Patent Publication Number: US-2006012609-A1

Title: Methods and system for processing image data

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS  
      This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/588,081 of Bradley R. Larson for METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING IMAGE DATA, filed Jul. 15, 2004. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND  
      Computer systems and associated devices are commonly used to receive, store, generate, manipulate and display (or playback) various kinds of image files. Examples of such image files include digital photographs and movies, computer-aided drafting (CAD) documents, computer-generated images and numerous other textual and graphical entities. It is also known to encode such image files using different file formats (e.g., MPEG, TIFF, Bitmap, JPEG, etc.), typically consisting of relatively vast amounts of digital data (i.e., binary bits arranged as bytes or digital words).  
      Generally, the digital data of such an image file defines the various graphical objects represented therein as a matrix or array of pixels, or individually colored dots. Each pixel represents the smallest individual portion of an overall image for a given degree of image resolution such as, for example, 600-by-600 dots per inch. It is generally well known that increasing the image resolution—that is, increasing the total number of pixels used to represent an image—results in increased image sharpness and definition.  
      However, such an increase in the overall number of pixels is usually accompanied by a generally undesirable increase in the number of data bits required to encode the overall image file, as well as increasing the amount of computer-readable storage space (e.g., memory, magnetic media, etc.) required to store such an image file. Furthermore, it is generally difficult to devise systems and techniques for handling individual image files that include pixels of plural (differing) resolutions.  
      Therefore, it is desirable to provide methods and systems that provide the advantages of increased image resolution without substantially increasing the overall image file size, while reliably handling the associated image file data.  
     SUMMARY  
      Embodiments of the invention provide a method, wherein the method includes the step of providing image data defining a plurality of pixels. Each pixel is defined by one or more color layers, wherein each color layer is defined by one or more data bits. The method also includes the steps of selecting two or more of the plurality of pixels, and translating the one or more data bits that define each of the one or more color layers of the two or more selected pixels, in accordance with a predefined function, to define a single translated pixel. The method further includes the step of rendering an image including the single translated pixel.  
      Embodiments of the invention also provide another method, the method including the step of providing image data defining a plurality of pixels. Each of the pixels is defined by one or more color layers, wherein each color layer is defined by a plurality of data bits. The method also includes the steps of selecting one of the plurality of pixels, and translating the plurality of data bits that define each of the one or more color layers of the selected pixel, in accordance with a predefined function, so as to define two or more translated pixels. Furthermore, the method includes the step of rendering an image including the two or more translated pixels.  
      Embodiments of the invention further provide a computer-readable storage media including a program code, wherein the program code is configured to cause a processor to receive image data defining a plurality of pixels, and wherein each pixel defines one of a first resolution or a second resolution. The program code is further configured to cause the processor to selectively translate data defining two or more pixels of the first resolution of the image data, so as to derive data defining a first number of translated pixels of the second resolution, wherein the first number of translated pixels collectively define a first type image window. Furthermore, the program code is configured to cause the processor to selectively translate data defining two or more pixels of the second resolution of the image data, so as to derive data defining a second number of translated pixels of the first resolution, wherein the second number of translated pixels collectively define a second type image window. Further still, the program code is configured to cause the processor to combine the data of the image windows of the first type and the second type to define translated image data.  
      These and other aspects and embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  is block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement known in the art.  
       FIG. 2  is block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 3  is a block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 4  is a block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 5  is block schematic view, depicting a method in accordance with the present invention.  
       FIG. 5A  is a block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement in accordance with the method of  FIG. 5 .  
       FIG. 6  is a block schematic view, depicting another method in accordance with the present invention.  
       FIG. 6A  is a block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement in accordance with the method of  FIG. 6 .  
       FIG. 7  is a flowchart, depicting still another method in accordance with the present invention.  
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
      In representative embodiments, the present teachings provide methods and systems for particularly defining and translating image data representing, for example, graphical objects, electronic photographs, electronic moving images (movies), etc. More specifically, the methods and system of the present teachings are generally directed to defining and translating the binary information (i.e., data bits) that represent such images. A number of embodiments of the present invention are directed to a relative increase in the image resolution of a portion of an image (e.g., pixels translated from 600-by-600 to 2400-by-1200 dots per inch) that is defined by one or more digital words, wherein the overall quantity of digital data (i.e., total bit count) of the digital word(s) is not increased. Similarly, other embodiments of the present invention are typically directed to a relative decrease in the image resolution of an image portion (e.g., pixels translated from 2400-by-1200 to 600-by-600 dots per inch) that is defined by one or more digital words, wherein the overall representative data quantity (i.e., word size) is kept substantially constant.  
