Pass-Through Video Processor Eliminates Frame Buffer Latency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional video magnifiers suffer from latency issues due to the use of frame buffers, which cause delays in image processing, and existing solutions fail to adequately address this problem while also limiting the user's field of view with masking techniques that can lead to eye-strain and loss of spatial perspective.
Innovation Solution
A pass-through video processor that processes video signals on a pixel-by-pixel basis, eliminating the need for frame buffers and allowing for real-time viewing, along with adjustable shading to highlight selected portions of the image without completely masking the underlying text or objects, thereby reducing latency and eye-strain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If frame buffers are used for video processing, then image processing can be performed, but latency increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes frame buffers from the video processing pipeline entirely. Instead of storing entire frames in memory buffers and processing them sequentially, the system processes video data in real-time as it flows through the pipeline, extracting the problematic frame buffer component that causes latency while maintaining image processing capabilities through alternative methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The video processing is divided into multiple independent processing stages (color processing, spatial processing, temporal processing) that can operate concurrently on different portions of the video signal. This segmentation allows parallel processing without requiring sequential frame buffer operations, reducing overall latency while maintaining processing quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frame buffers are used for design blocks, then video processing functionality is enhanced, but cumulative latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic processing where video data flows continuously through multiple processing stages rather than being statically stored in sequential frame buffers. Each processing block operates dynamically on the flowing video signal, allowing enhanced functionality through multiple processing passes without the cumulative latency penalty of sequential buffer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The video processing pipeline maintains continuous operation without interruption for frame buffer transfers. Video data flows continuously through all processing stages in real-time, eliminating the start-stop nature of frame buffer-based processing where the system must wait for complete frame buffers before processing can continue.
3Ease of operation
If masking techniques are used to highlight selected portions, then user focus is improved, but field of view is limited causing eye-strain
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different processing qualities to different regions of the video image simultaneously. Selected portions receive enhanced processing (such as magnification or color enhancement) while other regions maintain normal processing, allowing users to focus on specific areas of interest without completely masking or blocking out the surrounding context, thus preserving spatial awareness and reducing eye strain.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a video processor for a magnifier camera. In particular, the disclosure relates to a video processor that eliminates the use of a frame buffer. This, in turn, reduces the latency otherwise present in the video signal. The disclosed video processor also allows selected portions of the display to be shaded. This highlights the non-shaded portions of the display while at the same time allowing the entire object to be perceived by the user.