import cv2

def enhance_image_for_ai(input_path: str) -> str:
    """Enhances dark areas and contrast using CLAHE without blowing out bright areas."""
    img = cv2.imread(input_path)
    if img is None:
        return input_path

    # Convert to LAB color space to modify luminance channel only
    lab = cv2.cvtColor(img, cv2.COLOR_BGR2LAB)
    l, a, b = cv2.split(lab)

    # Apply CLAHE to Lightness channel
    clahe = cv2.createCLAHE(clipLimit=3.0, tileGridSize=(8, 8))
    cl = clahe.apply(l)

    # Merge channels and convert back to BGR
    limg = cv2.merge((cl, a, b))
    enhanced = cv2.cvtColor(limg, cv2.COLOR_LAB2BGR)

    enhanced_path = input_path.replace(".jpg", "_enhanced.jpg")
    cv2.imwrite(enhanced_path, enhanced)
    return enhanced_path