Film particle synthesis using multiple related patterns

Abstract

Film particle synthesis using multiple related patterns is disclosed. Systems, methods, and tools for performing film particle synthesis using related and / or mixed patterns are disclosed. A device may segment an image into a plurality of blocks. The apparatus may generate a set of associated film particle patterns for a block of the plurality of blocks. The device may select, from the set of associated film particle patterns, an associated film particle pattern to be applied to the pixels of the block.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202380038046.X, filed on March 30, 2023, entitled "Film Grain Synthesis Using Multiple Correlated Patterns", the entire content of the parent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of European Provisional Patent Application No. EP22305512.0, filed on April 8, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background art

[0004] Video coding systems can be used to compress digital video signals, for example to reduce the storage and / or transmission bandwidth required for such signals. Video coding systems can include, for example, block - based, wavelet - based, and / or object - based systems. Summary of the invention

[0005] Systems, methods, and tools for performing film grain synthesis using correlated and / or hybrid patterns are disclosed. An apparatus can segment an image into multiple blocks. The apparatus can generate a set of correlated film grain patterns for the blocks among the multiple blocks. The apparatus can select a correlated film grain pattern from the set of correlated film grain patterns to be applied to the pixels of the block.

[0006] Generating the set of correlated film grain patterns can involve using a common random seed to generate each correlated film grain pattern in the set of correlated film grain patterns. Generating the set of correlated film grain patterns can involve applying a low - pass filter to a root noise pattern, where each correlated film grain pattern in the set of correlated film grain patterns is generated using a different cut - off frequency for the low - pass filter. Generating the set of correlated film grain patterns can involve performing an autoregressive process on a root noise pattern, where each correlated film grain pattern in the set of correlated film grain patterns is generated using a different autoregressive coefficient for the autoregressive process. Generating the set of correlated film grain patterns can involve adding a set of grains at random positions from a first film grain pattern to a second film grain pattern.

[0007] The relevant film grain pattern can be selected based on the pixel value associated with the pixel of the block. Selecting the relevant film grain pattern can involve blending multiple relevant film grain patterns from the set of relevant film grain patterns for adjacent selected values. The relevant film grain pattern can be selected based on a target picture sample value, a horizontal local average, or a horizontal low-pass filter. The relevant film grain pattern can be selected based on the target picture sample value. The target picture sample value can be mapped to a pattern index indicating the relevant film grain pattern to be applied to the pixel of the block. The relevant film grain pattern can be of a first size, and the block can be of a second size smaller than the first size.

[0008] The device can determine a first set of attributes associated with a first particle in a first emulsion layer and a second set of attributes associated with a second particle in a second emulsion layer. The device can model the behavior of the first particle and the second particle at different exposure levels. The device can mimic the scanning of the first particle and the second particle at a given resolution. The device can derive a first grain image from the first emulsion layer and a second grain image from the second emulsion layer. Generating the set of relevant film grain patterns can involve iteratively superimposing the first grain image and the second grain image.

[0009] The systems, methods, and means described herein can involve a decoder. In some examples, the systems, methods, and means described herein can involve an encoder. In some examples, the systems, methods, and means described herein can involve a signal (e.g., a signal from an encoder and / or received by a decoder). A computer-readable medium can include instructions for causing one or more processors to perform the methods described herein. A computer program product can include instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the methods described herein. Description of the Drawings

[0010] Figure 1A is a system diagram illustrating an example communication system in which one or more of the disclosed embodiments can be implemented.

[0011] Figure 1B is illustrative of an example wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU) that can be used within the Figure 1A illustrated communication system according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 1C is illustrative of an example radio access network (RAN) and an example core network (CN) that can be used within the Figure 1A illustrated communication system according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 1D is illustrative of an example that can be used within the Figure 1ASystem diagram of another example RAN and another example CN used within the illustrated communication system.

[0014] Figure 2 Illustrates an example video encoder.

[0015] Figure 3 Illustrates an example video decoder.

[0016] Figure 4 Illustrates an example of a system in which various aspects and examples can be implemented.

[0017] Figure 5 Shows an example flowchart of film grain synthesis.

[0018] Figure 6 Shows an example of a file grain pattern for film grain synthesis.

[0019] Figure 7 Shows an example of generating block offsets for film grain synthesis.

[0020] Figure 8 Shows an example of a block sample selection pattern.

[0021] Figure 9 Illustrates an example of pixel-based template selection and associated correlation patterns.

[0022] Figure 10 Shows an example of selecting a pattern for film grain synthesis without sub-blocks. Detailed Description

[0023] A more detailed understanding can be obtained from the following description given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Figure 1A Is a diagram illustrating an example communication system 100 in which one or more of the disclosed embodiments can be implemented. The communication system 100 can be a multi-access system that provides content such as voice, data, video, messages, broadcasts, etc. to multiple wireless users. The communication system 100 can enable multiple wireless users to access such content through the sharing of system resources, including wireless bandwidth. For example, the communication system 100 can employ one or more channel access methods such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA), single carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), zero-tail unique word DFT spread OFDM (ZT UW DTS-s OFDM), unique word OFDM (UW-OFDM), resource block filtered OFDM, filter bank multi-carrier (FBMC), etc.

[0025] As Figure 1AAs shown, the communication system 100 may include wireless transmit / receive units (WTRUs) 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, a radio access network (RAN) 104 / 113, a core network (CN) 106 / 115, a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 108, the Internet 110, and other networks 112. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments contemplate any number of WTRUs, base stations, networks, and / or network elements. Each of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d can be any type of device configured to operate and / or communicate in a wireless environment. By way of example, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d (any of which can be referred to as a “station” and / or “STA”) can be configured to send and / or receive wireless signals and can include user equipment (UE), mobile stations, fixed or mobile subscriber units, subscription-based units, pagers, cellular telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smart phones, laptop computers, netbooks, personal computers, wireless sensors, hotspots or Mi-Fi devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, head-mounted displays (HMDs), vehicles, drones, medical devices and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial devices and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in an industrial and / or automated processing chain environment), consumer electronic devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. Any of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, and 102d can be interchangeably referred to as a UE.

[0026] The communication system 100 may also include base stations 114a and / or base stations 114b. Each of the base stations 114a, 114b can be any type of device configured to wirelessly interface with at least one of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d to facilitate access to one or more communication networks such as the CN 106 / 115, the Internet 110, and / or other networks 112. By way of example, the base stations 114a, 114b can be transceiver base stations (BTSs), Node Bs, evolved Node Bs, home Node Bs, home evolved Node Bs, gNBs, NR Node Bs, site controllers, access points (APs), wireless routers, etc. Although the base stations 114a, 114b are each depicted as a single element, it should be understood that the base stations 114a, 114b can include any number of interconnected base stations and / or network elements.

[0027] Base station 114a may be part of RAN 104 / 113, which may also include other base stations and / or network elements (not shown), such as a base station controller (BSC), a radio network controller (RNC), a relay node, etc. Base station 114a and / or base station 114b may be configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals on one or more carrier frequencies, which may be referred to as cells (not shown). These frequencies may be in licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or a combination of licensed and unlicensed spectrum. A cell may provide coverage of wireless services to a specific geographical area, which may be relatively fixed or may change over time. A cell may be further divided into cell sectors. For example, the cell associated with base station 114a may be divided into three sectors. Thus, in one embodiment, base station 114a may include three transceivers, i.e., one transceiver for each sector of the cell. In an embodiment, base station 114a may employ multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and may utilize multiple transceivers for each sector of the cell. For example, beamforming may be used to transmit and / or receive signals in a desired spatial direction.

[0028] Base stations 114a, 114b may communicate with one or more of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d via air interface 116, which may be any suitable wireless communication link (e.g., radio frequency (RF), microwave, centimeter wave, millimeter wave, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), visible light, etc.). Any suitable radio access technology (RAT) may be used to establish air interface 116.

[0029] More specifically, as noted above, communication system 100 may be a multiple access system and may employ one or more channel access schemes, such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC-FDMA, etc. For example, base station 114a in RAN 104 / 113 and WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement a radio technology such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), which may use Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) to establish air interfaces 115 / 116 / 117. WCDMA may include communication protocols such as High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) and / or Evolved HSPA (HSPA+). HSPA may include High-Speed Downlink (DL) Packet Access (HSDPA) and / or High-Speed UL Packet Access (HSUPA).

[0030] In an embodiment, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement a radio technology such as evolved UMTS terrestrial radio access (E-UTRA), which may use Long Term Evolution (LTE) and / or Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) and / or LTE-A Pro to establish the air interface 116.

[0031] In one embodiment, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement a radio technology such as NR radio access, which may use New Radio (NR) to establish the air interface 116.

[0032] In an embodiment, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement multiple radio access technologies. For example, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement LTE radio access and NR radio access together using, for example, the dual connectivity (DC) principle. Thus, the air interface utilized by the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may be characterized by multiple types of radio access technologies and / or transmissions to / from multiple types of base stations (e.g., eNBs and gNBs).

[0033] In other embodiments, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement radio technologies such as IEEE 802.11 (i.e., Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (i.e., WiMAX), CDMA2000, CDMA2000 1X, CDMA2000 EV-DO, Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 856 (IS-856), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), GSM EDGE (GERAN), etc.

