Image Artifact Correction Using Diagonal Guide Pixel Averaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Images captured using image sensors with multiple pixels sharing a micro-lens, such as the A4C sensor, suffer from artifacts due to phase differences, particularly in out-of-focus areas, which affect image quality.
Innovation Solution
An image processor that acquires image data from a 2×2 array of pixels, generates guide images based on diagonal pixel averages, and uses high-frequency components from these guide images to reduce artifacts, maintaining image details while minimizing phase differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple pixels share one micro-lens to increase pixel density, then image resolution is improved, but phase difference artifacts occur in out-of-focus areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array into multiple groups (e.g., 2x2 blocks) where pixels within each block share a common micro-lens. By processing these segmented groups separately and combining their outputs, the system maintains high resolution while reducing phase difference artifacts through the segmented processing approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the processing parameters by applying different weighting factors and combination methods to pixels within each micro-lens group. By adjusting these parameters dynamically based on focus conditions, the system optimizes between resolution and artifact reduction.
2Quantity of substance
If light is divided to multiple pixels through one micro-lens, then more light information is captured, but phase difference occurs in out-of-focus areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light information from multiple pixels that share a common micro-lens by calculating weighted averages or sums of their signals. This combining process preserves the total light information captured while reducing phase difference artifacts through the merging operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing stage where the signals from multiple pixels are combined through weighted averaging before final image reconstruction. This intermediary step acts as a mediator that balances light information preservation with phase difference reduction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If guide images are generated from diagonal pixel averages, then phase difference artifacts are reduced, but image processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing into distinct stages: generating guide images from diagonal averages, extracting high-frequency components, and combining with original image data. This segmentation of processing steps makes the complex operation more manageable and efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating guide images from diagonal pixel averages before the final image reconstruction. This preliminary processing prepares the data in advance, reducing the complexity of the main processing stage.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for correcting artifacts included in images includes an image processor. The image processor includes an acquirer configured to acquire image data including first pixel data, second pixel data, third pixel data, and fourth pixel data arranged in a 2×2 array. The image processor also includes a guide image generator configured to acquire a first guide image based on an average value of the first pixel data and the fourth pixel data that are located in a diagonal direction. The image processor further includes an image operating component configured to output a result image generated using a high-frequency component, included in the first guide image, and the image data.