Image Processing Apparatus Cloud Function Update Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cloud image processing is not always optimal due to communication issues, time requirements, and the need for efficient utilization of external image processing functions, especially when dealing with large volumes of RAW image data.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus with a communication unit, an image processing unit, and a control unit that transmits requests for image processing to an external apparatus and determines whether to retransmit based on updated functions or communication states, allowing for efficient utilization of external image processing capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If cloud image development is used to process a large number of RAW image data, then image quality can be improved, but processing time becomes excessively long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the image data processing by dividing RAW image data into thumbnail data (low resolution) and full-resolution data. Thumbnails are processed quickly via cloud service to determine selection criteria, while only selected full-resolution images undergo time-consuming cloud processing, thus reducing overall processing time while maintaining quality for important images.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary processing by generating and processing thumbnail versions of images before processing the full-resolution images. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-determine which images warrant cloud processing based on thumbnail analysis, avoiding the time cost of processing all full-resolution images through the cloud service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If cloud image development is used, then advanced image processing functions can be utilized, but communication requirements increase system complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing functionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic system that automatically switches between cloud-based image development and local image development based on communication status. When communication is available, cloud processing is used for advanced functions; when communication is unavailable or unreliable, the system seamlessly transitions to local processing, adapting to changing conditions without requiring complex user configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the terminal device to perform self-service image processing by incorporating local image development capabilities. When cloud services are unavailable, the terminal device autonomously processes images locally without requiring external assistance, maintaining basic functionality and reducing dependence on complex communication infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If cloud image development is used for all RAW image data, then comprehensive processing can be achieved, but communication resources are wasted when functions are already available locally

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidcommunication resource
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the terminal device checks whether the cloud service has updated image development functions before initiating cloud processing. The device receives feedback about available cloud functions and compares them with local capabilities, only transmitting images to the cloud when advanced functions are actually needed, thus avoiding unnecessary communication resource consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the processing parameter by dynamically selecting between cloud-based and local-based image development modes. The system monitors communication status and cloud service updates, adjusting the processing location parameter to optimize resource usage - using cloud processing only when it provides added value through updated functions, otherwise using local processing to conserve communication resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11356592B2Image processing apparatus and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2022.06.07 CANON KK
  • US11356592B2 patent drawing
  • US11356592B2 patent drawing
  • US11356592B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus comprises a communication unit configured to communicate with an external apparatus, an image processing unit configured to perform first image processing on first image data, and a control unit configured to transmit a request for executing second image processing which is different from the first image processing on the first image data to the external apparatus via the communication unit, and receive second image data on which the second image processing has been executed from the external apparatus via the communication unit. In response that a function of the second image processing executable in the external apparatus is updated, the control unit determines whether to transmit a request again for executing the second image processing to the external apparatus.