Video Processing Apportionment Between Source and Sink Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is no convenient mechanism for apportioning video processing between a video source device and a video sink device, leading to inefficiencies in video image quality and power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow video source and sink devices to communicate their processing capabilities, enabling the classification and distribution of video processing algorithms between them to maximize image quality, conserve power, or balance the processing load.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If video processing algorithms are applied at the source device, then image quality is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo image qualityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides video processing functionality into separate modules that can be distributed between source and sink devices. Each device can independently select which processing algorithms to execute based on capability and power constraints, allowing quality optimization without forcing all processing onto one power-constrained device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically determines which device performs which video processing algorithms based on real-time conditions including power availability, processing capabilities, and desired quality levels. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt power consumption while maintaining image quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If video processing capabilities are distributed between source and sink devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo processing capability distributionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal capability exchange mechanism where both source and sink devices can advertise their video processing capabilities through standardized data structures. This allows either device to potentially perform any supported processing algorithm, increasing adaptability while using common protocols to manage complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses capability exchange feedback loops where devices communicate their processing abilities, and the receiving device uses this information to determine optimal algorithm allocation. This feedback mechanism enables adaptive distribution without requiring complex pre-configured system architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If no mechanism exists for apportioning video processing, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operation simplicityVSAvoidvideo processing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables devices to automatically determine their own role in video processing by exchanging capability information and autonomously selecting which algorithms to execute. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration while optimizing processing efficiency through capability-based allocation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2232850B1Method, apparatus and machine-readable medium for apportioning video processing between a video source device and a video sink device
Publication Date: 2019.08.21 ATI TECHNOLOGIES ULC
  • EP2232850B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2232850B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2232850B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

To apportion desired video processing between a video source device and a video sink device, at one of the devices, and based upon an indication of video processing algorithms of which the other device is capable and an indication of video processing algorithms of which the one device is capable, a set of video processing algorithms for achieving desired video processing is identified. The identified set of video processing algorithms is classified into a first subset of algorithms for performance by the other device and a second subset of algorithms for performance by the one device. At least one command for causing the other device to effect the first subset of video processing algorithms is sent. The one device may be configured to effect the second subset of algorithms.