Image Decoder Tile Index Interpolation for Memory Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and bandwidth requirements of storing and rendering true color images, particularly in real-time applications, necessitate efficient compression and decompression methods to reduce memory and bandwidth needs without compromising image quality.
Innovation Solution
A method for indexing in an image decoder that involves identifying tiles, asymmetrically distributing indices, and using bilinear filtering to determine pixel indices within a rectangular grid, allowing for efficient interpolation of color information across tiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If true color information (32 bits per pixel) is stored for each pixel in an image, then image quality is maintained, but memory cost and bandwidth requirements become prohibitively high
Solution Approach 1:
The image is divided into tiles, and each tile is further segmented into multiple blocks. This segmentation allows the patent to store only a limited number of color values per block rather than for every pixel, significantly reducing memory requirements while maintaining image quality through systematic reconstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation from storing full 32-bit color values for every pixel to storing compressed index values and using interpolation to reconstruct color information. This parameter transformation reduces memory usage from 32 bits per pixel to a fraction thereof while preserving visual quality
2Reliability
If true color information (32 bits per pixel) is transferred for real-time rendering, then image quality is maintained, but bandwidth requirements become impossible to meet without increasing circuit layout size
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the image into tiles and blocks, the patent reduces the amount of color data that needs to be transferred at once. Only essential color values and index information are transferred through the bandwidth-constrained path, while the rest is reconstructed locally at the renderer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary compression of color information into a compact format before transfer. The essential color data is pre-processed and stored in a compressed representation, reducing bandwidth requirements before the data even enters the transfer pipeline
3Quantity of substance
If compression and decompression methods are implemented, then memory and bandwidth requirements are reduced, but lossless storage and display of images becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces index values as an intermediary between the compressed storage format and the full-color representation. These index values serve as a compact mediator that can be expanded back into full color information through interpolation, enabling lossless reconstruction of the original image data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a compressed copy of the color information that preserves all necessary data for lossless reconstruction. Rather than storing full color values, it stores a simplified representation that can be perfectly reconstructed through the interpolation process, maintaining lossless storage capability
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing indexing in an image decoder. The method includes identifying a tile in an image, wherein the image comprises a plurality of tiles, and wherein each tile includes color data associated with a plurality of pixels. The method includes asymmetrically providing a plurality of indices throughout the tile. The method includes identifying a pixel in the tile. The method also includes determining a corresponding rectangular grid that includes the pixel, wherein the corresponding rectangular grid comprises at least one indices in a group of indices. The method includes determining an index for the pixel by bilinearly filtering the group of indices that is associated with the corresponding rectangular grid, wherein the filtering is performed in relation to the pixel.