[0034] Figure 1AThe base station 114b therein can be, for example, a wireless router, a home Node B, a home evolved Node B, or an access point, and can utilize any suitable RAT to facilitate wireless connectivity in a local area such as a business premise, a home, a vehicle, a campus, an industrial facility, an air corridor (e.g., for drones), a road, etc. In one embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d can implement a radio technology (such as IEEE 802.11) to establish a wireless local area network (WLAN). In an embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d can implement a radio technology (such as IEEE 802.15) to establish a wireless personal area network (WPAN). In yet another embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d can utilize a cellular-based RAT (e.g., WCDMA, CDMA2000, GSM, LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, NR, etc.) to establish a pico cell or a femto cell. As Figure 1A shown, the base station 114b can have a direct connection to the Internet 110. Thus, the base station 114b may not need to access the Internet 110 via the CN 106 / 115.

[0035] The RAN 104 / 113 can communicate with the CN 106 / 115, which can be any type of network configured to provide voice, data, applications, and / or voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) services to one or more of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d. The data can have different quality of service (QoS) requirements, such as different throughput requirements, latency requirements, error tolerance requirements, reliability requirements, data throughput requirements, mobility requirements, etc. The CN 106 / 115 can provide call control, billing services, location-based services, prepaid calling, Internet connectivity, video distribution, etc., and / or perform advanced security functions, such as user authentication. Although not shown in Figure 1A the figure, it should be understood that the RAN 104 / 113 and / or the CN 106 / 115 can communicate directly or indirectly with other RANs that employ the same RAT or a different RAT as the RAN 104 / 113. For example, in addition to being connected to the RAN 104 / 113 that can utilize NR radio technology, the CN 106 / 115 can also communicate with another RAN (not shown) that employs GSM, UMTS, CDMA 2000, WiMAX, E-UTRA, or WiFi radio technology.

[0036] CN 106 / 115 can also be used as a gateway for WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d to access the PSTN 108, the Internet 110, and / or other networks 112. The PSTN 108 can include a circuit-switched telephone network that provides plain old telephone service (POTS). The Internet 110 can include a global system of interconnected computer networks and devices that use common communication protocols such as Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), and / or Internet Protocol (IP) in the TCP / IP Internet protocol suite. The network 112 can include a wired communication network and / or a wireless communication network owned and / or operated by other service providers. For example, the network 112 can include another CN connected to one or more RANs, and the one or more RANs can employ the same RAT or a different RAT as the RAN 104 / 113.

[0037] Some or all of the WTRUs in the communication system 100, such as WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, can include multi-mode capabilities (e.g., WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d can include multiple transceivers for communicating with different wireless networks over different wireless links). For example, Figure 1A the illustrated WTRU 102c can be configured to communicate with a base station 114a that can employ a cellular-based radio technology and with a base station 114b that can employ IEEE 802 radio technology.

[0038] Figure 1B is a system diagram illustrating an example WTRU 102. As Figure 1B shown, the WTRU 102 can include a processor 118, a transceiver 120, a transmit / receive element 122, a speaker / microphone 124, a keypad 126, a display / touchpad 128, a non-removable memory 130, a removable memory 132, a power supply 134, a Global Positioning System (GPS) chipset 136, and / or other peripheral devices 138, among other things. It should be understood that the WTRU 102 can include any sub-combination of the foregoing elements while remaining consistent with the embodiments.

[0039] The processor 118 can be a general-purpose processor, a dedicated processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) circuit, any other type of integrated circuit (IC), a state machine, etc. The processor 118 can perform signal decoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the WTRU 102 to operate in a wireless environment. The processor 118 can be coupled to a transceiver 120, which can be coupled to a transmit / receive element 122. Although Figure 1B the processor 118 and the transceiver 120 are depicted as separate components, it should be understood that the processor 118 and the transceiver 120 can be integrated together in an electronic package or chip.

[0040] The transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to transmit signals to or receive signals from a base station (e.g., base station 114a) via an air interface 116. For example, in one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be an antenna configured to transmit and / or receive RF signals. In an embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be a transmitter / detector configured to transmit and / or receive, for example, IR, UV, or visible light signals. In yet another embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to transmit and / or receive both RF signals and optical signals. It should be understood that the transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to transmit and / or receive any combination of wireless signals.

[0041] Although the transmit / receive element 122 is depicted as a single element in Figure 1B the WTRU 102 can include any number of transmit / receive elements 122. More specifically, the WTRU 102 can employ MIMO technology. Thus, in one embodiment, the WTRU 102 can include two or more transmit / receive elements 122 (e.g., multiple antennas) for transmitting and receiving wireless signals via the air interface 116.

[0042] The transceiver 120 can be configured to modulate the signals to be transmitted by the transmit / receive element 122 and demodulate the signals received by the transmit / receive element 122. As noted above, the WTRU 102 can have multi-mode capabilities. For example, thus, the transceiver 120 can include multiple transceivers for enabling the WTRU 102 to communicate via multiple RATs (such as NR and IEEE 802.11).

[0043] The processor 118 of the WTRU 102 may be coupled to a speaker / microphone 124, a keypad 126, and / or a display / touchpad 128 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) display unit or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display unit) and may receive user input data therefrom. The processor 118 may also output user data to the speaker / microphone 124, the keypad 126, and / or the display / touchpad 128. In addition, the processor 118 may access information from any type of suitable memory (such as non-removable memory 130 and / or removable memory 132) and store data in any type of suitable memory. The non-removable memory 130 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a hard disk, or any other type of memory storage device. The removable memory 132 may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a secure digital (SD) memory card, etc. In other embodiments, the processor 118 may access information from a memory that is not physically located on the WTRU 102 (such as a server or a home computer (not shown)) and store data in that memory.

[0044] The processor 118 may receive power from a power source 134 and may be configured to distribute and / or control power to other components in the WTRU 102. The power source 134 may be any suitable device for powering the WTRU 102. For example, the power source 134 may include one or more dry cell battery packs (e.g., nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel zinc (NiZn), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), etc.), a solar cell, a fuel cell, etc.

[0045] The processor 118 may also be coupled to a GPS chipset 136, which may be configured to provide location information (e.g., longitude and latitude) regarding the current location of the WTRU 102. In addition to or instead of the information from the GPS chipset 136, the WTRU 102 may receive location information via an air interface 116 from a base station (e.g., base stations 114a, 114b) and / or determine its location based on the timing of signals received from two or more nearby base stations. It should be understood that the WTRU 102 may obtain location information by any suitable location determination method while remaining consistent with the embodiments.

[0046] The processor 118 may also be coupled to other peripheral devices 138, which may include one or more software modules and / or hardware modules that provide additional features, functionality, and / or wired or wireless connectivity. For example, the peripheral devices 138 may include an accelerometer, an electronic compass, a satellite transceiver, a digital camera (for photos and / or videos), a universal serial bus (USB) port, a vibration device, a television transceiver, a hands-free headset, Modules, FM radio units, digital music players, media players, video game player modules, Internet browsers, virtual reality and / or augmented reality (VR / AR) devices, activity trackers, etc. The peripheral device 138 may include one or more sensors, which may be one or more of the following: gyroscopes, accelerometers, Hall effect sensors, magnetometers, orientation sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, time sensors; geographical location sensors; altimeters, light sensors, touch sensors, magnetometers, barometers, gesture sensors, biometric sensors, and / or humidity sensors.

[0047] The WTRU 102 may include a full-duplex radio, for which the transmission and reception of some or all signals (e.g., associated with specific subframes for UL (e.g., for transmission) and downlink (e.g., for reception)) may be concurrent and / or simultaneous. The full-duplex radio may include an interference management unit for reducing and / or substantially eliminating self-interference via signal processing performed by hardware (e.g., chokes) or via a processor (e.g., a separate processor (not shown) or via the processor 118). In an embodiment, the WRTU 102 may include a half-duplex radio, for which the transmission and reception of some or all signals (e.g., associated with specific subframes for UL (e.g., for transmission) or downlink (e.g., for reception)).

[0048] Figure 1C Is a system diagram illustrating the RAN 104 and CN 106 according to an embodiment. As noted above, the RAN 104 may communicate with the WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c via the air interface 116 using E-UTRA radio technology. The RAN 104 may also communicate with the CN 106.

[0049] The RAN 104 may include evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c, but it should be understood that the RAN 104 may include any number of evolved Node Bs while remaining consistent with the embodiment. Each of the evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may include one or more transceivers for communicating with the WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c via the air interface 116. In one embodiment, the evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may implement MIMO technology. Thus, the evolved Node B 160a, for example, may use multiple antennas to transmit wireless signals to and / or receive wireless signals from the WTRU 102a.

[0050] Each of evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may be associated with a specific cell (not shown) and may be configured to handle radio resource management decisions, handover decisions, scheduling of users in UL and / or DL, etc. As Figure 1C shown, evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may communicate with each other via the X2 interface.

[0051] Figure 1C The CN 106 shown may include a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 162, a Serving Gateway (SGW) 164, and a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway (or PGW) 166. Although each of the foregoing elements is depicted as part of the CN 106, it should be understood that any of these elements may be owned and / or operated by an entity other than the CN operator.

