Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology

ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

Auto Encoder Driven Hybrid Pipelines for Image

Deblurring using NAFNET
Gouri Sankar Nayak1 (Assistant Professor); B. Henry Amal2; SK. S. Haneesha3
M. Shivakumar4; B.Lekhana5; G.V. Chanukya Teja6
Vignan’s Institute of Information Technology

Abstract:- The project introduces an innovative solution The hybrid pipeline conceptually combines the strengths of
to the persistent challenge of image blurring in the realm auto-encoders and NAFNET to create a comprehensive and
of Computer Vision. Leveraging the synergies between adaptable solution to address image blurring challenges.
auto-encoder structures and Non-Linear Activation Free
Networks (NAFNET), the proposed methodology aims to This project aims to provide an advanced and versatile
achieve superior image restoration results by effectively tool for image restoration, contributing to the field of image
addressing diverse types of blur. This approach offers a processing. The successful implementation of the proposed
holistic solution that combines the strengths of methodology has the potential to significantly improve the
traditional methods and state-of-the-art deep learning quality of images affected by blurring, impacting sectors
techniques. Quantitative evaluation using metrics such as photography, medical imaging, and surveillance.
demonstrates the efficacy of the proposed methodology Furthermore, the project offers a valuable learning
in achieving superior deblurring results compared to experience to explore and apply cutting-edge techniques in
existing techniques. By pushing the boundaries alongside the realm of artificial intelligence and image processing. The
of image deblurring capabilities, the project contributes subsequent sections of this report will delve into the
to the advancement of the field and holds promise for methodology for evaluation and validation, the role of auto-
applications across various domains, including encoders, the incorporation of NAFNET, and the technical
photography, medical imaging, and surveillance. details of the hybrid pipeline.

Keywords:- Image Blurring, Auto-Encoder, Image II. LITERATURE REVIEW

Restoration, Quantitative.
Y. Yitzhaki and B. Nadler, 2000 [1] provided a
I. INTRODUCTION comprehensive overview of blind image deconvolution
techniques, addressing both theoretical foundations and
The advent of digital imaging technology has practical applications. It discusses various methods for blind
revolutionized various domains, ranging from photography deconvolution, including maximum likelihood estimation,
to medical diagnostics. However, the inherent challenges of Wiener filtering, and regularization-based approaches. The
capturing clear and sharp images persist, with one authors also explore challenges and limitations in blind
significant obstacle being image blurring. Image blurring deconvolution and propose future research directions.
can arise from diverse sources, such as motion blur, out-of-
focus conditions, or unfavorable environmental factors. Z. Xue, L. Zhang, 2006 [2] presented a robust image
Overcoming these challenges is essential for applications deblurring method based on constrained blind deconvolution.
where image quality directly impacts the interpretability and The authors propose a framework that combines image
utility of visual data. priors, motion estimation, and regularization techniques to
recover sharp images from blurred observations. They
The project, titled "Auto-Encoder Driven Hybrid introduce constraints on image structures and blur kernels to
Pipelines for Image Deblurring Using NAFNET," addresses enhance robustness against noise and outliers. The
the critical issue of image blurring by proposing an effectiveness of the proposed method in handling
innovative approach that integrates auto-encoder structures challenging deblurring scenarios is demonstrated by the
into a hybrid pipeline. Auto-encoders, a class of artificial experimental results.
neural networks, are renowned for their ability to learn
efficient representations of data, making them particularly X. Tao, H. Gao, R. Liao, J. Wang, J. Jia, 2007 [3]
well-suited for image processing tasks. In conjunction with provided a comprehensive review of learning-based
auto-encoders, the project leverages the capabilities of approaches for single image super-resolution, a closely
NAFNET, a specialized neural network architecture related task to image deblurring, was provided. The authors
designed for enhancing image-related applications. survey various machine learning techniques, including
sparse coding, dictionary learning, and convolutional neural
The motivation behind this project stems from the networks, used for enhancing the resolution of images. They
limitations of traditional image deblurring methods, which discuss the advantages and limitations of different learning-
often struggle to effectively handle various types of blur. based super-resolution methods and analyze their

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Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

performance on benchmark datasets. Additionally, the paper X. Guo, H. Li, J. Pang, J. Ren, 2019 [9] proposed a
highlights future research directions and challenges in the novel approach for joint image deblurring and super-
field of single image super-resolution. resolution using adaptive sparse domain selection and
adaptive regularization techniques. The authors formulate
L. Xu, Q. Yan, J. Jia, 2010 [4] presented a novel image the problem as a non-convex optimization task,
deblurring method based on regularization with a incorporating both sparsity-based priors and adaptive
generalized Gaussian prior. The authors introduce a new regularization terms. They develop an efficient optimization
parameterized prior distribution that effectively captures algorithm based on alternating minimization to solve the
image statistics and promotes sparsity in the gradient proposed optimization problem. Experimental results
domain. The experimental results demonstrate the demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in
effectiveness of the proposed method in restoring blurred restoring sharp and high-resolution images from blurry and
images with various types of blur. low-resolution inputs.

