Wide-Field Image Projection for Accurate Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing object detection methods for planar images deteriorate in accuracy when applied to wide-field images like fisheye images due to significant distortion, and existing methods for handling fisheye images either require additional calculations or fail to detect objects across divided areas.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that generates a second image using equi-distortion projection, maintaining a consistent distortion ratio of 0.9 to 1.1, to suppress distortion and enhance object detection accuracy in wide-field images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a wide-field image is converted into a planar image while maintaining its wide field, then the image coverage is improved, but the object detection accuracy deteriorates because the peripheral area is significantly expanded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the projection method parameter from conventional planar projection to equi-distortion projection. This parameter change ensures that the distortion ratio remains constant (0.9 to 1.1) across the entire image, preventing the peripheral area expansion problem while maintaining wide-field coverage. The equi-distortion projection function is specifically designed to keep distortion consistent throughout the image, thereby resolving the contradiction between wide coverage and detection accuracy.
2Stability of the object's composition
If object detection is performed on a fisheye image without conversion, then the original image structure is preserved, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to significant distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies equi-distortion projection as a parameter change that transforms the image while maintaining structural integrity. Unlike conventional projection methods that create varying distortion across the image, equi-distortion projection ensures uniform distortion ratio (0.9 to 1.1) throughout, making the transformed image suitable for accurate object detection while preserving the essential structure of the wide-field scene.
3Measurement precision
If existing fisheye image processing methods are used, then object detection can be performed, but additional calculations such as image rotation are required to detect objects at boundary areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the projection parameter to equi-distortion projection, which eliminates the need for additional image rotation calculations. The equi-distortion property ensures that objects at boundary areas are represented with the same distortion ratio as central areas, allowing uniform object detection across the entire image without requiring complex rotation operations or special boundary handling.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes a memory storing instructions, and a processor configured to execute the instructions to generate, using a first image obtained by imaging a three-dimensional space including an object through an optical system of a first projection method, a second image obtained by a second projection method different from the first projection method, and perform object detection using the second image. A distortion ratio on the second image satisfies a predetermined condition.