3D Video Format Detection via Signal Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D video systems require manual user selection for 3D or 2D playback modes due to the lack of signaling in 2D signal formats, making transitions between 3D and 2D formats inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

A video device and method that analyze video signals to determine a 3D status signal by calculating format scores for possible 3D formats, automatically setting the 3D status based on assessed scores, and generating 3D subframes through spatial subsampling, allowing for automatic detection and rendering of 3D content within a 2D frame.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If 3D video formats are mapped on 2D signal formats to maintain compatibility with existing distribution systems, then compatibility with existing systems is improved, but automatic format detection becomes difficult due to lack of signaling

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidformat detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary analysis process that examines video data properties (such as frame structure, subframe arrangement, and content characteristics) to infer the 3D format type. This intermediary detection mechanism bridges the gap between the silent 2D signal format and the need for automatic format identification, allowing the system to determine whether the video is in 2D mode or various 3D modes (side-by-side, top-bottom, interlaced, etc.) without requiring explicit signaling in the transmission stream.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If manual user selection is required for 3D or 2D playback modes, then format accuracy can be ensured, but user convenience and automation are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformat accuracyVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service automatic detection system that autonomously analyzes the incoming video signal characteristics and determines the correct playback mode without requiring user intervention. The system examines properties such as frame structure, subframe arrangement, and content patterns to automatically identify whether the video is in 2D or 3D format and selects the appropriate rendering mode, thereby providing both reliability through accurate detection and convenience through complete automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple 3D formats are supported to increase versatility, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformat supportVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex format detection task into distinct analysis modules, each responsible for examining specific video properties (frame structure, subframe arrangement, content characteristics). By dividing the detection process into separate analytical segments, the system can efficiently evaluate multiple 3D formats without overwhelming complexity, as each segment handles a specific aspect of format identification and can be independently optimized.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9729852B23D video format detection
Publication Date: 2017.08.08 LEIA INC
  • US9729852B2 patent drawing
  • US9729852B2 patent drawing
  • US9729852B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A video signal is processed in a video device (50). The video signal transfers video data representing either three dimensional video [3D] content formatted according to a 3D format or 2D content formatted according to a 2D format. The video signal has a 2D frame and a control structure of a 2D format for being compatible with existing distribution systems. The device has a processor (52) for providing a 3D status signal indicative of the format of the video signal. The processor determines a respective format score for at least one of the possible 3D formats by processing the video data according to respective predetermined format properties for deriving and comparing respective 3D subframes, and sets the 3D status signal based on an assessment of the format score to indicate the format of the video signal. Advantageously the 3D format is detected automatically and a 3D display can be controlled accordingly.