Patent ID: 6445816
Filing Date: 2002-09-03
Classification: G06T,H04N

Abstract:
A method of merging first image data with second image data, the second image data being obtained separately from the first image data, in which each image data has a plurality of pixels and each pixel is represented by three color components defining a position within a color-space, comprising:(a) identifying a background base color to be replaced in the first image data; (b) calculating a distance in three-dimensional color-space between a foreground input color in the first image data and the background base color; and (c) producing a control value in relation to said calculated distance, wherein: (i) the control value is used to merge the first image data with the second image data; (ii) the control value indicates that a first image data pixel is part of background to be replaced if the calculated distance is within a tolerance zone; (iii) the control value indicates the first image data pixel is part of required foreground if the calculated distance is outside of a softness zone; and (iv) the control value indicates a level of blending if the calculated distance is within the softness zone.