Neural Network Post-Filter Input Tensor Identification in Video Decoding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video coding and decoding schemes, such as H.264/AVC and H.265/HEVC, face challenges in determining the complexity of neural network models for post-filtering processes, particularly in analyzing the topology and complexity of neural networks without explicit information, and in defining input and output formats for neural network filters, which hinders efficient processing and image generation.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of header decoding and encoding circuitry to specify input tensor identification parameters for neural network post-filters, allowing for the determination of processing capabilities and image transformation without analyzing the neural network model's URI, and defining syntax tables for neural network filter supplemental enhancement information to clarify input and output formats.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If neural network model information is transmitted using URI or explicit topology definition, then the neural network filter can be specified, but the complexity and processing capability cannot be determined without analyzing the model

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneural network filter specificationVSAvoidmodel analysis complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential complexity information (number of layers, filters, and parameters) from the complete neural network model, transmitting this extracted metadata separately from the full model definition. This allows the decoder to determine processing capability without analyzing the entire model topology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of the neural network model during encoding to extract complexity metrics before transmission. These pre-computed complexity parameters are included in the bitstream, allowing the decoder to immediately determine processing capability without performing model analysis during decoding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If neural network topology is explicitly defined, then the filter structure can be specified, but the processing capability determination still requires model analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter structure specificationVSAvoidprocessing capability detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces complexity metadata as an intermediary between the neural network model definition and the processing capability determination. This metadata layer provides a simplified representation that directly indicates processing requirements without requiring analysis of the full model structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If color space and chroma sampling are not indicated in SEI, then the supplemental enhancement information remains simple, but the output format cannot be determined

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSEI information structureVSAvoidoutput format information
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the SEI message structure into distinct fields for color space indication and chroma sampling specification. This segmentation allows the addition of necessary format information while maintaining a structured and organized message format that is easier to parse and process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If tensor channel and color component relationships are not defined, then the neural network processing can be flexible, but the input and output processing cannot be identified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneural network processing flexibilityVSAvoidinput output processing identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces explicit parameters in the SEI message that define the mapping between tensor channels and color components. These parameters allow the system to maintain processing flexibility while providing clear instructions for input preparation and output generation, resolving the ambiguity in channel-color relationships.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12160596B2Image decoding apparatus, image encoding apparatus, and image decoding method
Publication Date: 2024.12.03 SHARP KK
  • US12160596B2 patent drawing
  • US12160596B2 patent drawing
  • US12160596B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an image decoding apparatus for decoding information specifying a neural network includes: header decoding circuitry that decodes an input tensor identification parameter specifying a process for deriving an input tensor input for a post filter of the neural network. The input tensor identification parameter is a parameter related to a color component channel.