Adaptive De-interlace Algorithm for Image Quality

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing de-interlace methods, such as weave and bob processes, either fail to maintain image quality for dynamic images or reduce vertical resolution for static images, leading to unsatisfactory display quality when interlace scan images are converted to progressive scan.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive de-interlace apparatus and method that calculates line-segment difference values, motion vectors, and intra-block amounts to determine a trigger value, selecting between bob and weave de-interlace algorithms based on these calculations to optimize image processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If weave de-interlace process is used, then static image quality is improved, but dynamic image alignment deteriorates causing serrations at edges

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the de-interlacing method selectable based on image content characteristics. The system dynamically switches between weave and bob methods depending on whether the image is static or dynamic, rather than using a fixed method. This is achieved through detection mechanisms that identify image type and route to appropriate processing path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating processing methods based on local image characteristics. Instead of applying a uniform de-interlacing method to the entire image, the system identifies static versus dynamic regions and applies the appropriate method (weave for static, bob for dynamic) to each region, optimizing quality for each local condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If bob de-interlace process is used, then dynamic image clarity is improved, but static image vertical resolution deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts the de-interlacing method based on image content. For dynamic images, it uses bob method to maintain clarity; for static images, it uses weave method to preserve vertical resolution. This dynamic selection resolves the contradiction by matching the method to the image type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by analyzing image characteristics and selecting the appropriate de-interlacing method for different regions. Static regions receive weave processing to maintain resolution, while dynamic regions receive bob processing to maintain clarity, optimizing each local area according to its properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If interlace scan image is displayed on progressive scan system, then compatibility is maintained, but image resolution deteriorates to half of original

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a de-interlacing processing stage as a mediator between the interlace scan image source and the progressive scan display system. This intermediary process transforms the interlace image into a progressive image, enabling compatibility while restoring full resolution through algorithms like weave or bob de-interlacing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7365795B2Apparatus and method for adaptively de-interlacing image frame
Publication Date: 2008.04.29
  • US7365795B2 patent drawing
  • US7365795B2 patent drawing
  • US7365795B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for adaptive de-interlace of a frame comprises a line-segment difference-value calculating module, a motion-vector calculating module, an intra-block calculating module, a trigger-value producing module, and an image processing module. The line-segment difference-value calculating module computes a difference value of a line segment within the frame. The motion-vector calculating module computes a motion vector of a macro block that is located in the frame and comprises the line segment. The intra-block calculating module computes the amount of intra blocks in the frame. The trigger-value producing module determines whether the amount of the intra blocks is larger than a first threshold or not, so as to select an algorithm for generating a trigger value. The image processing module determines whether the trigger value is larger than a second threshold or not and then selects a de-interlace algorithm for de-interlacing the line segment.