      While numerous embodiments are described hereinafter in terms of specific image resolutions (e.g., 600-by-600 dots per inch, etc.), it is to be understood that the methods and systems of the present invention are intended to be used with digital image data of differing image resolutions. This is true with respect to either or both of the image resolution of original image data or the translated image data resulting from the various methods of the present invention. Similarly, embodiments of the present invention are described hereinafter in the context of pixels defined by three color layers—typically cyan, magenta and yellow. However, it is to be understood that other embodiments of the methods and systems of the present invention can be used in conjunction with image data defining pixels with other numbers of color layers and/or respective colors of those color layers.  
      While the methods and systems of embodiments of the present invention are typically described in the context of the edgewise or perimeter portion of a graphical object, it is to be understood that the other regions of an image can also be similarly manipulated as required and/or desired. Furthermore, the methods and systems of embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to translating selective portions of an image data file so that a substantially homogeneous image resolution is realized for all of the pixels of the image data file. In this way, certain embodiments of the present invention provide translated or partially translated image data that is readily imaged or rendered by apparatus and system that otherwise cannot handle mixed-resolution image data.  
      Turning now to  FIG. 1 , a block schematic view depicts an imaging arrangement  20  according to the known art. The arrangement  20  is defined by three separate color layers  22 . The three color layers  22  include a cyan color layer  24 , a magenta color layer  26 , and a yellow color layer  28 . One of skill in the imaging arts can appreciate that each of the respective color layers  24 - 28  can be provided in a number of known ways, such as, for example, through the use of suitably controlled inkjet mechanism or a color display screen (not shown, respectively). In this way, the three color layers  24 - 28  chromatically combine when mutually provided to define a pixel  30 . As provided herein, the pixel  30  is also known as a contone (i.e., continuous-tone) pixel of substantially one perceptible color or hue. As depicted in  FIG. 1 , the pixel  30  defines an image resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch.  
      As further depicted in  FIG. 1 , each of the respective color layers  24 ,  26  and  28  includes an intensity, or color saturation level, that is defined by eight binary data bits, or a single data byte,  32 . Thus, the color layers  24 ,  26  and  28  are respectively defined by data bytes  34 ,  36  and  38 . The pixel  30  is therefore completely defined by the overall combination of the data bytes  34 ,  36  and  38  as a single twenty-four bit data word  40 . A further result of this eight-bits (one byte) per color layer definition is that the intensity or color saturation of each color layer  24 - 28  can be independently defined by any one of two hundred fifty-six discrete values, including zero. Thus, each of the pixels  30  is also referred to herein as an eight bit-per-layer pixel. One of skill in the imaging arts can also appreciate that a plurality of such pixels  30  are typically defined by an image data file (not shown) so as to electronically provide, for example, a still image, a motion video, etc. The arrangement  20  of  FIG. 1  is intended to convey imaging concepts that are generally fundamental to an understanding of the instant invention.  
       FIG. 2  is a block schematic view depicting an imaging arrangement  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention. The arrangement  100  includes (i.e., defines) a total of four pixels  102 . Each of the pixels  102  occupies an image area defining an image resolution of 1200-by-1200 dots per inch. As depicted in  FIG. 2 , the four pixels  102  are mutually arranged to occupy an overall image area defining a resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch. Thus, the four pixels  102  of  FIG. 2  represent an effective doubling of image resolution relative to that of the pixel  30  of  FIG. 1 .  
      Each of the pixels  102  is comprised of (defined by) a cyan color layer  104 , a magenta color layer  106  and a yellow color layer  108 , wherein the intensity (i.e., color saturation) of each of the color layers  104 - 108  for a given pixel  102  is defined by two binary data bits  112 . To clarify, exemplary pixel  102 A is comprised of a cyan color layer  104 A, a magenta color layer  106 A, and a yellow color layer  108 A, wherein the color layers  104 A- 108 A chromatically combine (when suitably rendered, or imaged) to substantially define a single final color or hue. Furthermore, the intensity of the cyan color layer  104 A of exemplary pixel  102 A is defined by a binary data bit pair  114 A. In turn, each of the remaining pixels  102  is partially defined by a corresponding portion of the cyan color layer  104  as respectively defined by data bit pairs  114 B- 114 D.  
      Thus, the complete cyan color layer  104  is defined by a single eight-bit data byte  114 . Similarly, the magenta color layer  106  and the yellow color layer  108  are respectively defined by eight-bit data bytes  116  and  118 , wherein each byte is considered as four, two-bit data pairs. The data bytes  104 - 108  are combined to define a single twenty-four bit data word  120 . In this way, the data word  120  includes the image data required to completely represent the four discrete pixels  102  as depicted in  FIG. 2 . Each of the pixels  102  is also referred to herein as a two bit-per-layer pixel. Furthermore, the intensity of each of the color layers  104 - 108  defining a given pixel  102  can be independently defined as any one of four discrete values, including zero, by virtue of the binary two-bit definition (i.e., intensity value) of each color layer  104 - 108 .  
