HDR File Generation with Tone Mapping SEI for Cross-Format Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies do not effectively facilitate the introduction of HDR information into file formats beyond HEVC or AVC, limiting user experience with high dynamic range images.

Innovation Solution

A file generation and reproduction system that includes HDR information with feature and conversion data, allowing for the conversion and adaptation of HDR images to standard dynamic range images, and vice versa, to ensure optimal display on various monitors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If HDR information is transmitted using SEI message in HEVC format, then HDR image quality is improved, but compatibility with non-HEVC devices and file formats deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveHDR image qualityVSAvoidcompatibility with non-HEVC devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments HDR information into distinct components (feature information representing luminance characteristics and conversion information for dynamic range conversion) that can be independently processed and applied to different file formats, allowing HEVC devices to utilize full HDR capabilities while non-HEVC devices can process the segmented information appropriately for their format limitations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal HDR information structure that can be applied across multiple file formats (HEVC, AVC, and other formats). The tone_mapping_info SEI message contains universal conversion rules that can be interpreted by various decode devices regardless of their specific format support, enabling one HDR information structure to serve multiple format requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If HDR information is integrated into file formats, then user access to HDR content is improved, but file structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser access to HDR contentVSAvoidfile structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary organization of HDR information into a standardized structure (tone_mapping_info SEI message with feature information and conversion information) during the file generation phase. This preliminary structuring allows decode devices to easily access and process HDR content without dealing with unorganized complexity, as the conversion rules and luminance features are pre-configured and ready for application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces tone_mapping_info SEI message as an intermediary structure that mediates between the video content and the file format. This intermediary contains all necessary HDR conversion information in a standardized form, simplifying the integration process into various file formats while maintaining organized structure that devices can easily parse and apply

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2869567B1File generation device, file generation method, file reproduction device, and file reproduction method
Publication Date: 2019.10.16 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP2869567B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2869567B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2869567B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present technique relates to a file generation apparatus, a file generating method, a file reproduction apparatus, and a file reproducing method capable of enabling a user to enjoy an HDR image. HDR information designated by HDR designating information is acquired from a file storing a track of a stream including the HDR information which is configured with feature information representing features of luminance of an HDR (high dynamic range) image having a dynamic range higher than that of an STD (standard) image and conversion information representing a conversion rule of converting the one of the STD image and the HDR image into the other and a target track including the HDR designating information designating the HDR information which is to be applied to the target track of interest in the HDR information of the track. The present technique can be applied, for example, to the case of storing data of images of a subtitle or the like and HDR information which is to be applied to the images in an MP4 file or the like.