Programmable Video Data Processing Circuit for Flexible Functionality

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video and graphics data processing systems lack flexibility due to the use of non-programmable chips that perform specific, predefined functions, requiring different cards for varying functionalities.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of programmable functional blocks within video data processing circuits and systems, allowing for multiple functions and configurable data flow with selectable bit rates, enabling reconfiguration of data paths and functions without needing new hardware.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If non-programmable data processing chips are used to perform specific predefined functions, then the system provides stable and reliable performance for those functions, but the system lacks flexibility and requires different cards for different functionalities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality flexibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single video data processing card with programmable functional blocks that can perform multiple different functions through software configuration. Instead of requiring separate hardware cards for each function (video capture, VBI processing, bit rate management, etc.), the programmable blocks can be configured via firmware or software to execute different tasks, making one card universal for multiple video processing functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamically reconfigurable functional blocks that can change their operation mode and function based on runtime requirements. The programmable nature allows the same hardware block to be dynamically assigned to different functions (e.g., switching between video capture and VBI processing) without physical reconfiguration, enabling adaptive system behavior

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate cards are used to provide different video processing functions, then each function can be optimized independently, but the system requires multiple hardware components increasing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality varietyVSAvoidnumber of hardware components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple video processing functions that would traditionally require separate hardware cards into a single integrated card. The functional blocks for video capture, VBI processing, bit rate management, and other video processing tasks are merged into one card, reducing the number of hardware components from multiple cards to one while maintaining all necessary functionalities through programmable control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If programmable functional blocks are implemented to provide multiple functions, then system flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and programming requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereconfigurabilityVSAvoidprogramming complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the programmable functional blocks can be configured through automated firmware or software routines rather than requiring complex manual programming. The system includes built-in configuration capabilities that allow the functional blocks to be programmed and reconfigured through standard interfaces, reducing the programming burden on users while maintaining high reconfigurability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7612779B2Video data processing circuits and systems comprising programmable blocks or components
Publication Date: 2009.11.03 AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL SALES PTE LTD
  • US7612779B2 patent drawing
  • US7612779B2 patent drawing
  • US7612779B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention refers to a video data processing system and a video data processing circuit, comprising at least two functional blocks of which at least a first functional block is programmable so that different functions can be provided by said first functional block.