Intra-Prediction Using Averaged Neighboring Pixels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intra-prediction technologies in video coding standards, such as H.264 and HEVC, face challenges in ensuring prediction precision due to unidirectional prediction methods that rely on reference pixels from only one side, which limits the consideration of spatial distribution features.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for intra-prediction that acquire mapped pixels from a left neighboring block for reference in an upper neighboring block, calculate an average pixel value, and use this value to predict pixel values in the current block, effectively utilizing both spatial neighbors for improved prediction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If unidirectional prediction using reference pixels from only one side is used, then the prediction process is simple, but prediction precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines reference pixels from both upper and left neighboring blocks to form a comprehensive prediction reference. Specifically, it maps pixels from the left neighboring block to correspond with reference pixels in the upper neighboring block, then calculates average values from both sources. This merging of multiple reference sources resolves the contradiction by maintaining operational feasibility while significantly improving prediction precision through multi-directional spatial information utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from unidirectional prediction (single dimension) to bidirectional prediction by incorporating both vertical (upper block) and horizontal (left block) reference pixels. This dimensional expansion allows the prediction to consider spatial distribution features from multiple directions, thereby improving precision without excessive complexity increase.
2Measurement precision
If multi-direction prediction with extended block partitioning is used, then prediction precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively using different prediction strategies for different spatial locations. It maps pixels from the left neighboring block specifically for reference pixels in the upper neighboring block based on prediction direction, then calculates average values locally. This localized approach improves precision where needed while avoiding unnecessary complexity in regions where simpler prediction suffices.
3Reliability
If reference pixels from both upper and left neighboring blocks are used, then spatial distribution feature consideration is improved, but calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary mapping of pixels from the left neighboring block before the actual prediction calculation. By pre-establishing the correspondence between left block pixels and upper block reference pixels according to prediction direction, it organizes the spatial distribution information in advance. This preliminary organization improves reliability of spatial consideration while reducing the complexity of the subsequent averaging and prediction calculations.
Data Source
AI summary
An intra-prediction method is provided to predict a current block according to pixel values of an upper neighboring block and a left neighboring block. The method includes: acquiring, according to a prediction direction, mapped pixels in the left neighboring block for reference pixels in an upper neighboring block; calculating an average pixel value of pixel values of the reference pixels in the upper neighboring block and pixel values of their respective mapped pixels; and predicting, according to the prediction direction, a pixel value of a pixel in the current block by using the average pixel value. By using the method and apparatus for intra-prediction according to the present invention, a pixel value of a reference pixel used for prediction is acquired according to an average pixel value of reference pixels in an upper neighboring block and a left neighboring block of the current block.