Encoding Advanced Color Images in Legacy Containers

The patent divides a high-bit-depth image (10-bit or 12-bit) into multiple lower-bit-depth images (8-bit each). For example, a 10-bit image is split into two 8-bit images, and a 12-bit image is split into three 8-bit images. Each split image represents a different bit plane or segment of the original image data, allowing legacy 8-bit systems to process and store the data while preserving the ability to reconstruct the higher-quality image.

The patent adds a temporal or organizational dimension by creating multiple 8-bit image containers that collectively represent the high-bit-depth image. Instead of trying to fit 10-bit or 12-bit data into a single 8-bit container, the solution uses multiple containers (first 8-bit image, second 8-bit image, etc.) where each container holds a portion of the bit depth information, effectively using quantity of containers to compensate for limited bit depth of individual containers.

The patent creates multiple copies or representations of the image data at different bit planes. By splitting the high-bit-depth image into multiple 8-bit images, each acting as a copy of a portion of the original data, the system can use existing 8-bit storage and communication infrastructure without requiring new high-capacity infrastructure designed specifically for 10-bit or 12-bit data.