Motion Estimation for Large Video Blocks Using Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standards require processing large-size blocks, which are computationally intensive, leading to reduced performance and increased hardware complexity and cost due to high overhead in processor cycles for motion estimation.
Innovation Solution
Divide large-size blocks into smaller blocks, such as 16×16 blocks, and process these in parallel using existing small-size block motion estimation algorithms, reducing the number of cycles required for motion estimation and simplifying chip logic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large-size blocks (64×64) are processed for motion estimation, then video coding accuracy is improved, but computation complexity and processor cycle overhead increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a large 64×64 block into multiple smaller 16×16 sub-blocks for independent parallel processing. This segmentation reduces the computational complexity of motion estimation while maintaining the overall accuracy by processing each sub-block with optimized algorithms suitable for smaller dimensions.
2Measurement precision
If large-size blocks (64×64) are processed for motion estimation, then video coding accuracy is improved, but processor cycle overhead increases by 75%
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the 64×64 block into 16×16 sub-blocks, the patent enables parallel processing that reduces total processor cycle overhead by 75%, thereby improving processing speed while maintaining motion estimation accuracy through coordinated processing of all sub-blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic processing strategies where different processing modes can be selected based on motion characteristics detected in the block, allowing the system to adaptively optimize between accuracy and speed requirements for different video content scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If large-size blocks (64×64) are processed for motion estimation, then video coding accuracy is improved, but hardware cost and chip complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmentation to process large blocks as combinations of smaller sub-blocks, which allows existing hardware designed for small-block processing to be reused. This approach maintains motion estimation accuracy while avoiding the need for expensive dedicated large-block processing hardware, thereby reducing chip manufacturing cost and complexity.
4Measurement precision
If large-size blocks (64×64) are processed for motion estimation, then video coding accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the processing task into smaller 16×16 sub-blocks that can be processed in parallel, the patent reduces the overall power consumption of the motion estimation process by 75% in terms of processor cycles, while maintaining accuracy through coordinated processing of all segments.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing motion estimation (ME) for large-size blocks of image data during image processing using small-size block processing logic. An embodiment method includes obtaining a large-size block for ME processing and dividing the large-size block into a plurality of small-size blocks. The large-size block comprises an integer multiple of the small-size blocks. The small-size blocks are then processed in parallel using a small-size block ME processing algorithm. An embodiment apparatus includes a processor configured to implement the method for large-size block ME processing using small-size block ME processing logic, and a shared memory register for storing at different times the 16×16 blocks.