Digital Motion Picture Look-Up Table Generation Using Analytical Workflow Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for previewing digital motion picture content on a computer monitor are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to inaccuracies due to variable film development and instrument noise, and are not flexible enough to adapt to changes in the motion picture workflow.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates a look-up table using an analytical model of the digital motion picture workflow, which includes models for recording, negative film, positive film, and projector behavior, allowing for the conversion of input pixel values to output pixel values that simulate the appearance of the content on a theater screen, without the need for physical film development or instrument measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If empirical techniques with color patch pictures are used to generate look-up tables, then the look-up table can be determined through physical measurement, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring film development
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a computational model that copies and simulates the film development process mathematically. Instead of physically developing film to measure color patches, the system uses an analytical model that replicates the optical and chemical transformations of film processing through equations, thereby obtaining look-up table data without physical film development time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical film development process with a computational simulation system. The analytical model substitutes the physical chemistry of film development with mathematical equations that compute color transformations directly, eliminating the need for actual film processing while maintaining measurement accuracy
2Measurement precision
If physical film development is used to determine look-up table values, then real-world film behavior is captured, but variable results from the development process adversely affect accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the variable physical film development process with a deterministic computational model. The analytical model uses fixed mathematical equations and parameters that consistently reproduce film behavior without the random variations inherent in chemical processing, thereby improving result consistency and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the variable physical parameters of film development (chemical concentrations, temperature variations, processing time) into fixed computational parameters in the analytical model. By representing these as deterministic mathematical functions rather than physical processes, the system eliminates variability while maintaining accuracy
3Measurement precision
If instrument measurements are used to determine color values, then data can be obtained from physical samples, but instrument noise especially in dark patches decreases accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a computational copy of the film processing system that generates color values through calculation rather than physical measurement. The analytical model simulates how film materials respond to light and chemical processing, producing color data without subjecting it to instrument noise that plagues physical measurements of dark patches
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional film development workflow is used, then physical film handling is required, but the process is not flexible when workflow steps need to be modified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex physical film processing system with a computational model that can be easily modified through software updates. Instead of requiring physical reconfiguration of film handling equipment and procedures, workflow changes are implemented by adjusting parameters or equations in the analytical model, providing high flexibility with low complexity
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that generates a look-up table which can be used to preview digital motion picture content. During operation, the system receives an analytical model for a digital motion picture workflow. Next, the system selects a set of input pixel values. The system then determines a set of output pixel values using the set of input pixel values and the analytical model. Finally, the system generates the look-up table by associating the set of input pixel values with the set of output pixel values. The analytical model comprises a number of models that capture the various stages in the digital motion picture workflow. These models can include a recorder model, a negative film model, a printer model, a positive film model, and a projector model.