[0052] The MME 162 may be connected to each of the evolved Node Bs 162a, 162b, 162c in the RAN 104 via the S1 interface and may act as a control node. For example, the MME 162 may be responsible for authenticating users of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, bearer activation / deactivation, selecting a specific serving gateway during the initial attachment of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, etc. The MME 162 may provide control plane functions for interworking between the RAN 104 and other RANs (not shown) employing other radio technologies such as GSM and / or WCDMA.

[0053] The SGW 164 may be connected to each of the evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c in the RAN 104 via the S1 interface. The SGW 164 may generally route and forward user data packets to / from the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c. The SGW 164 may perform other functions such as anchoring the user plane during handover between evolved Node Bs, triggering paging when DL data is available for the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, managing and storing the context of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, etc.

[0054] The SGW 164 may be connected to the PGW 166, which may provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to a packet switched network such as the Internet 110 to facilitate communication between the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c and IP-enabled devices.

[0055] CN 106 can facilitate communication with other networks. For example, CN 106 can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to a circuit-switched network such as the PSTN 108 to facilitate communication between the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c and traditional landline communication devices. For example, CN 106 can include an IP gateway (e.g., an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) server) that acts as an interface between CN 106 and the PSTN 108 or can communicate with the IP gateway. Additionally, CN 106 can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to other networks 112, which can include other wired and / or wireless networks owned and / or operated by other service providers.

[0056] Although the WTRU is described in Figures 1A to 1D as a wireless terminal, it is conceivable that in some representative embodiments, such a terminal can (e.g., temporarily or permanently) use a wired communication interface with a communication network.

[0057] In a representative embodiment, the other network 112 can be a WLAN.

[0058] A WLAN in infrastructure basic service set (BSS) mode can have an access point (AP) for the BSS and one or more stations (STAs) associated with the AP. The AP can have access or an interface to a distribution system (DS) or another type of wired / wireless network that carries traffic to and / or from the BSS. Traffic originating from outside the BSS and destined for an STA can reach the STA through the AP and can be delivered to the STA. Traffic originating from an STA and destined for a destination outside the BSS can be delivered to the AP to be delivered to the corresponding destination. Traffic between STAs within the BSS can be transmitted through the AP. For example, the source STA can transmit traffic to the AP, and the AP can deliver the traffic to the destination STA. Traffic between STAs within the BSS can be considered and / or referred to as peer-to-peer traffic. Peer-to-peer traffic can be transmitted between the source STA and the destination STA (e.g., directly between them) using direct link setup (DLS). In some representative embodiments, DLS can use 802.11e DLS or 802.11z tunnel DLS (TDLS). A WLAN using independent BSS (IBSS) mode may not have an AP, and the STAs within the IBSS or using the IBSS (e.g., all STAs in the IBSS) can communicate directly with each other. The IBSS communication mode can sometimes be referred to in this document as an "ad hoc" communication mode.

[0059] When operating in an 802.11ac infrastructure mode or a similar mode, the AP may send beacons on a fixed channel, such as the primary channel. The primary channel may be of a fixed width (e.g., 20 MHz bandwidth) or a width dynamically set via signaling. The primary channel may be the operating channel of the BSS and may be used by the STA to establish a connection with the AP. In some representative embodiments, for example, Carrier Sense Multiple Access / Collision Avoidance (CSMA / CA) may be implemented in an 802.11 system. For CSMA / CA, the STA (e.g., each STA) (including the AP) may sense the primary channel. In the case where the primary channel is sensed / detected and / or determined to be busy by a particular STA, the particular STA may back off. Only one STA (e.g., only one station) may transmit at any given time in a given BSS.

[0060] High Throughput (HT) STAs may communicate using a 40 MHz wide channel, e.g., by combining the primary 20 MHz channel with an adjacent or non - adjacent 20 MHz channel to form a 40 MHz wide channel.

[0061] Very High Throughput (VHT) STAs may support channels that are 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, and / or 160 MHz wide. The 40 MHz channel and / or 80 MHz channel may be formed by combining consecutive 20 MHz channels. The 160 MHz channel may be formed by combining eight consecutive 20 MHz channels, or by combining two non - consecutive 80 MHz channels (which may be referred to as an 80 + 80 configuration). For the 80 + 80 configuration, after channel coding, the data may pass through a segment parser that may divide the data into two streams. The Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) processing and time - domain processing may be performed separately on each stream. These streams may be mapped to two 80 MHz channels, and the data may be transmitted by the transmitting STA. At the receiver of the receiving STA, the operations for the 80 + 80 configuration described above may be reversed, and the combined data may be delivered to the Medium Access Control (MAC).

[0062] 802.11af and 802.11ah support operation modes below 1 GHz. Compared to those used in 802.11n and 802.11ac, the channel operation bandwidth and carriers are reduced in 802.11af and 802.11ah. 802.11af supports 5 MHz, 10 MHz, and 20 MHz bandwidths in the TV white space (TVWS) spectrum, and 802.11ah supports 1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, and 16 MHz bandwidths using non-TVWS spectrum. According to a representative embodiment, 802.11ah can support meter type control / machine type communication, such as MTC devices in a macro coverage area. MTC devices may have certain capabilities, such as limited capabilities, including supporting (e.g., only supporting) certain bandwidths and / or limited bandwidths. MTC devices may include a battery with a battery life higher than a threshold (e.g., to maintain a very long battery life).

[0063] A WLAN system that can support multiple channels and channel bandwidths (such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11af, and 802.11ah) includes channels that can be designated as a primary channel. The primary channel may have a bandwidth equal to the maximum common operation bandwidth supported by all STAs in the BSS. The bandwidth of the primary channel may be set and / or restricted by the STA (which supports the minimum bandwidth operation mode) from all STAs operating in the BSS. In an example of 802.11ah, for an STA (e.g., an MTC type device) that supports (e.g., only supports) the 1 MHz mode, the primary channel may be 1 MHz wide, even if the AP and other STAs in the BSS support 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, 16 MHz, and / or other channel bandwidth operation modes. Carrier sensing and / or network allocation vector (NAV) settings may depend on the state of the primary channel. If the primary channel is busy, for example, because an STA (only supporting the 1 MHz operation mode) is sending to the AP, the entire available frequency band may be considered busy even if most of the frequency band remains idle and may be available.

[0064] In the United States, the available frequency band for 802.11ah is 902 MHz to 928 MHz. In Korea, the available frequency band is 917.5 MHz to 923.5 MHz. In Japan, the available frequency band is 916.5 MHz to 927.5 MHz. The total available bandwidth for 802.11ah is 6 MHz to 26 MHz, depending on the country code.

[0065] Figure 1D FIG. is a system diagram illustrating RAN 113 and CN 115 according to an embodiment. As noted above, RAN 113 may employ NR radio technology to communicate with WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c via air interface 116. RAN 113 may also communicate with CN 115.

[0066] RAN 113 may include gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c, but it should be understood that, while consistent with the embodiments, RAN 113 may include any number of gNBs. Each of gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may include one or more transceivers for communicating with WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c via air interface 116. In one embodiment, gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement MIMO technology. For example, gNBs 180a, 108b may utilize beamforming to transmit signals to and / or receive signals from gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c. Thus, gNB 180a, for example, may use multiple antennas to transmit wireless signals to and / or receive wireless signals from WTRU 102a. In an embodiment, gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement carrier aggregation technology. For example, gNB 180a may transmit multiple component carriers to WTRU 102a (not shown). A subset of these component carriers may be on unlicensed spectrum, while the remaining component carriers may be on licensed spectrum. In an embodiment, gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement coordinated multi-point (CoMP) technology. For example, WTRU 102a may receive coordinated transmissions from gNB 180a and gNB 180b (and / or gNB 180c).

[0067] WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may communicate with gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using transmissions associated with a parameter set that is capable of being extended. For example, the OFDM symbol interval and / or the OFDM subcarrier interval may vary for different transmissions, different cells, and / or different portions of the radio transmission spectrum. WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may communicate with gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using subframes or transmission time intervals (TTIs) of various or extendable lengths (e.g., containing different numbers of OFDM symbols and / or having an absolute time length that varies continuously).

[0068] gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can be configured to communicate with WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c in a stand-alone configuration and / or a non-stand-alone configuration. In the stand-alone configuration, WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate with gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c without accessing other RANs (e.g., such as evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c). In the stand-alone configuration, WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can use one or more of gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c as a mobility anchor. In the stand-alone configuration, WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate with gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using signals in an unlicensed band. In the non-stand-alone configuration, WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate / connect with gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c while also communicating / connecting with another RAN (such as evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c). For example, WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement the DC principle to communicate with one or more of gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c and one or more evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c substantially simultaneously. In the non-stand-alone configuration, evolved Node Bs 160a, 160b, 160c can act as the mobility anchor for WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, and gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can provide additional coverage and / or throughput for serving WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c.

[0069] Each of gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can be associated with a specific cell (not shown) and can be configured to handle radio resource management decisions, handover decisions, scheduling of users in UL and / or DL, support for network slicing, dual connectivity, interworking between NR and E-UTRA, routing of user plane data towards user plane functions (UPFs) 184a, 184b, routing of control plane information towards access and mobility management functions (AMFs) 182a, 182b, etc. As Figure 1D shown, gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can communicate with each other via the Xn interface.

