Patent ID: 7764828

Claim:
An image processing apparatus for generating a three-dimensional model of a three-dimensional object from an image displaying the object in two dimensions, the image processing apparatus comprising: three-dimensional model generating means for generating the three-dimensional model of the object from the image; and extending means for extending a lateral region of the three-dimensional model, generated by the three-dimensional model generating means, in a Z direction representing a depth direction orthogonal to the two dimensions, the extending means, in response to an initial Z value having a value greater than zero and smaller than or equal to a first predefined Z value, not extending the lateral region of the three-dimensional model in the Z direction, and in response to the initial Z value having a value greater than the first predefined Z value but smaller than or equal to a second predefined Z value, extending the lateral region of the three-dimensional model in the Z direction in accordance with a non-linear function that converts initial Z values into extended Z values that are greater than the second predefined Z value but smaller than or equal to a third predefined Z value.