      As described above, the pixels  102  of  FIG. 2  represent a doubling of image resolution, relative to the known pixel  30  of  FIG. 1 , without an increase in the total amount of image data (i.e., a twenty-four bit word) required to define an image of given overall dimensions. In a further comparison between the pixel  30  of  FIG. 1  and the pixels  102  of  FIG. 2 , the same overall data bit count (twenty-four bits total per pixel) is generally reconfigured so as to shift emphasis away from color resolution and toward increased image resolution. Also, it is to be understood that the pixels  102  can be imaged (formed, or provided) by any suitable technique such as, for example, inkjet or other media deposition on sheet media, imaging by way of an electronic display screen, etc., or stored to computer-readable media for later use (not shown, respectively). Such an increase in image resolution can be desirable, for example, to enhance the sharpness or definition of an edgewise or perimeter portion of an object represented within an image data file.  
       FIG. 3  is a block schematic view depicting an imaging arrangement  200  in accordance with another embodiment of the instant invention. The arrangement  200  includes (i.e., defines) a total of eight pixels  202 . Each of the pixels  202  occupies an image area that defines an image resolution of 2400-by-1200 dots per inch. As also depicted in  FIG. 3 , the eight pixels  202  are mutually arranged so as to occupy an overall image area defining a resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch. Thus, the imaging arrangement  200  of  FIG. 3  represents an effective doubling of image resolution along a first dimension D 1 , and an effective quadrupling of image resolution along a second dimension D 2 , relative to that of the pixel  30  of  FIG. 1 .  
      Each of the pixels  202  of  FIG. 3  is comprised of (defined by) a cyan color layer  204 , a magenta color layer  206 , and a yellow color layer  208 , substantially as defined above in regard to the color layers  104 - 108  of the arrangement  100  of  FIG. 2 , respectively, wherein the intensity (i.e., color saturation) of each of the color layers  204 - 208  for a given pixel  202  is defined a single binary data bit  212 . To clarify, an exemplary pixel  202 A is comprised of a cyan color layer  204 A, a magenta color layer  206 A, and a yellow color layer  208 A, which chromatically combine when the pixel  202 A is suitably rendered or imaged to define a single color or hue.  
      Furthermore, the intensity of the cyan color layer  204 A of exemplary pixel  202 A is defined by a binary data bit  214 A. In turn, each of the remaining pixels  202  is partially defined by a corresponding portion of the cyan color layer  204  as respectively defined by data bits  214 B- 214 H. As a result of this single-bit intensity definition, each of the color layers  204 - 208  of each pixel  202  can be defined by only two respective states or conditions: the respective color  204 - 208  is present in some predefined intensity, or it is substantially absent altogether (i.e., “one” or “zero”).  
      Therefore, the full cyan color layer  204  is defined by a single eight-bit data byte  214 . Similarly, the magenta color layer  206  and the yellow color layer  208  are respectively defined by eight-bit data bytes  216  and  218 . The data bytes  204 - 208  are combined to define a single twenty-four bit data word  220 . Thus, the data word  220  includes all of the image data required to fully represent the eight discrete pixels  202  depicted in  FIG. 3 . Each of the pixels  202  is also referred to herein as a one bit-per-layer pixel. It is to be understood that the pixels  202  can be imaged (formed, or provided) by any of the suitable techniques described above in regard to the pixels  102  of  FIG. 2 .  
      The pixels  102  and  202  of  FIGS. 2 and 3  are described above in the context of cyan, magenta and yellow color layers  104 - 108  and  204 - 208 , respectively. In other embodiments of the present invention (not shown), differing types of two bit-per-layer and one bit-per-layer pixels can be defined and used respectively, including differing numbers of color layers and/or layer-color definitions. For example (not shown), a two bit-per-layer pixel can be defined which includes a black layer in addition to the cyan, magenta and yellow layers described above. Such a four-layer pixel (not shown) can be desirably used in conjunction with, for example, a four-color inkjet printer. Other pixel embodiments can also be used.  
       FIG. 4  is a block schematic view depicting an imaging arrangement  300  in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement  300  includes an image window  302 . In the interest of understanding, the image window  302  is depicted in  FIG. 4  in two different presentation formats, but both image window  302  presentations are comprised of the same image data content. The image window  302  includes, or defines, a three-by-three arrangement of image regions  304 . Each of the image regions  304  defines an image resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch It is to be understood that other image regions (not shown) defining other suitable image resolutions can also be used.  