[0070] Figure 1DThe illustrated CN 115 may include at least one AMF 182a, 182b, at least one UPF 184a, 184b, at least one session management function (SMF) 183a, 183b, and possibly data networks (DN) 185a, 185b. Although each of the foregoing elements is depicted as part of CN 115, it should be understood that any of these elements may be owned and / or operated by an entity other than the CN operator.

[0071] AMF 182a, 182b may be connected to one or more gNBs among gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c in RAN 113 via the N2 interface and may act as a control node. For example, AMF 182a, 182b may be responsible for authenticating users of WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, support for network slicing (e.g., handling of different PDU sessions with different requirements), selection of a specific SMF 183a, 183b, management of the registration area, termination of NAS signaling, mobility management, etc. AMF 182a, 182b may use network slicing to customize CN support for WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c based on the type of service utilized by WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c. For example, different network slices may be established for different use cases such as services relying on ultra-reliable low-latency (URLLC) access, services relying on enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) access, services for machine type communication (MTC) access, etc. AMF 162 may provide control plane functions for handover between RAN 113 and other RANs (not shown) employing other radio technologies such as LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, and / or non-3GPP access technologies such as WiFi.

[0072] SMF 183a, 183b may be connected to AMF 182a, 182b in CN 115 via the N11 interface. SMF 183a, 183b may also be connected to UPF 184a, 184b in CN 115 via the N4 interface. SMF 183a, 183b may select and control UPF 184a, 184b and configure the traffic routing through UPF 184a, 184b. SMF 183a, 183b may perform other functions such as managing and allocating UE IP addresses, managing PDU sessions, controlling policy enforcement and QoS, providing downlink data notifications, etc. The PDU session type may be IP-based, non-IP-based, Ethernet-based, etc.

[0073] UPF 184a and 184b can be connected to one or more of gNBs 180a, 180b, and 180c in RAN 113 via the N3 interface. The one or more gNBs can provide access to a packet-switched network (such as the Internet 110) to WTRU 102a, 102b, and 102c to facilitate communication between WTRU 102a, 102b, and 102c and IP-enabled devices. UPF 184a and 184b can perform other functions, such as routing and forwarding packets, enforcing user plane policies, supporting multi-homed PDU sessions, handling user plane QoS, buffering downlink packets, providing mobility anchoring, etc.

[0074] CN 115 can facilitate communication with other networks. For example, CN 115 can include an IP gateway (e.g., an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) server) that acts as an interface between CN 115 and the PSTN 108 or can communicate with the IP gateway. In addition, CN 115 can provide access to other networks 112 to WTRU 102a, 102b, and 102c. The other networks can include other wired and / or wireless networks owned and / or operated by other service providers. In one embodiment, WTRU 102a, 102b, and 102c can be connected to DNs 185a and 185b via UPF 184a and 184b through the N3 interface to UPF 184a and 184b and the N6 interface between UPF 184a and 184b and the local data network (DN) 185a and 185b.

[0075] In view of Figures 1A to 1D and Figures 1A to 1D In view of the corresponding descriptions, one or more or all of the functions described herein with reference to one or more of the following can be performed by one or more emulation devices (not shown): WTRU102a-d, base stations 114a-b, evolved Node Bs 160a-c, MME 162, SGW 164, PGW 166, gNBs 180a-c, AMF182a-b, UPF 184a-b, SMF 183a-b, DNs 185a-b, and / or any other devices described herein. The emulation device(s) can be one or more devices configured to mimic one or more or all of the functions described herein. For example, the emulation device(s) can be used to test other devices and / or simulate network and / or WTRU functions.

[0076] A simulation device can be designed to implement one or more tests of other devices in a laboratory environment and / or in an operator network environment. For example, one or more simulation devices can perform one or more functions or all functions while being fully or partially implemented and / or deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network to test other devices within the communication network. One or more simulation devices can perform one or more functions or all functions while being temporarily implemented / deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network. The simulation device can be directly coupled to another device for testing purposes and / or can perform tests using over-the-air wireless communication.

[0077] One or more simulation devices can perform one or more (including all) functions while not being implemented / deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network. For example, the simulation device can be used in a test laboratory and / or in a test scenario in a non-deployed (e.g., test) wired and / or wireless communication network to implement tests of one or more components. One or more simulation devices can be test equipment. Direct RF coupling and / or wireless communication via an RF circuit system (e.g., which can include one or more antennas) can be used by the simulation device to transmit and / or receive data.

[0078] This application describes multiple aspects, including tools, features, examples, models, methods, etc. Many of these aspects are described in a particular way and are typically described in a way that may sound restrictive, at least to illustrate individual features. However, this is for clarity of description and does not limit the application or scope of these aspects. In fact, all different aspects can be combined and interchanged to provide further aspects. Additionally, these aspects can also be combined and interchanged with aspects described in earlier filings.

[0079] The aspects described and contemplated in this application can be implemented in many different forms. The Figures 5 to 9 Some examples are provided, but other examples are also contemplated. Figures 5 to 9 discussion does not limit the breadth of the specific implementation. At least one of these aspects generally relates to video encoding and decoding, and at least one other aspect generally relates to transmitting a generated or encoded bitstream. These aspects and other aspects can be implemented as methods, apparatuses, computer-readable storage media having instructions stored thereon for encoding or decoding video data according to any of the methods, and / or computer-readable storage media having a bitstream generated according to any of the methods stored thereon.

[0080] In this application, the terms "reconstruction" and "decoding" can be used interchangeably, the terms "pixel" and "sample" can be used interchangeably, and the terms "image", "picture", and "frame" can be used interchangeably.

[0081] This document describes various methods, and each method includes one or more steps or actions for implementing the method. Unless the correct operation of the method requires steps or actions in a specific order, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions can be modified or combined. Additionally, terms such as "first", "second", etc. may be used in various examples to modify elements, components, steps, operations, etc., such as "first decoding" and "second decoding". Unless specifically required, the use of such terms does not imply an order for modifying operations. Thus, in this example, the first decoding does not need to be performed before the second decoding, and can occur, for example, before, during, or in an overlapping time period with the second decoding.

[0082] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the various methods and other aspects described in this application can be used to modify modules (e.g., the decoding module) of video encoder 200 and decoder 300. Additionally, the subject matter disclosed herein can be applied to, for example, any type, format, or version of video coding (whether described in a standard or a recommendation), whether pre - existing or future - developed, and extensions of any such standard and recommendation. Unless otherwise indicated or technically precluded, the aspects described in this application can be used alone or in combination.

[0083] In the examples described in this application, various numerical values are used, such as 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 16, 32, 64, etc. These and other specific values are for describing the examples, and the aspects described are not limited to these specific values.

[0084] Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram showing an example video encoder 200. Variations of the example encoder 200 are envisioned, but encoder 200 is described below for clarity without describing all the expected variations.

[0085] Before being encoded, a video sequence can undergo pre - encoding processing (201), for example, applying a color transformation to the input color picture (e.g., conversion from RGB 4:4:4 to YCbCr 4:2:0), or performing remapping of the input picture components to obtain a signal distribution that is more resilient to compression (e.g., using histogram equalization of one of the color components in the color components). Metadata (e.g., which can include film grain parameters determined by the pre - processing described herein) can be associated with the pre - processing and appended to the bitstream.

[0086] In encoder 200, pictures are encoded by the encoder elements as described below. The picture to be encoded is partitioned (202) and processed in units such as, for example, coding units (CUs). For example, each unit is encoded using an intra mode or an inter mode. When a unit is encoded in the intra mode, the unit performs intra prediction (260). Motion estimation (275) and compensation (270) are performed in the inter mode. The encoder determines (205) which of the intra mode or the inter mode is to be used to encode the unit, and indicates the intra / inter decision, for example, by a prediction mode flag. The prediction residual is calculated, for example, by subtracting (210) the predicted block from the original image block.

[0087] Then, the prediction residual is transformed (225) and quantized (230). The quantized transform coefficients, motion vectors, and other syntax elements are entropy-coded (245) to output a bitstream. The encoder may skip the transformation and apply quantization directly to the untransformed residual signal. The encoder may bypass both the transformation and quantization, that is, directly decode the residual without applying the transformation or quantization process.

[0088] The encoder decodes the encoded blocks to provide a reference for further prediction. The quantized transform coefficients are dequantized (240) and inverse-transformed (250) to decode the prediction residual. The decoded prediction residual is combined (255) with the predicted block to reconstruct the image block. An in-loop filter (265) is applied to the reconstructed picture to perform, for example, deblocking / SAO (sample adaptive offset) filtering to reduce encoding artifacts. The filtered image is stored in a reference image buffer (280).

[0089] Figure 3 FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a video decoder. In example decoder 300, the bitstream is decoded by decoder elements as described below. Video decoder 300 generally performs a decoding process that is the reverse of the Figure 2 encoding process described in. Encoder 200 generally also performs video decoding as part of encoding video data.

