Encoder Power Optimization via Dynamic Encoding Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing encoding techniques do not optimally utilize power resources, as different techniques require varying amounts of processing resources, leading to inefficient power usage.

Innovation Solution

An encoder dynamically selects and switches between encoding techniques based on available power, estimating motion vectors at corresponding precision levels and switching off unnecessary circuitry to optimize power usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If different encoding techniques are used to achieve varying quality levels, then encoding quality (compression level, precision) is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoding qualityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder dynamically switches between different encoding techniques based on available power levels. The system transitions from static to dynamic operation by adapting the encoding technique selection in real-time according to power availability, allowing optimal quality-power tradeoffs during power-constrained durations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by selecting different encoding techniques corresponding to different power levels. Each encoding technique is associated with specific processing resources and power consumption characteristics, allowing the system to adjust parameters based on available power.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If higher processing resources are allocated to encoding, then encoding quality is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoding qualityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder dynamically adjusts processing resource allocation based on available power. During power-constrained durations, the system reduces processing resources by switching to lower-power encoding techniques, while utilizing more resources when power is available to achieve higher quality encoding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies partial action by using only the necessary processing resources required for the available power level. Instead of always allocating maximum resources, the system allocates resources proportionally to available power, using partial processing capacity when power is constrained.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If encoding operations continue at high power levels, then encoding quality is maintained, but battery life decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoding qualityVSAvoidbattery life
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic action by operating at different power levels during different time periods. During power-constrained durations, the encoder switches to lower-power techniques, creating a periodic pattern of high and low power operation that extends battery life while maintaining acceptable quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The encoder dynamically adjusts power consumption levels to extend operational duration. By reducing power consumption during battery-constrained periods, the system extends battery life while maintaining encoding quality through appropriate technique selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8442111B2Optimal power usage in encoding data streams
Publication Date: 2013.05.14 NVIDIA CORP
  • US8442111B2 patent drawing
  • US8442111B2 patent drawing
  • US8442111B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An encoder provided according to an aspect of the present invention uses different encoding techniques depending on an amount of power available in the corresponding durations. Due to the ability to use such different encoding techniques, power may be optimally utilized. The optimization is further enhanced by dynamically switching between encoding techniques according to power amount availability in corresponding durations. In an embodiment, each encoding technique estimates motion vectors at corresponding level of precision (thereby consuming a corresponding level of power) and the precision level is chosen to correspond to available power budget. The circuitry not required for a desired precision level may be switched off.