Set-Top Box Resolution Switching for HDMI Re-Sync
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D video content displayed on HDMI-connected set-top boxes and televisions often becomes garbled when switching from 3D to 2D mode or during emergency alerts due to the display device not recognizing changes in 3D structure information within HDMI Vendor Specific InfoFrames, leading to synchronization issues.
Innovation Solution
The set-top box automatically switches the video content resolution from 1080i to 720p and back to 1080i, or from 720p to 1080i, in response to changes in HDMI Vendor Specific InfoFrames, triggering the display device to re-sync with the video content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the display device uses HDMI Vendor Specific InfoFrames to convey 3D structure information, then 3D video content can be transmitted, but the display device fails to recognize changes in 3D structure information causing garbled pictures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by switching the video resolution parameter between 1080i and 720p. When a change in 3D structure information is detected in the HDMI Vendor Specific InfoFrame, the set-top box temporarily changes the resolution parameter to 720p, transmits a few frames at this resolution, then switches back to 1080i. This parameter change forces the display device to re-synchronize and重新 interpret the InfoFrame, thereby resolving the garbled picture issue while maintaining 3D content transmission capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If the set-top box maintains continuous 1080i resolution transmission, then video quality is preserved, but the display device cannot re-sync when 3D structure information changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by introducing temporary resolution switches at specific intervals when needed. Instead of maintaining continuous 1080i transmission without variation, the system periodically switches to 720p resolution for a brief period (transmitting only a few frames) when a change in 3D structure information is detected. This periodic disruption allows the display device to re-sync while minimizing impact on overall video quality.
3Reliability
If the display device is modified to properly recognize InfoFrame changes, then picture quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the inversion principle by reversing the problem-solving approach. Instead of modifying the display device to better recognize InfoFrame changes (which would increase device complexity), the solution modifies the set-top box to actively change the video resolution parameter. This inversion transfers the adaptation burden from the display device to the set-top box, maintaining picture quality improvement without requiring display device modifications.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the set-top box switches resolution frequently, then display device re-sync is triggered, but transmission stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by limiting the duration and scope of resolution switches. Instead of continuously switching between 1080i and 720p, the system switches to 720p for only a few frames (partial action) when a change in 3D structure information is detected. This minimal disruption is sufficient to trigger re-sync in the display device while maintaining overall transmission stability and minimizing user-perceptible effects.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a set-top-box that supports 3D video content is disclosed. The method involves transmitting video content from an HDMI port of the set-top-box to a display device at a first resolution. The method also involves, in response to a change in the HDMI_Video_Format field or in the 3D_Structure field of an HDMI Vendor Specific InfoFrame, automatically switching to transmitting video content from the HDMI port of the set-top-box at a second resolution. The method also involves, after the switch to the second resolution, automatically switching back to transmitting video content from the HDMI port of the set-top-box at the first resolution in order to trigger a re-sync operation at the display device.