Patent ID: 6268940
Filing Date: 2001-07-31
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A method for automatically enhancing the digitized image data of a photographic color image of a given subject, said image having been subject to degradation, said method automatically compensating for said degradation to produce an enhanced image accurately representing said subject, the method comprising the steps of:a) converting a set of test images to an optimized Ls.alpha. color space coordinate format, in which L is lightness, s is color saturation and .alpha. is hue angle, said set of test images comprising multiple adjusted variations of multiple test images;b) analyzing said set of test images in order to collect test image features;c) collecting adjustment data based on opinions of a plurality of viewers, the adjustment data comprising the adjustment made to said test image features;d) converting the image data from its original color format into said optimized Ls.alpha. color space coordinate format;e) analyzing the converted image data in order to collect image features;f) comparing said image features with said adjustment data in order to find optimal values for corresponding adjustment variables;g) enhancing the converted image data in accordance with said adjustment variables; andh) converting the enhanced image data from the Ls.alpha. color space coordinate format into its original color space format for use in producing the enhanced image.