form a three-dimensional geometric mode, components which satisfy predetermined geometrical search criteria are searched for. The obtained components are set in a rendering mode different from that of other components. Therefore, even an occluded-component, which cannot be directly seen from outside a three-dimensional model, can be visually recognized and selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masakazu Fujiki
  • Patent number: 7394473
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a program containing a browser capable of dealing with highly functional multimedia content in a straightforward manner, and a multimedia content. A reception terminal 113 accesses a server on a network 112 corresponding to an input URL. The server 124 distributes distribution software 243 to the reception terminal 113 via the network 112, the distribution software 243 being constituted of browser software 251 having specifications to be satisfied in order for a component to receive predetermined services, and a multimedia content 252 having a predetermined configuration. The reception terminal 113 displays the distributed multimedia content 252 on the distributed browser. The present invention is applicable to personal computers, digital electronic home appliances and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Atsushi Asai
  • Patent number: 7330198
    Abstract: When the user touches a display screen, a touch-operated input device (7) detects a coordinate of a user-touched point on the display screen and a touch-input conversion program is executed to determine an axis, direction and speed of rotation of a three-dimensional object (40) on the basis of the user-defined coordinate, and give the information to a three-dimensional rendering program. The three-dimensional rendering program is executed to make a calculation for rotating the three-dimensional object (40) on the basis of the given information. The axis, direction and speed of the three-directional object rotation are repeatedly calculated in a fixed cycle only while the coordinate is kept defined by the user by continuously touching the display screen. Upon completion of each calculation, the results of calculation are given to the three-dimensional rendering program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kosuke Yamaguchi, Ken Miyashita
  • Patent number: 7324121
    Abstract: A method of repositioning a manipulator in relation to a viewport is provided in a system for interacting with a three-dimensional object configured with a manipulator. The object and the manipulator are drawn in the viewport and the position of the manipulator is constrained to lie along the viewing axis between the viewport and the object. The manipulator is represented by a geometry corresponding to the function of the manipulator. The position of the manipulator is modified as needed so that it is not obscured by other objects in the scene. Furthermore, the position of the manipulator is modified as needed following a rotation or scaling operation so that it is oriented for ease of selection by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Autodesk, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Young
  • Patent number: 7315306
    Abstract: A data-display system employs a display in which the representations of data objects are caused to move on the display in order to convey information about the represented data objects. In one example, icons in a link-analysis display that represent data objects satisfying a selection criterion are made to execute distinctive motion. In another example, three-dimensional models of moving bodies in whose features components of respective data objects are encoded are projected onto a screen plane, and the resultant values are used to generate the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: BBN Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Robert J. Bobrow, R. Bruce Roberts, Colin Ware, Ronald Pickett
  • Patent number: 7281229
    Abstract: A method in accordance with the present invention prepares an alternate view of an integrated circuit (IC) layout from a top view thereof by selecting an initial polygon representing and IC feature from the top view of the layout, where the initial polygon is defined by a plurality of initial points. The coordinates the plurality of initial points are mapped onto coordinates of a plurality of translated points that define a second polygon representing an alternate view of the initial polygon. The mapping uses at least one of either the height of the initial polygon or the width of the initial polygon. The method can be used, for example and without limitation, to generate a three dimensional view from the top view of the layout or a sectional view of the layout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventor: Jayakannan Jayapalan
  • Patent number: 7248270
    Abstract: A posing system for three-dimensional characters and other models uses a stroke-based gestural language to position elements of the characters in a three-dimensional environment. A user draws a stroke in a two-dimensional interface in connection with a portion of model. The drawn stroke corresponds to an element of the model, such as a particular body part. A software program interprets the stroke and applies it to the placement or posing of the corresponding element. Additional elements are posed as necessary to further define the way in which the model as a whole should be posed. With a number of appropriate strokes for each of the elements, an animator can position the model in the scene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Pacific Data Images LLC
    Inventor: Terran Boylan
  • Patent number: 7139006
    Abstract: A method presents a set of input images on a display device. First, a set of display images is selected from the set of images. A 3D layout is assigned to each selected image, and a 3D trajectory is assigned to a virtual camera. A set of active images of the set of display images is rendered according to the layout and the trajectory. The set of active images includes a collector image. The collector images is rendered statically in a collector frame of an image plane of the display device, while remaining images in the set of active images are rendered dynamically on the image plane. Then, the layout and trajectory are animated according user input, and the rendering and animating is repeated until a termination condition is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, Inc
    Inventors: Kent B. Wittenburg, Thomas R. Lanning, Clifton L. Forlines, Alan W. Esenther
  • Patent number: 7088377
    Abstract: A computer graphics and analysis application improvement providing calculation, regeneration, and display of mechanism solutions based on inputted desired functions such as part positions by extracting functional requirements data from such inputted data so that the designer or engineer can view the mechanism solutions in space and thereby design the desired mechanism or mechanisms. The computing application extracts the functional requirements data (such as point and angular references) from the inputted function data, such as part positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Jonathan B. Cook
  • Patent number: 7043695
    Abstract: A virtual environment for user interaction, and virtual objects for use therein, the virtual objects having an internal co-ordinate system with natural language definition to allow simplified inter-object relationships. The internal co-ordinate system is used to define docking positions for connecting to other objects to allow logical or natural positional relationships. A dynamically defined menu system allows pop-up menus for simple user entry of required relationships.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Technion Research & Development Foundation Ltd.
