Graphic Block for Parameterized Video Annotation in Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current graphical modeling environments lack a straightforward method to insert or overlay graphics onto image data, particularly in video streams, which is essential for embedded systems like digital cameras for indicating status or overlaying dynamic information.

Innovation Solution

A graphic block is introduced in the block diagram model capable of adding parameterized graphic annotations to image data by overwriting selected pixels, allowing for the integration of static or dynamic graphics into video streams within the modeling environment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a graphical modeling environment supports standard block diagram operations, then modeling capability is maintained, but the ability to insert or overlay graphics onto image data is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to insert graphics into image dataVSAvoidcomplexity of graphical modeling environment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The graphic block is designed to perform multiple functions: it can insert static graphics, overlay dynamic information, and process image data streams within the standard block diagram environment. This multi-functional block adds versatility without requiring separate specialized tools or environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The graphic block acts as an intermediary component between standard signal processing blocks and image data sources. It mediates the interaction by receiving image data from sources, processing it with graphic annotations, and passing the combined output to display or further processing blocks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If graphical annotations are added to image data streams, then status indicators and dynamic information can be displayed, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of displaying status indicatorsVSAvoidcomplexity of processing image data

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The graphic block is configured to automatically receive parameters from connected blocks and self-adjust its graphic insertion operations. It autonomously processes image data streams by reading configuration parameters from the block diagram connections without requiring manual intervention or complex external control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The graphic block separates the complexity of graphic insertion operations into distinct, parameterized functions that can be independently configured. By segmenting the processing into manageable parameter sets (graphic type, position, size, color), the block simplifies the overall processing complexity while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If parameterized graphic annotations are rendered in real-time, then dynamic information can be overlaid on video streams, but rendering performance may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of overlaying graphics on videoVSAvoidcomputational resources for rendering

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The graphic block implements partial action by selectively processing only the necessary portions of image data streams. It applies graphic annotations only to specific regions or frames as needed, rather than processing entire video streams uniformly, thereby reducing computational resource consumption while maintaining real-time performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS7834876B2Providing graphic generating capabilities for a model based development process

Publication Date: 2010.11.16 MATHWORKS INC

AI summary

A method and system for providing a block for use in a block diagram in a graphical modeling environment which is capable of rendering a parameterized graphic annotation.