J. Xu, Y. Sun, H. Zhang, 2013 [5] introduced a novel Y. Zhou, L. Wang, Y. Tang, 2020 [10] investigated the
image deblurring approach that leverages pairs of blurred use of deep generative models for image deblurring. The
and noisy images for restoration. The authors formulate the authors propose a novel framework that combines deep
deblurring problem as a joint optimization task, considering convolutional autoencoders with generative adversarial
both image sharpness and noise suppression. They propose networks (GANs) to learn image deblurring filters. They
an iterative algorithm that alternates between image formulate the deblurring task as an adversarial learning
deblurring and noise reduction steps, iteratively improving problem, where the generator network aims to produce sharp
the quality of the restored image. Experimental results images from blurry inputs, while the discriminator network
demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in distinguishes between real sharp images and generated ones.
handling real-world blurry and noisy images. The method Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the
alternates between image deblurring and noise reduction proposed approach in removing blur artifacts and restoring
steps, iteratively improving the quality of the restored image. high-quality images.

X. Li, H. Lu, J. Zhang, 2015 [6] provided an overview S. Zhang, Y. Tian, X. Shen, Z. Liu, Y. Huang, Y. Yan,
of sparse representation-based techniques for image 2021 [11] presented a hybrid approach for image deblurring
deblurring. It discusses the principles of sparse that combines motion kernel estimation and deep learning
representation and its application in solving inverse techniques. The authors propose a two-stage framework,
problems such as image deconvolution. The authors review where the first stage estimates the blur motion kernel from
sparse coding algorithms, dictionary learning methods, and the input blurry image using a convolutional neural network
optimization techniques used in image deblurring. They also (CNN) trained for kernel estimation. In the second stage, a
present case studies and performance evaluations of sparse separate CNN is employed to deblur the input image based
representation-based deblurring algorithms on benchmark on the estimated motion kernel. Experimental results
datasets. demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in
handling various blur types and improving image quality.
S. Chambolle, A. Novikov, Y. Pan, T. Pock, 2016 [7]
introduced a variational approach to image deblurring using X. Liu, H. Zhao, J. Zhang, L. Zhang, Y. Xiang, 2022
pairs of blurred and noisy images. The authors formulate the [12] presented an end-to-end deep learning approach for
deblurring problem as a joint optimization task, image deblurring using convolutional neural networks
incorporating total variation regularization and fidelity terms. (CNNs). The authors propose a deep CNN architecture that
They propose an efficient algorithm based on primal-dual directly maps blurry images to their corresponding sharp
optimization techniques to solve the resulting optimization versions without explicit motion kernel estimation. They
problem. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness introduce a large-scale dataset of synthetically blurred
of the proposed approach in restoring sharp images from images for training and evaluate the performance of the
blurry and noisy observations. CNN on benchmark datasets. Experimental results
demonstrate the effectiveness of the end-to-end approach in
K. Zhang, W. Zuo, L. Zhang, 2018 [8] explored the restoring sharp images.
application of deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs)
for image deconvolution. The authors propose a deep CNN III. METHODOLOGY
architecture consisting of multiple convolutional and
deconvolutional layers for learning image deblurring filters. The methodology for the project "Auto-Encoder
They introduce a large-scale dataset of synthetically blurred Driven Hybrid Pipelines for Image Deblurring Using
images for training and evaluate the performance of the NAFNET" can be organized into distinct modules, each
CNN on benchmark datasets. Experimental results contributing to the overall process of image deblurring.
demonstrate the superiority of the proposed deep CNN over
traditional deconvolution methods in handling various blur
types and noise levels.

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Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

increase diversity. Collect a dataset with images that exhibit

various types of blur, such as motion blur, out-of-focus blur,
and other common artifacts.

 Auto-Encoder Architecture

 Objective:
Design an auto-encoder architecture suitable for image
deblurring.

