Interlaced Image Resolution Conversion Using Field-Unit Pixel Group Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image resolution conversion methods for interlaced images suffer from delays and inefficiencies when processing per field unit, particularly in real-time applications, due to changes in pixel distribution and the need for complex calculations involving large pixel groups.

Innovation Solution

An image resolution conversion apparatus that interpolates pixel values using a pixel-values storage section, region-determining section, pixel-values-reading control section, and arithmetic interpolating section, allowing for efficient generation of new pixels by adjusting pixel group sizes and positions based on the resolution conversion magnification ratio, thereby optimizing pixel distribution and reducing processing delays.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a pixel group of 4 lines by 4 columns is used for generating new pixels in interlaced image processing, then image quality is improved, but processing delay increases and real-time performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the interlaced image processing into field-unit operations rather than frame-unit operations. By processing one field at a time and using a reduced pixel group (3 lines by 2 columns instead of 4 lines by 4 columns), the processing time is segmented into smaller, manageable units that can be completed within real-time constraints while maintaining adequate image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a partial pixel group (3 lines by 2 columns) instead of the complete 4 lines by 4 columns group. This partial action approach provides sufficient pixel data for interpolation to achieve acceptable image quality while significantly reducing the computational burden and processing delay for real-time interlaced image conversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Measurement precision

If a large pixel group is used for interpolation, then image quality is improved, but device complexity and calculation load increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the pixel group into a smaller configuration (3 lines by 2 columns) that is sufficient for interpolation purposes. This segmentation reduces the number of pixels that need to be read and processed, thereby simplifying the device structure and reducing calculation load while maintaining functional adequacy for image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by using only the necessary minimum pixel group size (3 lines by 2 columns) required for effective interpolation. This avoids the excessive complexity associated with larger pixel groups while providing sufficient data for generating new pixels in the resolution conversion process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If processing is performed per frame unit, then image quality is improved, but productivity and real-time processing capability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the processing unit from frame-level to field-level operations. By processing one interlaced field at a time rather than waiting for complete frames, the system achieves real-time processing capability while maintaining adequate image quality through the use of appropriately sized pixel groups for interpolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses partial processing by handling only one field at a time instead of complete frames. This partial action approach enables real-time processing productivity while providing sufficient pixel data for quality interpolation, as the 3 lines by 2 columns pixel group is adequate for field-unit processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS7567733B2Image resolution conversion apparatus
Publication Date: 2009.07.28 OLYMPUS CORPORATION(JP)
  • US7567733B2 patent drawing
  • US7567733B2 patent drawing
  • US7567733B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an image resolution conversion apparatus, a region-determining section establishes an initial value used for determining a region where a new pixel is to be generated based on the number of pixels in a non-line direction included in a pixel group used for converting the resolution attribute of fields, and a resolution conversion magnification ratio. The region-determining section accumulates an integration parameter corresponding to the resolution conversion magnification ratio onto the obtained initial values under the predetermined condition. The region-determining section outputs: a region-control signal; and the newly-established-pixel-position signal, successively based on the accumulation result.