Image Processing Circuit Memory Management for Multi-Format Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multifunctional image processing apparatuses face image quality degradation when converting between formats like CMYK and RGB, requiring multiple memory systems and increased processing speed to manage various image data types according to user instructions.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus includes multiple image processing circuits and memory controllers that manage and store different types of processed image data, allowing for simultaneous processing and storage of multiple image formats, such as original-size, preview, and thumbnail data, while prioritizing requests to maintain processing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple image processing circuits generate different image data formats simultaneously, then processing speed and functionality are improved, but memory management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidmemory management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coordination circuit receives storing requests from multiple image processing circuits and determines the storage order in advance based on priority levels. By pre-establishing the storage sequence before actual data writing, the system avoids memory conflicts and ensures efficient multi-format image data storage without requiring complex real-time memory arbitration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If image data is converted between formats (e.g., CMYK to RGB), then adaptability to different output devices is improved, but image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformat conversion capabilityVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides image processing into separate processing circuits, each dedicated to generating specific image data formats (e.g., one circuit for CMYK format, another for RGB format). By segmenting the processing functions, each circuit can optimize for its specific format without compromising quality, while the coordination circuit manages the overall workflow and storage prioritization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If multiple storing requests are handled simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but data storage accuracy and order control become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage throughputVSAvoidstorage order accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The coordination circuit establishes the storage order in advance by receiving and processing storing requests according to their priority levels before actual data writing occurs. This preliminary determination of storage sequence ensures that high-priority data is stored first while maintaining accurate order control, even when multiple circuits generate data simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8179548B2Apparatus and method for data processing
Publication Date: 2012.05.15 RICOH CO LTD
  • US8179548B2 patent drawing
  • US8179548B2 patent drawing
  • US8179548B2 patent drawing

AI summary

When inputting image data, a plurality of kinds of processed image data may be generated from the image data. When outputting image data, a plurality of kinds of output image data may be generated from the image data.