[0090] Specifically, the input to the decoder includes a video bitstream, which may be generated by the video encoder 200. First, entropy decoding (330) is performed on the bitstream to obtain transform coefficients, motion vectors, and other decoded information. The picture partitioning information indicates how the picture is partitioned. Thus, the decoder can partition (335) the picture according to the decoded picture partitioning information. The transform coefficients are dequantized (340) and inverse-transformed (350) to decode the prediction residuals. The image blocks are reconstructed by combining (355) the decoded prediction residuals and the predicted blocks. The predicted blocks can be obtained from intra prediction (360) or motion-compensated prediction (i.e., inter prediction) (375). An in-loop filter (365) is applied to the reconstructed image. The filtered image is stored at the reference picture buffer (380).

[0091] The decoded picture may also undergo post-decoding processing (385), such as inverse color transformation (e.g., transformation from YCbCr 4:2:0 to RGB 4:4:4) or inverse remapping that performs the inverse process of the remapping performed in the pre-coding processing (201). The post-decoding processing may use metadata derived in the pre-coding processing and signaled in the bitstream. In an example, the decoded image (e.g., after applying the in-loop filter (365) and / or after the post-decoding processing (385), if post-decoding processing is used) may be transmitted to a display device for presentation to a user.

[0092] Figure 4 FIG. is a diagram illustrating an example of a system in which the various aspects and examples described herein may be implemented. The system 400 may be embodied as a device that includes the various components described below and is configured to perform one or more of the aspects described in this document. Examples of such devices include, but are not limited to, various electronic devices such as personal computers, laptop computers, smart phones, tablets, digital multimedia set-top boxes, digital television receivers, personal video recording systems, connected household appliances, and servers. The elements of the system 400 may be embodied singly or in combination in a single integrated circuit (IC), multiple ICs, and / or discrete components. For example, in at least one example, the processing and encoder / decoder elements of the system 400 are distributed across multiple ICs and / or discrete components. In various examples, the system 400 is communicatively coupled to one or more other systems or other electronic devices via, for example, a communication bus or through dedicated input and / or output ports. In various examples, the system 400 is configured to implement one or more of the aspects described in this document.

[0093] System 400 includes at least one processor 410 that is configured to execute instructions loaded therein for implementing various aspects as described, for example, in this document. The processor 410 may include embedded memory, input / output interfaces, and various other circuits known in the art. System 400 includes at least one memory 420 (e.g., volatile memory devices and / or non-volatile memory devices). System 400 includes a storage device 440 that may include non-volatile memory and / or volatile memory, including but not limited to electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), flash memory, disk drives, and / or optical disk drives. As a non-limiting example, the storage device 440 may include internal storage devices, attached storage devices (including detachable and non-detachable storage devices), and / or network-accessible storage devices.

[0094] System 400 includes an encoder / decoder module 430 that is configured to, for example, process data to provide encoded video or decoded video, and the encoder / decoder module 430 may include its own processor and memory. The encoder / decoder module 430 represents a module that may be included in a device to perform encoding and / or decoding functions. As is well known, a device may include one or both of an encoding module and a decoding module. Additionally, the encoder / decoder module 430 may be implemented as a separate element of System 400 or may be incorporated within the processor 410 as a combination of hardware and software known to those skilled in the art.

[0095] The program code to be loaded onto the processor 410 or the encoder / decoder 430 to execute the various aspects described in this document may be stored in the storage device 440 and subsequently loaded onto the memory 420 for execution by the processor 410. According to various examples, one or more of the processor 410, the memory 420, the storage device 440, and the encoder / decoder module 430 may store one or more of various items during the execution of the processes described in this document. Such stored items may include but are not limited to input video, decoded video or partially decoded video, bitstreams, matrices, variables, and intermediate or final results of processing equations, formulas, operations, and operation logic.

[0096] In some examples, the memory internal to the processor 410 and / or the encoder / decoder module 430 is used to store instructions and provide working memory for processing that is needed during encoding or decoding. However, in other examples, memory external to the processing device (e.g., the processing device can be the processor 410 or the encoder / decoder module 430) is used for one or more of these functions. The external memory can be the memory 420 and / or the storage device 440, such as, for example, dynamic volatile memory and / or non-volatile flash memory. In several examples, the external non-volatile flash memory is used to store, for example, the operating system of a television. In at least one example, fast external dynamic volatile memory, such as RAM, is used as the working memory for video encoding and decoding operations.

[0097] Inputs to the elements of the system 400 can be provided through various input devices as indicated in block 445. Such input devices include, but are not limited to: (i) a radio frequency (RF) section that receives, for example, RF signals transmitted over the air by a broadcaster; (ii) component (COMP) input terminals (or a set of COMP input terminals); (iii) universal serial bus (USB) input terminals; and / or (iv) high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) input terminals. Figure 4 Other examples not shown include composite video.

[0098] In various examples, the input device of block 445 has corresponding input processing elements associated therewith as known in the art. For example, the RF section may be associated with elements adapted to: (i) select a desired frequency (also referred to as selecting a signal, or band-limiting a signal band to one band), (ii) down-convert the selected signal, (iii) again band-limit to a narrower band to select a signal band that may be referred to as a channel in some examples, (iv) demodulate the down-converted and band-limited signal, (v) perform error correction, and (vi) de-multiplex to select a desired data packet stream. The RF section of various examples includes one or more elements for performing these functions, such as a frequency selector, signal selector, band limiter, channel selector, filter, down-converter, demodulator, error corrector, and de-multiplexer. The RF section may include a tuner that performs various of these functions, including, for example, down-converting a received signal to a lower frequency (e.g., an intermediate frequency or near-baseband frequency) or to baseband. In one set-top box example, the RF section and its associated input processing elements receive an RF signal transmitted via a wired (e.g., cable) medium and perform frequency selection by filtering, down-converting, and filtering again to a desired frequency band. Various examples re-order the above (and other) elements, remove some of these elements, and / or add other elements that perform similar or different functions. Adding elements may include inserting elements between existing elements, e.g., inserting an amplifier and an analog-to-digital converter. In various examples, the RF section includes an antenna.

[0099] The USB and / or HDMI terminals may include corresponding interface processors for connecting system 400 to other electronic devices across the USB and / or HDMI connections. It should be understood that various aspects of input processing (e.g., Reed-Solomon error correction) may be implemented as needed, e.g., within a separate input processing IC or within processor 410. Similarly, aspects of USB or HDMI interface processing may be implemented as needed within a separate interface IC or within processor 410. The demodulated, error-corrected, and de-multiplexed stream is provided to various processing elements, which include, for example, processor 410 and encoder / decoder 430, which operate in conjunction with memory and storage elements to process the data stream as needed for presentation on an output device.

[0100] The various elements of system 400 may be disposed within an integrated housing. Within the integrated housing, the various elements may be interconnected using a suitable connection arrangement 425 (e.g., internal buses known in the art, including an inter-chip (I2C) bus, wiring, and printed circuit boards) and data may be sent between these elements.

[0101] System 400 includes a communication interface 450 that enables communication with other devices via a communication channel 460. The communication interface 450 can include, but is not limited to, a transceiver configured to send and receive data over the communication channel 460. The communication interface 450 can include, but is not limited to, a modem or a network card, and the communication channel 460 can be implemented, for example, within a wired and / or wireless medium.

[0102] In various examples, a wireless network (such as a Wi-Fi network), for example, IEEE 802.11 (IEEE refers to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), is used to stream or otherwise provide data to the system 400. The Wi-Fi signals of these examples are received via the communication channel 460 and the communication interface 450 suitable for Wi-Fi communication. The communication channel 460 of these examples is typically connected to an access point or a router that provides access to an external network including the Internet to allow streaming applications and other over-the-top communications. Other examples use a set-top box to provide streaming data to the system 400, and the set-top box delivers data via the HDMI connection of the input box 445. Still other examples use the RF connection of the input box 445 to provide streaming data to the system 400. As described above, various examples provide data in a non-streaming manner. Additionally, various examples use wireless networks other than Wi-Fi, such as cellular networks or networks.

[0103] The system 400 can provide output signals to various output devices, including a display 475, speakers 485, and other peripheral devices 495. The display 475 of various examples includes, for example, one or more of a touchscreen display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a curved display, and / or a foldable display. The display 475 can be used in a television, a tablet device, a laptop computer, a cellular phone (mobile phone), or another device. The display 475 can also be integrated with other components (such as in a smart phone) or be standalone (such as an external monitor for a laptop computer). In various examples, the other peripheral devices 495 include one or more of a standalone digital video disc (or digital versatile disc) (DVD, for both terms), a disc player, a stereo system, and / or a lighting system. Various examples use one or more peripheral devices 495 that provide functions based on the output of the system 400. For example, a disc player performs the function of playing the output of the system 400.

[0104] In various examples, control signals are transmitted between system 400 and display 475, speaker 485, or other peripheral device 495 using signaling such as AV.Link, Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), or other communication protocols capable of device-to-device control with or without user intervention. The output devices may be communicatively coupled to system 400 via dedicated connections through respective interfaces 470, 480, and 490. Alternatively, the output devices may be connected to system 400 using communication channel 460 via communication interface 450. Display 475 and speaker 485 may be integrated into a single unit with other components of system 400 in an electronic device such as, for example, a television. In various examples, display interface 470 includes a display driver such as, for example, a timing controller (TCon) chip.

