Patent published on August 31, 2023

New Patent Could Make 360-Degree Images More Realistic

In the rapid advancement of technology, our demand for high-resolution images, high-quality virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences is drastically increasing. Yet, there's a problem we are grappling with, and it's not small. The patent numbered US20230276132A1, issued by the B1 Institute of Image Technology, addresses one such issue concerning 360-degree images.

The core problem being tackled here is the complex processing required when dealing with 360-degree images. Multiplicity of views and the sheer volume of data for processing these images often exceed the capacity of existing image processing systems. Add to that the transformation of these images from a three-dimensional space to a two-dimensional space, changes at the edges, and inconsistency in encoding prediction modes. Consequently, this problem often leads to reduced performance and quality of the encoded image.

B1 Institute of Image Technology appears to have answered these issues with its new patent. It presents a method to decode a 360-degree image, starting from an initial guess of the image, which further refines based on the detailed information from the digital code. Departing from the initial guess, the refined guess is compared with the detailed elements and the final image is decoded, resulting in a high-quality, 360-degree image. The accuracy is also constantly being checked and altered if not accurate enough.

As we transition to a world where this problem is solved, imagine witnessing a live concert or a historical event in a virtual world, feeling as though you're physically present, all while sitting in your living room. Browsing real estate could become an immersive experience with potential buyers exploring every corner of the property from their homes. Conversely, our teaching methods could revolutionize, with classes incorporating detailed, 360-degree images to provide a holistic understanding to the students.

In essence, this patent could alter our interaction with the digital world, making it high-resolution, immersive, and closer to reality. However, it should be kept in mind that these details are about a patent, which doesn't guarantee its appearance in the market as a product or service.

On an ending note, figures of the patent provide an understanding of how this technology works and the spectacular invention behind it. As technology continues to develop and patents like these push the boundaries, our digital experiences can only become more interactive and immersive with time.

Explore more