Image Signal Processor Corner Pattern Detection for Defective Pixel Interpolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image signal processors face challenges in accurately correcting defective pixels due to limitations in interpolation algorithms, which can result in noise and reduced image quality, especially in patterns with specific textures.

Innovation Solution

An image signal processor that determines a corner pattern corresponding to a target kernel by comparing gradient combinations, allowing for accurate interpolation of defective pixels using pixel data from neighboring pixels based on the identified pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a predetermined interpolation algorithm is used to convert the original image into a complete image, then the image conversion can be performed, but serious noise occurs in images with specific patterns due to algorithm limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage conversion efficiencyVSAvoidpixel interpolation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the interpolation approach by detecting corner patterns and adjusting interpolation parameters based on the detected pattern type. Instead of using a fixed predetermined algorithm, the system dynamically selects interpolation parameters according to the local image characteristics (corner patterns), thereby resolving the contradiction between efficient conversion and accurate interpolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a fixed interpolation algorithm is applied to all pixels, then the processing is simple and fast, but the accuracy deteriorates in specific pattern regions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterpolation process simplicityVSAvoiddefective pixel correction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic pattern detection that identifies corner patterns in different image regions and adapts the interpolation method accordingly. The system transitions from a static fixed algorithm to a dynamic adaptive approach where the interpolation strategy changes based on the detected corner pattern, maintaining simplicity while improving accuracy in specific regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If conventional pixel interpolation is used, then the complete image can be generated, but noise is introduced in images with specific patterns

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage generation speedVSAvoidimage noise
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by detecting corner patterns in specific image regions and applying specialized interpolation only where needed. Instead of uniformly processing the entire image, the system identifies regions with corner patterns and applies appropriate interpolation methods locally, thereby reducing noise in affected areas while maintaining overall processing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20250024159A1Image signal processor and image signal processing method
Publication Date: 2025.01.16 SK HYNIX INC
  • US20250024159A1 patent drawing
  • US20250024159A1 patent drawing
  • US20250024159A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An image signal processor includes a first determiner and a pixel interpolator. The first determiner compares a target gradient combination for a target kernel including a target pixel with a reference gradient combination for each of a plurality of corner patterns to calculate a similarity score, and determines at least one corner pattern based on the calculated similarity score. The pixel interpolator interpolates the target pixel using pixel data of interpolation pixels determined based on the corner pattern.