JP2012164108A - Labeling processing device and labeling processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To speed up labeling processing.SOLUTION: A first processor causes a target pixel A to scan binarized image data P1 in an X-axis direction as a main scanning direction and a Y-axis direction as a sub-scanning direction. Then, when the target pixel A is a pixel having a value "1" of the two values, the first processor executes temporary labeling processing for temporarily giving a temporary label number to the target pixel A. At that time, each time finishing scanning of the target pixel in the main scanning direction by one line, the first processor determines whether all pixels of one line have the other value of the two values. When all pixels of one line are determined to have the other value, a second processor executes main labeling processing for replacing the temporary label number given to each pixel in a connection area composed of connected pixels having the one value to a main label number different for each connection area in parallel with the temporary labeling processing.

Description

  The present invention assigns a temporary label number to a pixel of one of the binary values in the binarized image data and assigns the temporary label to each pixel in the connected region formed by connecting the pixels of the one value. The present invention relates to a labeling processing apparatus and a labeling processing method for converting a label number into a real label number.

  In the image processing, a connected region (pixel aggregate) formed by pixels having the same pixel value is detected from a binary image having an H value (value of 1) and an L value (value of 0), and A labeling process for assigning each label number to a connected area is performed (see Non-Patent Document 1). In the method of labeling the binary image, first, temporary label numbering is performed on each pixel in the connected area. Then, the labeling process is completed by reassigning the number from the temporary label number to the present label number. Hereinafter, this labeling process will be described in detail.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a conventional labeling process, and shows a case where three connected regions having an H value exist among L-value background pixels. As shown in FIG. 10A, in the provisional labeling, three pixels of the upper peripheral pixel B and the left peripheral pixel C with respect to the target pixel A are extracted. If the pixel value of the target pixel A is an L value, the temporary label number is not given as it is. If the pixel of interest A has an H value and the peripheral pixels B and C have an L value, a new temporary label number is assigned to the pixel of interest A. If the target pixel A has an H value and a temporary label number is assigned to one of the peripheral pixels B and C, the assigned temporary label number is assigned to the target pixel A. If the pixel of interest A has an H value and different temporary label numbers are assigned to the peripheral pixels B and C, a small temporary label number is assigned to the pixel of interest A, and the peripheral pixels B and C are in the same region. Remember something. By scanning the pixel of interest A over the entire image and performing the above processing, a temporary label image shown in FIG.

  Next, different temporary label numbers attached to the same connection area are arranged into the same label number, and this labeling is performed. In the actual labeling, the target pixel is extracted from the temporary label image, and the label number is reassigned from the temporary label number to the actual label number. Through the above processing, a real label image as shown in FIG. In this label image, the same label number is assigned to each pixel in the same connected area, indicating a normal state after the labeling process.

Supervised by Nobuyuki Yagi, edited by the Video Media Society, "Digital Image Processing", published by Ohmsha (April 25, 2000)

  However, in the above-described conventional labeling process, the labeling process is performed after the provisional labeling process for the entire image is completed. Therefore, the process takes time, and it is desired to increase the speed of the labeling process.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a labeling processing apparatus and a labeling processing method capable of speeding up the labeling processing.

  In the present invention, in the binarized image data, the pixel of interest is scanned in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction, and the pixel of interest is one of the binary values. A provisional label attaching means for executing provisional labeling processing for temporarily assigning a temporary label number to the target pixel, and scanning of the target pixel in the main scanning direction by the temporary label attachment means every time one line is finished. Determining means for determining whether or not all pixels in one line are the other of the two values; and when the determining means determines that all pixels in one line are the other value, In parallel with the provisional labeling process by the provisional label attaching means, the provisional label number assigned to each pixel in the connected area formed by connecting the pixels having the one value is replaced with a different main label number for each connected area. This label processing And the labeled unit, further comprising a characterized that.

  In the present invention, the pixel of interest is scanned in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction in the binarized image data, and the pixel of interest is one of the binary values. The provisional label attaching step for temporarily assigning a temporary label number to the target pixel, and scanning of the target pixel in the main scanning direction in the temporary label addition step in one line. Each time the process is completed, a determination step for determining whether or not all the pixels in one line are the other of the two values, and in the determination step, all the pixels in one line are determined to be the other value. In parallel with the temporary labeling process in the temporary labeling step, the temporary label number assigned to each pixel in the connected area formed by connecting the pixels of the one value is different for each connected area. Processing with this label to replace with the label number And the labeled step of executing, characterized by comprising a.

  According to the present invention, in the binarized image data, it is determined whether all the pixels in one line are the other of the two values, thereby connecting the pixels having one value. Identifying the outer edge of the region. When it is determined that all the pixels in one line have the other value, a main labeling process is performed in which a main label number is assigned to a connected region to which a temporary label number has already been assigned. This main labeling process is performed in parallel with the temporary labeling process for assigning temporary label numbers to the remaining connected areas in the unscanned area of the image data. As described above, since the main labeling process can be performed without waiting for the provisional labeling process for the entire image to be completed, the labeling process can be performed faster than the conventional method.

