Image Processing Apparatus Priority Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image processing systems, especially those requiring real-time output like pre-crash safety systems, the varying processing times and importance of processes make it inefficient to perform all processes with the same priority, leading to suboptimal resource utilization and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that sets priorities for each process and selects combinations of processes for each unit cycle based on their importance, processing time, and required accuracy, allowing for efficient image processing within limited resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all image processing processes are performed indiscriminately with the same priority, then the processing is comprehensive, but the processing time becomes excessive and real-time output cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing into multiple distinct processes (face search, face tracking, blink detection, line-of-sight direction determination) that can be selectively executed. Each process is segmented as an independent unit that can be prioritized and scheduled separately, allowing the system to perform only necessary processes within time constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic process selection where the set of executed processes changes based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically determines which processes to perform in each fundamental cycle based on priorities and current state, rather than executing a fixed sequence of all processes every time.
2Loss of time
If processing time is reduced by selecting only critical processes, then real-time output is achieved, but processing accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic execution of different process combinations within fundamental cycles. High-priority processes are executed in every cycle, while lower-priority processes are executed periodically or selectively based on conditions, ensuring both real-time response and adequate accuracy for each process type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes processing parameters by adjusting which processes are executed based on priority levels and current conditions. This allows the system to adapt processing depth and accuracy levels dynamically, performing comprehensive processing when time permits and streamlined processing when real-time output is critical.
3Ease of operation
If multiple interrupt processes are handled, then system responsiveness is improved, but processing time becomes variable and unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary setup by defining process priorities and execution rules before the fundamental cycle begins. This pre-planning allows the system to handle interrupts more predictably by having a predetermined framework for process selection, reducing the variability introduced by ad-hoc interrupt handling.
4Measurement precision
If resource allocation is increased to perform all processes, then processing accuracy is improved, but system complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal process management framework that handles multiple different image processing processes through a single prioritization and scheduling mechanism. This multi-functional approach allows the same system infrastructure to support various processes with different resource requirements, reducing overall system complexity compared to dedicated handling for each process type.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus is configured so that a combination of the processes that are performed is set for each of unit cycles (according to the value of a counter) in accordance with priorities individually set for the processes, and image processing is performed in a fundamental cycle that is constituted of six unit cycles. A face direction determination process, a line-of-sight direction determination process, a blink detection process, a dozing determination process, and a consciousness deterioration level determination process are selectively performed depending on the value of the counter, which varies from 1 to 6. According to the image processing apparatus, it is possible to more efficiently perform image processing that involves a plurality of processes.