HDMI Interface Multiplexing for Multi-Stream Video Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems require multiple HDMI cables to transmit multiple video streams, placing a burden on users due to the limitation of transmitting only one video stream per cable, which complicates connections and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A transmission apparatus and method that utilize two channel units within an HDMI interface to transmit baseband video data and codec-encoded video data simultaneously, allowing multiple video streams to be transmitted efficiently using existing HDMI cables, with control mechanisms for multitasking and bidirectional communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple HDMI cables are used to transmit multiple video streams, then the number of video streams transmitted increases, but the device complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple video stream transmissions into a single HDMI cable by utilizing multiple TMDS channels within the interface. The transmission apparatus multiplexes baseband video data and compressed video data across different channel units (channel 0, 1, 2) of the same HDMI cable, eliminating the need for multiple separate cables while maintaining high-definition transmission quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The HDMI interface is made multi-functional by enabling it to transmit multiple types of video data simultaneously through its multiple channel units. The interface can handle both baseband video signals and compressed video signals (such as MPEG2, MPEG4, VC-1) concurrently, allowing a single cable to serve multiple video transmission purposes that traditionally required separate cables.
2Device complexity
If a single HDMI cable transmits multiple video streams, then cable complexity decreases, but the transmission capability requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission apparatus segments video data into different channel units within the HDMI interface. Baseband video data is assigned to one channel unit while compressed video data is assigned to other channel units, allowing simultaneous transmission of multiple video streams through a single cable without interference. This segmentation enables the interface to handle diverse transmission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission parameters by utilizing multiple TMDS channel units with different capabilities. The system can dynamically allocate channels based on the type of video data being transmitted, adjusting the transmission mode to accommodate both baseband and compressed video signals simultaneously, thereby enhancing the overall transmission capability of the single cable.
Data Source
AI summary
[Object] To provide a transmission apparatus, a reception apparatus, a communication system, a transmission method, a reception method, and programs therefor that are capable of efficiently transmitting at least a plurality of pieces of video data included in data of a plurality of contents at the same time. [Solving Means] A switch unit (32a) of a transmission apparatus selects one of a plurality of pieces of video data supplied from a storage apparatus (42) in accordance with video data designated by a transmission data control unit (32i) and supplies it to an IF unit (32b). The IF unit (32b) transmits video data decoded by a decode unit (113) from a terminal (335). The compressed video data supplied from the switch unit (32a) is transmitted via a terminal (336). The terminal (335) is included in a first channel unit. In a case where the IF unit (32b) is an HDMI, for example, the terminal (335) is a terminal for a TMDS channel. The terminal (336) is a terminal that is included in a second channel unit and connected to a reserved line, an HPD line, and the like.