Hilbert-Huang Transform System for Real-Time 2-D Image Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current Hilbert-Huang Transform (HHT) data processing systems are limited to one-dimensional data and are not real-time, making them inadequate for processing large two-dimensional images, which requires significant computational resources and is computationally complex, especially for images of size N=2048.

Innovation Solution

A real-time Hilbert-Huang Transform data processing system with 2-D capabilities is developed, utilizing a computer program to construct and smooth upper and lower envelopes for input images based on pixel window parameters, and employing a method to reduce computational complexity from O(N^4) to O(N^3) by establishing separability and using parallel processing for Empirical Mode Decomposition, allowing for efficient processing of large images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If HHT is applied to 2-D images, then spectral analysis capability for non-linear and non-stationary sources is improved, but computational complexity increases from O(N^3) to O(N^4)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral analysis capabilityVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the 2-D image processing into multiple 1-D processing stages. First, the image is decomposed into horizontal and vertical components, then HHT is applied separately to each dimension. This segmentation reduces the computational complexity from O(N^4) for direct 2-D HHT to O(N^3) by processing dimensions independently and combining results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Speed

If standard HHT-DPS is used for 1-D data, then processing speed is maintained, but 2-D image processing capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoid2-D processing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal processing framework that can handle both 1-D signals and 2-D images using the same core HHT algorithm. By implementing separability, the system maintains the efficient 1-D processing speed while gaining 2-D image processing capability, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate algorithms for different data types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of time

If real-time processing is implemented, then processing time is reduced, but computational accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing timeVSAvoidcomputational accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary data preparation and preprocessing steps before applying the full HHT algorithm. By organizing data structures in advance, pre-computing certain components, and preparing the signal decomposition framework beforehand, the system reduces real-time processing time while maintaining computational accuracy through careful preservation of all necessary signal characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9013490B2Hilbert-huang transform data processing real-time system with 2-D capabilities
Publication Date: 2015.04.21 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR NAT AERONAUTICS & SPACE ADMINISTRATION
  • US9013490B2 patent drawing
  • US9013490B2 patent drawing
  • US9013490B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Some embodiments of the present invention pertain to an apparatus, method, and a computer program that is configured to cause a processor to construct an upper envelope and lower envelope for an input image based on a statistically computed window parameter in a real-time system using multi-thread processing, and smooth the upper envelope and lower envelope based on a sum of elements in a window, wherein the sum of elements in the window is divided by a number of non-zero elements in the sum of elements in the window.