DDD adds patent protection for 'green screen' imaging technology

DDD Group has strengthened patent protection for its video and photo image processing technology as it looks to commercialise products in the computer gaming and video conferencing markets.

DDD said the new patent was filed in September 2010 and will offer protection over its image processing technology for modelling the human body using face detection, different from previous patents as it generates improved depth information.

Using the technology described in the patent, such as with the SmartCam software, users can remove the background from a photo or video sequence in real-time.

DDD recently began commercialising SmartCam and soon will release UPix, an application that offers a similar function for photos.

“As DDD continues to expand its licensing program into new growth markets including video conferencing, game casting and social photography, it is important that we continue to secure patent protection in key markets for the core inventions that form the foundation for our new products,@ said chief executive Chris Yewdall.

"Our patent library continues to evolve in step with our commercial activities.”

AIM-listed DDD's shares were up 7% to 1.88p at 0905 on Wednesday morning.