Image Processing Device Syntax Element Restriction for Coding Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing image processing methods, such as those using the HEVC standard, transmit unnecessary syntax elements related to inter-screen processes, leading to a reduction in coding efficiency when encoding still images.

Innovation Solution

An image processing device and method that restricts the value of syntax elements related to inter-image processes during the encoding of still images, specifically setting them to predetermined values like 0, and transmits these restricted syntax elements, thereby eliminating unnecessary information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If syntax elements related to inter-screen processes are transmitted in HEVC standard, then compatibility with moving image processing is maintained, but coding efficiency is reduced when encoding still images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with moving image processingVSAvoidcoding efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating the treatment of syntax elements based on the image type. For still images, inter-image process syntax elements are restricted to predetermined values (not transmitted), while for moving images, these elements are transmitted normally. This localized adaptation optimizes coding efficiency for still images while maintaining compatibility for moving images.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making the transmission of syntax elements conditional rather than static. The encoder dynamically determines whether to transmit inter-image syntax elements based on the image type (still or moving), allowing the system to adapt its behavior to the specific processing requirements of each image type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a common circuit is used for both still and moving image processing, then device size and cost are reduced, but coding efficiency for still images deteriorates due to unnecessary syntax element transmission

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice size and costVSAvoidcoding efficiency for still images
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a common encoding circuit that can handle both still and moving image processing. The same hardware infrastructure is used for both image types, reducing device complexity. The distinction between image types is handled through software/control logic that determines whether to transmit inter-image syntax elements, allowing one circuit to serve multiple functions efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10841618B2Image processing device and method
Publication Date: 2020.11.17 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US10841618B2 patent drawing
  • US10841618B2 patent drawing
  • US10841618B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to an image processing device and method which are capable of suppressing a reduction in an increase in coding efficiency. A receiving unit that receives an encoded bitstream including a syntax element related to an inter-image process and an analyzing unit that analyzes the syntax element received by the receiving unit in a state in which a value of the syntax element is restricted when the bitstream is a bitstream encoded based on a profile for encoding a still image are provided. For example, the present disclosure can be applied to an image processing device.