It is explanatory drawing which shows schematic structure of the labeling processing apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention, (a) is a figure which shows the whole labeling processing apparatus, (b) is a figure which shows the image process part of a labeling processing apparatus. . It is a figure which shows image data, (a) is a figure which shows the input image data taken in from the camera, (b) is a figure which shows the binarized image data obtained by giving a binarization process to input image data. is there. It is a figure for demonstrating the labeling process of 1st Embodiment of this invention, (a) scans an attention pixel with respect to binarized image data, The figure which performs the process with a temporary label, (b) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing created temporary label image data. (C) is a diagram showing the created connection relation table and the book label conversion table, and (d) is a diagram showing the created book label image data. It is a flowchart which shows the process of CPU of 1st Embodiment of this invention, (a) is a flowchart which shows the process of a 1st processor, (b) is a flowchart which shows the process with a temporary label of a 1st processor, (c) ) Is a flowchart showing processing of the second processor. It is a figure for demonstrating another example of the labeling process of 1st Embodiment of this invention, (a) is the figure which performed the process with provisional label to coordinate y1 = a1, (b) is to coordinate y1 = a2. It is the figure which performed the temporary labeling process and performed this labeling process to the coordinate y1 = a1. (C) is the figure which performed the temporary labeling process to the last, and performed this labeling process to the coordinate y1 = a2. (D) is the figure which performed this labeling process to the last. It is a figure for demonstrating the labeling process of 2nd Embodiment of this invention, (a) scans an attention pixel with respect to binarized image data, The figure which performs the process with a temporary label, (b) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing created temporary label image data. (C) is a diagram showing the created connection relation table and the book label conversion table, and (d) is a diagram showing the created book label image data. It is a flowchart which shows the process of CPU of 2nd Embodiment of this invention, (a) is a flowchart which shows the process of a 1st processor, (b) is a flowchart which shows the process with a temporary label of a 1st processor, (c) ) Is a flowchart showing processing of the second processor. It is a figure for demonstrating the labeling process of 3rd Embodiment of this invention, (a) scans an attention pixel with respect to binarized image data, The figure which performs the process with a temporary label, (b) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing created temporary label image data. (C) is a diagram showing the created connection relation table and the book label conversion table, and (d) is a diagram showing the created book label image data. (E) is a diagram showing peripheral pixels when the main scanning direction of the target pixel is the Y-axis direction. It is a flowchart which shows the process with a temporary label of the 1st processor of 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the conventional labeling process, (a) is a figure which scans the attention pixel with respect to binarized image data, and is performing the process with a temporary label, (b) is the produced temporary label. The figure which shows image data, (c) is a figure which shows the produced this label image data.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a labeling processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1A, the labeling processing device 100 includes a camera 11 and an image processing unit 12 that performs image processing by inputting image data obtained by being captured by the camera 11. The camera 11 includes a lens (not shown) and an image sensor that converts a light image formed by the lens into an image signal and outputs the image signal as image data, and is a printed circuit board that is an imaging target placed on the bottom board 14. 13 is imaged.

  As shown in FIG. 1B, the image processing unit 12 includes a computer system including a CPU 3, a memory 4, a bus 5, and an HDD (not shown). The CPU 3 includes a first processor 6 and a second processor 7 which are two arithmetic processors, and the respective processors 6 and 7 can independently perform memory access and arithmetic processing. That is, since the CPU 3 includes the two processors 6 and 7, parallel processing is possible.

  The memory 4 stores an image storage unit 8 as an image storage unit for storing various image data, a coordinate storage unit 9 as a coordinate storage unit for storing specific coordinate information, a connection relation table, and a label conversion table. And a table storage unit 10. The image storage unit 8, the coordinate storage unit 9, and the table storage unit 10 indicate storage areas allocated in the memory 4. The CPU 3 can access data in the memory 4 through the bus 5.

  The memory 4 stores a program for causing the CPU 3 to execute a labeling process, and the CPU 3 executes the labeling process by executing the program.

  Next, an outline of the operation of the labeling processing apparatus 100 will be described. The first processor 6 causes the camera 11 to perform an imaging operation, executes input processing in which input image data P0 including the printed circuit board 13 as illustrated in FIG. 2A is captured and stored in the image storage unit 8. Then, the first processor 6 extracts the input image data P0 from the image storage unit 8, and sets the input image data P0 as a value of 0 if each pixel value is smaller than a predetermined threshold value, and a value of 1 if the pixel value is larger than FIG. A binarization process for rewriting the binarized image data P1 as shown in b) is executed. As a result, in the image data P1, the pixel corresponding to the extraction target 15 on the printed circuit board 13 has the value “1” (one value) of the two values “0, 1”, and the other pixels Of the two values “0, 1”, the value is “0” (the other value). Note that the pixel corresponding to the extraction object 15 has a value of “0” (one value) of the two values “0, 1”, and the other pixels are “0, 1” of the two values “0, 1”. The input image data may be binarized so as to have a value of “1” (the other value). Here, a case where one value is “1” and the other value is “0” will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a labeling process according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 3A, pixels other than the pixel having one value “1” in the binarized image data P1 are pixels having the other value “0”.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, the first processor 6 moves the pixel A of interest in the binarized image data P1 in the main scanning direction (X-axis direction) and the sub-scanning direction (Y In the axial direction, scanning is performed from the coordinates (0, 0) to the coordinates (m, n) (so-called raster scanning). In the first embodiment, the main scanning direction is the X-axis direction that is the horizontal axis of the image data, and the sub-scanning direction is the Y-axis direction that is the vertical axis of the image data.

