Timestamp Embedding in Video via Pixel Dispersion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing MR technologies face image quality deterioration when embedding additional information, such as time stamps, into video data, which is essential for synchronizing captured videos and sensor data.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that acquires image data, generates time stamp information, and replaces data at multiple pixel positions to embed additional data without significantly degrading image quality, using a configuration that includes an image capturing unit, an image processing unit, and an image synthesis unit to synchronize and superimpose computer graphics on real-time video.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If time stamp information is embedded in one predetermined pixel of video data, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization accuracyVSAvoidimage quality deterioration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the time stamp embedding into multiple segments by dispersing the time stamp information across multiple pixel positions instead of concentrating it in one pixel. This segmentation reduces the visual impact on image quality while maintaining the synchronization functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by selectively embedding time stamp information in specific pixel positions that are less critical to image quality. By choosing appropriate pixel locations and using dispersion, the time stamp is embedded in a way that minimizes its impact on the overall image quality while preserving synchronization accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional information is embedded in video data, then functionality is improved, but image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidimage quality deterioration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the additional information (time stamp) and disperses it across multiple pixels rather than embedding it in a single location. This approach maintains the functional benefit of having time stamp information available for synchronization while reducing the visual degradation caused by the embedding process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the embedding parameters by using multiple pixel positions instead of one, and by controlling the embedding depth and location. These parameter changes allow the system to maintain functionality while minimizing the harmful effect on image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10771765B2Information processing apparatus, information processing system, information processing method, and storage medium for embedding time stamped information in an image
Publication Date: 2020.09.08 CANON KK
  • US10771765B2 patent drawing
  • US10771765B2 patent drawing
  • US10771765B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire image data, a generation unit configured to generate information about time as generated additional data, and a replacement unit configured to replace data at a plurality of pixel positions of the acquired image data with the generated additional data.