Image Pattern Recognition Using Local Minimum Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pattern recognition methods in image data sets are too time-consuming for real-time applications, such as military reconnaissance, due to the inefficiency in processing large volumes of image data.

Innovation Solution

A method that forms data vectors for each pixel in an image data set using characteristic coefficient values from a test environment, compares these with reference data vectors, and determines pattern presence by calculating difference values and checking for a threshold and local minimum, allowing for faster recognition through rotational invariance and selective data processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional pattern recognition methods are used to process image data sets, then comprehensive pattern detection can be achieved, but the recognition time becomes too long for real-time applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern detection accuracyVSAvoidpattern recognition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the image data set into multiple subareas and processes them separately using parallel computation. The image is segmented into regions that can be evaluated independently, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple areas without requiring sequential analysis of the entire image, thus reducing total recognition time while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary classification of subareas based on simple criteria before applying full pattern recognition algorithms. By pre-identifying regions of interest using basic features, the system avoids computationally intensive processing of entire images, reducing recognition time while ensuring that potential patterns are not missed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the entire image data set is processed for pattern recognition, then complete coverage is achieved, but processing speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern detection completenessVSAvoidimage processing throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The image data set is divided into multiple subareas that are processed in parallel. This segmentation allows the system to maintain complete coverage of the entire image while processing different regions simultaneously, thereby improving throughput without sacrificing detection completeness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies full pattern recognition algorithms only to selected subareas that meet certain criteria, rather than processing every pixel in the entire image. This partial action approach maintains reliability for regions requiring detailed analysis while improving overall productivity by reducing the scope of intensive processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If detailed analysis of all image data is performed, then detection accuracy is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern recognition accuracyVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different processing strategies to different subareas based on their characteristics. Regions with high potential for containing patterns receive detailed analysis, while other areas undergo simpler processing. This local quality approach ensures high detection accuracy where needed while reducing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Before applying detailed pattern recognition algorithms, the patent performs preliminary analysis of subareas using simplified criteria. This preliminary action identifies promising regions that warrant further detailed analysis, reducing the amount of data requiring intensive processing while maintaining detection accuracy for actual patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2624170B1Method for detecting a predetermined pattern in an image dataset
Publication Date: 2018.12.26 AIRBUS DEFENCE & SPACE GMBH
  • EP2624170B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2624170B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The method involves determining whether a pattern correlation quantity determined as a function of difference values is below a predetermined threshold value by an image recognition processor. A determination is made whether the pattern correlation quantity forms a local minimum in an environment of a size of a target object by the image recognition processor. The predetermined pattern is recognized when the pattern correlation quantity is below the predetermined threshold value and the local minimum is present.