HEVC Image Processing Device Extended Profile Parameter Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a demand for further profile extensions in image processing to support a wider variety of images, particularly high-end formats like 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 chrominance signal formats, beyond the capabilities of existing standards such as HEVC.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device and method that includes a setting unit to set parameters for an extended profile within the HEVC Range Extension standard, allowing for encoding and decoding of images with features like intra coding, bit rate management, and specific chroma constraints, enabling support for profiles such as Main 12 Intra Profile, Main 4:2:2 12 Intra Profile, and Main 4:4:4 12 Intra Profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the existing HEVC standard is used for encoding, then encoding efficiency is improved, but the ability to support high-end formats like 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 chrominance signal formats is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic parameter settings that allow the encoding system to adapt between different profile configurations (Main, Main 10, Main 12, and their Intra variants) based on the specific format requirements. The setting unit dynamically configures coding tools and parameters to match the desired output format while maintaining encoding efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by introducing new syntax elements and constraint flags (e.g., general_intra_constraint_flag, sub_layer_intra_constraint_flag, general_max_10bit_constraint_flag, general_max_12bit_constraint_flag) that enable the HEVC standard to support extended chrominance formats. These parameter changes allow the encoder to switch between different profile capabilities without fundamentally altering the core encoding algorithm.
2Adaptability or versatility
If profile extensions are added to support more formats, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the profile extension functionality into distinct constraint flags and syntax elements that can be independently configured. Each flag (e.g., general_intra_constraint_flag, sub_layer_max_10bit_constraint_flag) represents a specific aspect of profile capability, allowing the encoder to enable or disable features in a modular fashion rather than requiring comprehensive changes to the entire encoding system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal parameter setting mechanism that handles multiple profile types (Main, Main 10, Main 12, and their Intra variants) through a common framework. The setting unit uses a unified approach to configure coding tools and constraints across different profiles, reducing the need for separate handling logic for each profile type and thereby managing complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple constraint flags and parameters are introduced for profile specification, then precision in format control is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The setting unit automatically configures the appropriate constraint flags and parameters based on the desired profile type, reducing the manual burden on operators. The system self-adjusts parameters such as general_intra_constraint_flag, sub_layer_intra_constraint_flag, and bit depth constraints according to the selected profile (Main 12 Intra, Main 4:2:2 12 Intra, Main 4:4:4 12 Intra, etc.), allowing precise format control without requiring deep expertise in each parameter's function.
Solution Approach 2:
The setting unit acts as an intermediary between the user's high-level profile selection and the low-level parameter configuration. It translates simple profile type selections into the appropriate combination of constraint flags and syntax elements, shielding the operator from the complexity of individual parameter settings while maintaining precise control over the encoding output.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an image processing device and a method that enable easier encoding and decoding of a wider variety of images. The image processing device includes a setting unit that sets a parameter indicating a setting state of a coding tool required in specifying an extended profile that is an extension of a profile specified in a coding standard for performing encoding on each unit having a recursive hierarchical structure. The image processing device further includes an encoding unit that generates an encoded stream by encoding an image in accordance with the parameter set by the setting unit. The present disclosure can be applied to image processing devices that encode image data, for example.