  The first processor 6 scans the pixel of interest A in the image data P1, thereby sequentially executing a temporary labeling process for assigning a temporary label number to a pixel having one value “1”, pixel by pixel, Temporary label image data P2 shown in FIG. Further, when the first processor 6 creates this temporary label image data P2, it is shown in FIG. 3 (c) which shows that adjacent pixels assigned different temporary label numbers have the same label number. A connection related table 1 is created. FIG. 3B illustrates a state where the provisional label image data P2 has been created. In addition, the connection relation table 1 shown in FIG. In this connection relation table 1, one (left column) data indicates the assigned temporary label number, and the other (right column) data associated therewith is the same connected area (the same as the temporary label number of the left column data) The temporary label number belonging to the pixel aggregate) is shown.

  Here, when the first processor 6 detects that all pixels in one line (one row) have the other value “0” during the creation of the temporary label image data P2, the sub-scanning direction (Y The coordinate y1 which is coordinate information in the axial direction is overwritten and stored in the coordinate storage unit 9. Note that the initial value of the coordinate y1 is 0, and the value is updated.

  The second processor 7 is a diagram in which, when the coordinate y1 stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 is updated, the temporary label number and the actual label number are associated with each other in parallel with the temporary labeling process of the first processor 6. This label conversion table 2 shown in 3 (c) is created.

  Then, the second processor 7 scans a target pixel (not shown) for provisional labeling in the provisional label image data P2. Then, the second processor 7 refers to the main label conversion table 2 to convert the temporary label number into the main label number, and generates the main label image data P3 shown in FIG. To do. These operations are performed until the coordinate y1 which is the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 becomes n.

  The image data P2 and P3 may be created separately from the image data P1, or information on each pixel of the image data P2 and P3 (temporary label number, main label number) is included in each pixel of the image data P1. May be added.

  The outline of the labeling process performed by the two processors 6 and 7 has been described above. Hereinafter, the operation of the labeling process performed by the processors 6 and 7 will be described in detail. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process of the CPU 3, and FIGS. 4A and 4B are flowcharts showing the process of the first processor 6. FIG. 4C is a flowchart showing the processing of the second processor 7. First, the processing of the first processor 6 will be described.

  In FIG. 4A, first, the first processor 6 executes the above-described imaging process (S1: imaging process). Next, the first processor 6 executes the binarization process described above (S2: binarization process step). In addition, the process of these steps S1, S2 may be performed by the second processor 7, or the first processor 6 and the second processor 7 may share the processes. Further, not only when the CPU 3 performs binarization processing, but also when image data that has been binarized is input from the outside.

  The first processor 6 scans the target pixel A with respect to the image data P1 (FIG. 3A) obtained in this way. Then, when the target pixel A is one value “1”, the first processor 6 executes a temporary label attaching process that temporarily assigns a temporary label number to the target pixel A (S3: With temporary label). Means, temporary labeling step).

  Hereinafter, the temporary label processing operation will be described in detail with reference to FIG. First, the first processor 6 sequentially scans the target pixel A in the coordinates (0, 0), (1, 0),..., (M, 0), (0, 1). During the scanning, the first processor 6 determines whether or not the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S3-1).

  When the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S3-1: Yes), the first processor 6 does not assign the temporary label number and leaves it as it is (S3-2). When the target pixel A is not the other value (that is, one value “1”) (S3-1: No), the first processor 6 is adjacent to the target pixel A and has already been scanned. It is determined whether or not a certain peripheral pixel B or C is the other value “0” (S3-3). In the first embodiment, the determination is made using the two pixels B and C that have already been scanned among the four pixels in the four directions adjacent to the target pixel A.

  When the first processor 6 determines that the peripheral pixels B and C have the other value “0” (S3-3: Yes), the first processor 6 assigns a new temporary label number to the target pixel A (S3-4). ). For example, in FIG. 3B, new temporary label numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” are assigned to the pixels p1 to p3 of the temporary label image data P2 in ascending order. When the first processor 6 determines that at least one of the peripheral pixels B and C is one value “1” (S3-3: No), the temporary label number of the peripheral pixels B and C is It is determined whether or not only one type of temporary label number is assigned to the assigned peripheral pixels (S3-5).

  If the first processor 6 determines that only one type of temporary label number has been assigned (S3-5: Yes), the temporary label assigned to the pixel of interest A or its surrounding pixel B or C A number is assigned (S3-6). For example, in FIG. 3B, the temporary label number “1” is assigned to the pixel p4 of the temporary label image data P2, the temporary label number “2” is assigned to the pixels p5 to p7, and the temporary label number “2” is assigned to the pixels p8 and p9. 3 "is given. Further, the temporary label number “2” is assigned to the pixels p10 and p11.

