Reading System Edge Enhancement for Light Source Degradation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The degradation of light sources over time leads to a decrease in the amount of received light, resulting in an increase in noise ratio and a decrease in the signal-to-noise (SN) ratio of read images, which deteriorates the image quality.
Innovation Solution
A reading system that includes a processor configured to execute an edge enhancement process with a spatial filter on read images when the difference between read data and reference data exceeds a set value, thereby improving image quality without reducing noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light source output is increased above rated value to compensate for deterioration, then received light amount increases and SN ratio improves, but light source lifespan decreases and reliability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of image processing by applying edge enhancement using spatial filters when light source deterioration is detected. This allows the system to maintain image quality without increasing light output, thus preserving light source lifespan while compensating for its deterioration through signal processing rather than hardware modification.
2Reliability
If reading speed is decreased below normal to increase received light amount, then SN ratio improves and image quality deteriorates less, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of slowing down the scanning mechanism with a signal processing approach. By detecting light source deterioration and applying edge enhancement algorithms to the captured images, the system maintains image quality without compromising reading speed, thus preserving productivity while improving reliability.
3Measurement precision
If edge enhancement process is applied to read images, then resolving power increases and image quality improves, but noise may be amplified and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic processing by selectively applying edge enhancement only when light source deterioration is detected. The system monitors the light source condition and activates the spatial filter processing only when needed, rather than continuously processing all images. This dynamic approach improves resolving power when deterioration occurs while minimizing unnecessary processing complexity during normal operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The edge enhancement process enhances the image quality by increasing the resolving power of the read images, effectively reducing image quality deterioration caused by light source degradation without the need to reduce noise.
Implementation Method 1
Light emitted from a light source is reflected from a target such as a document, the reflected light is received by a light receiving part
Implementation Method 2
the reflected light is received by a light receiving part, and a read image of the target is generated
Data Source
AI summary
A reading system includes: a reader that generates a read image by reading reflected light reflected from a target, the reflected light being received by a light receiving part after emitted light emitted from a light source is radiated onto the target; and a processor configured to: receive read data obtained by the reader by reading white reference; and in response to a difference between the read data and reference data exceeding a set value set in advance, execute an edge enhancement process with a spatial filter on the read image and output, as a processed image, the read image that has undergone the edge enhancement process.