Dynamic Tag Architecture for Adaptive Video Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior image processing systems face inefficiencies due to fixed, pre-determined processing algorithms that do not adapt to changing pixel characteristics, leading to redundant functionality, increased manufacturing costs, and reduced image quality.

Innovation Solution

An image processing system that employs dynamic tag architecture, where meta data associated with pixels is used to control and tune processing operations in real-time, allowing for flexible allocation of resources and efficient processing by adjusting algorithms based on pixel characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If fixed, pre-determined processing algorithms are used in prior image processing systems, then device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but processing efficiency deteriorates and image quality suffers due to inability to adapt to changing pixel characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic tag architecture where tag data associated with pixels is updated in real-time as pixels move through the processing pipeline. Processing operations are dynamically controlled based on these updated tag values, allowing the system to adapt to changing pixel characteristics without requiring complex reconfiguration. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by enabling adaptive processing efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple fixed pipeline structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes processing parameters dynamically based on tag data that evolves as pixels are processed. Different processing operations are applied or adjusted based on the current state of tag values, allowing the same hardware pipeline to efficiently handle varying image processing requirements. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between fixed architecture and adaptive processing needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple independent processing operations are employed in prior systems, then functional versatility is achieved, but silicon implementation size increases and manufacturing expense rises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing operation flexibilityVSAvoidsilicon implementation size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal processing pipeline where a single set of processing operations can handle multiple different image processing tasks by dynamically adjusting control parameters based on tag data. The same processing blocks serve multiple functions by responding to different tag conditions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each processing operation. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between versatility and silicon area.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges multiple processing operations into a unified pipeline structure where operations share common infrastructure. By combining control logic and processing elements into integrated units that respond to dynamic tag control, the patent reduces overall silicon area while maintaining the capability to perform diverse processing operations. This merging approach resolves the area-versus-versatility contradiction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If processing operations operate substantially independently in prior systems, then modular design is achieved, but processing efficiency deteriorates due to lack of coordination and redundancy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidinter-operation coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where tag data from downstream processing operations is fed back to upstream operations. This allows downstream processing results to influence upstream processing decisions, creating coordinated processing that eliminates redundancy and improves overall efficiency. The feedback loop resolves the contradiction by enabling inter-operation coordination without requiring complex centralized control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary processing operations based on initial tag data, then uses subsequent tag updates to refine or adjust processing. This staged approach with preliminary actions allows efficient processing while maintaining the ability to coordinate between operations through evolving tag states. The preliminary action principle resolves the contradiction by enabling efficient staged processing with implicit coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9357162B2Video processing system and method with dynamic tag architecture
Publication Date: 2016.05.31 NVIDIA CORP
  • US9357162B2 patent drawing
  • US9357162B2 patent drawing
  • US9357162B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of processing digital video signals, comprising: receiving input pixels to be processed; performing multiple processing operations on the input pixels, where the multiple processing operations are performed during a time interval determined in part by a desired video output rate; and performing a classification analysis at an intermediate time during the time interval, the classification analysis yielding tag data that is used to dynamically vary one or more of the multiple processing operations, and where the tag data is generated on a per-pixel basis to enable pixel by pixel variation of the multiple processing operations.