Multi-Buffer Frame Reading and Writing at Variable Refresh Rates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional frame rate control methods fail to handle variable refresh rates, leading to issues such as jump-back frames, repeated frames, and inconsistent frames, which degrade the viewing experience due to inconsistent or variable input and output data rates.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling multiple buffer blocks that utilize an input fast mode and an input slow mode, where the write end and read end select buffer blocks based on the buffer index of the other end, using vertical sync signals to synchronize operations and prevent frame inconsistencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional frame rate control methods are used with fixed buffer access order, then the system can handle constant data rates, but it fails to handle variable refresh rates causing jump-back frames and repeated frames
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic buffer block selection where the write end and read end independently choose buffer blocks based on their current states rather than following a fixed order. The write end selects buffer blocks based on whether they are being read, and the read end selects based on whether they are being written, creating a dynamic adaptation mechanism that handles variable refresh rates while maintaining frame consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the write end monitors read operations and adjusts buffer selection accordingly, and the read end monitors write operations to avoid reading unwritten frames. This mutual feedback loop enables the system to adapt to variable data rates while preventing frame inconsistencies.
2Ease of operation
If the write end and read end use independent buffer selection based on buffer index, then frame rate control is simplified, but buffer block conflicts occur when both access the same buffer simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer is segmented into multiple buffer blocks that can be independently selected and accessed. The write end and read end operate on different buffer blocks simultaneously without conflict, as each end selects the next available buffer block based on independent criteria. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex synchronization while ensuring safe concurrent access.
3Productivity
If multiple buffer blocks are provided for frame rate control, then input fast mode and input slow mode are enabled, but the system complexity increases due to multiple buffer management mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer block selection mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables frame rate control, handles variable refresh rates, prevents buffer conflicts, and maintains frame consistency. By using a universal selection strategy where both write and read ends independently choose buffer blocks based on simple criteria, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for reading and writing frame images with multiple buffer blocks and a system are provided. In the system, when an input-fast mode is switched to an input-low mode, a read end decides whether to read a next buffer block according to a writing progress. If a write end does not change the buffer block to be written, the read end keeps reading the buffer block, and otherwise the read end selects a next buffer block to be read. In an instance that the read end is required to read the same frame image repeatedly, when the input-slow mode is switched to the input-fast mode, the write end decides whether to write a next buffer block according to a reading progress. The write end selects a next buffer block to be written with a next frame image if the read end already reads last buffer block.