Pre-processor Reduces CPU Load in Image Processing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image processing techniques are inefficient due to frequent memory access, leading to prolonged processing times, especially when performed by a CPU.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus is designed with a pre-processor that generates pre-processing data from Bayer data, which is then processed by a main processor, utilizing a configuration that includes an RGB data converter, bit selector, and data array converter to reduce data complexity and enhance processing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If image processing is performed by CPU with frequent memory access, then processing can be completed, but processing time becomes long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing speedVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The image processing system is segmented into two distinct processors: a pre-processor that handles pre-processing tasks (Bayer data to RGB conversion) and a main processor that handles image processing tasks. This segmentation allows each processor to specialize in specific operations, reducing the burden on the CPU and enabling parallel execution, thereby decreasing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pre-processor performs preliminary actions by converting Bayer data to RGB data and generating pre-processing data before the main processor performs image processing. This preliminary conversion eliminates the need for the main processor to perform time-consuming memory access operations, significantly reducing processing time while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If pre-processor generates pre-processing data, then main processor load is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing efficiencyVSAvoidprocessor configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into two functional segments: a pre-processor for data conversion and a main processor for image processing. Each segment has a clear, specialized function, which simplifies the overall system architecture despite the increased number of components. The segmentation allows for modular design and easier maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pre-processor acts as an intermediary between the imaging device and the main processor. It converts Bayer data to RGB data and generates pre-processing data that the main processor can efficiently process. This intermediary role reduces the complexity of the main processor's tasks and enables more efficient data flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12081919B2Image processing apparatus and imaging device
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 MAXELL FRONTIER CO LTD
  • US12081919B2 patent drawing
  • US12081919B2 patent drawing
  • US12081919B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus 1 includes a pre-processor 10 and a main processor 30. The pre-processor 10 generates pre-processing data by performing a pre-processing of Bayer data outputted from an imaging device 91, and outputs the generated pre-processing data. The main processor 30 performs an image processing based on the pre-processing data.