Pattern conversion for interpolation

1. A method of processing a digital image having a predetermined color pattern representing an image with a minimal repeating unit, to make use of algorithms that are suitable for processing another color pattern with a different minimal repeating unit, comprising:

(a) providing a first two-dimensional array of pixels from the image capture device, some of which are color pixels, and some of which are panchromatic pixels, wherein the predetermined color pattern has a minimal repeating unit of:

P

G

P

R

G

P

R

P

P

B

P

G

B

P

G

P

wherein P represents a panchromatic pixel, G represents a green pixel, R represents a red pixel, and B represents a blue pixel;

(b) converting the digital image having the predetermined color pattern into a converted digital image having a different desired color pattern with a different minimal repeating unit than in the predetermined color pattern; and

(c) using a processor having algorithms adapted for use with the desired color pattern for processing the converted digital image to provide a processed color image.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the desired color pattern is a Bayer pattern.

3. A method of processing a digital image having a predetermined color pattern representing an image with a minimal repeating unit, to make use of algorithms that are suitable for processing another color pattern with a different minimal repeating unit, comprising:

(a) providing a first two-dimensional array of pixels from the image capture device, some of which are color pixels, and some of which are panchromatic pixels, wherein the predetermined color pattern has a minimal repeating unit of:

P

Y

P

C

Y

P

C

P

P

M

P

Y

M

P

Y

P

wherein P represents a panchromatic pixel, Y represents a yellow pixel, C represents a cyan pixel, and M represents a magenta pixel;

(b) converting the digital image having the predetermined color pattern into a converted digital image having a different desired color pattern with a different minimal repeating unit than in the predetermined color pattern; and

(c) using a processor having algorithms adapted for use with the desired color pattern for processing the converted digital image to provide a processed color image.

4. The method of claim 3 wherein the desired color pattern is a Bayer pattern.