  When the first processor 6 determines that a plurality of types (that is, different) of temporary label numbers are assigned (S3-5: No), the first processor 6 assigns the smaller temporary label number to the pixel of interest A. . Then, the first processor 6 creates a connection relation table 1 indicating that a plurality of temporary label numbers are included in the same connected area (pixel aggregate), and stores the connection relation table 1 in the table storage unit 10. (S3-7). For example, in FIG. 3B, the temporary label number “1” is assigned to the pixel p12 because the temporary label numbers of the peripheral pixels are “1” and “2”. Next, in the connection relation table 1 shown in FIG. 3C, a correspondence indicating that the temporary label number “2” is the same connection area as the temporary label number “1” is added to the table storage unit 10. Remember. The same applies to the pixels p13 and p14.

  Next, every time the first processor 6 finishes scanning one line in the main scanning direction (X-axis direction) of the pixel of interest A in the image data P1 in step S3, all pixels in one line are out of the binary values. It is determined whether or not the other value is “0” (S4: determination means, determination step). That is, the first processor 6 determines whether or not the pixel of interest A is one row continuous and the other value “0”.

  Next, when the first processor 6 determines that the pixel of interest A has a value of “0” in a row (S4: Yes), the coordinate y1 that is the coordinate information of the row is stored in the coordinate storage unit 9. Overwrite and store (S5: coordinate storage step). That is, the first processor 6 overwrites and stores in the coordinate storage unit 9 the coordinate y1 in the sub-scanning direction in the image data P1 for which all the pixels in one line are determined to have the other value “0”. The initial value of the coordinate y1 is 0, and the coordinate information is updated by overwriting and changing this value.

  When the first processor 6 determines that the target pixel A is not a value of “0” in a row (S4: No), or when the coordinate information in the coordinate storage unit 9 is updated (S5), the image It is determined whether or not the pixel of interest A has been scanned for all the pixels of the data P1 (S6). That is, it is determined whether or not scanning of the pixel of interest A in the image data is completed (temporary labeling process is completed). The first processor 6 ends the process if the scanning of the target pixel A is completed (S6: Yes), and if the scanning of the target pixel A is not completed (S6: No), the process of step S3. , The next pixel is scanned with the target pixel A, and the provisional labeling process is continued.

  Next, the operation of the second processor 7 will be described. First, the second processor 7 determines whether or not the coordinate y1, which is coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9, has been updated (S11). When the second processor 7 determines that there is no update of the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 (S11: No), the second processor 7 enters a standby state to wait until there is an update.

  When it is determined that the second processor 7 has been updated (S11: Yes), that is, in the determination processing in step S4 of the first processor 6, all the pixels in one line have the other value “0”. If determined, the following processing is executed. The following processing in the second processor 7 is executed in parallel with the temporary label attaching processing by the first processor 6.

  First, the second processor 7 refers to the connection relation table 1 and changes the temporary label number assigned to each pixel in the connected area formed by connecting pixels having one value “1” for each connected area. This label conversion table 2 (FIG. 4C) to be replaced with the present label number is created (S12). That is, the second processor 7 refers to the connection relation table 1 and creates the main label conversion table 2 in which the temporary label number and the main label number are associated with each other. This label conversion table 2 is stored in the table storage unit 10. For example, referring to the other (right column) data corresponding to the temporary label number which is one (left column) data in the connection relation table 1 of FIG. New label numbers are assigned to the temporary label numbers in ascending order, and the book label conversion table 2 is created. If the number associated with the temporary label number in the connection relation table 1 is a number larger than “0”, the same label number as the main label number associated with the temporary label number of the number is associated, and this label conversion is performed. Add to Table 2. Specifically, referring to the connection relation table 1, it is associated that the temporary label numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” are the same connected area. Therefore, the temporary label numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” are associated with the main label number “1”, and the main label conversion table 2 is created.

  Next, the second processor 7 scans the temporary label image data P <b> 2 with a pixel of interest (not shown), extracts a pixel assigned with a temporary label number, and refers to the present label conversion table 2 to refer to the temporary label. Conversion is made to the actual label number associated with the number (S13). Specifically, if the pixel of interest is 0, if the temporary label number is assigned, it is reassigned to the main label number based on the main label conversion table 2. Thus, the main label image data P3 is created. That is, the second processor 7 replaces the temporary label number assigned to each pixel in the connected area formed by connecting the pixels having one value “1” with a different main label number for each connected area. Is executed (this labeling means, this labeling step).

  The second processor 7 scans the target pixel in the temporary label image data P2 from the upper left coordinate (0, 0) with the X-axis direction as the main scanning direction and the Y-axis direction as the sub-scanning direction. It is determined whether scanning is completed up to the line (S14). If not completed (S14: No), the second processor 7 continues the process with the label in step S13. If completed (S14: Yes), the second processor 7 determines whether or not the labeling process is completed for the entire image (S15). The second processor 7 ends the processing operation of the second processor 7 if completed (S15: Yes), and proceeds to the determination process in step S11 if not completed (S15: No).

