Imaging Systems Embedding Data in Pixel Words
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems face a bandwidth constraint that limits the amount of image pixel data that can be stored in an output frame due to the need to accommodate non-imaging embedded data, which reduces the effectiveness in applications like autonomous vehicle control where maximum image data is crucial.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves modifying bits within the pixel data words to embed non-image data, such as using the least significant bit or other bits of the pixel data words to store embedded data, allowing for the distribution of embedded data throughout the image pixel data array without requiring additional rows, thereby maximizing the storage of image pixel data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If dedicated rows are allocated for embedded data in the output frame, then embedded data transmission capability is improved, but the amount of image pixel data that can be stored is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges embedded data with image pixel data by embedding them within the same output frame structure. Instead of using separate dedicated rows for embedded data, the system combines both data types in a unified frame format where embedded data is integrated alongside pixel data, allowing simultaneous transmission without sacrificing image data capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional allocation approach (separate rows for embedded data versus image data) to a multi-dimensional embedding approach. Embedded data is distributed across multiple dimensions within the pixel data array, utilizing available data word structures and bit positions to store embedded information without reducing the overall image data capacity
2Adaptability or versatility
If bandwidth is allocated for embedded data rows, then embedded data capability is improved, but image pixel data bandwidth is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The output frame structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same bandwidth resources carry both image pixel data and embedded data together, making the transmission system universal in handling different data types without requiring separate dedicated bandwidth allocations. This multi-functional approach allows the system to maintain full image data bandwidth while still providing embedded data transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the organizational parameters of data transmission by moving from separate row-based allocation to integrated word-based embedding. By modifying how data is structured at the bit and word level rather than at the row level, the system achieves embedded data capability without altering the overall bandwidth parameters dedicated to image data transmission
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system may output embedded data in an output frame. Selected bits of pixel data words, corresponding to data read out from imaging pixels and non-imaging pixels, may be modified to correspond to bits of embedded data. Modifying pixel data words may include receiving a pixel data word and decatenating the pixel data words into fragments of the data word. A first fragment may correspond to bits of the data word that are replaced by embedded data bits output from an embedded data engine. A second fragment may be modified using arithmetic circuitry based on whether the embedded data bits that replace the first fragment are the same as bits of the first fragment. An output data word may be produced that includes embedded data bits at its least significant bits, most significant bits, or intermediate bits.