      In any case, the image regions  304  of  FIG. 4  are each further defined in one of two different ways: as a relatively low-resolution image region  306  comprised of a single eight bit-per-layer pixel  310  (e.g., the pixel  30  of  FIG. 1 ); or as a relatively high-resolution image region  308  comprised of eight discrete one bit-per-layer pixels  320  (e.g., the pixels  202  of  FIG. 3 ). Therefore, as depicted in  FIG. 4 , the image window  302  includes a total of three, eight bit-per-layer pixels  310 , and a total of forty-eight, one bit-per-layer pixels  320 , for a grand total of fifty-one pixels overall. Furthermore, it is to be noted that the image window  302  can be completely defined by a total of nine, twenty-four bit (i.e., three byte) data words. In this way, the image window  302  as depicted in  FIG. 4  includes a total of six relatively high-resolution image regions  308  and three relatively low-resolution image regions  306 . The relatively high-resolution image regions  308  of the image window  302  can be used, for example, to define or represent an edgewise (i.e., perimeter) portion of a graphical object within image data file. The image window  302  is also considered to include mixed-resolution image data.  
       FIG. 5  is a block schematic view, depicting an exemplary method  400  in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. In particular, the exemplary method  400  depicts the translation of a first type of imaging data (i.e., pixels) to a second type of approximated pixel. The exemplary method  400  generally begins with the provision of eight, one bit-per-layer pixels  402 . Each of the pixels  402  define an image resolution of 2400-by-1200 dots per inch, and are mutually arranged to define an image region  410  defining an image resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch. Furthermore, each of the pixels  402  is defined by a cyan color layer  404 , a magenta color layer  406 , and a yellow color layer  408 . Thus, the pixels  402  are substantially equivalent to the pixels  202  of  FIG. 3 .  
      As depicted in  FIG. 5 , each of the color layers  404 - 408  is defined by a total of eight data bits, wherein each pixel  402  is defined by a corresponding cyan color layer bit  414 , a magenta color layer bit  416 , and a yellow color layer bit  418 . As further depicted in  FIG. 5 , the cyan color layer  404  is defined by a total of five active (i.e., “one”-status) data bits, and a total of three inactive (i.e., “zero”-status) data bits. In this way, the overall image region  410 , which is represented by the eight respective pixels  402 , can be considered to have an overall cyan color layer intensity of five-eights, or 62.5%. In such a manner, each of the active (i.e., “one”) data bits is considered to contribute a total cyan color layer  404  intensity of one-eighth (of the maximum possible intensity for that color) to the overall image region  410 . Similarly as depicted in  FIG. 5 , the magenta color layer  406  can be considered to define a two-eighths, or 25.0%, color intensity, while the yellow color layer  408  can be considered to define a seven-eighths, or 87.5%, color intensity to the overall image region  410 .  
      Using the equal-weighting, or summation, approach described above, an embodiment of the exemplary method  400  can be used to define an approximated cyan color layer  444 , an approximated magenta color layer  446 , and an approximated yellow color layer  448 , respectively depicted in  FIG. 5 . When the approximated color layers  444 - 448  are suitably rendered or imaged (e.g., by way of an inkjet printer on sheet media or by an electronic color screen display, etc.), the chromatic combination thereof results in a single translated pixel  440  including substantially one homogeneous color or hue. The translated pixel  440  is also referred to herein as a translated eight bit-per-layer pixel. It is to be understood that the particular data bit  414 - 418  patterns, or values, as depicted in  FIG. 5  are exemplary only, and that the exemplary method  400  is usable in conjunction with other particular data bit  414 - 418  values, thus resulting in other corresponding values for the translated color layers  444 - 448 .  
      Furthermore, the translation process of exemplary method  400  is described above in terms of the generally simple summation of equally-weighted data bits  414 - 418  defining each of the color layers  404 - 408 , so as to respectively define translated color layers  444 - 448  of the translated pixel  440 . It is to be understood that other suitable techniques (not shown) can also be used within the context of method  400  such as, for example: 
          unequally weighting particular ones of the data bits  414 - 418  defining the respective color layers  404 - 408 , and then summing their values to respectively define each of the translated color layers  444 - 448 ;     summing equally-weighted data bits  414 - 418  defining each color layer  404 - 408 , followed by averaging the sum values for each of the color layers  404 - 408 , and then defining each of the translated color layers  444 - 448  using a common average value;     translation of particular ones of the data bits  414 - 418  in accordance with a predefined look-up table so as to define each of the translated color layers  444 - 448 ;     Other techniques as suitable and/or desired.        

       FIG. 5A  is a block schematic view depicting an imaging arrangement  450  in accordance with the exemplary method  400  of  FIG. 5 . The imaging arrangement  450  includes an image window  452 . The image window  452  includes a three-by-three, mixed-resolution arrangement including a total of six high-resolution image regions  458 , and a total of three low-resolution image regions  456 . Therein, each high-resolution image region  458  is defined by a total of eight, one bit-per-layer pixels (not shown in  FIG. 5A , see the pixels  402  of  FIG. 5 ). Also, each low-resolution image region  456  of  FIG. 5A  is defined by a single eight bit-per-layer pixel (not shown in  FIG. 5A , see the pixels  310  of  FIG. 4 ).  
