Imaging System Deconvolution for Optical Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging systems, particularly in missile guidance, face distortions due to environmental factors and optical imperfections, leading to degraded image quality that affects target accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The method involves filtering and scaling image data to higher resolution, registering images, and using deconvolution processes to correct for optical distortions, thereby generating an enhanced image of the target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image data is filtered and scaled to higher resolution, then image resolution is improved, but image accuracy may be degraded due to optical distortions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies deconvolution processing to correct optical distortions before enhancing image resolution through filtering and scaling. This preliminary correction of aberrations ensures that the subsequent resolution enhancement operates on already-corrected image data, preventing the amplification of distortion artifacts and maintaining both high resolution and accuracy in the final enhanced image.
2Loss of information
If deconvolution processes are applied to correct optical distortions, then image accuracy is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hardware-based distortion correction mechanisms with software-based deconvolution processing. By using computational algorithms to correct optical aberrations rather than requiring complex optical compensation hardware, the system achieves accurate distortion correction while maintaining relatively simple device architecture and processing workflows.
3Measurement precision
If multiple images are registered and combined, then image resolution is enhanced, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs image registration and distortion correction as preliminary steps before the final image combination and enhancement phases. By pre-aligning and pre-correcting individual images before they are combined, the system streamlines the overall processing workflow, reducing redundant computations and minimizing total processing time while still achieving high-resolution enhanced images through multiple image fusion.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for imaging according to various aspects of the present invention may generate an enhanced image of a target in an environment using image data from a sensor. The methods and apparatus may scale the image data to a higher resolution and register the image represented by the image data with other images of the same target. The enhanced image of the target is generated according to the registered images.