Image Processing Apparatus Dust Correction via Reference Image
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing technologies for electronic cameras fail to effectively address changing dust conditions over time, particularly in single lens reflex cameras with exchangeable lenses, as they do not account for variations in optical components due to user frequency and lack a straightforward method to obtain uniform transmittance data.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes an image obtaining unit and a defect information generating unit, which calculates a relative ratio of pixel values to identify and correct defects in images by using reference images obtained under similar optical conditions, allowing for effective dust elimination from images captured with electronic cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing image processing technologies are used, then fixed dust during manufacturing can be corrected, but changing dust conditions over time cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary dust detection by capturing a reference image of a uniform surface before actual image capture. This reference image is stored and later used to correct dust artifacts in the main image, allowing the system to proactively prepare correction data rather than reacting to dust issues after they appear in photographs
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to changing dust conditions by allowing users to recapture reference images when dust conditions change. The defect information is regenerated based on new reference images, making the correction system flexible and adaptable to temporal changes in dust patterns on optical components
2Measurement precision
If transmittance data is obtained using a completely uniform reflecting surface, then dust detection accuracy improves, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the camera's own image sensor and optical path to capture the reference image of a uniform surface, rather than requiring separate specialized equipment. The camera photographs its own optical components through the lens, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional complex reference data acquisition devices
3Ease of operation
If an illuminating means is added to create a uniform reflecting surface, then transmittance data acquisition becomes easier, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera's existing flash illuminating means is used for dual purposes: both for capturing normal images and for capturing the reference image of a uniform surface. By making the flash universal for both functions, the system avoids adding dedicated illuminating equipment while still enabling accurate dust detection through uniform surface photography
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables reliable detection and correction of dust-related defects in images, improving image quality by accounting for changing optical conditions and eliminating the adverse effects of dust without requiring special anti-dust mechanisms in electronic cameras.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor that captures an image
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes: an image obtaining unit that obtains an image captured with an image sensor; and a defect information generating unit that generates defect information indicating a defect within the image having been obtained, based upon a value at a target pixel and an average value of a plurality of pixel values corresponding to pixels present within a predetermined range containing the target pixel.