Hyperspectral Image Sensor Illumination Correction

The patent divides the image into multiple regions (foreground objects and background) and processes each region separately to estimate illumination characteristics. By segmenting the image and analyzing different spatial regions independently, the system accurately captures the spatial distribution of illumination without requiring a completely complex system redesign.

The patent transitions from measuring a single average illumination value to measuring illumination across multiple spatial dimensions. By analyzing illumination at different locations and depths within the image, the system captures the three-dimensional spatial distribution of illumination, transforming a one-dimensional measurement problem into a multi-dimensional solution.

The patent applies different color correction strategies to different regions of the image. Instead of applying a uniform correction to the entire image, it analyzes and corrects colors locally in foreground object regions versus background regions separately. This allows accurate color correction for objects while preserving the ability to distinguish them from the background, as each region receives correction appropriate to its illumination characteristics.

The patent introduces an intermediary illumination spectrum estimation as a mediator between the raw image data and the final color correction. By estimating the illumination spectrum as an intermediate step and using it to normalize both object and background regions, the system achieves accurate color representation while maintaining distinguishability through the preservation of spectral signatures.

The patent merges the illumination correction operation with the existing image processing pipeline. Instead of performing spectrum normalization as a separate, time-consuming step for each pixel, it integrates the correction into the overall image processing flow, combining multiple operations into unified processing stages that reduce total computational time while maintaining color consistency.

The patent applies spectrum normalization selectively to key regions and critical wavelength ranges rather than uniformly to every pixel across the entire spectrum. By applying partial correction to the most important spectral bands and regions, the system achieves sufficient color consistency with reduced computational overhead, avoiding excessive processing time.