ImageTypeDriver

ImageTypeDriver is a software component within an image-processing framework that encapsulates support for a specific image data type or format. It provides a stable interface for reading and writing image data, handling pixel formats, color management, and metadata, while delegating implementation details to format-specific code. By isolating format logic behind a driver interface, frameworks can extend support for new image types without modifying core pipelines.

Typically, an ImageTypeDriver implements a defined interface with responsibilities such as canHandle(input), read(input), write(output), and getSupportedFeatures. It exposes properties for pixel format, color space, compression options, and metadata schemas. Drivers may support streaming I/O, multi-threading, and on-demand decoding. A central registry or factory loads drivers at startup or on demand and selects the appropriate driver based on input characteristics or user configuration.

Frameworks discover and compose pipelines by selecting an ImageTypeDriver for each image type encountered. New formats can be added by shipping additional drivers or loading them as plugins. Drivers are typically tested against representative samples and may implement fallbacks or conversions to common internal formats when interoperation with other drivers is required.

Key considerations include performance, memory usage, thread-safety, and compatibility with color management and metadata standards. Documentation and versioning of drivers help prevent regressions and assure consistent behavior across platforms.

See also: image format, color management, image codec, plugin architecture, metadata standards.