Image Interpolation Using Multi-Stage Spatial Domain Filters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image encoding and decoding methods face challenges in precisely predicting pixel values between integer pixel units, particularly in interpolating fractional pixel values for accurate image representation and compression.

Innovation Solution

The method involves selecting and using spatial-domain filters with shifted phases to transform and inverse transform pixel values, allowing for interpolation between integer and fractional pixel units, enhancing precision in image interpolation and compression.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional interpolation methods are used to generate fractional pixel values, then the process is simple, but the prediction precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction precisionVSAvoidinterpolation process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the interpolation process into multiple stages: first generating fractional pixel values using a first filter, then generating intermediate pixel values using a second filter, and finally generating target pixel values using a third filter. This multi-stage segmentation enables higher prediction precision by progressively refining the interpolation results through different filtering operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an additional processing dimension by applying multiple filters (first, second, and third filters) with different characteristics to the pixel values at different stages. This dimensional expansion of the filtering process allows the system to capture more nuanced spatial relationships and achieve superior prediction precision without oversimplifying the interpolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple filters are applied in sequence to improve interpolation accuracy, then the prediction precision improves, but the processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepixel value accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different filters (first, second, and third filters) with distinct characteristics to different stages of the interpolation process. Each filter is optimized for specific local requirements: the first filter handles initial fractional pixel generation, the second filter refines intermediate values, and the third filter produces final accurate pixel values. This localized optimization of filter quality at each stage achieves high accuracy while managing processing time through targeted computations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9547886B2Method and apparatus for performing interpolation based on transform and inverse transform
Publication Date: 2017.01.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9547886B2 patent drawing
  • US9547886B2 patent drawing
  • US9547886B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a method and apparatus for interpolating an image. The method includes: selecting a first filter, from among a plurality of different filters, for interpolating between pixel values of integer pixel units, according to an interpolation location; and generating at least one pixel value of at least one fractional pixel unit by interpolating between the pixel values of the integer pixel units by using the selected first filter.