Pixel Group Selection for Edge Quality in Image Enlargement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing technologies deteriorate the appearance of edges in enlarged images, particularly when enlarging images twice in the lateral direction, resulting in conspicuous backlash and loss of edge quality.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that selects and sets pixel groups in the enlarged image based on specific patterns from the original image, adjusting the number of pixels to improve edge appearance by considering the surrounding image context, using a processor to acquire original image data, select pixel groups, and set pixels accordingly during enlargement processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If enlargement processing is executed upon printing, then it is possible to print a relatively large print image even though the original image is relatively small, but the appearance of edges in the enlarged image deteriorates with conspicuous backlash
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating pixel processing based on their position and pattern characteristics. Specifically, pixels are classified into different types (first type, second type, third type) based on their surrounding patterns, and each type receives different processing rules during enlargement. This localized differential processing preserves edge quality in critical areas while maintaining overall image enlargement, directly resolving the contradiction between large print size and edge quality.
2Productivity
If simple enlargement processing is applied, then processing speed is maintained, but edge appearance deteriorates due to loss of surrounding image context
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-classifying pixels into different types based on their surrounding patterns before the actual enlargement processing. The pixel classification unit analyzes and categorizes each pixel's neighborhood pattern in advance, storing this classification information. During enlargement, this pre-computed classification enables rapid application of appropriate processing rules without requiring complex real-time analysis, thus maintaining high processing speed while improving edge appearance through context-aware processing.
3Manufacturing precision
If pixel classification based on surrounding patterns is implemented, then edge quality is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the image processing into distinct functional modules: a pixel classification unit that analyzes surrounding patterns and categorizes pixels, and an enlargement processing unit that applies different processing rules to different pixel types. This modular segmentation isolates the complex pattern recognition task to a dedicated classification stage, allowing the subsequent enlargement stage to operate efficiently with pre-computed classification data, thereby managing processing complexity while maintaining high edge quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-computing pixel classifications based on surrounding patterns before enlargement processing. The pixel classification unit analyzes and categorizes each pixel's neighborhood in advance, storing this classification information for rapid retrieval during enlargement. This preliminary classification separates the computationally intensive pattern recognition from the enlargement operation, reducing overall processing complexity while maintaining high edge quality through context-aware processing.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire original image data expressing an original image that comprises a first type pixel and a second type pixel; and an enlargement processing unit configured to execute enlargement processing for the original image data to generate enlarged image data expressing an enlarged image that is obtained by enlarging the original image in a first direction. The enlargement processing unit includes: a pixel group selection unit configured to select a pixel group extending in a second direction intersecting with the first direction in the enlarge image when a specific pattern configured by the first type pixel and the second type pixel is included in the original image; and a setting unit configured to set a pixel configuring the pixel group in the enlarged image as the second type pixel.