 Process:
Select or design an auto-encoder structure with
encoder and decoder components. Configure the architecture
to efficiently capture and represent features within the
blurred images. Train the auto-encoder using pairs of
blurred and corresponding sharp images to learn the
deblurring mapping.

 Hybrid Pipeline Integration

 Objective:
Integrate auto-encoder structures into a hybrid pipeline,
combining traditional and deep learning components.

 Process:
Design the overall pipeline architecture that
incorporates the auto-encoder as a key component. Integrate
traditional deblurring techniques, such as Wiener filtering or
Richardson-Lucy deconvolution, into the pipeline. Ensure
seamless communication between the auto-encoder and
traditional components for effective information flow.

 NAFNET Integration

 Objective:
Incorporate NAFNET to enhance the capabilities of the
pipeline.

 Process:
Fig 1 Architectural View of Auto Encoder Driven Hybrid
Select or design NAFNET architecture suitable for
Pipelines for Image Deblurring Using NAFNET
image deblurring tasks. Integrate NAFNET into the pipeline,
leveraging its specialized features for handling complex
A. Module Analysis
image data. Train the entire pipeline, including the
The methodology for the project "Auto-Encoder
NAFNET components, jointly for end-to-end learning.
Driven Hybrid Pipelines for Image Deblurring Using
NAFNET" can be organized into distinct modules, each
 Training and Optimization
contributing to the overall process of image deblurring. The
following is a detailed explanation of the methodology,
 Objective:
module by module:
Train the hybrid pipeline on the prepared dataset to
 Data Acquisition and Preprocessing optimize its deblurring performance.

 Process:
 Objective:
Obtain a diverse dataset of blurred images for training Employ optimization algorithms like stochastic
gradient descent (SGD) to iteratively adjust model
and evaluation.
parameters. Utilize appropriate loss functions, such as mean
squared error, to quantify the difference between predicted
 Process:
and ground truth images. Regularize the models to prevent
Collect a dataset with images that exhibit various types
overfitting and ensure generalization to unseen data.
of blur, such as motion blur, out-of-focus blur, and other
common artifacts. Preprocess the dataset by normalizing
pixel values, resizing images, and augmenting data to

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Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

 Documentation and Reporting

 Objective:
Document the entire process and report the findings.

 Process:
Document the details of each module, including dataset
information, model architectures, and training parameters.

Fig 2 Sequential Representation of Auto Encoder Driven

Hybrid Pipelines for Image Deblurring using NAFNET

 Training and Optimization

 Objective:
Train the hybrid pipeline on the prepared dataset to
optimize its deblurring performance.

 Process:
Employ optimization algorithms like stochastic Fig 3 Flowchart Representation of Auto Encoder Driven
gradient descent (SGD) to iteratively adjust model Hybrid Pipelines for Image Deblurring using NAFNET
parameters. Utilize appropriate loss functions, such as mean
squared error, to quantify the difference between predicted B. Web Interface
and ground truth images. Regularize the models to prevent The web interface for the project incorporates essential
overfitting and ensure generalization to unseen data. components such as a registration page, login page, upload
image page, and output page, catering to the diverse needs
 Performance Evaluation of users interacting with the system.

 Objective:  Registration Page

Quantitatively assess the performance of the proposed The registration page serves as the entry point for new
system using appropriate metrics. users to create an account within the system. Typically, it
includes fields for users to input their personal details such
 Process: as name, email address, and password. Additionally, it may
To highlight the strengths of the proposed system, include optional fields for additional information or user
conduct qualitative analysis through visual inspection of preferences. Upon submission of the registration form, the
deblurred images. Evaluate the deblurring performance on a system validates the entered information and creates a new
separate test dataset using metrics such as PSNR and SSI, user account, providing access to the system's functionalities.
comparing the results with existing deblurring techniques.

 Validation and Fine-Tuning

 Objective:
Validate the robustness of the system and fine-tune
parameters for optimal performance.

 Process:
Validate the trained models on additional datasets to
ensure generalization.

