Image Encoding Apparatus Edge Pixel Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image data encoding methods, such as JPEG-LS, face determination errors and generate redundant data when switching between prediction encoding and run length encoding, especially at image edges where runs are short, leading to inefficient encoding.
Innovation Solution
An image encoding apparatus that determines whether to apply prediction encoding or run length encoding based on the position of the pixel of interest within a predetermined range and refers to already encoded pixels for context, forcing prediction encoding when peripheral pixels are outside the image region to avoid determination errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If run length encoding is applied at image edges, then encoding flexibility is improved, but determination errors increase and redundant data is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different encoding strategies to different spatial locations within the image. Specifically, pixels within the predetermined range from the right end are handled differently (forcing prediction encoding) compared to pixels outside this range (allowing run length encoding). This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by adapting the encoding method to the local characteristics of each region, preventing determination errors at edges while maintaining flexibility in the main image area.
2Device complexity
If the same determination method is used throughout the image, then device complexity is reduced, but encoding efficiency decreases at image edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing into two distinct regions: pixels within the predetermined range from the right end and pixels outside this range. Each segment receives an appropriate encoding treatment - prediction encoding for the edge region and potential run length encoding for the main region. This segmentation allows the system to maintain relatively simple device complexity while significantly improving encoding efficiency at image edges through targeted optimization.
3Quantity of substance
If run length encoding is selected at image edges, then compression ratio may improve, but redundant encoded data is output due to determination errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent takes preliminary action to prevent determination errors before they can occur by forcing prediction encoding for pixels within the predetermined range from the right end. This preemptive measure eliminates the possibility of generating redundant encoded data at image edges, where runs are short and determination errors are most likely to occur. The approach prioritizes data accuracy over potential compression gains in these specific regions.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention makes it possible to increase an encoding efficiency and reduce redundant processing. For this, an encoding apparatus includes a first encoder which encodes a run length in which identical pixels continue, a second encoder which prediction-encodes a pixel of an encoding target, a first determiner which determines whether a pixel of interest is located within a predetermined range on a line on which the pixel of interest is located, thereby determines whether to apply the second encoder to the pixel of interest, and a second determiner which, if the pixel of interest is located outside the predetermined range, determines, by referring to an already encoded pixel located around the pixel of interest, which one of the first encoder and the second encoder is to be applied to the pixel of interest.