  The labeling processing operation performed by the first processor 6 and the second processor 7 will be described with another example. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining another example of the labeling process. FIG. 5 shows image data in which three connected regions having one value “1” exist in the background of the other value “0”. Although the drawing of the connection relation table and the label conversion table is omitted, actually, the first processor 6 creates the connection relation table and the second processor 7 creates the label conversion table.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5A, the first processor 6 performs provisional labeling processing from the coordinates (0, 0) of the image data. In this case as well, the coordinates at which the scanning of the image data ends are (m, n). Up to the coordinate y1 = a0 in the Y-axis direction, which is the sub-scanning direction, there is no connected area, but the temporary labeling process and the main labeling process are executed.

  Next, since the outer peripheral edge of the first connected region is known at the coordinate y1 = a1 in the Y-axis direction, as shown in FIG. 5B, the second point from the coordinate y1 = a0 + 1 to the position of the coordinate y1 = a1 The processor 7 performs a main labeling process (a process for generating the main label image data). At this time, the first processor 6 performs provisional labeling processing for the next area in parallel. Here, if the coordinate y1 = a1 which is the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 is not updated, the second processor 7 determines that the coordinate processing at the time when the labeling process is completed up to the position of the coordinate y1 = a1. It will be in the standby state which waits for the update of the coordinate y1 memorize | stored in the memory | storage part 9. FIG.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 5B, if the outer peripheral edge of the connection region is confirmed again at the coordinate y1 = a2 in the Y-axis direction, as shown in FIG. 5C, the second processor 7 The actual labeling process (process for generating actual label image data) is performed from the coordinate y1 = a1 + 1 to the coordinate y1 = a2. That is, the creation of the label image data that has been created and interrupted up to the position of the coordinate y1 = a1 is resumed. At this time, the second processor 7 performs provisional labeling processing in the next area in parallel.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 5 (d), the labeling process is completed when the coordinate y1 = n, that is, when the labeling process by the second processor 7 is completed for the entire image.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the binarized image data P1, it is determined whether all the pixels in one row are the other value “0” of the two values. The outer peripheral edge of the connected area formed by connecting the pixels having the value “1” is identified. Then, when it is determined that all the pixels in one row have the other value “0”, a main labeling process is performed in which a main label number is assigned to a connected region to which a temporary label number has already been assigned. The main labeling process is performed in parallel with the temporary labeling process for assigning temporary label numbers to the remaining connected areas in the unscanned area of the image data P1. As described above, since the main labeling process can be performed without waiting for the provisional labeling process for the entire image to be completed, the labeling process can be performed faster than the conventional method.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the operation of the labeling process performed by the labeling apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that the configuration of the labeling processing apparatus is the same as that of the labeling processing apparatus of FIG. 1 in the first embodiment, and in the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for description.

  In the first embodiment, the case where the main scanning direction of the target pixel A is the X-axis direction and the sub-scanning direction is the Y-axis direction has been described. However, the target pixel A depends on the state of the labeling target in the image data. The main scanning direction may be the Y-axis direction and the sub-scanning direction may be the X-axis direction. In the second embodiment, a case where the main scanning direction of the pixel of interest A is the Y-axis direction and the sub-scanning direction is the X-axis direction will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of assigning the label number by the labeling process. In FIG. 6A, the other value “0” pixel in the binarized image data P1 is a pixel other than the one value “1”.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the first processor 6 moves the target pixel A in the binarized image data P1 in the main scanning direction (Y-axis direction) and the sub-scanning direction (X In the axial direction, scanning is performed from coordinates (0, 0) to coordinates (m, n).

  The first processor 6 scans the pixel of interest A in the image data P1, thereby sequentially executing a temporary labeling process for assigning a temporary label number to a pixel having one value “1”, pixel by pixel, Temporary label image data P2 shown in FIG. 6B is created. In addition, when the first processor 6 creates the temporary label image data P2, FIG. 6C shows that adjacent pixels assigned different temporary label numbers have the same label number. A connection related table 17 is created. FIG. 6B illustrates a state where the provisional label image data P2 has been created. In addition, the connection relation table 17 shown in FIG. 6C also shows a state where the creation is completed.

  Here, when the first processor 6 detects that all pixels in one line (one column) have the other value “0” during the creation of the temporary label image data P2, the sub-scanning direction (X The coordinate storage unit 9 overwrites and stores the coordinate x1, which is coordinate information in the axial direction). Note that the initial value of the coordinate x1 is 0, and the value is updated.

  The second processor 7 is a diagram in which, when the coordinate x1 stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 is updated, the temporary label number and the actual label number are associated with each other in parallel with the temporary labeling process of the first processor 6. This label conversion table 18 shown in 6 (c) is created.

  Then, the second processor 7 scans a temporary label target pixel (not shown) in the temporary label image data P2. Then, the second processor 7 refers to the main label conversion table 18, converts the temporary label number into the main label number, and generates the main label image data P3 shown in FIG. To do. These operations are performed until the coordinate x1 which is the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 becomes m.

