Image processing apparatus

What is this patent about?

’007 is related to the field of image signal processing, specifically the dynamic adjustment of frame rates for display devices. In conventional television and video systems, frame rate up-conversion is often applied uniformly to smooth out motion blur. However, applying high-frequency processing to static scenes or low-quality signals results in unnecessary power consumption and computational overhead without improving the perceived image quality.

The underlying idea behind ’007 is to implement a variable-rate display architecture that adapts to the specific characteristics of the incoming video stream. Rather than maintaining a fixed output frequency, the system analyzes the content—such as the intensity of motion, the program genre, or the integrity of the transmission—to determine the most efficient display rate. This allows the hardware to prioritize high-performance interpolation for fast-moving sports while conserving energy during static news broadcasts or reducing stuttering when signal quality drops.

The claims of ’007 focus on an image processing apparatus that utilizes an information acquirer to trigger multi-stage frame rate conversion. Specifically, the independent claims cover a mechanism that detects a motion amount and switches between at least two different up-conversion tiers (such as 120 Hz and 180 Hz) based on whether that motion exceeds specific predetermined thresholds. The claims also encompass using program metadata, such as genre codes from an Electronic Program Table, or signal health metrics like bit error rates to dictate the final output frequency.

In practice, the invention works by calculating motion vectors between consecutive frames and applying adjustment coefficients to generate accurate interpolation frames. When the system identifies a high-motion sequence, it inserts these synthetic frames into the sequence and simultaneously signals a timing controller to increase the drive frequency of the display panel. Conversely, if the motion is negligible, the system can bypass the interpolation logic entirely or even perform frame thinning to lower the rate below the source frequency, effectively reducing the power load on the display driver.

This approach differs from prior solutions by moving away from static frequency doubling. Instead of a one-size-fits-all up-conversion, this invention creates a feedback loop between content analysis and hardware driving. By linking the physical drive frequency of the display unit to the real-time demands of the video content or the reliability of the radio throughput, the apparatus ensures that high-speed processing is only active when it provides a tangible benefit to the viewer, optimizing the balance between visual fluidity and system efficiency.