[0105] For example, if the RF portion of input 445 is part of a separate set-top box, display 475 and speaker 485 may alternatively be separate from one or more of the other components. In various examples where display 475 and speaker 485 are external components, the output signals may be provided via dedicated output connections including, for example, an HDMI port, a USB port, or a COMP output.

[0106] These examples may be executed by computer software implemented by processor 410 or by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software. As a non-limiting example, these examples may be implemented by one or more integrated circuits. Memory 420 may be of any type suitable for the technical environment and may be implemented using any appropriate data storage technology, as non-limiting examples, such as optical memory devices, magnetic memory devices, semiconductor-based memory devices, fixed memory, and removable memory. Processor 410 may be of any type suitable for the technical environment and, as non-limiting examples, may encompass one or more of a microprocessor, a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, and a processor based on a multi-core architecture.

[0107] Various embodiments relate to decoding. "Decoding" as used in this application can encompass, for example, all or part of the processing performed on a received coded sequence to produce a final output suitable for display. In various examples, such processes include one or more of the processes typically performed by a decoder, such as entropy decoding, inverse quantization, inverse transform, and differential decoding. In various examples, such processes also or alternatively include processes performed by the decoders of the various embodiments described in this application. For example, a WTRU may segment an image into multiple blocks. The WTRU may generate a set of related film grain patterns for the blocks among the multiple blocks. The WTRU may select a related film grain pattern from the set of related film grain patterns to be applied to the pixels of the block. Generating the set of related film grain patterns may involve using a common random seed to generate each related film grain pattern in the set of related film grain patterns. Generating the set of related film grain patterns may involve applying a low-pass filter to a root noise pattern, where each related film grain pattern in the set of related film grain patterns is generated using a different cut-off frequency for the low-pass filter. Generating the set of related film grain patterns may involve performing an autoregressive process on the root noise pattern, where each related film grain pattern in the set of related film grain patterns is generated using a different autoregressive coefficient for the autoregressive process. Generating the set of related film grain patterns may involve adding a set of grains at random positions from a first film grain pattern to a second film grain pattern.

[0108] As another example, in one example, "decoding" refers only to entropy decoding, in another example, "decoding" refers only to differential decoding, and in another example, "decoding" refers to a combination of entropy decoding and differential decoding. Whether the phrase "decoding process" is intended to specifically refer to a subset of operations or more generally to a broader decoding process will be clear based on the context of the specific description and is considered to be well understood by those skilled in the art.

[0109] The various embodiments relate to encoding. In a manner similar to the discussion above regarding "decoding", "encoding" as used in the present application can encompass, for example, all or part of the processing performed on an input video sequence to produce an encoded bitstream. In various examples, such processes include one or more of the processes typically performed by an encoder, such as partitioning, differential encoding, transformation, quantization, and entropy encoding. In various examples, such processes also or alternatively include processes performed by the encoders of the various embodiments described in the present application. For example, a WTRU may segment an image into a plurality of blocks. The WTRU may generate a set of associated film grain patterns for the blocks in the plurality of blocks. The WTRU may select an associated film grain pattern from the set of associated film grain patterns to be applied to the pixels of the block. Generating the set of associated film grain patterns may involve using a common random seed to generate each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns. Generating the set of associated film grain patterns may involve applying a low-pass filter to a root noise pattern, where each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns is generated using a different cut-off frequency for the low-pass filter. Generating the set of associated film grain patterns may involve performing an autoregressive process on the root noise pattern, where each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns is generated using a different autoregressive coefficient for the autoregressive process. Generating the set of associated film grain patterns may involve adding a set of grains at random positions from a first film grain pattern to a second film grain pattern.

[0110] As a further example, in one example, "encoding" refers only to entropy encoding, in another example, "encoding" refers only to differential encoding, and in another example, "encoding" refers to a combination of differential decoding and entropy encoding. Whether the phrase "encoding process" specifically refers to a subset of operations or more generally to a broader encoding process will be clear based on the context of the specific description and is believed to be well understood by those skilled in the art.

[0111] It should be noted that the grammatical elements used herein (such as encoding syntax regarding intensity intervals, grain parameters, block offsets, scale factors, etc.) are descriptive terms. Thus, they do not exclude the use of other grammatical element names.

[0112] When the drawings are presented as flowcharts, it should be understood that they also provide block diagrams of the corresponding apparatuses. Similarly, when the drawings are presented as block diagrams, it should be understood that they also provide flowcharts of the corresponding methods / processes.

[0113] The specific implementations and aspects described herein can be implemented, for example, in a method or process, an apparatus, a software program, a data stream, or a signal. Even if discussed only in the context of a single form of specific implementation (e.g., only as a method), the specific implementation of the features discussed can be implemented in other forms (e.g., an apparatus or a program). The apparatus can be implemented, for example, in appropriate hardware, software, and firmware. These methods can be implemented, for example, in a processor, which generally refers to a processing device, including, for example, a computer, a microprocessor, an integrated circuit, or a programmable logic device. The processor also includes communication devices, such as, for example, a computer, a mobile phone, a portable / personal digital assistant (“PDA”), and other devices that facilitate information communication between end users.

[0114] References to “an example” or “examples” or “a specific implementation” or “specific implementations” and other variants thereof mean that the particular features, structures, characteristics, etc. described in connection with that example are included in at least one example. Thus, the phrases “in one example” or “in an example” or “in a specific implementation” or “in specific implementations” and any other variations that occur throughout this application do not necessarily all refer to the same example.

[0115] Additionally, this application may be related to “determining” various pieces of information. Determining information can include, for example, one or more of estimating information, calculating information, predicting information, or retrieving information from a memory. Obtaining can include receiving, retrieving, constructing, generating, and / or determining.

[0116] Furthermore, this application may be related to “accessing” various information. Accessing information can include, for example, one or more of receiving information, retrieving information (e.g., from a memory), storing information, moving information, copying information, calculating information, determining information, predicting information, or estimating information.

[0117] Additionally, this application may be related to “receiving” various information. Like “accessing”, receiving is intended to be a broad term. Receiving information can include, for example, one or more of accessing information or retrieving information (e.g., from a memory). Moreover, “receiving” is generally involved in one way or another during operations such as, for example, storing information, processing information, sending information, moving information, copying information, erasing information, calculating information, determining information, predicting information, or estimating information.

[0118] It should be understood that, for example, in the cases of "A / B", "A and / or B", and "at least one of A and B", the use of the following " / ", "and / or", and "at least one" is intended to cover the selection of only the first-listed option (A), or only the second-listed option (B), or the selection of both options (A and B). As a further example, in the cases of "A, B, and / or C" and "at least one of A, B, and C", such phrases are intended to cover the selection of only the first-listed option (A), or only the second-listed option (B), or only the third-listed option (C), or the selection of the first-listed option and the second-listed option (A and B), or the selection of the first-listed option and the third-listed option (A and C), or the selection of the second-listed option and the third-listed option (B and C), or the selection of all three options (A and B and C). As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art and related fields, this can be extended to as many items as are listed.

[0119] Moreover, as used herein, the term "signal" (among other things) refers to indicating something to a corresponding decoder. Encoder signals can include, for example, the number of intensity intervals, the number of model values, particle parameters, particle identifiers, scale factors, and the like. In this way, in an example, the same parameters are used at both the encoder side and the decoder side. Thus, for example, the encoder can send (explicit signaling) a specific parameter to the decoder such that the decoder can use the same specific parameter. Conversely, if the decoder already has a specific parameter and other parameters, signaling can be used without sending (implicit signaling) simply to allow the decoder to know and select the specific parameter. By avoiding sending any actual functions, bit savings are achieved in various examples. It should be understood that signaling can be implemented in various ways. For example, in various examples, one or more syntax elements, flags, etc. are used to signal information to a corresponding decoder. Although the foregoing relates to the verb form of the term "signal", the term "signal" can also be used as a noun herein.

[0120] It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that a particular implementation can produce a variety of signals formatted to carry information such as can be stored or transmitted. The information can include, for example, instructions for performing a method or data produced by one of the described particular implementations. For example, a signal can be formatted to carry the bitstream of the example. Such signals can be formatted as, for example, electromagnetic waves (e.g., using the radio frequency portion of the spectrum) or baseband signals. Formatting can include, for example, encoding a data stream and modulating a carrier with the encoded data stream. The information carried by the signal can be, for example, analog or digital information. As is well known, signals can be transmitted over a variety of different wired or wireless links. A signal can be stored on a processor-readable medium or accessed or received from a processor-readable medium.

[0121] This document describes many examples. The features of the examples can be provided individually or in any combination across various claim categories and types. Additionally, an example can include one or more of the features, devices, or aspects described herein across various claim categories and types individually or in any combination. For example, the features described herein can be implemented using a bitstream or signal of information generated as described herein. This information can allow a decoder to decode the bitstream, encoder, bitstream, and / or decoder according to any of the embodiments. For example, the features described herein can be implemented by creating and / or sending and / or receiving and / or decoding a bitstream or signal. For example, the features described herein can be implemented by a method, process, apparatus, medium storing instructions, medium storing data or signals. For example, the features described herein can be implemented by a TV, set-top box, mobile phone, tablet, or other electronic device that performs decoding. The TV, set-top box, mobile phone, tablet, or other electronic device can display (e.g., using a monitor, screen, or other type of display) the resulting image (e.g., an image reconstructed from residuals of a video bitstream). The TV, set-top box, mobile phone, tablet, or other electronic device can receive a signal including an encoded image and perform decoding.

