Image Encoder Parameters for Wide-Angle Distortion and Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional encoders and decoders struggle to properly handle images captured with wide angle lenses, particularly in the context of next-generation video formats like 360-degree video, due to issues such as barrel distortion and inefficient stitching processes that reduce coding efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An encoder and decoder system that includes processing circuitry and memory to correct distortion and adapt encoding and decoding processes based on image stitching and conversion parameters, generating encoded images with improved handling and reduced redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image processing techniques are used to correct distortion and stitch images, then the ability to handle wide angle lens images is improved, but the device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing distortion correction and image stitching before the actual encoding process. The encoder receives pre-processed images that have already had their distortion corrected and stitched, thereby simplifying the subsequent encoding operations while maintaining the ability to handle wide angle lens images effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the image processing workflow into distinct stages: distortion correction, image stitching, and encoding. By separating these functions into independent modules, the system manages complexity through modular architecture while maintaining versatility in handling various wide angle lens image types
2Productivity
If conventional encoders are used without specialized processing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the coding efficiency and image quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by preparing images through distortion correction and stitching before encoding. This pre-processing reduces the complexity burden on the encoder itself, allowing it to focus on compression operations and achieve better coding efficiency without requiring overly complex internal structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing stage between image capture and encoding. This intermediate layer handles the complex distortion correction and stitching operations, acting as a mediator that protects the encoder from direct complexity while improving overall system efficiency
3Manufacturing precision
If distortion correction and image stitching are performed, then the image quality is improved, but the processing time and redundancy increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by completing distortion correction and image stitching before encoding. This sequencing optimizes processing time by performing complex geometric operations once during pre-processing rather than repeatedly during encoding and decoding operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of increased processing time into a benefit by performing all necessary geometric corrections in advance. The pre-processing step, while time-consuming, actually reduces overall system time by eliminating the need for repeated corrections during the encoding loop
Data Source
AI summary
An encoder capable of properly handling an image to be encoded or decoded includes processing circuitry and memory connected to the processing circuitry. Using the memory, the processing circuitry: obtains parameters including at least one of (i) one or more parameters related to a first process for correcting distortion in an image captured with a wide angle lens and (ii) one or more parameters related to a second process for stitching a plurality of images; generates an encoded image by encoding a current image to be processed that is based on the image or the plurality of images; and writes the parameters into a bitstream including the encoded image.