Dynamic Reference Frame Selection for Video Encoding Latency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video encoding techniques for IP cameras suffer from decoding latency during random access playback due to fixed reference frame settings, which limit encoding efficiency and cannot control playback latency for P frames effectively.
Innovation Solution
A video encoding apparatus and method that dynamically sets a current frame to a Long Term Reference (LTR) frame, Short Term Reference (STR) frame, or Non-Reference (NR) frame based on playback latency control conditions and inter-frame correlation conditions, optimizing encoding efficiency by balancing latency and compression rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed reference frame settings (LTR and STR) are used in conventional video encoding, then encoding simplicity is maintained, but decoding latency increases during random access playback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed reference frame settings to dynamic selection. The encoder dynamically determines whether to use LTR, STR, or NR frames based on real-time conditions including playback latency requirements and inter-frame correlation metrics, allowing the system to adapt reference frame usage to current operational needs rather than following a predetermined fixed pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of reference frame selection from a static fixed value to a dynamic variable. By introducing playback latency control conditions and inter-frame correlation conditions as decision parameters, the system can adjust reference frame types (LTR/STR/NR) based on quantifiable metrics, optimizing the balance between decoding latency and encoding efficiency
2Device complexity
If conventional fixed reference frame settings are used, then encoding process is simple, but encoding efficiency cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes encoding efficiency by changing the reference frame selection from a fixed parameter to a dynamically adjustable one. The system evaluates playback latency control conditions and inter-frame correlation conditions to determine the optimal reference frame type (LTR, STR, or NR) for each encoding operation, thereby improving encoding efficiency through data-driven parameter optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by evaluating inter-frame correlation conditions and playback latency control conditions during the encoding process. This feedback loop allows the system to continuously assess the quality and timing characteristics of video frames and adjust reference frame selection accordingly, creating a closed-loop optimization system that improves encoding efficiency
3Reliability
If conventional technique ensures playback latency for KP frames only, then KP frame playback is controlled, but P frame playback latency cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a unified reference frame selection mechanism that serves both KP frames and P frames. The same dynamic selection process, based on playback latency control conditions and inter-frame correlation conditions, is applied to all frame types, enabling the system to control playback latency for both KP frames and P frames through a single versatile framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends dynamic control to P frames by applying the same dynamic reference frame selection process used for KP frames. The system dynamically evaluates playback latency requirements and inter-frame correlation for P frames and selects appropriate reference frame types (LTR, STR, or NR) accordingly, thereby achieving playback latency control for P frames through dynamic adaptation
Data Source
AI summary
A video encoding apparatus and method are provided. The video encoding apparatus includes a video encoding circuit and a control circuit. The video encoding circuit performs a video encoding operation on a video stream to produce an encoded stream. The control circuit controls the video coding circuit to perform the video encoding operation. The control circuit dynamically sets a current frame in the video stream to at least one of a long-term reference frame, a short-term reference frame, and a non-reference frame according to at least one of a playback latency control condition and an inter-frame correlation condition. The long-term reference frame and the short-term reference frame are used as the decoding reference frame in a video decoding operation.