Dynamic Buffer Allocation for Image Processing Pixel Regions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing apparatuses face challenges in efficiently handling varying numbers of input and output pixels due to the combination of multiple image processing tasks, leading to difficulties in defining buffer capacities and optimizing storage device utilization.

Innovation Solution

A data processing apparatus that temporarily stores input and output pixel regions, with a setting unit adjusting the storage areas based on the number of pixels in each region, allowing for efficient allocation of buffer capacities during image processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed buffer capacity is allocated in storage devices for image processing, then device complexity is reduced, but the storage device cannot efficiently adapt to varying numbers of input and output pixels across different image processing tasks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying pixel countsVSAvoidbuffer capacity definition complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic buffer capacity allocation by allowing the buffer size to be automatically adjusted according to the actual number of input and output pixels for each image processing task. The storage device transitions from a static fixed-capacity buffer to a dynamic buffer that adapts its capacity based on real-time processing requirements, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple image processing tasks are combined in an image processing apparatus, then processing versatility is improved, but it becomes difficult to define appropriate buffer capacities for storage devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing task combinationVSAvoidbuffer capacity definition
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal buffer management mechanism that can handle multiple different image processing tasks (resolution conversion, spatial filtering, edge extension, trimming) through a single adaptive buffer allocation system. This multi-functional approach allows the storage device to automatically adjust buffer capacities regardless of which specific processing task is being performed, eliminating the need for task-specific buffer configurations.

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

3Productivity

If buffer capacities are optimized for specific image processing tasks, then processing efficiency is improved, but the storage device cannot handle other image processing tasks with different pixel count ratios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidhandling different processing tasks
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic buffer capacity adjustment that automatically adapts to different image processing tasks while maintaining high processing efficiency. The buffer size is dynamically recalculated based on the specific pixel count ratios required by each task (e.g., expansion for edge extension, reduction for trimming), allowing the system to achieve optimal efficiency for each task without sacrificing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9531911B2Data processing apparatus, data processing method and storage medium for storing image data
Publication Date: 2016.12.27 CANON KK
  • US9531911B2 patent drawing
  • US9531911B2 patent drawing
  • US9531911B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data processing apparatus obtains an input pixel region contained in image data, inputs a pixel value contained in the input pixel region into an image processor, obtains the image-processed pixel value from the image processor, and outputs an output pixel region. Data of the input pixel region and data of the output pixel region are temporarily stored, and the size of an input area that stores the data of the input pixel region and the size of an output area that stores the data of the output pixel region are set based on the number of pixels in the input pixel region and the number of pixels in the output pixel region.