Pixel Interpolation Using Gradient-Based Direction Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Image processing devices face challenges in performing pixel interpolation when pixel values required for interpolation are insufficient, particularly in diagonal directions where necessary pixel values may not be present, leading to difficulties in generating accurate interpolated pixel values for image representation.

Innovation Solution

An image processing device that determines a region of interest, calculates gradient values, and identifies a diagonal interpolation direction, then uses the ratio of summed pixel values of adjacent white pixels to those of target pixels to compute interpolated white pixel values, even when white pixels are not directly available in the interpolation direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional pixel interpolation methods are used, then interpolation can be performed when pixel values are available, but interpolation fails when required pixel values are absent in certain directions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterpolation operation reliabilityVSAvoidinterpolation direction coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by determining a region of interest and calculating gradient values in advance, which enables the system to identify appropriate interpolation directions and target pixels before the actual interpolation operation, ensuring reliable interpolation even when direct pixel values are unavailable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary elements including the region of interest, gradient values, and calculated target pixels that mediate between the available pixel data and the required interpolated values, allowing the system to bridge gaps in the pixel array and perform interpolation reliably across all directions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If pixel values are required for interpolation in diagonal directions, then accurate interpolation can be achieved, but the method becomes inapplicable when diagonal pixel values are not present

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterpolated pixel value accuracyVSAvoidinterpolation operation feasibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent calculates gradient values in advance for determining the interpolation direction, which enables the system to identify the optimal target pixel before performing interpolation, ensuring both accuracy and feasibility even when direct diagonal pixel values are unavailable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the approach by using gradient values and ratio calculations instead of directly accessing pixel values in the interpolation direction, transforming the interpolation method to work reliably whether or not the required pixel values are present

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20240249382A1Image processing device and pixel interpolation method
Publication Date: 2024.07.25 SK HYNIX INC
  • US20240249382A1 patent drawing
  • US20240249382A1 patent drawing
  • US20240249382A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing device, and a pixel interpolation method, includes a preprocessor configured to generate a region of interest having a preset size based on pixel values received from an image sensor including white pixels and configured to determine an interpolation direction in the region of interest. The image processing device and interpolation method also includes a pixel interpolator configured to determine a second target pixel corresponding to the interpolation direction based on a first target pixel included in the region of interest and configured to calculate an interpolated white pixel value of the first target pixel based on a ratio of pixel values of adjacent white pixels adjacent to the first target pixel and the second target pixel to pixel values corresponding to a color of the first target pixel.