Non-buffered Video Line Memory for Latency Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Video processors face inefficiencies in memory management due to the need for large memory buffers, particularly in double-buffering systems, which can lead to latency and inefficiencies in data processing as they wait for buffers to fill or empty completely.
Innovation Solution
A non-buffered memory system using write and read pointers with incremental values, calculated using specific equations, to manage memory locations efficiently, allowing for continuous data processing without the need for double buffering, enabling data to be written and read in a manner that matches the rate of data flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If double-buffering is used to store multiple lines of video data, then data processing continuity is improved, but memory requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the buffering function from a separate memory subsystem and integrates it into the main memory architecture through a single buffer that dynamically tracks read and write positions. This eliminates the need for complex double-buffering mechanisms while maintaining continuous data processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic tracking of read and write positions within a single buffer, allowing the buffer to adapt its operational state based on current data flow requirements. This dynamic approach replaces static double-buffering with a flexible single-buffer system that maintains processing continuity without requiring additional memory resources.
2Speed
If double-buffering is implemented to avoid waiting for buffer emptying, then processing speed is improved, but latency management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through position counters that continuously track the read and write positions within the buffer. This feedback allows the system to dynamically adjust data flow timing and maintain optimal processing speed while managing latency through precise position awareness rather than complex buffering protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention ensures continuous useful action by maintaining a single buffer that operates continuously with tracked read and write positions. The system avoids the stop-start nature of double-buffering by enabling continuous data processing while managing latency through position-based timing control rather than buffer switching.
3Quantity of substance
If large memory buffers are used to store video data, then data storage capacity is improved, but processing efficiency decreases due to buffer fill and empty waiting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using a single buffer rather than multiple large buffers. The buffer operates at optimal size for processing efficiency while the position tracking mechanism enables the system to handle data flow rates equivalent to what would require larger buffers, thus avoiding the efficiency penalty of oversized buffer waiting.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements self-service through automatic position tracking within the buffer, where the system monitors and manages its own state without external intervention. This self-tracking capability allows the buffer to maintain optimal operational characteristics while providing sufficient storage capacity, eliminating the need for large buffers that would cause processing waits.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-buffered video line memory eliminates the need for double buffering video data during processing. While most double buffering systems double the amount of memory necessary to store video data, a non-buffered approach reduces the hardware memory costs substantially. A set of write and read pointers coupled with write and read incrementors allows data to be stored in raster order and removed in block order from a non-buffered memory device. The incrementors, in conjunction with a set of write and read pointers generate a base address for data to be written to and read from the non-buffered memory at substantially the same time. Encoding systems benefit substantially by being able to read and write information into a common memory rather than continuously switching between two different memories, by reducing complexity and cost.