Image interpolation using wavelet-based contour estimation

Successful image interpolation requires proper enhancement of high frequency content of image pixels around edges. In this paper, we introduce a simple edge model to estimate high resolution edge profiles from lower resolution values. Pixels around edges are viewed as samples taken from one dimensional (1-D) continuous edge profiles according to 1-D smooth edge contours defining the sampling instants. The image is highpass filtered by wavelets and subpixel edge locations are estimated by minimizing the modeling error in the wavelet domain. Interpolation is carried out by applying the model, wherever applicable, together with a baseline interpolator (here, bilinear) in order to make edges look sharper without introducing artifacts. The results are compared to bilinear interpolation, and significant improvement in terms of SNR, edge sharpness and contour smoothness is observed.