Image Processing

A scalar function of two independent variables can be visualized as an image. All mathematical operations can be conceived as a modification or processing of the original image. An important class of modifying operators can be realized by special scanning techniques without using a rapid access memory storage device. It was found that the two important operators so far explored may have practical importance. One is contour enhancement which has a "deblurring" effects akin to aperture correction and "crispening" in television practice; the other is contour outlining that produces a line drawing from a picture with continuous tones. The general concepts developed may also permit extension of the method to analog computers for certain classes of partial differential equations. The flexibility and adaptability of the system offer practical application whenever some predetermined operation is required on picture material.