Programmable Breakpoints in Embedded Image Video Accelerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current signal processing systems for multimedia applications lack flexibility and efficiency in handling various image and video coding standards, particularly in implementing compression and decompression routines for standards like JPEG, MPEG, and H.263, which demand advanced control over pipeline processing and memory utilization.
Innovation Solution
An integrated embedded image and video accelerator with programmable breakpoints allows for conditional event-triggered interrupt signals, enabling flexible control over pipeline processing and memory resource utilization through numerical value-based settings and software-determined policies, coordinating with preprocessing and post-processing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If signal processing systems implement multiple image and video coding standards (JPEG, MPEG, H.263), then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal image and video accelerator that can process multiple coding standards (JPEG, MPEG, H.263) through a single integrated hardware platform. The system uses standardized functional blocks (DCT/IDCT units, quantization/dequantization modules, entropy coding/decoding engines) that can be configured via software to handle different standards, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for each standard and thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multi-standard support
2Speed
If pipeline processing is used for compression and decompression operations, then processing speed is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the compression and decompression processes into distinct pipeline stages (e.g., separation of DCT, quantization, entropy coding stages). Each stage operates independently with defined interfaces, allowing parallel processing while maintaining clear control boundaries. This segmentation enables high-speed pipeline operation without requiring complex centralized control, as each stage can be managed autonomously based on simple control signals
3Productivity
If memory resources are increased for handling large video data, then processing capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces buffer memory as an intermediary component between the high-speed pipeline processor and main system memory. These buffers act as temporary holding areas that decouple the fast processing requirements from the slower memory access speeds, allowing the processor to operate at full speed without requiring proportionally large main memory resources. This intermediary approach enables high productivity with controlled memory usage
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for programmable breakpoints in an integrated embedded image and video accelerator are described. Aspects of the system may include circuitry that enables generation of control signals for pipeline processing of video data within a single chip by at least selecting a target location of the video data and generating an interrupt at a time instant corresponding to the pipeline processing of the target location. The system may enable programmable breakpoints to be set and/or triggered based on policies determined in executable software. The ability to set programmable breakpoints may enable flexible utilization of system memory resources.