Encoder-Decoder Center-Block Partitioning for Reduced Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image and video encoding methods face inefficiencies due to the lack of flexibility in block partitioning, particularly when using block sizes other than typical 8×8 or 16×16, which can impact encoding and decoding processes.
Innovation Solution
An encoder and decoder that utilize a set of block partition modes, including a first partition mode defining a partition direction and number for a block, and a second partition mode for a center block with the same direction but without specifying the total number of partitions, using a flag to indicate horizontal or vertical partitioning, enhancing the partitioning process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional block partitioning methods are used with fixed block sizes (8×8 or 16×16), then the encoding process is simple and efficient, but the flexibility to adapt to different image characteristics is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the block partitioning process into multiple modes (first partition mode with full parameters, second partition mode with reduced parameters for center blocks). This allows different regions of the image to be processed with different levels of detail, improving adaptability while managing complexity through hierarchical segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different partition modes to different blocks based on their position and characteristics. Center blocks use the simplified second partition mode while edge blocks use the comprehensive first partition mode. This local differentiation optimizes the balance between adaptability and complexity for each region.
2Productivity
If the second partition mode includes both partition direction and total number of partitions parameters, then the partitioning is fully specified, but the bitstream complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the total number of partitions parameter from the second partition mode, retaining only the partition direction parameter. This extraction is valid because for center blocks, the total number of partitions is implicitly determined by the partition direction and the fact that they are center blocks, thereby reducing signaling complexity while maintaining encoding efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The second partition mode design allows the system to self-determine the total number of partitions based on the block position and partition direction, eliminating the need to explicitly signal this parameter. The center block status and partition direction together suffice to infer the complete partitioning configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An encoder partitions into blocks using a set of block partition modes. The set of block partition modes includes a first partition mode for partitioning a first block, and a second block partition mode for partitioning a second block which is one of blocks obtained after the first block is partitioned. When the number of partitions of the first block partition mode is three, the second block is a center block among the blocks obtained after partitioning the first block, and the partition direction of the second block partition mode is same as the partition direction of the first block partition mode, the second block partition mode indicates that the number of partitions is only three. A parameter for identifying the second block partition mode includes a first flag indicating a horizontal or vertical partition direction, and does not include a second flag indicating the number of partitions.