Diffraction as a resolution enhancer: Visual hyperacuity simulation method

摘要

Visual hyperacuity is the capability of the human eye to see beyond the acuity defined by the number and size of its photoreceptors. Optical imaging systems suffer from diffraction since light passes through an aperture and a lens system. Common diffraction-limited devices are designed to limit this effect and capture a sharp image. Nevertheless, the human eye produces a noteworthy diffraction effect which exceeds these limits, projecting a blurred image over the retina, where photoreceptors are located. On this basis, it seems difficult to understand it operating as a diffraction-limited system. Assuming that diffraction could be helpful to achieve visual hyperacuity, we present a method that intend to simulate and explain it: introducing a controlled diffraction, we are able to enhance the image resolution using post-processing techniques as interpolation and inverse filtering. Our approach uses diffraction to improve image resolution when captured with a reduced number of sensors, far from being a limiting factor.