[0122] The synthesis of film grains can be fused with the target picture. The synthesis of film grains can cause one or more of the following: hiding artifacts present in a picture decoded from a compressed video stream; or creating an appearance similar to the original picture in the presence of film grains (e.g., in cases where the picture has been denoised for better compression efficiency or where film grains have been removed due to the compression itself). For example, film grain synthesis can be associated with post-processing (e.g., or image processing), which can be independent of decoding, encoding, or transcoding.

[0123] Figure 5Shows an example flow chart of film grain synthesis. Film grain synthesis may include one or more of the following (e.g., for one color component): A set of film grain patterns of a given size A (e.g., 64×64) may be generated or retrieved (e.g., from a database scanned from film stock), as illustrated at 502; A noise picture to be generated and fused with a target picture may be divided into blocks of size B (e.g., decoding blocks), where size B may be smaller than size A (e.g., size B may be 16×16), as illustrated at 504; For blocks of size B (e.g., each block of size B), a random position selection of size B may be generated from a set of samples of assumed size A (e.g., pseudo-random offset such that the block of size B taken from the offset within the pattern of size A remains within the boundaries of the pattern), as illustrated at 506; A pattern may be selected for each block, as illustrated at 508; Within a block of size B, samples of multiple patterns from the set of film grain patterns (e.g., one source pattern per 8×8 sub-block, or one source pattern per sample) may be blended, and the same position selection rule (e.g., the same offset) described herein may be applied (e.g., the source pattern may depend on the local average of the juxtaposed picture samples); Or other processes may be followed, e.g., similar scaling (e.g., as illustrated at 510), depending on picture sample values, de-blocking of changing boundaries (e.g., including the block boundaries of size B), etc. The selected pattern may be fused with the target picture (e.g., as illustrated at 512).

[0124] As Figure 5 shown, for example, a noise picture may be constructed from one or more film grain patterns (e.g., using a set of master film patterns, where each pattern may be 64×64) by randomly picking blocks of the patterns. Blocks and sub-blocks may be used interchangeably herein. A picture (e.g., an image) may be segmented into blocks (e.g., 16×16). For a block (e.g., each block), a different random offset within the pattern space may be selected. Within the block, multiple patterns may be used (e.g., for different pixels within the block). For example, for a given block (e.g., as Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown), the random offset within the pattern space may be constant, which may allow the use of aligned (e.g., correlated) patterns. In this case, when switching from one pattern to another within the same block, artifacts may be reduced (e.g., by keeping the offset constant so that all patterns within the block are aligned). For subsequent blocks, the offset may change. As described herein, a smooth transition from one block to another may involve de-blocking.

[0125] Figure 6 Shows an example of a film grain pattern for film grain synthesis. As Figure 6As shown, a set of film grain patterns of a given size A (e.g., 64×64) can be generated or retrieved (e.g., from a database such as a film stock scan).

[0126] Figure 7 An example of generating a block offset for film grain synthesis is shown. As Figure 7 shown, a noise picture can be generated and fused with a target picture. A position selection of a random size B can be generated from a set of samples of an assumed size A.

[0127] Figure 8 An example of a block sample selection pattern is shown. As Figure 8 shown, samples of multiple patterns from a set of film grain patterns can be mixed.

[0128] Multiple patterns can be used based on the exposure-dependent behavior of the film grains. The film can be made of multiple emulsions with different particle sizes (e.g., sensitive to different amounts of light) to cover the full dynamic range of the film. For example, a black and white film can include three (3) layers, and a color film can be made of nine (9) layers (e.g., three (3) layers for each primary color dye). The physical particles may be too small to be visible (e.g., in a scan, a large number of particles may contribute to a single pixel). The properties of the particles may affect the final result and may create different appearances depending on the exposure. Within a picture, this may create different appearances depending on the brightness (e.g., sample value).

[0129] Film grain synthesis techniques can use or not use multiple film grain patterns within the same picture color component (e.g., as described herein). For example, film grain synthesis can use a single pattern for each picture and color component. The pattern and block sizes can be different from the examples described herein. For example, in a 4:2:0 mode, the pattern size can be 64×64 for luminance and 32×32 for chrominance, while in a 4:2:0 mode, the block size can be 32×32 for luminance and 16×16 for chrominance. As described herein, film grain synthesis (e.g., based on film grain synthesis supplementary enhancement information (SEI)) can use multiple patterns within the color components of a given picture. The pattern selection (e.g., and scaling factor) for a given 8×8 sub-block can be based on the 8×8 average of the juxtaposed picture samples of the current color component. This local 8×8 average (e.g., and scaling factor) for pattern selection can be expensive and may use a 7-row buffer.

[0130] The film grain pattern can be selected based on pixels. In other words, different film grain patterns (e.g., different film grain patterns to be applied to a block) can be selected within a picture according to the pixel values (e.g., pixel luminance values or color component intensity values). Figure 9Examples of pixel-based template selection and associated correlation patterns are illustrated. Pixel-based selection can be performed during pattern generation.

[0131] Pixel-based pattern selection (e.g., changing the selected film grain pattern according to pixel values such as pixel luminance values or color component intensity values) can change the patterns of adjacent pixels, which can reduce the spatial coherence (e.g., spatial correlation) of the film grain pattern.

[0132] In an example, the changes on an 8×8 sub-block can be synchronous (e.g., by changing the pattern based on the average of the color component intensities on the 8×8 sub-block), and the transition can be smoothed by deblocking. This may use at least a 7-line buffer to calculate the average of 8 lines, which can be expensive (e.g., from a hardware perspective as using a line buffer may involve using a large amount of memory).

[0133] Pixel-based pattern selection can avoid using a line buffer while maintaining multiple patterns to simulate varying grain properties (such as grain size) according to pixel values such as color component intensity values. This can better simulate real film grains (e.g., to maintain the original appearance or serve an artistic intention). However, pixel-based pattern selection may not maintain spatial correlation (e.g., because the patterns of adjacent pixels may be different).

[0134] Correlated (e.g., aligned) patterns can be generated to represent different grain properties (such as grain size), for example, to maintain spatial correlation in pixel-based pattern selection. In an example, correlated patterns can be generated by smoothing the same root pattern with different smoothing intensities or by using incremental generation (e.g., Monte Carlo simulation). In this case, spatial coherence (e.g., spatial correlation) can be maintained when different correlated patterns are selected for adjacent pixels.

[0135] For color components within the same picture, multiple grain patterns can be allowed without using a line buffer. The patterns can be correlated and / or blended. For example, as Figure 6 shown, the generated and / or retrieved patterns (e.g., a set of film grain patterns) can be correlated and / or blended with each other. Then one or more patterns can be selected from the set of correlated patterns. In an example, as Figure 8 shown, pattern selection can involve blending the patterns of adjacent selection values (e.g., blending multiple correlated patterns from the set of correlated patterns) to create (e.g., smooth) transitions. In an example, two techniques (e.g., correlating / blending patterns and blending patterns) can be used together. As Figure 10 shown, pattern selection can depend on (e.g., only depend on) the current line (e.g., the pattern of each line can be changed without using a line buffer).Figure 8 As shown, the pattern selection can be determined on the first n rows of the sub-block, and the subsequent rows of the sub-block can reuse the same decision.

[0136] If the sub-block-based changes (e.g., all sub-block-based changes) (e.g., the pattern selection and the scaling factor are sample-based) are removed, then the deblocking at the sub-block boundaries may not be used, as described herein.

[0137] Low-pass filtering can be used to generate correlated patterns. Correlated patterns can be generated by low-pass filtering the same high-frequency root noise pattern with different cut-off frequencies. Since different random seeds are used to generate each pattern (e.g., and due to different filling patterns of the discrete cosine transform (DCT) coefficients), the patterns may be uncorrelated. This can be modified using one or more of the following: using the same random seed (e.g., a common random seed) to generate the patterns (e.g., all patterns); generating a complete 64×64 array of random samples (e.g., the same for all patterns); zeroing the coefficients of the frequencies above the horizontal or vertical cut-off frequencies, which characterize the pattern being generated; or applying the two-dimensional inverse discrete cosine transform (iDCT2). In an example, the complete 64×64 array may not be filled, and / or may only be filled for the highest frequency cut-off. A low-pass filtering process (e.g., in addition to iDCT2) can be used to generate correlated patterns. In an example, a smooth decay can be used instead of zeroing the coefficients. In an example, the inverse fast Fourier transform (iFFT) can be used instead of iDCT.

[0138] Other techniques driven by a common underlying random pattern can be used to generate correlated patterns. For example, correlated patterns can be generated from the same random pattern (e.g., a common root noise pattern) through an autoregressive process or other filtering techniques (e.g., low-pass filtering), where each pattern has different coefficients or parameters (e.g., autoregressive coefficients or filter cut-off frequencies). Randomization (e.g., for generating a particulate picture from a particulate pattern) can be associated with a random offset (e.g., as Figure 5 shown). For each block of size B in the picture (e.g., 16×16), the offset can be different. In an example, a random sign inversion can be applied, which can add diversity (e.g., the random offset can keep each block constant).

