Macroblock Intra Cost Computation Using Raw Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
In video encoding using H.264, the encoding pipeline stalls due to the unavailability of reconstructed data needed for mode decision processes, leading to delays and increased memory and bus traffic requirements.
Innovation Solution
Using raw data instead of reconstructed data for cost calculations in the mode decision process, allowing for immediate encoding decisions without waiting for reconstructed data to become available.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reconstructed data from previous macroblocks is used for mode decision, then encoding accuracy is improved, but pipeline stalls occur and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using raw data from the current macroblock to make mode decisions before the reconstructed data from previous macroblocks is fully available. This allows the encoding process to proceed without stalling, improving throughput while maintaining acceptable accuracy through the use of available raw data for cost calculations.
2Measurement precision
If reconstructed data is stored and retrieved for cost calculations, then mode decision accuracy is improved, but memory consumption and bus traffic increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential data needed for mode decision from the raw current macroblock data itself, rather than relying on stored reconstructed data from previous macroblocks. This eliminates the need for extensive memory storage and data retrieval operations, reducing memory consumption and bus traffic while maintaining sufficient accuracy for encoding decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
Non-encoded data for a macroblock of an image frame is accessed. A cost to intra-encode the macroblock is computed using at least a portion of the non-encoded data in place of reconstructed image data from another macroblock of the image frame. The cost can be compared against the cost to inter-encode the first macroblock in order to select how the first macroblock is to be encoded.