Direct Interpolation for Non-Dyadic Video Scaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing picture up-sampling processes in spatially scalable video coding, such as those used in SVC extensions of H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, are limited by quarter luma sample interpolation, which restricts scalability to dyadic ratios and is computationally cumbersome for non-dyadic scaling.

Innovation Solution

Direct interpolation using filter coefficients selected based on the phase of the pixel location, allowing for interpolation at any sample position and supporting non-dyadic scaling by determining corresponding positions in the base layer for interpolation in both spatial dimensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If quarter luma sample interpolation is used for picture up-sampling in spatially scalable video coding, then the interpolation process is standardized and compatible with H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, but the interpolation resolution is limited to quarter samples and cannot support non-dyadic scaling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescaling ratio supportVSAvoidinterpolation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the interpolation parameter from fixed quarter-sample to variable fractional-sample positioning. By representing sample positions as fractions with arbitrary denominators, the system can accommodate any scaling ratio between base and enhancement layers, not just dyadic ratios. This parameter change enables non-dyadic scaling while maintaining computational efficiency through direct fractional positioning without requiring multiple interpolation stages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If half-sample interpolation is added to achieve quarter-sample position, then quarter-sample interpolation is achieved, but the method becomes computationally cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterpolation precisionVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential requirement (quarter-sample precision) from the complex two-stage process and implements it directly through fractional-sample positioning. Instead of performing half-sample interpolation followed by quarter-sample interpolation, the system directly computes the fractional position needed for quarter-sample accuracy, eliminating redundant computational steps while maintaining the required precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Productivity

If direct interpolation with phase-based filter coefficients is used, then non-dyadic scaling is supported and computational complexity is reduced, but the method requires new interpolation mechanisms not present in standard H.264

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveup-sampling efficiencyVSAvoidinterpolation mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal up-sampling mechanism that handles both dyadic and non-dyadic scaling through a single fractional-sample positioning framework. The phase-based filter coefficient selection works for any scaling ratio, making the system multi-functional. This universal approach replaces the need for separate interpolation mechanisms for different scaling types, ultimately reducing overall system complexity despite introducing new concepts.

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

Data Source

PatentUS8670489B2Methods and systems for picture up-sampling
Publication Date: 2014.03.11 DOLBY LABORATORIES LICENSING CORP
  • US8670489B2 patent drawing
  • US8670489B2 patent drawing
  • US8670489B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for picture up-sampling using direct interpolation. Some aspects of the present invention provide an up-sampling procedure designed for the Scalable Video Coding extension of H.264/MPEG-4 AVC.