[0139] Iterative noise generation can be used to generate correlated patterns. If different patterns represent different particle densities, then an iterative process can be used (e.g., by adding N particles at random positions from one pattern to the next, e.g., as in a Monte Carlo simulation). In an example, if a small number of particles are added or removed at random positions from one pattern to the next (e.g., adding a layer with N particles associated with the second pattern on top of the first layer associated with the first pattern), then the transition (e.g., the change) can be smoother.

[0140] Physical capture or simulation can be used to generate relevant patterns. Relevant patterns can be generated by capturing physical phenomena (e.g., photos of the same area of a film at different time intervals during the development process, or photos of the film exposed to different amounts of light). Computer models can be used to determine the particle positions and / or properties in the emulsion layers (e.g., each emulsion layer). The computer model can (e.g., and then can) model the particle behavior at different exposure levels and can mimic the scanning at a given resolution. Relevant patterns can be generated by iteratively overlaying different particle images from one pattern onto the next. These particle images can be derived from individual photos of the emulsion layers that can be stacked to form the film. The photos can be processed to generate the exposure levels (e.g., all the exposure levels used).

[0141] Patterns assigned to adjacent intensities can be blended. Even for unrelated patterns, if the pattern selection is based on spatial smoothness properties (e.g., the target picture sample intensity), a smooth transition between the patterns can be achieved by interpolating between adjacent patterns (e.g., according to the selection property). For example, if P1 is the pattern selected for intensity I1 and P2 is the pattern selected for I2, then for an intensity I between I1 and I2, the interpolated pattern P can be generated as follows:

[0142]

[0143] If the selection values are not smooth enough, the technique may not prevent visible transitions. If the selection changes too frequently, there may be no smooth transition, and providing spatial consistency may not help in creating a smooth transition. The technique can be extended to blend more than two (2) adjacent patterns (e.g., three (3) or four (4) adjacent patterns).

[0144] Relevant patterns can be generated for adjacent intensities and the relevant patterns can be blended. Even for relevant patterns, since the number of patterns may be lower than the possible selection properties (e.g., intensity) (e.g., much lower than the possible selection properties), if the target picture contains a smooth variation of the selection property (e.g., a smooth intensity gradient), the pattern transitions can be visible. In such cases, interpolation between adjacent patterns can be used as described herein.

[0145] The correlation and / or fusion pattern can be selected without using a line buffer. To avoid using a line buffer, the selection can be made without using metrics involving multiple picture lines. The selection can be sample-based, based on horizontal (e.g., only horizontal) local averages (e.g., 3×1, 8×1 averages), or based on a horizontal low-pass filter. For example, the selection can be a direct mapping of the target picture sample values to a pattern index (e.g., a look-up table). The pattern index can indicate the correlation pattern to be applied to a given pixel of a block.

[0146] Figure 10 An example of selecting a pattern for film grain synthesis without sub-blocks is shown.

[0147] The uncorrelated pattern can be selected without a line buffer. For the uncorrelated pattern, spatial consistency can be provided by aligning the selection based on sub-blocks. To avoid using a line buffer, the selection can be determined once for the samples of the first row of a sub-block and reused for the subsequent rows of the sub-block. This may result in a trade-off between a line buffer and a pattern index buffer.

[0148] The uncorrelated pattern can be selected using a reduced number of line buffers. Using a reduced number of line buffers N (e.g., one (1)), the selection value can be derived from at most N+1 first rows of a sub-block (e.g., 8×2 averages), and the selection value can be reused for the subsequent rows of the sub-block. In an example, the sub-block size can be M×(N+1), and the pattern can be allowed to change every N+1 rows (e.g., every N+1 rows). If N is small (e.g., one (1)), this can provide limited spatial consistency.

[0149] Features associated with deblocking (e.g., only deblocking) at the block boundary of size B are provided herein. If the sub-block-based changes are removed (e.g., all sub-block-based changes) (e.g., the pattern selection and the scaling factor are sample-based), then deblocking at the sub-block boundary may not be used (e.g., may no longer be required). In an example, if the block of size B is 16×16 and the sub-block is 8×8, then deblocking (e.g., instead of 8×8) can be performed on the horizontal right / left edges of 16×16 (e.g., only the horizontal right / left edges of 16×16). The vertical pre-deblocking that changes the pattern every 8 lines can be replaced by traditional deblocking (e.g., when several line buffers are affordable) or superposition. In this case, the alignment with the block offset of eight (8) lines can be relaxed. In an example, the pattern can be changed every 16 lines, which can constrain the block offset to be a multiple of 16 lines.

[0150] Although the features and elements have been described above in particular combinations, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that each feature or element can be used alone or in any combination with other features and elements. Additionally, the methods described herein can be implemented in a computer program, software, or firmware incorporated in a computer-readable medium for execution by a computer or processor. Examples of computer-readable media include electronic signals (sent via wired or wireless connections) and computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), registers, cache memory, semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media (such as internal hard disks and removable disks), magneto-optical media, and optical media (such as CD-ROM disks and digital versatile disks (DVDs)). A processor associated with software can be used to implement a radio frequency transceiver for a WTRU, UE, terminal, base station, RNC, or any host computer.

Claims

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a processor configured to: segment an image into a plurality of blocks; generate a set of associated film grain patterns for the blocks in the plurality of blocks; and select an associated film grain pattern to be applied to pixels of the block from the set of associated film grain patterns.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to generate the set of associated film grain patterns comprising: The processor is configured to use a common random seed to generate each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to generate the set of associated film grain patterns including: The processor is configured to apply a low - pass filter to a root noise pattern, wherein each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns is generated using a different cut - off frequency for the low - pass filter.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to generate the set of associated film grain patterns to include: The processor is configured to perform autoregressive processing on a root noise pattern, wherein each associated film grain pattern in the set of associated film grain patterns is generated using a different autoregressive coefficient for the autoregressive processing.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to generate the set of associated film grain patterns to include: The processor is configured to add a set of grains at random positions from a first film grain pattern to a second film grain pattern.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the associated film grain pattern is selected based on pixel values associated with the pixels of the block.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to select the relevant film grain pattern to include: The processor is configured to fuse a plurality of associated film grain patterns from the set of associated film grain patterns for adjacent selection values.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the associated film grain pattern is selected based on a target picture sample value, a horizontal local average, or a horizontal low - pass filter.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the associated film grain pattern is selected based on a target picture sample value, and wherein the target picture sample value is mapped to a pattern index indicating the associated film grain pattern to be applied to the pixels of the block.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine a first set of attributes associated with a first particle in a first emulsion layer and a second set of attributes associated with a second particle in a second emulsion layer; model the behavior of the first particle and the second particle at different exposure levels; imitate the scanning of the first particle and the second particle at a given resolution; and derive a first grain image from the first emulsion layer and a second grain image from the second emulsion layer, wherein the processor being configured to generate the set of associated film grain patterns includes: the processor being configured to iteratively superimpose the first grain image and the second grain image.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the associated film grain pattern is of a first size, and wherein the block is of a second size smaller than the first size.

12. A method, the method comprising: segmenting an image into a plurality of blocks; generating a set of associated film grain patterns for the blocks in the plurality of blocks; and selecting an associated film grain pattern to be applied to pixels of the block from the set of associated film grain patterns.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein generating the set of correlated film grain patterns includes using a common random seed to generate each of the correlated film grain patterns in the set of correlated film grain patterns.

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein generating the set of correlated film grain patterns includes applying a low-pass filter to a root noise pattern, wherein each of the correlated film grain patterns in the set of correlated film grain patterns is generated using a different cut-off frequency for the low-pass filter.

15. The method according to claim 12, wherein generating the set of correlated film grain patterns includes performing an autoregressive process on a root noise pattern, wherein each of the correlated film grain patterns in the set of correlated film grain patterns is generated using a different autoregressive coefficient for the autoregressive process.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein generating the set of correlated film grain patterns includes adding a set of grains at random positions from a first film grain pattern to a second film grain pattern.

17. The method according to claim 12, wherein the correlated film grain patterns are selected based on pixel values associated with the pixels of the block.

18. The method according to claim 12, wherein selecting the correlated film grain patterns includes blending a plurality of correlated film grain patterns from the set of correlated film grain patterns for adjacent selected positions.

19. The method according to claim 12, wherein the correlated film grain patterns are selected based on a target picture sample value, a horizontal local average, or a horizontal low-pass filter.

20. The method according to claim 12, the method further comprising: determining a first set of attributes associated with a first particle in a first emulsion layer and a second set of attributes associated with a second particle in a second emulsion layer; modeling the behavior of the first particle and the second particle at different exposure levels; mimicking the scanning of the first particle and the second particle at a given resolution; and deriving a first grain image from the first emulsion layer and a second grain image from the second emulsion layer, wherein generating the set of correlated film grain patterns includes iteratively superimposing the first grain image and the second grain image.

21. A method, the method comprising: selecting an uncorrelated film grain pattern based on a first row of a sub-block; using the selected uncorrelated film grain pattern for the remaining rows of the sub-block; and transmitting an indication of a pattern index associated with the selected uncorrelated film grain pattern.

Images