Parallel Video Mixing Tree for HD Signal Delay Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cascaded or sequential video processing methods, such as those used in video production switchers, result in significant delays due to the sequential processing of video effects like layering, which can exceed the allowed delay limits for high-definition video applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a parallel video data mixing apparatus that mixes video data inputs in parallel using mix parameter signals, including alpha signals, to generate a composite mix parameter signal, allowing for faster processing through a binary tree structure with truncation and rounding to maintain precision and reduce delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional cascaded or sequential processing of video effects is used, then video layering can be achieved, but significant delay occurs which exceeds allowed delay limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the video mixing process into multiple parallel processing stages organized in a tree structure. Instead of sequential processing where each video layer is processed one after another (cascaded), the system divides the mixing operations into parallel branches that can execute simultaneously. This segmentation reduces the critical path length and overall processing delay while maintaining the same video layering functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential (one-dimensional time-based) processing to parallel (multi-dimensional) processing by introducing a tree structure with multiple levels. Each level represents a different stage of mixing operations that can proceed concurrently. This dimensional change from linear sequence to hierarchical parallel structure enables significant delay reduction while preserving video effect processing capabilities.
2Productivity
If parallel video data mixing is implemented to reduce delay, then processing speed improves, but calculation precision and accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through truncation and rounding operations at each stage of parallel mixing. The system monitors calculation results and applies feedback control to maintain precision by discarding insignificant bits (truncation) and adjusting values to nearest representable numbers (rounding). This feedback approach ensures that parallel processing does not compromise accuracy while maintaining the speed benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by using fixed-point arithmetic with controlled precision rather than full floating-point precision throughout. By strategically applying truncation and rounding at intermediate stages, the system manages numerical precision to match the requirements of video processing while enabling faster parallel computation. This parameter transformation allows parallel processing to achieve both speed and acceptable precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Parallel video effects, mix trees, and related methods are disclosed. Video data inputs are mixed in parallel according to a mix parameter signal associated with one of the video data inputs. A resultant parallel mixed video data output is further mixed with a further video data input according to a composite mix parameter signal, which corresponds to a product of mix parameter signals that are based on mix parameter signals respectively associated with multiple video data inputs. The mix parameter signals could be alpha signals, in which case the composite mix parameter signal could correspond to a product of complementary alpha signals that are complements of the alpha signals. Composite mix parameter signals and mix results could be truncated based on a number of levels in a multi-level mix tree and an error or error tolerance. Rounding could be applied to a final mix output or an intermediate mix result.