  The outline of the labeling process performed by the two processors 6 and 7 has been described above. Hereinafter, the operation of the labeling process performed by the processors 6 and 7 will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the CPU 3, and FIGS. 7A and 7B are flowcharts showing the processing operation of the first processor 6. FIG. 7C is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the second processor 7. First, the operation of the first processor 6 will be described.

  In FIG. 7A, first, the first processor 6 executes an imaging process (S21: imaging process). Next, the first processor 6 executes binarization processing (S22: binarization processing step). In addition, the process of these steps S21 and S22 may be performed by the second processor 7, or the first processor 6 and the second processor 7 may share the processes. Further, not only when the CPU 3 performs binarization processing, but also when image data that has been binarized is input from the outside.

  The first processor 6 scans the target pixel A with respect to the image data P1 (FIG. 6A) obtained in this way. Then, when the target pixel A is one value “1”, the first processor 6 executes a temporary label attaching process for temporarily assigning a temporary label number to the target pixel A (S23: With temporary label). Means, temporary labeling step).

  Hereinafter, the temporary labeling processing operation will be specifically described with reference to FIG. First, the first processor 6 sequentially scans the target pixel A in the coordinates (0, 0), (0, 1),..., (0, n), (1, 0). During the scanning, the first processor 6 determines whether or not the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S23-1).

  If the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S23-1: Yes), the first processor 6 does not assign a temporary label number and leaves it as it is (S23-2). When the target pixel A has one value “1” (S23-1: No), the first processor 6 determines that the peripheral pixels B and C that are adjacent to the target pixel A and have already been scanned are the other. It is determined whether or not the value is “0” (S23-3). In the second embodiment, determination is made using two pixels B and C that have already been scanned among the four pixels in four directions adjacent to the target pixel A.

  When the first processor 6 determines that the peripheral pixels B and C are the other value “0” (S23-3: Yes), the first processor 6 assigns a new temporary label number to the target pixel A (S23-3). ). When the first processor 6 determines that at least one of the pixels B and C has one value “1” (S23-3: No), the temporary label number of the peripheral pixels B and C is assigned. It is determined whether or not only one type of temporary label number is assigned to the peripheral pixels (S23-5).

  If the first processor 6 determines that only one type of temporary label number has been assigned (S23-5: Yes), the temporary label assigned to the pixel of interest A or its peripheral pixel B or C A number is assigned (S23-6).

  Further, when the first processor 6 determines that a plurality of types (that is, different) of temporary label numbers are assigned (S23-5: No), the first processor 6 assigns the smaller temporary label number to the target pixel A. . Then, the first processor 6 creates a connection relation table 17 indicating that a plurality of temporary label numbers are included in the same connection area, and stores the connection relation table 17 in the table storage unit 10 (S23-7). .

  Next, every time the first processor 6 finishes scanning one line in the main scanning direction (Y-axis direction) of the target pixel A in the image data P1 in step S23, all the pixels in one line are out of the binary values. It is determined whether or not the other value is “0” (S24: determination means, determination step). That is, the first processor 6 determines whether or not the target pixel A is one column continuous and the other value “0”.

  Next, when the first processor 6 determines that the pixel of interest A has a value of “0” in one column continuously (S24: Yes), the coordinate x1 that is the coordinate information of the column is stored in the coordinate storage unit 9. Overwrite and store (S25: coordinate storage step). That is, the first processor 6 overwrites and stores in the coordinate storage unit 9 the coordinates x1 in the sub-scanning direction in the image data P1 for which all the pixels in one line are determined to have the other value “0”. The initial value of the coordinate x1 is 0, and the coordinate information is updated by overwriting and changing this value.

  When the first processor 6 determines that the pixel of interest A is not a value of “0” in a row (S24: No), or when the coordinate information in the coordinate storage unit 9 is updated (S25), the image It is determined whether or not the pixel of interest A has been scanned for all the pixels of the data P1 (S26). That is, it is determined whether or not scanning of the pixel of interest A in the image data is completed (temporary labeling process is completed). The first processor 6 ends the process if the scanning of the target pixel A is completed (S26: Yes), and if the scanning of the target pixel A is not completed (S26: No), the process of step S23. , The next pixel is scanned with the target pixel A, and the provisional labeling process is continued.

  Next, the operation of the second processor 7 will be described. First, the second processor 7 determines whether or not the coordinate x1, which is the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9, has been updated (S31). When the second processor 7 determines that there is no update of the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 (S31: No), the second processor 7 enters a standby state where it waits until there is an update.

  When the second processor 7 determines that there has been an update (S31: Yes), that is, in the determination process of step S24 of the first processor 6, all the pixels in one line have the other value “0”. If determined, the following processing is executed. The following processing in the second processor 7 is executed in parallel with the temporary label attaching processing by the first processor 6.

