Rapid hybrid interpolation methods

We propose rapid hybrid interpolation methods that employ more than one interpolation algorithm, and choose the most appropriate interpolation algorithm that provides high-quality images with a minimum number of operations. Although a complex interpolation algorithm generally outperforms a simple interpolation algorithm, the differences are negligible for most pixels, with major differences occurring around edges. Thus, in the proposed algorithm, we first apply a test to predict which interpolation is most appropriate for a given pixel in terms of complexity and performance. Then, a simple interpolation algorithm is used for pixels for which the simple interpolation algorithm provides acceptable performances, and a complex interpolation algorithm is used for pixels for which the complex interpolation algorithm significantly outperforms the simple interpolation algorithm. Consequently, it is possible to obtain high-quality images without significantly increasing the number of operations. (C) 2004 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.