      It is then assumed that the exemplary method  400  of  FIG. 5 , substantially as described above, is applied to the pixels (not shown) of the six high-resolution image regions  458  of the image window  452 . As a result thereof, a translated image window  454  is defined. The translated image window  454  includes a total of six image regions  460 —directly corresponding to the six high-resolution image regions  458  of the image window  452 —and the total of three low-resolution image regions  456  as originally present in the image window  452 . Each of the image regions  460  of the translated image window  454  includes a single, respectively defined, translated eight bit-per-layer pixel that is substantially equal to the translated pixel  440  of  FIG. 5 .  
      Therefore, both the image window  452  and the translated image window  454  can be respectively defined by nine, twenty-four data bit words. Thus, equal quantities of binary data can be used to define each image window  452  and the respective translated image window  454 . However, by virtue of the exemplary method  400  of  FIG. 5 , the translated image window  454  comprises nine equal-resolution image regions, as compared to the mixed-resolution image regions ( 458  and  456 ) of the image window  452 . Such a translation of image data can be desirable, for example, to facilitate the rendering of images on imaging apparatus (e.g., printers, electronic displays, etc.) that otherwise cannot readily, if at all, handle the type of mixed-resolution image data that defines the image window  452 . Furthermore, such a translation of image data can be used, for example, with those devices and apparatus that are operative only with eight bit-per-layer pixels (as typically configured to define a resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch).  
       FIG. 6  is a block schematic view depicting an exemplary method  500 , in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, the method  500  depicts the translation of a first type of pixel (that is, the data representative thereof) to a plurality of second type translated pixels. The exemplary method  500  typically begins with the provision of imaging data including one, eight bit-per-layer pixel  502 . The pixel  502  defines an image resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch. Also, the pixel  502  is defined by a cyan color layer  504 , a magenta color layer  506 , and a yellow color layer  508 . Thus, the pixel  502  is substantially equivalent to the pixel  30  of  FIG. 1 .  
      As further depicted in  FIG. 6 , each of the color layers  504 - 508  is respectively defined by a total of eight data bits. As further depicted in  FIG. 6 , the cyan color layer  504  is considered to have an exemplary cyan color layer intensity of 82.8%. Similarly, the magenta color layer  506  is considered to define a color intensity of 16.4%, while the yellow color layer  508  is considered to define a value of 56.6% color intensity. When suitably rendered (e.g., inkjet, display screen, etc.), each of the color layers  504 - 508  chromatically combine such that the pixel  502  includes substantially one perceptible color or hue.  
      In one embodiment of the exemplary method  500 , the definition (intensity value) of each color layer  504 - 508  of the pixel  502  is respectively compared to a set of predefined color layer  504 - 508  definition ranges, each of which corresponds to a predefined threshold value. Each successive threshold value is one-eighth greater in value than the prior threshold value. Thus, such a set of threshold values can be defined as zero, one-eighth, two-eighths, three-eighths, etc., up to and including eight-eighths (or unity). Furthermore, each threshold value corresponds to a predetermined number of active or “on” data bits. Table 1 below summarizes the color layer definition, threshold value, and active data bits correspondence, as depicted in  FIG. 6 .  
                       TABLE 1                       COLOR LAYER DEFINITION   THRESHOLD   ACTIVE BITS                    0-12.4× %   0   0       12.5-24.9× %   1/8   1       25.0-37.4× %   2/8   2       37.5-49.9× %   3/8   3       50.0-62.4× %   4/8   4       62.5-74.9× %   5/8   5       75.0-87.4× %   6/8   6       87.5-99.9× %   7/8   7       100%   1   8                  
 
      Therefore, translation of image data by way of the exemplary method  500  as depicted in  FIG. 6  is performed as follows: the definition of the cyan color layer  504  of pixel  502 , 82.8%, is compared with the COLOR LAYER DEFINITION ranges provided Table 1. Therein, it is determined that 82.8% falls with the defined range of 75.0-87.4X%, corresponding to a THRESHOLD of 6/8 and an ACTIVE BITS count of six (6). Applying this same method to color layers  506  and  508  results in corresponding ACTIVE BITS counts of one (1) and four (4), respectively.  