  First, the second processor 7 refers to the connection relation table 17, and the temporary label number assigned to each pixel of the connected area formed by connecting pixels having one value “1” is different for each connected area. The actual label conversion table 18 to be replaced with the actual label number is created (S32). That is, the second processor 7 refers to the connection relation table 1 and creates the main label conversion table 18 in which the temporary label number and the main label number are associated with each other. The main label conversion table 18 is stored in the table storage unit 10.

  Next, the second processor 7 scans the temporary label image data P2 with a pixel of interest (not shown) to extract a pixel to which a temporary label number is assigned, and refers to the present label conversion table 18 to refer to the temporary label. Conversion is made to the actual label number associated with the number (S33). Thus, the main label image data P3 is created. That is, the second processor 7 replaces the temporary label number assigned to each pixel in the connected area formed by connecting the pixels having one value “1” with a different main label number for each connected area. Is executed (this labeling means, this labeling step).

  The second processor 7 scans the target pixel in the temporary label image data P2 from the upper left coordinate (0, 0) with the Y-axis direction as the main scanning direction and the X-axis direction as the sub-scanning direction. It is determined whether or not scanning has been completed up to the line (S34). If not completed (S34: No), the second processor 7 continues the process with the label in step S33. If completed (S34: Yes), the second processor 7 determines whether or not the labeling process is completed for the entire image (S35). The second processor 7 terminates the processing operation of the second processor 7 if completed (S35: Yes), and proceeds to the determination process in step S31 if not completed (S35: No).

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, by determining whether or not all the pixels in one column in the binarized image data P1 have the other value “0” of the two values, The outer peripheral edge of the connected area formed by connecting the pixels having the value “1” is identified. Then, when it is determined that all the pixels in one column have the other value “0”, the main labeling process for assigning the main label number to the connected region to which the temporary label number has already been assigned is executed. The main labeling process is performed in parallel with the temporary labeling process for assigning temporary label numbers to the remaining connected areas in the unscanned area of the image data P1. As described above, since the main labeling process can be performed without waiting for the provisional labeling process for the entire image to be completed, the labeling process can be performed faster than the conventional method. In particular, a faster labeling process can be performed on an image having a vertically long connected region and a group of connected regions dispersed in the row direction.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the operation of the labeling process performed by the labeling apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the labeling processing apparatus is the same as the configuration of the labeling processing apparatus of FIG. 1 in the first embodiment, and in the third embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for explanation.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the operation of assigning the label number by the labeling process. In FIG. 8A, the other value “0” pixel in the binarized image data P1 is a pixel other than the one value “1”.

  In the first and second embodiments, as a peripheral pixel adjacent to the target pixel A, a connection region that is connected using two peripheral pixels B and C of the four neighbors is defined, and the diagonal direction with respect to the target pixel Pixels adjacent to are not included in the same connection region. In the third embodiment, pixels B, C, D, and E that are adjacent to the target pixel A and have already been scanned are used as peripheral pixels. That is, the connection area | region which connects using four surrounding pixels B, C, D, and E among the 8 vicinity of the attention pixel A is prescribed | regulated.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, the first processor 6 moves the pixel A of interest in the binarized image data P1 in the main scanning direction (X-axis direction) and the sub-scanning direction (Y In the axial direction, scanning is performed from coordinates (0, 0) to coordinates (m, n).

  The first processor 6 scans the pixel of interest A in the image data P1, thereby sequentially executing a temporary labeling process for assigning a temporary label number to a pixel having one value “1”, pixel by pixel, Temporary label image data P2 shown in FIG. Further, when the first processor 6 creates this temporary label image data P2, it is shown in FIG. 8C that shows that adjacent pixels assigned different temporary label numbers have the same label number. A connection related table 19 is created. FIG. 8B illustrates a state where the provisional label image data P2 has been created. Further, the connection relation table 19 shown in FIG. 8C also shows a state where the creation is completed.

  Here, when the first processor 6 detects that all pixels in one line (one row) have the other value “0” during the creation of the temporary label image data P2, the sub-scanning direction (Y The coordinate information in the axial direction is overwritten and stored in the coordinate storage unit 9. Note that the initial value of the coordinate in the sub-scanning direction is 0, and the value is updated.

  When the coordinates in the sub-scanning direction stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 are updated, the second processor 7 associates the temporary label number with the actual label number in parallel with the temporary label attaching process of the first processor 6. The attached label conversion table 20 shown in FIG. 8C is created.

  Then, the second processor 7 scans a target pixel (not shown) for provisional labeling in the provisional label image data P2. Then, the second processor 7 refers to the main label conversion table 20, converts the temporary label number into the main label number, and generates the main label image data P3 shown in FIG. To do. These operations are performed until the coordinate y1 which is the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit 9 becomes n.

  The same applies when the main scanning direction of the pixel of interest A is the Y-axis direction and the sub-scanning direction is the X-axis direction, and the peripheral pixels B, C, D, and E in that case are shown in FIG. become that way.

  The outline of the labeling process performed by the two processors 6 and 7 has been described above. Hereinafter, the operation of the labeling process performed by the processors 6 and 7 will be described in detail. In the third embodiment, the operations of the processors 6 and 7 are the same except for the operation of the temporary labeling process in step S3 of FIG. 4 and the operation of the temporary labeling process in step S23 of FIG. Only the temporary label processing by the processor 6 will be described.

