Hypothetical Reference Decoder Parameter Selection for Video Conformance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video coding standards, such as HEVC, inefficiently utilize HRD parameters, leading to wasted computational resources and unnecessary bit usage due to the lack of specification for selecting HRD parameters in sequence parameter sets (SPS) for non-base layers, and the ambiguity in setting target layer identifiers and highest temporal identifiers for bitstream conformance tests.

Innovation Solution

A video encoder generates a bitstream with SPSs that include HRD parameters applicable to specific operation points, allowing devices to select and utilize these parameters for bitstream conformance tests, thereby optimizing HRD operations and reducing computational waste.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If HRD parameters are included in SPS for non-base layers, then bitstream conformance testing capability is improved, but computational resources are wasted due to lack of selection specification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebitstream conformance testing capabilityVSAvoidcomputational resource waste
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the bitstream into base layers and non-base layers, with each layer having its own SPS and HRD parameters. This segmentation allows selective application of HRD parameters only where needed (in non-base layer SPS), avoiding unnecessary computational processing while maintaining conformance testing capability across different layer types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary organization of HRD parameters within SPS structures during encoding, preparing them for efficient selection and use during decoding and conformance testing. This preliminary arrangement enables devices to quickly access and apply only the necessary parameters without wasting computational resources on unnecessary processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If HRD parameters are signaled in VPS only, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operation points deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter signaling structureVSAvoidoperation point specific parameter selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes SPS structures universal by enabling them to contain HRD parameters that can serve multiple functions: they provide operation-point-specific parameters for different non-base layers while maintaining compatibility with the overall VPS structure. This multi-functionality allows the same SPS structure to adapt to various operation points without increasing fundamental device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by allowing HRD parameters to be selectively signaled in SPS structures specifically for non-base layers where they are needed, rather than uniformly across all layers. This localized approach provides adaptability to specific operation points and layer requirements without unnecessarily complicating the overall parameter signaling structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If target layer identifiers and highest temporal identifiers are not clearly specified, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision of conformance tests deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconformance test executionVSAvoidconformance test accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables conformance testing devices to self-determine the appropriate target layer identifier and highest temporal identifier by examining the bitstream structure and HRD parameter associations. This self-service mechanism maintains ease of operation while achieving precise conformance testing, as the device automatically identifies the correct parameters without requiring external specification or complex manual configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2898678B1Hypothetical reference decoder parameters in video coding
Publication Date: 2025.08.13 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP2898678B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2898678B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2898678B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A device performs a hypothetical reference decoder (HRD) operation that determines conformance of a bitstream to a video coding standard or determines conformance of a video decoder to the video coding standard. As part of performing the HRD operation, the device determines a highest temporal identifier of a bitstream-subset associated with a selected operation point of the bitstream. Furthermore, as part of the HRD operation, the device determines, based on the highest temporal identifier, a particular syntax element from among an array of syntax elements. The device then uses the particular syntax element in the HRD operation.