360-Degree Image Decoding with Adaptive MPM Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing systems struggle with the massive data generated by 360-degree images for virtual and augmented reality, necessitating improved performance in image encoding and decoding, particularly for 360-degree images.

Innovation Solution

A method for decoding 360-degree images involves generating a predicted image using syntax information, combining it with a residual image, and reconstructing it into the 360-degree format, utilizing projection formats like Equi-Rectangular, CubeMap, OctaHedron, and IcoSahedral, with image expansion and intra-prediction techniques to enhance compression performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If 360-degree images are captured with multiple cameras for virtual reality and augmented reality, then the realism and quality of the media service are improved, but the amount of data generated increases massively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverealism of media serviceVSAvoidamount of data
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the 360-degree image data into multiple projection formats (Equi-Rectangular, CubeMap, OctaHedron, IcoSahedral) and processes each format separately with optimized encoding parameters. This segmentation allows the system to handle the massive data volume by breaking it into manageable chunks while maintaining the realism required for VR/AR applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms 360-degree spherical image data into multiple 2D projection formats, effectively converting a 3D spherical coordinate system into 2D planar representations. This dimensionality change reduces the complexity of processing and storage while preserving the visual realism needed for virtual and augmented reality experiences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional image encoding and decoding methods are used for 360-degree images, then the processing can be performed with existing systems, but the performance is insufficient for handling large data volumes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with existing systemsVSAvoidprocessing performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal encoding and decoding framework that can handle multiple projection formats (Equi-Rectangular, CubeMap, OctaHedron, IcoSahedral) and various image resolutions within a single system. This multi-functional approach maintains compatibility with existing image processing systems while significantly improving processing performance through optimized algorithms tailored for 360-degree imagery

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes encoding parameters such as block size, transformation types, and quantization settings specifically for 360-degree images in different projection formats. By adjusting these parameters according to the specific projection format and content characteristics, the system achieves higher processing efficiency and better compression ratios while maintaining compatibility with standard video coding frameworks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If image data is processed without optimized projection formats, then the processing flow is simpler, but the compression performance is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing flow complexityVSAvoidcompression efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary transformation of 360-degree images into optimized projection formats before the main encoding process. By pre-processing the image data into appropriate projection formats (Equi-Rectangular, CubeMap, OctaHedron, or IcoSahedral) based on content characteristics, the system improves compression efficiency while keeping the main encoding flow relatively simple and manageable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250247626A1Image data encoding/decoding method and apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.07.31 INST OF IMAGE TECH INC
  • US20250247626A1 patent drawing
  • US20250247626A1 patent drawing
  • US20250247626A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for decoding a 360-degree image includes: receiving a bitstream obtained by encoding a 360-degree image; generating a prediction image by making reference to syntax information obtained from the received bitstream; combining the generated prediction image with a residual image obtained by dequantizing and inverse-transforming the bitstream, so as to obtain a decoded image; and reconstructing the decoded image into a 360-degree image according to a projection format. Here, generating the prediction image includes: checking, from the syntax information, prediction mode accuracy for a current block to be decoded; determining whether the checked prediction mode accuracy corresponds to most probable mode (MPM) information obtained from the syntax information; and when the checked prediction mode accuracy does not correspond to the MPM information, reconfiguring the MPM information according to the prediction mode accuracy for the current block.