Endoscope Image Processing Stabilizing Brightness via Frame Averaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing technologies using endoscopes face challenges in maintaining image quality over time due to variations in illumination, leading to blurring and flickering effects, which hinder clear observation of tissues, blood vessels, and other features in intraluminal images.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that calculates and revises correction coefficients based on a correction target frame and temporally continuous images, using techniques such as averaging or maximum value calculation of nearby frames to stabilize image brightness and reduce blurring and flickering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If correction coefficients are calculated for each frame independently, then image processing speed is maintained, but image brightness becomes unstable causing blurring and flickering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the correction coefficient calculations across multiple frames by introducing a moving average mechanism. Instead of calculating correction coefficients independently for each frame, the system combines correction coefficients from current and previous frames to produce a stabilized correction value, thereby reducing brightness instability and flickering effects in the displayed images
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating correction coefficients for multiple frames before the actual image display. The system calculates correction coefficients for past frames and stores them, then uses these pre-calculated values in the moving average computation to stabilize brightness in real-time, preventing blurring and flickering without requiring complex real-time processing
2Reliability
If correction coefficients are revised using multiple frames, then image brightness stability improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by using a moving average window that dynamically adapts to the temporal characteristics of the image sequence. The system adjusts which past frames are included in the correction coefficient average based on the current frame timing, allowing the system to balance between processing speed and brightness stability. This dynamic approach enables the system to respond to changing illumination conditions while maintaining computational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the weightings and time parameters of the moving average calculation. The system can modify the number of frames included in the average, the time span considered, and the weighting factors to optimize the balance between processing speed and brightness stability. By changing these parameters, the system adapts to different imaging conditions and maintains reliable brightness without excessive processing time
Data Source
AI summary
A disclosed image processing apparatus includes a processor comprising hardware, the processor being configured to obtain a plurality of temporally continuous images generated by continuously imaging a subject illuminated with illumination light; calculate a correction coefficient on the basis of a correction target frame among the plurality of images; revise the correction coefficient of the correction target frame on the basis of the correction coefficient of each of a plurality of frames within a predetermined time set beforehand from a shooting time of the correction target frame; and create a display image on the basis of the correction target frame and the correction coefficient.