Image Encoding and Decoding With Projection-Aware Block Partitioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing systems struggle with the massive data generated for 360-degree images in virtual and augmented reality, necessitating improved performance in image encoding and decoding, particularly for high-resolution and high-quality images.

Innovation Solution

A method for encoding and decoding 360-degree images that includes generating a predicted image using syntax information, combining it with a residual image, and reconstructing the decoded image according to projection formats like ERP, CMP, OHP, and ISP, with image expansion based on partitioning units and reference pixels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional image encoding/decoding methods are used for 360-degree images, then the processing can be performed with standard algorithms, but the performance is insufficient for handling the massive data volume of high-resolution 360-degree images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing performanceVSAvoiddata volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the 360-degree image into multiple projection formats (ERP, CMP, OHP, ISP) and processes each format with specialized encoding/decoding methods. The image is segmented into different regional units that can be independently processed, allowing the system to handle large data volumes through divided processing rather than attempting to process the entire 360-degree image as a single unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different encoding parameters and processing methods depending on the projection format being used. By changing the processing parameters according to the specific projection format (ERP, CMP, OHP, or ISP), the system optimizes performance for each format while maintaining the ability to handle various data volumes efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If high-resolution images are processed to maintain image quality, then the image quality is preserved, but the data volume increases massively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiddata volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs different encoding parameters and compression techniques specific to each projection format to maintain image quality while optimizing data volume. By adjusting processing parameters according to the projection format characteristics, the system preserves manufacturing precision (image quality) without proportionally increasing data volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple projection formats are supported for versatile 360-degree image processing, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection format compatibilityVSAvoidprocessing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal encoding/decoding framework that can handle multiple projection formats (ERP, CMP, OHP, ISP) through a single integrated system. The apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities that allow it to process different projection formats using standardized procedures, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves versatility across multiple projection formats by changing processing parameters rather than implementing separate dedicated systems for each format. This approach allows a single apparatus to adapt to different projection formats through parameter adjustment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12439086B2Image data encoding/decoding method and apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.10.07 INST OF IMAGE TECH INC
  • US12439086B2 patent drawing
  • US12439086B2 patent drawing
  • US12439086B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are methods and apparatuses for image data encoding/decoding. A method of decoding an image includes receiving a bitstream in which the image is encoded; obtaining index information for specifying a block division type of a current block in the image; and determining the block division type of the current block from a candidate group pre-defined in the decoding apparatus. The candidate group includes a plurality of candidate division types, including at least one of a non-division, a first quad-division, a second quad-division, a binary-division or a triple-division. The method also includes dividing the current block into a plurality of sub-blocks; and decoding each of the sub-blocks with reference to syntax information obtained from the bitstream.