Graphics Processor Validation Reference Image Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual reference image selection in graphics processor validation becomes impractical with large sets of images, leading to inefficiencies in validating graphics processor designs.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for automatically selecting a reference image from a set of reference images based on parameters such as color format, depth format, and anti-alias mode, and comparing the test image to the selected reference image to determine validation, with options for different selection modes and threshold settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual reference image selection is used, then validation can be performed with small sets of images, but it becomes impractical and inefficient with large sets of images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalidation efficiencyVSAvoidmanual selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically selecting reference images based on parameters extracted from test images. The validation system no longer requires manual intervention for reference image selection, as it autonomously matches test images with appropriate reference images using parameter comparison and hashing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of selecting reference images is replaced with an automated computational system. The system uses parameter extraction, hashing algorithms, and database queries to automatically match test images with reference images, substituting human operation with mechanical/computational processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the set of reference images is expanded to cover more test cases, then validation coverage improves, but manual selection and management becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalidation coverageVSAvoidreference image management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of managing unique reference image files, the system creates parameter-based copies or representations through hashing. Each reference image is characterized by extracted parameters that serve as a digital fingerprint, allowing the system to manage and retrieve images based on their parameter signatures rather than physical file handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system transforms the management approach from file-based to parameter-based. By extracting and hashing key parameters (color format, depth format, anti-alias mode, etc.), the system creates a parameter space that automatically organizes the reference image set, making management scalable regardless of set size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If automatic reference image selection is implemented, then validation efficiency with large image sets improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalidation throughputVSAvoidautomation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic selection system is segmented into distinct functional modules: parameter extraction module, hashing module, database query module, and image retrieval module. Each module performs a specific function, making the overall complex system manageable through functional decomposition and independent optimization of each segment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8063908B1System, method, and computer program product for validating a graphics processor design
Publication Date: 2011.11.22 NVIDIA CORP
  • US8063908B1 patent drawing
  • US8063908B1 patent drawing
  • US8063908B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, method, and computer program product are provided for validating a graphics processor design. In operation, a test image is identified. Additionally, a reference image is automatically selected from a set of reference images. Furthermore, a graphics processor design is validated using the test image and the selected reference image.