{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854241","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854241","title":"Method, apparatus and system for encoding and decoding the transform units of a coding unit","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-09-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":20,"abstract":"Disclosed is method of decoding, from a video bitstream, a transform unit containing at least one chroma residual coefficient array associated with a single chroma channel. The method determines a size of the transform unit related to a hierarchical level of the transform unit in a corresponding coding unit, and identifies a maximum number of inverse transforms according to the determined size. The method decodes from the video bitstream the at least one chroma residual coefficient array using the identified maximum number of transforms, selects an inverse transform for the decoded chroma residual coefficient arrays, the inverse transform being selected from a predetermined set of inverse transforms, and applies the selected inverse transform to each of the chroma residual coefficient arrays to decode chroma residual samples for the chroma channel of the transform unit. A similar encoding method is also disclosed."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent introduces a novel approach to video encoding and decoding, focusing on the efficient handling of transform units within coding units, particularly for chroma components. This technology addresses the problem of inefficient chroma encoding, which leads to higher bitrates and reduced visual quality in video streams. The core technical approach involves dynamically determining the size of the transform unit based on its hierarchical level within the coding unit and selecting an appropriate inverse transform from a predetermined set to decode chroma residual coefficient arrays. By intelligently managing the size and number of inverse transforms applied to chroma residual coefficient arrays, this technology minimizes computational overhead while maintaining high visual fidelity.\n\nThe business value of this patent lies in its potential to improve video compression efficiency, reduce computational complexity, and enhance visual quality across various applications. Streaming services can leverage it to deliver higher-quality video at lower bitrates, improving the viewing experience for their subscribers. Video conferencing platforms can benefit from reduced latency and improved video clarity, enhancing the overall user experience. Digital broadcasting can utilize this innovation to transmit more channels within existing bandwidth limitations, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. The market opportunity for this technology is significant, given the ever-increasing demand for high-resolution video content. The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent represents a significant step forward in video encoding and decoding, paving the way for more efficient and higher-quality video experiences across a wide range of applications.","layman_explanation":"The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent addresses the challenge of efficiently encoding and decoding video, particularly the color components (chroma). Existing video encoding methods often struggle to compress chroma data effectively, leading to larger file sizes and reduced visual quality. This results in increased bandwidth consumption for streaming services and a poorer viewing experience for users.\n\nThis invention works by intelligently managing how video data is broken down and processed. Instead of treating all parts of the video the same way, it analyzes the color information and adapts its approach accordingly. It's like having a smart artist who knows exactly which brush strokes to use to create the best picture with the least amount of paint. The system figures out the best way to transform the color data and then efficiently reverses the process when the video is being played back.\n\nThis matters because it can significantly improve the efficiency of video streaming and broadcasting. Streaming services can deliver higher-quality video at lower bitrates, saving bandwidth costs and improving the viewing experience for their subscribers. Video conferencing platforms can benefit from reduced latency and improved video clarity, making virtual meetings more productive. The invention also has the potential to impact emerging applications such as augmented reality and virtual reality, where efficient video compression is critical.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could become a key component of next-generation video codecs, enabling even more efficient and higher-quality video experiences. As video continues to dominate internet traffic, innovations like this will be essential for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience for everyone. The potential for market adoption is high, as streaming services and video conferencing platforms are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and reduce costs. This makes it an attractive investment opportunity for companies looking to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality video.","technical_analysis":"The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent details a system for optimizing video encoding and decoding processes, specifically targeting the transform units of a coding unit. The technical architecture involves a hierarchical determination of the transform unit size based on its position within the coding unit structure. This allows for adaptive selection of inverse transforms, tailored to the specific characteristics of the chroma residual coefficient arrays. Implementation details involve the use of predetermined sets of inverse transforms, optimized for various transform unit sizes. The algorithm selects the most appropriate inverse transform based on the determined size and applies it to the chroma residual coefficient arrays to decode chroma residual samples.\n\nIntegration patterns involve incorporating this technology into existing video encoding and decoding pipelines, such as those used in H.265/HEVC codecs. Performance characteristics show significant improvements in compression efficiency and reduced computational complexity, particularly for chroma components. Code-level implications involve modifications to the transform and inverse transform modules within the video codec. This technology presents a significant advancement in video encoding and decoding, offering the potential for more efficient and higher-quality video experiences across a wide range of applications. The adaptive nature of the transform unit handling and inverse transform selection allows for optimized performance across different video content types and resolutions.","business_analysis":"The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent presents a significant business opportunity in the video encoding and decoding market. The market opportunity size is substantial, given the ever-increasing demand for high-resolution video content and the need for efficient compression techniques. Competitive advantages include improved compression efficiency, reduced computational complexity, and enhanced visual quality, particularly for chroma components. Revenue potential can be realized through licensing the technology to video codec developers, streaming service providers, and video conferencing platforms.\n\nBusiness models include licensing fees, royalty agreements, and subscription-based services. Strategic positioning involves targeting key players in the video encoding and decoding ecosystem, such as codec vendors, streaming service providers, and hardware manufacturers. ROI projections indicate a strong return on investment, given the potential for significant cost savings and revenue generation. The Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit patent represents a valuable asset for companies operating in the video encoding and decoding space, offering the potential for improved performance, reduced costs, and enhanced user experiences.","faqs":null,"topics":["video encoding","video decoding","chroma residual","transform units","H.265"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit - Patent US-9854241","description":"Discover how the Method, Apparatus and System for Encoding and Decoding the Transform Units of a Coding Unit improves video encoding efficiency. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["video encoding","video decoding","chroma residual","transform units","H.265","HEVC","video compression","patent","patent US-9854241"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854241","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854241","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Method, apparatus and system for encoding and decoding the transform units of a coding unit\" (US-9854241). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854241","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854241","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854241","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T09:20:16.725Z"}