Consecutive Thin Edge Detection for Color Filter Array Interpolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image detection methods using Bayer color filter arrays often misjudge consecutive thin edges, leading to significant distortion such as maze patterns and false colors due to incorrect edge direction determination during color interpolation.
Innovation Solution
A consecutive thin edge detection system comprising a detector, a color gradient estimator, and a direction indicator, which alternately sets each color pixel as a target, calculates difference values between green pixels in red and blue pixel rows to determine thin edge features, estimates horizontal and vertical gradient values, and generates direction indicating values for precise interpolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional edge detection methods are used in color interpolation, then processing speed is maintained, but edge direction determination accuracy deteriorates causing maze patterns and false colors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the edge detection process into multiple stages: first detecting candidate edges using gradient magnitude, then filtering consecutive thin edges by comparing gradient directions between adjacent pixels. This segmentation allows precise identification of thin edge directions without affecting overall processing speed, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and harmful artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary gradient calculation for all pixels before edge detection. By pre-computing gradient magnitudes and directions, the system prepares data structures that enable fast subsequent processing of thin edges, maintaining processing speed while improving edge direction accuracy through dedicated thin edge detection algorithms.
2Reliability
If conventional color interpolation is applied, then processing efficiency is maintained, but image quality deteriorates due to incorrect edge handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by treating thin edge regions differently from general image regions. It detects consecutive thin edges and applies specialized interpolation algorithms only in these localized areas, while using standard interpolation elsewhere. This selective approach improves image quality at edges without significantly impacting overall processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs partial action by implementing additional thin edge detection and gradient comparison steps only where needed. Rather than processing the entire image with complex algorithms, it identifies and processes only the subset of pixels forming consecutive thin edges, thereby improving reliability for critical regions while maintaining productivity for the rest of the image.
Data Source
AI summary
A consecutive thin edge detection system and method for enhancing color filter array image is disclosed in the present invention. The consecutive thin edge detection system includes a consecutive thin edge detector, a color gradient estimator and a direction indicator. The consecutive thin edge detector receives a color pixel array including a plurality of color pixels and alternately sets each color pixel as a target pixel. The consecutive thin edge detector detects a difference value between a plurality of first green pixels and a plurality of second green pixels nearby a target pixel, and determines whether the target pixel comprises a consecutive thin edge feature or not according to the difference value. The plurality of first green pixels are in red pixel rows which comprises a plurality red pixels and the plurality of first green pixels, and the plurality of second green pixels are in a blue pixel row which comprises blue pixels and the plurality of second green pixels.