Raytheon Company

Luan B Do

Christopher J Beardsley

Mark A Gohlke

Richard D Tinkler

A system and method for image contrast enhancement using sub-segments. A coarse piecewise linear transform is formed based on the intensity distribution in an image, the segments of the piecewise linear transform selected to produce, when the piecewise linear transform is applied to the image, an improved intensity distribution, e.g., one approximating a Rayleigh distribution. A fine piecewise linear transform is formed by forming sub-segments at each of the breakpoints of the coarse piecewise linear transform.

Video contrast enhancement with sub-segments

A method of image processing and the image processor which includes providing a convolution operator having an input for receiving raw imaging data at a data rate N and a plurality of output paths M. The convolution operator provides a time (phase) delay T to the imaging data between the input and the output paths and applies the imaging data on a time delayed basis to the output paths in phased relation to their time of application to the convolution operator. The convolution operator provides a low pass filtering operation to the data to provide background information. A phase equalization circuit is provided having an input for receiving the raw imaging data at the data rate N and M output paths, one path corresponding to each output path of the convolution operator, to provide a time delay to the raw imaging data at each output path of the phase equalization circuit equal to the time (phase) delay T of the convolution operator. The background information from the convolution operator is subtracted from the raw image data from the phase equalization circuit to provide feature information. A combination of background information and the feature information is then provided. The low pass filtering operation includes providing a one or two dimensional decimation to the data and providing a one or two dimensional interpolation of the decimated data.

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McKinney, TX, United States of America

Luan B Do