Image Processing Apparatus Edge Detection via Pixel Pattern Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing techniques fail to effectively enhance edges, particularly when pixel values change gradually at edges, leading to difficulties in detecting white or black edges, and this issue affects edge enhancement and color border definition between different colors.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that identifies pixels as either first or second type pixels based on specific patterns and conditions, replacing pixel values to generate processed image data with well-defined borders between colors, using a processor to acquire target image data, specify edge pixels, and perform replacement processes to enhance edge detection and color definition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional edge detection methods are used to identify black and white edges, then edge enhancement can be achieved, but edge enhancement fails when pixel values change gradually at edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from absolute pixel value thresholds to relative density change patterns. Instead of checking if a pixel is strictly black or white, the system evaluates the pattern of density changes across multiple pixels, allowing reliable edge detection even when pixel values transition gradually.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional edge detection (checking individual pixel values) to two-dimensional pattern recognition (examining spatial relationships and density changes across multiple pixels). By analyzing the arrangement and density relationships of surrounding pixels, the system can identify edges even when individual pixel values are ambiguous.
2Productivity
If simple pixel value replacement is performed to enhance edges, then processing speed is maintained, but color border definition between different colors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different processing treatments to different types of pixels based on their local characteristics. Pixels identified as edge pixels undergo one type of replacement, while non-edge pixels undergo another type of replacement. This localized approach ensures that color borders are properly defined at edges while maintaining appropriate processing for other areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments pixels into different categories (edge pixels and non-edge pixels) based on their spatial and density characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to apply appropriate replacement strategies to each category, improving overall color border definition while maintaining processing efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If pattern matching is used to identify edge pixels, then edge detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pattern matching selectively to pixels that are candidates for edge pixels, rather than performing exhaustive pattern matching on all pixels. By first identifying candidate pixels using simpler criteria and then applying pattern matching only to these candidates, the system achieves high edge detection accuracy while limiting the increase in processing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In an image forming apparatus, a processor acquires target image data representing a target image. The processor identifies as a first type pixel in the target image, and sets a target pixel from among peripheral pixels of the pixel identified as the first type pixel. The processor identifies the target pixel as a second type pixel in a case where the target pixel satisfies a specific condition. The processor generates processed image data by performing a replacement process in which a pixel value of the pixel identified as the first type pixel is replaced with a first value representing a first color and a pixel value of the pixel identified as the second type pixel is replaced with a second value representing a second color. The specific condition includes a condition that all specific pixels in a specific range match a specific pattern.