Abstract: A computer-based system and method are provided to determine the minimum number of factors required to account for input data by seeking an approximate minimum complexity model. In an exemplary embodiment, covariance in the daily returns of financial securities is estimated by generating a positive-definite estimate of the elements of a covariance matrix consistent with the input data. Complexity of the covariance matrix is minimized by assuming that the number of independent parameters is likely to be much smaller than the number of elements in the covariance matrix. Each variable is described as a linear combination of independent factors and a part that fluctuates independently. The simplest model for the covariance matrix is selected so that it fits the data to within a specified level as determined by the selected goodness-of-fit criterion.

Abstract: Input data comprising a video signal is processed using a combination of a known image processing method to deblur, or sharpen, the image and convolution with Pixon™ kernels for smoothing. The smoothing process utilizes a plurality of different size Pixon™ kernels which operate in parallel so that the input data are convolved with each different Pixon™ kernel simultaneously. The smoothed image is convolved with the point response function (PRF) to form data models that are compared against the input data, then the broadest Pixon™ kernel that fits the input data within a predetermined criterion are selected to form a Pixon™ map. The data are smoothed and assembled according to the Pixon™ map, then are deconvolved and output to a video display or other appropriate device, providing a clearer image with less noise.

Abstract: An advanced decoder provides enhancement processing in accordance with information previously known only to the decoder and/or encoder. Preferably, advanced digital video image enhancement utilizing bitstream information is provided in an integrated manner with advanced decoding and, more preferably, provides for MPEG decoding and image enhancement. In addition to advanced edge detection and other advanced processing tools, the invention further enables the use of decoder based coding-type operations, such as reverse superresolution, as well as advanced superresolution, and 3-D display processing techniques in conjunction with video processing. The invention is therefore capable of reducing system complexity and/or bandwidth, requirements, and improving system robustness and/or the ultimate quality of the enhanced video signal, among other advantages.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus for use in a display system comprises a display device for viewing image, and a geometric transformation module that is configured to precondition said image data with geometric transformations to thereby compensate for characteristics of the display system. The geometric transformation module may include a spatial transformation module for redefining spatial relationships between image pixels, an alignment and rotation correction module for repositioning image pixels, a focus correction module for correcting image defocus, a distortion correction module for correcting image distortions, and a multi-frame correlation module for performing motion-compensated frame rate conversion.

Abstract: An image processing system including a display output processor using Temporal Gamma Processing (TGP) and Reverse Super-resolution (RSR) techniques to process images. TGP assures that the time-related representation of an image is as accurate as possible, and thus, based on a previous frame value and a known transfer function of the display modulation system, adjusts its output values to provide a desired output value during display of a desired frame. RSR performs a superset of the frame rate conversion process for converting between disparate input and output frame rates. RSR, improving display quality when intended display images have apparent resolution higher than can be supported by an image modulator, sequences lower resolution images at higher frame rates to simulate higher resolution outputs.

Abstract: An image processing system using bitstream information for enhancing visual display quality. The processing system retains I frames and some P or B frames from a standard MPEG-2 bitstream, and stores the information across multiple Groups of Pictures (GOPs). The system uses prediction block information in conjunction with detected object edges and bitstream vector information to analyze object optical flow and to reconstruct high quality image frames. The system can also utilize supplemental bitstream information such as layer coding, instructional cues, and image key meta data to further improve the quality of the image frames and for special system functions. When an input image does not include MPEG-2 motion vector bitstream information, the system uses techniques such as optical flow, block matching, or Pel-recursion to estimate motion that tracks the image object motion.