      Next, the active bit counts of six, one and four for the color layers  504 - 508  (respectively) found by way of Table 1 above are used to define like numbers of active data bits within three respective translated (i.e., approximated) color layers. As depicted in  FIG. 6 , a translated cyan color layer  544  is defined including a total of six (6) active (i.e., “one”) data bits  514 . In turn, a translated magenta color layer  546  and a translated yellow color layer  548  are also defined, including one (1) active data bit  516  and four (4) active data bits  518 , respectively. As each of the translated color layers  544 - 548  is respectively defined by eight total data bits  524 - 528  respectively, those data bits  524 - 528  not already defined as active data bits  514 - 518  are defined by inactive or “zero” data bits. The translated color layers  544 - 548  collectively define a total of eight, one bit-per-layer translated pixels  542 .  
      Each of the translated pixels  542  defines an image resolution of 2400-by-1200 dots per inch, wherein the eight translated pixels  542  are mutually arranged to define an overall image region  540 , which in turn defines an image resolution of 600-by-600 dots per inch. It is to be understood that the when the translated color layers  544 - 548  are rendered, or imaged, by way of, for example, an inkjet printer, an electronic display screen, or other suitable apparatus, each of the eight translated pixels  542  represents a single, chromatically combined color or hue. Furthermore, the eight translated pixels  542  of the image region  540  are defined by one, twenty-four bit data word. In this way, the translation method  500 , as depicted in  FIG. 6 , generally results in an eight-fold increase in image resolution relative to the original eight bit-per-layer pixel  502 .  
      The exemplary method  500 , as depicted in  FIG. 6 , can be used to provide a desirable increase in image resolution when translating a pixel  502  that defines, or represents, the edgewise or perimeter portion of a graphical object in a image data file. The exemplary method  500  can also be applied to other types of image data, as desired. In another embodiment of the method  500  (not shown), the threshold values and/or other correspondences (i.e., as provided in Table 1 above) can be substantially redefined as desired or required. Other translation methodologies can also be used within the teachings of the present invention, which respectively result in the translation of one, eight bit-per-layer pixel into, eight, one bit-per-layer pixels of the same (or different) respective image resolutions as the pixels  502  and  542  of  FIG. 6 .  
       FIG. 6A  is a block schematic view, depicting an imaging arrangement  550  in accordance with the method  500  of  FIG. 6 . The imaging arrangement  550  includes an image window  552 . The image window  552  includes a three-by-three, mixed-resolution arrangement, including a total of six high-resolution image regions  558 , and a total of three low-resolution image regions  556 . Therein, each high-resolution image region  558  is defined by a total of eight, one bit-per-layer pixels (not shown in  FIG. 6A , see the pixels  402  of  FIG. 5 ). Also, each low-resolution image region  556  is defined by a single, eight bit-per-layer pixel (not shown in  FIG. 6A , see the pixels  310  of  FIG. 4 ).  
      Next, it is assumed that the exemplary method  500  of  FIG. 6 , substantially as described above, is applied to the pixels (not shown) of the three low-resolution image regions  556  of the image window  552 . As a result, a translated image window  554  is defined. The translated image window  554  includes a total of three image regions  560  in direct correspondence to the three low-resolution image regions  556  of the image window  552 . Also, the translated image window includes the six high-resolution image regions  558 , as originally present in the image window  552 . Each of the image regions  560  of the translated image window  554  includes eight, respectively defined, translated one bit-per-layer pixels that are substantially equal to the translated pixels  542  of  FIG. 6 . To clarify, the image window  554  is defined to include a twelve-by-six arrangement of translated pixels  542 .  
      Thus, both the image window  552 , and the translated image window  554 , can be respectively defined by nine, twenty-four bit data words. That is, equal quantities of data can be used to define each of the image window  552  and the translated image window  554 . However, as a result of the method  500  of  FIG. 6 , the translated image window  554  comprises nine equal-resolution image regions, wherein each region is comprised of eight 2400-by-1200 dots per inch pixels within an area equal in resolution to one 600-by-600 dots per inch pixel. This is compared to the mixed-resolution image regions  556  and  558  of the image window  552 . This sort of image data translation can be desirable, for example, to enable the rendering of images on imaging apparatus (e.g., printers, electronic displays, etc.) that otherwise cannot readily, if at all, handle the kind of mixed-resolution image data that defines the image window  552 . As a further example, some imaging apparatuses can only operate with image data configured to represent one bit-per-layer pixels. The image data translation of the exemplary method  500  of  FIG. 6  (or another suitable embodiment thereof, not shown) can be suitably used with such imaging apparatuses.  
       FIG. 7  is a flowchart  600 , depicting still another exemplary method in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. While the method as depicted by flowchart  600  includes particular method steps and order of execution, it is to be understood that other methods (not shown) can also be used, including other steps and/or other orders of execution, all in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.  
