Neural Network Post-Filter Signaling With Quantization-Based Strength Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video coding standards lack efficient methods for signaling neural network post-filter parameter information, which can enhance video quality but are not adequately integrated into current video coding frameworks.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating techniques for signaling neural network post-filter parameter information through syntax elements in the video coding process, allowing for the update and control of neural network post-filters, including filtering strength control based on quantization parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If neural network post-filter parameter information is integrated into video coding standards, then video quality is enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo qualityVSAvoidcoding system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The neural network post-filter parameters are nested within existing video coding bitstream structures. The filter parameters are embedded as syntax elements within the video data structure, allowing the neural network filter to be integrated without creating a separate complex system. This nesting approach enables quality enhancement while minimizing the increase in overall system complexity by leveraging existing coding frameworks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies existing video coding parameters by introducing neural network post-filter strength control information as additional syntax elements. These parameter changes allow the system to adjust filter strength based on quantization parameters and other video characteristics, enhancing video quality while maintaining compatibility with existing coding standards through controlled parameter extensions rather than fundamental system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If neural network post-filter control information is added to video bitstream, then image processing is improved, but data requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing qualityVSAvoiddata size
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The neural network post-filter parameters are applied locally to specific regions or blocks of video data rather than uniformly across the entire video stream. The filter strength control information is selectively encoded based on local video characteristics and quantization parameters, allowing image processing improvements in critical regions while minimizing the overall data overhead by avoiding unnecessary filter application throughout the entire bitstream.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements partial application of neural network post-filtering by controlling filter strength based on quantization parameters. Rather than applying the full neural network filter to all video data, the system applies filtering selectively where needed, using partial action to balance image processing quality improvement with data requirement control. This partial application approach prevents excessive data overhead while maintaining effectiveness in critical areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If filtering strength is controlled by quantization parameters, then compatibility with video coding standards is maintained, but filter performance may be limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestandard compatibilityVSAvoidfilter performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic filter strength control where the neural network post-filter parameters are adjusted based on quantization parameters and other video characteristics. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain compatibility with video coding standards while optimizing filter performance for different video conditions. The filter strength is not fixed but dynamically adjusted to balance standard compliance with performance requirements across varying video quality levels and coding conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12395629B2Systems and methods for signaling neural network post-filter filter strength control information in video coding
Publication Date: 2025.08.19 SHARP KK
  • US12395629B2 patent drawing
  • US12395629B2 patent drawing
  • US12395629B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device may be configured to perform filtering based on information included in a neural network post-filter characteristics message. In one example, the neural network post-filter characteristics message includes a syntax element indicating auxiliary input data is present in an input tensor of the neural network post-filter. The device may derive a filtering strength control value array where each entry in the array is based on a quantization parameter of a respective input picture for the neural network post-filter.