Dynamic Tone Curve for High-Speed Gray Level Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing methods for transforming wide dynamic range images into a narrower range are inefficient due to fixed tone curve shapes and sequential processing of reduced image generation and brightness region information computation, leading to prolonged processing times and loss of image contrast.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device and method that includes a gray level transforming unit capable of computing and transforming pixel values based on multiple color information, using nonlinear transformations and tone curve correction to achieve high-speed gray level compression without compromising image contrast, with the ability to adjust white balance and perform gamma correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed tone curve shape is used for gray level compression, then processing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different image data deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the tone curve shape variable rather than fixed. The tone curve generation unit dynamically adjusts the tone curve based on the actual dynamic range of the input image data, allowing the compression characteristics to adapt to different image conditions while maintaining processing efficiency through automated adjustment.
2Device complexity
If sequential processing of reduced image generation and brightness region information computation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by generating the tone curve and determining compression characteristics before actually performing the gray level compression on the image data. This allows the processing parameters to be pre-calculated based on the image characteristics, enabling faster execution of the compression operation itself and reducing overall processing time.
3Productivity
If conventional gray level compression is used, then dynamic range is narrowed, but image contrast deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the tone curve parameters based on the input image's brightness distribution and dynamic range characteristics. This ensures that the gray level compression adapts to the specific image content, preserving contrast in important regions while achieving effective dynamic range reduction for display compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing device for processing image data includes: a gray level transforming processing unit which receives input, of image data, performs gray level transforming, and outputs image data having all of multiple color information by each pixel being configured of one of the multiple color information; the gray level transforming processing unit further including a first gray value computing unit for computing a first gray value according to the brightness of a pixel of interest which exists in a pixel location of interest; a second gray value computing unit for computing a second gray value by gray value transforming as to the first gray value; and pixel value gray level transforming unit for computing a pixel value subjected to gray level transforming of the pixel of interest, based on the first gray value, the second gray value, and the pixel value of the pixel of interest.