      To begin, it is assumed that an image data file  602  is provided. Such an image data file can include, for example, TIFF image data, bitmap image data, JPEG image data, or any other image data format that is suitable for use with the methods of the present invention. For purposes of example, it is assumed that the image data file  602  includes bitmap-formatted data defining a graphical image, wherein the image data file includes both relatively high and low resolution image data. Thus, the image data file  602  is assumed to define both one bit-per-layer pixels (e.g., pixels  402  of  FIG. 5 ), and eight bit-per-layer pixels (e.g., pixel  502  of  FIG. 6 ) as desired during the creation process of the image.  
      In step  604 , a suitable data decompression technique is selectively applied to the image data file  602 . In this way, a mixed-format image data stream  606  is provided, wherein the image data stream  606  can be selectively routed to either or both of two different processing paths  610  and  650 , as described hereinafter. For purposes of ongoing example, it is assumed that the image data stream  606  is routed to the processing path  610 .  
      In step  612 , the image data stream  606  is examined to identify any one bit-per-layer pixels (e.g., pixels  402  of  FIG. 5 ) defined therein. The identity of such one bit-per-layer pixels can be performed, for example, in accordance with respective indicator bits or “flags” that are logically associated with the particular pixels. Such suitably identified data within the image data stream  606  are translated, as associated arrangements of eight, one bit-per-layer pixels, so as to define a single translated eight bit-per-layer pixel (e.g., the pixel  440  of  FIG. 5 ). Thus, step  612  of  FIG. 7  is substantially directed to performing the method  400  of  FIG. 5 , as described above. Furthermore, any data within the image data stream  606  originally defining an eight bit-per-layer pixel is left unchanged in step  612 . As a result, an eight bit-per-layer pixel data stream  614  is provided by step  612 . Thus, step  612  is generally directed to the translation, or synthesis, of relatively low-resolution image data.  
      In step  616 , the eight bit-per-layer data stream  614  is selectively gathered so as to define respective image windows (not shown in  FIG. 7 ), each including a three-by-three arrangement of eight bit-per-layer pixels, substantially as described above in regard to the image window  454  of  FIG. 5A . As further depicted in  FIG. 7 , the result of step  616  is the issuance of one or more image windows as a data stream  618 .  
      In step  620 , one or more image processing techniques are selectively applied to the image window data stream  618 . As depicted in  FIG. 7 , such techniques are generally referred to as continuous tone (i.e., contone) based image processing techniques. One of skill in the imaging arts is aware of numerous such processing techniques, and further elaboration is not required. In any case, the typically result of step  620  is image data defining a plurality of eight bit-per-layer pixels that are ready for imaging.  
      In step  630 , a multiplexer step combines image data from processing paths  610  and  650  (described hereafter), so as define a single data stream for imaging in the next step  632  of the flowchart  600 . In the interest of ongoing example, it is assumed that the multiplexer of step  630  simply passes the image data from step  620  above to step  632  described hereinafter. In one embodiment, steps  604 - 620  are repeatedly (iteratively) executed such that the pixels of the image data  602  are processed in a sort of scanned or “rasterized” manner thus producing a sequence of three-by-three image windows  618 . In such an embodiment, the multiplexer  630  selects the center pixel (not shown, see the center pixel  460  in  FIG. 5A ) only from each such image window  618  processed in step  620  and passes it along to imaging step  632 . In this way, for example, a pixel (not shown) which is a center pixel (i.e., selected by the multiplexer  630 ) of an image window  618  in a given iteration of the process of the flowchart  600 , is then a peripheral or edgewise pixel (i.e., ignored by the multiplexer  630 ) of an image window  618  in a subsequent iteration of the process of the flowchart  600 . Other pixel (i.e., image data) selection strategies can also be used by the multiplexer  630 .  
      In step  632 , the image data stream from the multiplexer step  630  is rendered (i.e., imaged) by a suitable apparatus such as, for example, an inkjet printer. While step  632 , as depicted in  FIG. 7 , depicts printing an image, it is to be understood that the image data stream from step  630  can also be rendered by way of an electronic display screen, routed and saved to computer-readable storage media, etc.  
      The steps  604  through  632  are assumed to be performed in a generally sequential, continuous stream manner until the entire image data file  602  has been processed and imaged by the printer at step  632 . Once the entire image data file  602  has been so processed, the method of the path  610  is considered complete for a single operation.  
      Next, the typical operation of the process path  650  will be considered. To begin, it is again assumed that an image data file  602  has been provided, and that any suitable or required decompression step  604  has been performed, substantially as described above, resulting in another mixed-format image data stream  606 .  
      In step  652 , the image data stream  606  is examined to identify any eight bit-per-layer pixels (e.g., pixels  502  of  FIG. 6 ) defined therein. Such suitably identified data (e.g., flagged, etc.) within the image data stream  606  are translated so as to define respective, associated image regions including eight, translated one bit-per-layer pixels (e.g., the pixels  542  of  FIG. 6 ). Thus, step  652  of  FIG. 7  is substantially directed to performing the method  500  of  FIG. 6  as described above. Furthermore, any data within the image data stream  606  originally defining a one bit-per-layer pixel is left unchanged (i.e., ignored) in step  652 . As a result, a one bit-per-layer pixel data stream  654  is provided by step  652 . In this way, step  650  is generally directed to the translation, or synthesis, of relatively high-resolution image data.  