Fine-tune hyper-parameters based on validation results

to enhance the system's adaptability. Iteratively refine the
system based on feedback from validation results. Fig 4 Registration Page for the Web Interface

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Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

 Login Page high resolution. The page may include options for users to
The system verifies the provided credentials against download the deblurred images, share them via social media,
those stored in the database. Upon successful authentication, or provide feedback on the quality of the results.
users are redirected to the system's main interface or Additionally, the output page may include visual
dashboard, where they can access various features and comparisons between the original blurred images and the
functionalities. The login page allows registered users to deblurred counterparts to showcase the effectiveness of the
authenticate themselves and gain access to their accounts, system's algorithms.
typically by inputting their registered email address and
password to log in. IV. RESULTS

When the user opens the website, a login page appears

for the user to login. If the user is new to the website, they
need to register and then login to the website. A page
appears to upload the image. When the input image is
uploaded and submitted, the output image renders on the
screen. Here are the images for the sample input and output
of the built model –

Fig 5 Login Page for the Web Interface

 Upload Image Page

The upload image page enables users to upload their
blurred images to initiate the deblurring process. Users can
either drag and drop their images into the designated area or
use the file upload button to select files from their local Fig 7 Sample Input Image
storage. The page may include features such as image
preview, file validation to ensure compatibility with
supported formats, and progress indicators to track the
upload process. Once the image is successfully uploaded,
users can proceed to submit the image for processing.

Fig 8 Sample Output Image

V. CONCLUSION

The "Auto-Encoder Driven Hybrid Pipelines for Image

Fig 6 Upload Image Page for the Web Interface Deblurring Using NAFNET" project represents a significant
step forward in addressing the challenges associated with
 Output Page
image deblurring. Through the integration of auto-encoder
The output page displays the deblurred images
models, traditional deblurring techniques, and the novel
generated by the system in response to user requests. Upon NAFNET architecture, the project aims to deliver a robust
completion of the deblurring process, users are redirected to solution for enhancing the clarity and quality of images
the output page, where they can view the restored images in affected by blurring artifacts.

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Volume 9, Issue 4, April – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR932

The project's objectives were successfully met, with [5]. Ronneberger, O., Fischer, P., & Brox, T. (2015). U-
the implementation of a versatile hybrid pipeline capable of Net: Convolutional Networks for Biomedical Image
leveraging the strengths of both conventional and deep Segmentation. In International Conference on
learning-based approaches. The auto-encoder demonstrated Medical Image Computing and Computer-Assisted
its effectiveness in learning intricate features from image Intervention (MICCAI), 234-241.
data, while NAFNET introduced a novel perspective for [6]. Goodfellow, I., Bengio, Y., Courville, A., & Bengio,
enhancing deblurring performance. Y. (2016). Deep Learning. MIT Press.
[7]. Radford, A., Metz, L., & Chintala, S. (2016).
The evaluation of the system's performance using key Unsupervised Representation Learning with Deep
metrics such as PSNR, SSI, and computational time Convolutional Generative Adversarial Networks.
indicated promising results. The system showcased a arXiv preprint arXiv:1511.06434.
notable improvement in image quality, with high PSNR [8]. Johnson, J., Alahi, A., & Fei-Fei, L. (2016).
values and favorable SSI scores, indicating both quantitative Perceptual Losses for Real-Time Style Transfer and
and perceptual enhancements. Super-Resolution. In European Conference on
Computer Vision (ECCV), 694-711.
Collaboration among team members and stakeholders [9]. Bishop, C. M. (2006). Pattern Recognition and
played a pivotal role in shaping the project's trajectory and Machine Learning. Springer. Prince, S. J. (2012).
ensuring that the final solution aligns with the expectations Computer Vision: Models, Learning, and Inference.
of end-users. The iterative development process, guided by Cambridge University Press.
agile methodologies, allowed for continuous refinement and [10]. Forsyth, D. A., & Ponce, J. (2012). Computer Vision:
adaptation to evolving requirements. A Modern Approach. Pearson.
[11]. Bishop, T. E., & Favaro, P. (2018). Light Field Deep
As the project concludes, it opens avenues for future Prior for Light Field Reconstruction. In IEEE
research and development. Potential enhancements include Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern
exploring advanced neural network architectures, Recognition (CVPR), 2404-2413.
incorporating transfer learning techniques, and addressing [12]. Hradiš, M., Kotera, J., & Zemčík, P. (2015).
real-time processing constraints. The deployment of the Convolutional Neural Networks for Direct Text
system as a service, integration with cloud platforms, and Deblurring. In Proceedings of the European
further user interaction features represent additional areas Conference on Computer Vision (ECCV), 471-487.
for expansion and refinement.

In conclusion, the "Auto-Encoder Driven Hybrid

Pipelines for Image Deblurring Using NAFNET" project has
laid a foundation for advancing the field of image
processing. By combining the strengths of auto-encoders,
traditional deblurring methods, and the innovative NAFNET
architecture, the project contributes to the pursuit of clearer
and more visually appealing images. The success of this
endeavor underscores the potential for continued exploration
and improvement in the realm of image deblurring
technologies.

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