Motion Estimation Apparatus Adaptive Stage Execution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motion estimation algorithms for image processing can lead to varying processing times for different block units, potentially causing inefficiencies and image quality degradation, especially under time constraints, and result in complex circuit designs when different algorithms are used for block units with different image properties.
Innovation Solution
A motion estimation method and apparatus that calculates available time for estimating motion vectors and selectively performs stages of motion estimation based on this time, using a control circuit to manage the processing circuit and ensure real-time processing without changing the motion estimation algorithm, thereby maintaining system efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional motion estimation algorithm is applied to block units with different image properties, then motion vectors can be estimated, but working times for different block units vary significantly causing system efficiency deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The motion estimation process is divided into multiple stages (first stage, second stage, third stage, etc.), where each stage performs partial motion estimation. The control circuit selectively executes only the necessary number of stages based on available time, preventing any single block unit from monopolizing the processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The number of motion estimation stages executed is dynamically adjusted based on the available time calculated for each block unit. The control circuit determines the appropriate number of stages to execute within the time constraint, allowing flexible adaptation to varying time requirements while maintaining a single algorithm structure.
2Productivity
If different motion estimation algorithms are applied to block units with different image properties, then processing time can be optimized, but circuit design becomes too complicated
Solution Approach 1:
A single motion estimation algorithm is designed to perform multiple functions by executing different numbers of stages. The same algorithmic structure can adapt to various block unit requirements by controlling the number of stages executed, eliminating the need for multiple specialized algorithms and their associated complex circuit designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The algorithm's behavior is modified by changing the parameter of the number of execution stages rather than changing the algorithm itself. This allows the same motion estimation algorithm to adapt to different block unit characteristics and time constraints simply by adjusting how many stages are performed, avoiding the complexity of implementing multiple different algorithms.
3Loss of time
If motion estimation is performed within time constraint, then real-time processing is achieved, but image quality may deteriorate due to insufficient processing time for certain block units
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a partial number of motion estimation stages based on available time rather than completing all stages for every block unit. This partial action ensures real-time processing compliance while the selective stage execution maintains adequate estimation quality for each block unit's specific requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit calculates the available time for each block unit and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate number of motion estimation stages to execute. This feedback mechanism ensures that the processing adapts to time constraints while maintaining optimal quality within the available time budget.
Data Source
AI summary
A motion estimation method, applied to an image frame having a time constraint, includes calculating an available time for estimating a motion vector of a block unit of the image frame; and selectively performing at least one stage of a plurality of motion estimation stages according to the available time to estimate the motion vector of the block unit.