      In step  656 , the one bit-per-layer data stream  654  is selectively gathered so as to define respective image windows (not shown in  FIG. 7 ), each including a twelve-by-six arrangement of one bit-per-layer pixels, substantially as described above in regard to the image window  554  of  FIG. 6A . As further depicted in  FIG. 7 , the result of step  656  is the issuance of one or more image windows as a data stream  658 .  
      In step  660 , one or more image processing techniques are selectively applied to the image window data stream  658 . As depicted in  FIG. 7 , such techniques are generally referred to as binary-based image processing techniques. The typical result of step  660  is image data defining a plurality of one bit-per-layer pixels that are ready for imaging or other use.  
      Thereafter, in step  630 , the multiplexer step described above combines image data from processing paths  610  and  650 , if both paths are actively operating, so as to define a single data stream for imaging in the next step  632 . In the example of processing path  650 , it is assumed that the multiplexer of step  630  simply receives and passes through the image data from step  660  above. In one embodiment, the multiplexer  630  selects the centralized eight pixels (not shown, see the centralized image region  558  of  FIG. 6A ) only and passes those along to the imaging step  632 . Other pixel (image data) selection strategies can also be used by the multiplexer  630 .  
      In step  632 , the image data stream from the multiplexer step  630  is rendered (i.e., imaged) by a suitable apparatus substantially as described above. Alternatively, the data stream from step  630  can be rendered by way of an electronic display screen, routed and saved to computer-readable storage media, etc.  
      As the exemplary method of flowchart  600  was described above, separate consideration was given to the processing paths  610  and  650 . It is to be understood that in another operative instance, both of the processing paths  610  and  650  can be performed in a substantially simultaneous manner, such that respective data streams from steps  620  and  660  are selected (e.g., center pixel-by-center pixel, etc.) at multiplexer step  630  for imaging (rendering) in step  632 .  
      Any of the data imaging arrangements and exemplary methods  400 ,  500  and  600 , as respectively described above, can be implemented and/or performed by way of a suitable computer system, dedicated electronic devices, etc. (not shown). Furthermore, the teachings of the present invention can be implemented by way of suitable processor-executable program code provided by way of computer-readable storage media, such as, for example, CD-ROM, non-volatile solid-state memory, magnetic tape or disk, etc. (not shown).  
      In view of the descriptions and teachings respectively provided above, one of skill in the imaging arts can now appreciate the following characteristics, applications and benefits of various embodiments of the present invention:  
      1) Various embodiments of the present invention can be used to construct image files that have 2 or more differing image resolutions defined within them, without redundant specifications (i.e., definitions) for any given pixel and without distorting the regular form of the stored image in memory. This aspect provides for predictable access to any location of the image in memory (or other storage media) and is generally desirable during image creation and processing.  
      2) Differing embodiments of the present invention provide for the processing of image data using one or more known techniques, in conjunction with other inventive methods as presented herein. Thus, known techniques can be used with methods and/or apparatus of the present invention while taking advantage of various benefits thereof.  
      3) Suitable embodiments of the present invention permit the printing (rendering) of pixels while taking advantage of the resolution and/or color depth originally inherent thereto, while also providing a uniform resolution “context” within an image window or region through the use of translated pixels. Generally, this window context is directed to selective or best processing (i.e., translation) of surrounding pixels with respect to the center pixel of a selected window (e.g., with respect to the center region  558  of the image window  554  of  FIG. 6A ). Thus, for example, the multiplexer step  630  (of the flowchart  600  of  FIG. 7 ) can be configured to select only untranslated center pixels from image data streams  618  and/or  658  for imaging or rendering in step  632 , as it may be undesirable under some situations to render (print) translated pixels which define the center of an image region or window.  
      4) While the methods and apparatus of the present invention have been described with respect to image windows or regions of a three-by-three pixel configuration, it is to be understood that other window configurations defined by different X-by-Y dimensions can also be used. For example, an embodiment of the present invention can be defined and used wherein image windows are defined by respective nine-by-nine arrangements of pixels. Other image regions can also be defined and used.  
      5) The methods and apparatus of the present invention were generally described and exemplified above in the context of cyan-magenta-yellow (i.e., CMY) type image data. It is to be understood that suitable embodiment of the present invention can also be used with data defining other image types including, but not limited to, CMYK, RGB, monochrome, etc.  
      While the above methods and apparatus have been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features, it is to be understood, however, that they are not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The methods and apparatus are, therefore, claimed in any of their forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.