Multimode Filter Pipeline for Video De-blocking and De-ringing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital signal processing technologies face challenges in efficiently performing real-time de-blocking and de-ringing operations for low bit rate coded video due to high computational intensity and excessive data I/O overheads, particularly when supporting multiple video standards and filtering algorithms.
Innovation Solution
A flexi-standard filter and method that includes a multimode filter pipeline with a digital signal processor, memory controller, and line memory, allowing for flexible processing of digital video signals through post-processing, in-loop processing, and overlap smoothing, with the ability to handle different filtering standards and reduce data I/O overheads by using a fully configurable pixel memory and pipeline control mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional de-blocking filters are applied to remove block boundaries, then blocking artifacts are reduced, but blurring effects are introduced on real image edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different filtering strengths to different regions: strong filtering on block boundaries and weak or no filtering on real edges. The filter dynamically adjusts its operation based on local pixel characteristics, applying appropriate filtering intensity to each region to remove artifacts while preserving important image features
Solution Approach 2:
The filter transitions from static conventional filtering to dynamic adaptive filtering that adjusts its behavior based on local image characteristics. The filtering strength and mode are dynamically selected based on edge detection and pixel variance analysis, allowing the system to adapt to different regions rather than applying uniform filtering
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filtering algorithms are applied concurrently for different video standards, then compatibility and quality are improved, but device complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal filter design that can operate in multiple modes (weak filtering, strong filtering, edge-directed filtering) to support different video standards and applications. A single filter architecture replaces multiple standard-specific filters, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility across MPEG-4, H.264, and other standards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines de-blocking and de-ringing operations into a single integrated filter pipeline. Multiple filtering functions that would traditionally require separate hardware blocks are merged into one unified system, reducing area and bandwidth requirements while maintaining the ability to perform different filtering operations
3Object-affected harmful factors
If computationally intensive filtering algorithms are used to improve video quality, then artifact removal is enhanced, but real-time processing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the filtering process into distinct stages: edge detection, variance calculation, filtering mode selection, and actual filtering application. This segmentation allows the system to quickly evaluate local characteristics and select appropriate filtering modes without performing full computational analysis on every pixel, enabling real-time operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies filtering selectively rather than uniformly across the entire image. Weak filtering is applied in some regions, strong filtering in others, and no filtering in edge regions. This partial application of filtering reduces overall computational load while maintaining effectiveness in artifact-prone areas
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode filter that is versatile for digital signal processing including in-loop processing (de-blocking and de-ringing), post processing (de-blocking and de-ringing), and overlap smoothing. A flexi-standard filter includes the multimode filter. An electronic device includes the flexi-standard filter. A process for digital signal processing includes in-loop processing (de-blocking and de-ringing), post processing (de-blocking and de-ringing), and overlap smoothing.