FPGA-based AI Super Resolution for 4K@60FPS Video Enhancement

Conference: Verification Futures 2026 (click here to see full programme)
Speaker: Alexander Montgomerie-Corcoran
Presentation Title: FPGA-based AI Super Resolution for 4K@60FPS Video Enhancement
Abstract:

AI-based Super Resolution is an extremely computationally intensive task, requiring 26× more operations per parameter than other AI-based computer vision algorithms. At the same time, current AI hardware solutions struggle to meet the performance requirements of real-time video enhancement systems due to their generalised, "one-size-fits-all" architecture. To address this gap, Heronic has developed the world’s first single FPGA AI Upscaler accelerator core that can achieve 4K @ 60FPS, reaching clock frequencies of 600MHz. This IP was developed using Heronic’s MOSAIC design automation tool, which produces highly efficient accelerator cores for specific applications. This super resolution technology can enable new applications in Medical Imaging, Defence and Broadcast/ProAV markets. The talk will cover the details of the developed architecture and Heronic’s design process.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Alexander Montgomerie-Corcoran is the founder and CEO of Heronic Technologies. His company, a spinout from Imperial College London, was born from the cutting-edge research environment of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering department, where he completed his PhD. Heronic Technologies is a graduate of the prestigious ChipStart UK programme, and is an Altera Solution Acceleration Partner.

Key Points:
  • Heronic has developed the world's first single FPGA AI Upscaler accelerator core, capable of achieving 4K @ 60FPS at 600MHz, addressing the performance gap.
  • AI-based Super Resolution is computationally intensive, requiring 26x more operations than other AI computer vision algorithms, and current general-purpose AI hardware struggles with real-time video enhancement performance.
  • This accelerator core, developed using Heronic's MOSAIC design automation tool, can enable new applications in Medical Imaging, Defence, and Broadcast/ProAV markets.