  Hereinafter, the temporary label processing operation will be described in detail with reference to FIG. First, the first processor 6 determines whether or not the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S43-1).

  When the target pixel A is the other value “0” (S43-1: Yes), the first processor 6 does not assign the temporary label number and leaves it as it is (S43-2). When the target pixel A has one value “1” (S43-1: No), the first processor 6 determines whether the surrounding pixels B, C, D, and E have the other value “0”. Is determined (S43-3).

  When the first processor 6 determines that the peripheral pixels B, C, D, and E are the other value “0” (S43-3: Yes), the first processor 6 assigns a new temporary label number to the target pixel A. (S43-4). When the first processor 6 determines that at least one of the pixels B to E has one value “1” (S43-3: No), the temporary label number of the peripheral pixels B to E is assigned. It is determined whether or not only one type of temporary label number is given to the peripheral pixels that have been assigned (S43-5).

  When the first processor 6 determines that only one type of temporary label number has been assigned (S43-5: Yes), the temporary label assigned to the pixel of interest A and its peripheral pixels B to E A number is assigned (S43-6).

  Further, when the first processor 6 determines that a plurality of types (that is, different) of temporary label numbers are assigned (S43-5: No), the first processor 6 assigns the smaller temporary label number to the target pixel A. . Then, the first processor 6 creates a connection relation table 19 indicating that a plurality of temporary label numbers are included in the same connection area, and stores the connection relation table 19 in the table storage unit 10 (S43-7). .

  As described above, in the third embodiment, although the process with a temporary label is different from the first and second embodiments, the process with a label is performed by the second processor 7 as in the first and second embodiments. Since it is performed in parallel, the same effects as those of the first and second embodiments are obtained.

  In addition, although this invention was demonstrated based on the said 1st-3rd embodiment, this invention is not limited to this. In the said 1st-3rd embodiment, coordinate information is memorize | stored in the coordinate memory | storage part 9 by the process of step S5, S25 in the 1st processor 6, and a coordinate memory | storage part is processed by the process of step S11, S31 in the 2nd processor 7. Whether or not the coordinate information 9 has been updated is determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a signal indicating coordinate information may be output to the second processor 7 in the processing of steps S5 and S25 in the first processor 6. In this case, the second processor 7 may determine whether or not a signal indicating coordinate information is input in steps S11 and S31. And the 2nd processor 7 should just perform this labeling process to the position which coordinate information shows, when the signal which shows coordinate information is input.

  Moreover, in the said 1st-3rd embodiment, although an example was shown as a process with a temporary label, the case where a temporary label number is provided based on another algorithm may be sufficient. Similarly, with the real label, the real label number may be assigned based on another algorithm.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 ... CPU, 4 ... Memory, 6 ... 1st processor (temporary label attaching means, judgment means), 7 ... 2nd processor (this label attaching means), 8 ... Image storage part, 9 ... Coordinate storage part (coordinates) Storage means), 10 ... Table storage unit, 11 ... Camera, 12 ... Image processing unit, 100 ... Labeling processing device

Claims (4)

When the pixel of interest is scanned in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction in the binarized image data, and the pixel of interest is one of the two values, Temporary label attaching means for executing a temporary label attaching process for temporarily assigning a temporary label number to the target pixel;
Determining means for determining whether or not all pixels in one line are the other of the two values each time scanning of the target pixel in the main scanning direction by the temporary labeling means is completed;
A connection formed by connecting the pixels of the one value in parallel with the temporary labeling process by the temporary labeling means when all the pixels of one line are determined to be the other value by the determination means. A labeling processing apparatus comprising: a main labeling unit that executes a main labeling process that replaces a temporary label number assigned to each pixel in a region with a main label number that is different for each connected region. Coordinate storage means for overwriting and storing coordinate information in the sub-scanning direction in the image data in which all pixels in one line are determined to be the other value by the determination means,
The labeling processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main labeling unit executes the main labeling process up to a position indicated by the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit. When the pixel of interest is scanned in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction in the binarized image data, and the pixel of interest is one of the two values, A temporary labeling step for executing a temporary labeling process for temporarily assigning a temporary label number to the pixel of interest;
A determination step of determining whether or not all pixels in one line are the other of the two values each time scanning of the pixel of interest in the main scanning direction is completed in the temporary labeling step;
When it is determined in the determination step that all pixels in one line have the other value, the pixels having the one value are connected in parallel with the temporary labeling process in the temporary labeling step. A labeling processing method, comprising: a main labeling step of executing a main labeling process in which a temporary label number assigned to each pixel of a connection area is replaced with a different main label number for each connection area. A coordinate storage step of overwriting and storing in the coordinate storage means coordinate information in the sub-scanning direction in the image data in which all pixels in one line are determined to be the other value in the determination step;
The labeling processing method according to claim 3, wherein in the main labeling step, the main labeling processing is executed up to a position indicated by the coordinate information stored in the coordinate storage unit.

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