High resolution image generation method for use in fiber optical system, involves generating superposition image by superposition of several movement-compensated low resolution images

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This patent describes a method and device for creating high-resolution images in fiber optical systems, such as fiber optic endoscopes. The invention works by capturing a sequence of low-resolution images using a bundle of optical fibers and a sensor. By compensating for movements and overlaying (superimposing) multiple low-resolution images, it can generate a single, higher-resolution image, improving the quality of images beyond the physical limitations of the optical fiber bundle.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Medical endoscopy: providing clearer, high-resolution images for diagnosis and surgical guidance using flexible fiber optic endoscopes.
• Industrial inspection: improving the quality of images in non-destructive testing or inspections of hard-to-reach places, such as pipes or turbines.
• Research and microscopy: enhancing image detail in fiber-based visualization tools for scientific analysis.
• Quality assurance: using high-resolution imaging in manufacturing processes that require imaging through flexible fiber bundles.
• Security and surveillance: improving image clarity in fiber optic cameras used in surveillance or reconnaissance.

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• Significantly increases image resolution beyond the innate limits of the fiber bundle and sensor hardware.
• Removes the characteristic ‘honeycomb’ or ‘waffle’ pattern typical in fiber optic images, leading to cleaner visuals.
• Improves detail and readability, which is crucial for applications like reading small text or detecting subtle features.
• Allows usage of thinner and more flexible fiber optic instruments by compensating for their lower inherent resolution.
• Adaptable to real-time imaging as well as post-processing, making it suitable for both live diagnostics and offline analysis.
• Robust to irregular movement and does not require prior knowledge of the structure of imaged scenes, increasing versatility in many settings.

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Patent Abstract

The method involves generating a sequence of low resolution images based on the intensity image. The low resolution image information is produced for the image class provided by the position information. A high resolution image (100) in perpendicular, two-dimensional coordinates is generated by the interpolation of intensity values of superposition image. The superposition image is produced by the superposition of several movement-compensated low resolution images. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a device for generating a high resolution image (2) a computer program with a code for generating a high resolution image.