Stereo Camera Pixel Map Search and Validation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current image processing systems for automotive applications face challenges in increasing processing speed and reducing erroneous object recognition, particularly in distance measurement using stereo cameras.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus generates a first map with x-coordinate, distance, and frequency information, searches for target pixels based on predetermined conditions, and validates surrounding pixels to enhance processing efficiency and accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If all pixels are searched and validated in the disparity image, then object recognition accuracy is improved, but processing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject recognition accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the pixel search space by dividing pixels into groups based on their distance information values. Instead of searching all pixels uniformly, the system processes pixels in organized groups, allowing efficient validation while maintaining recognition accuracy. This segmentation enables the system to handle large numbers of pixels without proportionally increasing processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary organization of pixels into groups based on distance information before the actual object recognition search. By pre-grouping pixels according to their depth characteristics, the system prepares the data structure in advance, enabling faster validation during the recognition process without sacrificing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If pixel validation range is expanded to reduce erroneous recognitions, then reliability is improved, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereduction of erroneous recognitionsVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different validation approaches to different pixel groups based on their local characteristics. By organizing pixels into groups with similar distance properties and applying validation rules specific to each group, the system achieves reliable error reduction without uniformly increasing complexity across all pixels. Each pixel group receives tailored processing appropriate to its spatial and depth characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11054245B2Image processing apparatus, device control system, imaging apparatus, image processing method, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2021.07.06 RICOH CO LTD
  • US11054245B2 patent drawing
  • US11054245B2 patent drawing
  • US11054245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes processing circuitry configured to generate a first map formed of pixels that are associated with x coordinate information, distance information, and frequency values; search for a target pixel satisfying a predetermined condition among the pixels in the first map, the searching being performed from the pixels that are near towards the pixels that are far away as indicated by the distance information; and validate pixels surrounding the target pixel in the first map, together with the target pixel.