Dual Interpolation Image Processing for Pathology Visibility and Accuracy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In digital imaging for pathological diagnosis, achieving high visibility and accurate image processing of entire images is challenging due to the trade-off between image visibility and processing accuracy, especially when dealing with low-resolution image sensors and the need for rapid observation of numerous samples.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that employs multiple interpolation algorithms and edge detection methods to interpolate pixel values, allowing for the generation of images with high visibility and accurate edge detection, thereby improving the detection of observation targets and recognition of information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single interpolation algorithm is used to generate the entire image, then the image generation process is simple, but it is difficult to satisfy both visibility requirements and image processing accuracy requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing into separate functional modules: an image generation unit that creates the entire image for visibility purposes, and an edge detection unit that performs accurate edge detection for measurement purposes. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, resolving the contradiction between simple processing and high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the entire image as a mediator for visibility display, while separately processing edge detection tasks. This allows the system to maintain both visibility requirements and processing accuracy without requiring a single algorithm to satisfy both conflicting demands.
2Measurement precision
If image processing accuracy is prioritized, then observation target range detection and information recognition are accurate, but list image visibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the image processing function into distinct units: one optimized for visibility (image generation) and another optimized for accuracy (edge detection). This allows the system to deliver both high visibility for list images and high accuracy for observation target detection without compromise.
3Measurement precision
If the entire image is captured multiple times by a high magnification imaging system, then image processing accuracy is improved, but the imaging process time increases enormously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary edge detection on the entire image at lower magnification before microscopic imaging. This preliminary action identifies the observation target range in advance, allowing the system to avoid time-consuming multiple captures at high magnification while still achieving accurate target detection.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of capturing the entire sample multiple times at high magnification, the patent applies partial action by performing edge detection on the full entire image to identify only the necessary observation regions. This reduces the imaging burden while maintaining detection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes an output value obtaining unit, a first interpolation unit, a second interpolation unit, an image generation unit, and a first edge detection unit. The output value obtaining unit obtains respective output values of a plurality of light-receiving elements from an image sensor including the plurality of light-receiving elements arranged two-dimensionally. The first interpolation unit uses a first interpolation algorithm to interpolate a pixel value. The second interpolation unit uses a second interpolation algorithm to interpolate a pixel value. The image generation unit generates an image based on a pixel value, which is interpolated by the first interpolation unit. The first edge detection unit detects an edge using a first edge detection algorithm based on a pixel value, which is interpolated by the second interpolation unit.