Image Processing Apparatus Correcting Focus Detection Pixel Spectral Errors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing methods fail to correct defects in photographed images caused by errors in the spectroscopic characteristics of color filters near focus detection pixels, resulting in unnatural band-shaped structures.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes a location information storage section, correction coefficient storage, and pixel data correction mechanisms to calculate and apply weighted sums of pixel values from adjacent pixels with different color filters to correct pixel values at focus detection pixel locations, interpolating pixel values for focus detection pixels using corrected data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional interpolation methods are used to correct pixel values at focus detection pixel locations, then pixel values can be obtained at focus detection pixel locations, but unnatural band-shaped structures occur in photographed images due to errors in color filter spectroscopic characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the correction approach based on distance from focus detection pixels. Pixels closer to focus detection pixels receive correction using only same-color neighboring pixels, while pixels farther away can use other-color pixels for correction. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction by adapting the correction method to the specific spectral error conditions at different locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of correction coefficient selection based on spatial position. The correction process dynamically adjusts which neighboring pixels are used for interpolation based on the distance from focus detection pixels, thereby adapting the correction parameters to local spectral characteristics and eliminating band-shaped artifacts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If focus detection pixels with white filters are used for focus detection in any color, then focus detection capability is improved, but pixel values for normal color imaging cannot be acquired at focus detection pixel locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses neighboring imaging pixels as intermediaries to provide color information for focus detection pixel locations. By interpolating pixel values from surrounding pixels with known color filter characteristics, the system recovers the color information that is lost at focus detection pixel locations while maintaining the white filter's focus detection capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If color filters are equipped on imaging pixels in Bayer array type, then color imaging capability is improved, but errors in spectroscopic characteristics of color filters near focus detection pixels cause image defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the known spectral characteristics of standard color filters in the Bayer array to correct the spectral errors in pixels near focus detection pixels. The correction process continuously references the expected spectral response and adjusts pixel values accordingly, compensating for manufacturing variations and process-induced errors.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes a location information storing section, a correction coefficient storing section, a correction object pixel location setting section, a correction object pixel data extracting section, an other-color pixel data extracting section, and a pixel data correcting section.