    Inventors: Gershon Elber, Michael Gertelman, Orit Shaked, Oded Shmueli
  • Patent number: 7023436
    Abstract: A three-dimensional model processing apparatus is provided. The three-dimensional model processing apparatus can more really carry out a processing change of shape, color, and the like with respect to a three-dimensional object being displayed on a display by allowing an operator to operate an object tool in which a position change and an orientation change can be made and an editing tool in which relative distance with respect to the object tool can be changed to relatively move both tools such that the relative position between the object tool and the editing tool is detected to execute processing corresponding to, for example, shape change or color processing determined by the corresponding editing tool, thereby modifying attribute data of the object being displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Segawa, Norikazu Hiraki, Hiroyuki Shioya, Yuichi Abe
  • Patent number: 7003737
    Abstract: A system and method for displaying, browsing and accessing content in real space and time. In one embodiment, a user may browse and access multiple types of electronic content in a three dimensional representation of real space and time, where each document has a time and space attribute. A user may also place electronic documents at different locations in real space and time. A user performs inquiries by moving a space indicator along a time line. A visual indicator representing a relevancy score may provide information regarding document proximity to a selected location in space and time. The relevance score may also offset uncertainties inherent in location tracking systems. A document window is provided to display documents located at a selected point in space and time. Visual indicators associated with the documents may represent the time and space location of each document. Documents in the document window may be sorted as desired by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Patrick Chiu, Khai Truong
  • Patent number: 6985162
    Abstract: A preferred method includes the steps of receiving the active stereo video data containing the right channel pixel data and the left channel pixel data corresponding to the image to be rendered, re-sequencing the right channel pixel data and the left channel pixel data, and simultaneously outputting corresponding frames of the right channel pixel data and the left channel pixel data for displaying the image to be rendered in passive stereo. Devices also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: James A Schinnerer, Byron A Alcorn
  • Patent number: 6975756
    Abstract: The invention features an improved, photo hull based method of generating a three-dimensional representation of a visual scene based upon a set of multi-view reference images. In one aspect, a visual hull containing the visual scene is computed. Visibility of points on the computed visual hull with respect to each reference image is computed. Photo-consistency of points on the computed visual hull along rays back-projected from a desired view is computed based upon reference images having visibility of the points. A photo hull containing the visual scene is generated by stepping along each back-projected ray. The photo-consistent points visible in the desired view are colored using color information contained in reference images having visibility of the photo-consistent points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Gregory G. Slabaugh, Ronald W. Schafer, Mathieu C. Hans
  • Patent number: 6961055
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods, apparatus, and software for designing and building virtual environments for playing computer games. A map builder is used to construct one or more two-dimensional maps comprised of tiles selected from a set of tiles, the map or maps representing the virtual environment for the computer game. Data describing the map is then combined with tile data providing 3D geometry to create the virtual environment. The tile data preferably also includes non-visible game-related data such as collision and navigation data, which is also combined to provide game data for the game's virtual environment. The tiles include interfaces for connecting one tile to another and, in a preferred embodiment, two versions of the interface geometry are provided for each tile, one with the interface open, the other with the interface closed. The invention facilitates the rapid construction of 3D virtual environments for playing games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Free Radical Design Limited
    Inventors: David George Doak, Stephen John Ellis
  • Patent number: 6950116
    Abstract: A system for performing interactive virtual reality sessions without constraining the mobility of a user is disclosed. The system allows a user to remain fully mobile while participating in an interactive virtual reality session. The system comprises a handheld computing device having a display, user input controls, a location sensing device and a user sensing device. To conduct a virtual reality session, a software application is loaded from a memory. Then, the computing device determines its position within a space using the location sensing device, and the user sensing device establishes a relationship between the user's eyes and display. This relationship is used to provide the user with the same perspective as would be achieved if viewing the simulated session in real life. User input controls allow the user to control aspects of the session to further enhance the user's experience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Noah J. Ternullo
  • Publication number: 20040263536
    Abstract: A technology for improving the reality of images created by computer graphics. A modeling unit performs basic modeling on objects. An object classification unit determines the presence or absence of target objects of coordinate transformation. If there is any target object of coordinate transformation, a coordinate transformation unit performs coordinate transformation on the target object of the coordinate transformation. An object adjustment unit adjusts the positional relationship between the object given coordinate transformation and objects given no coordinate transformation, thereby reflecting the positional relationship between the objects before the coordinate transformation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Yutaka Owada