Motion Vector Prediction Using Adjacent PU Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The motion estimation process in HEVC is computationally intensive and time-consuming due to the need for multiple rate-distortion calculations in merge MV technology, which is a key bottleneck in video coding and transcoding.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize the correlation between motion vectors of adjacent PUs in multiple reference frames to determine a motion vector for inter-frame encoding, reducing computations by terminating calculations when a rate distortion threshold is met.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If merge MV technology is used to enrich coding modes, then coding versatility is improved, but computational complexity increases due to multiple rate-distortion calculations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoding modesVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and storing motion vectors of adjacent PUs in reference frames before the actual encoding process. This allows the encoder to access pre-computed motion vector data during rate-distortion optimization, reducing the need for real-time complex calculations and lowering overall computational complexity while maintaining coding versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by referencing and reusing motion vector data from adjacent PUs in reference frames. Instead of independently calculating motion vectors for all blocks, the system copies and adapts motion vector information from neighboring blocks, significantly reducing computational complexity while preserving the enriched coding modes provided by merge MV technology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If motion estimation process is performed thoroughly, then prediction accuracy is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by performing motion estimation only for specific blocks that require it, rather than exhaustively estimating motion vectors for all blocks. The system selectively applies merge MV technology based on block characteristics and reference frame availability, achieving sufficient prediction accuracy for most blocks while avoiding unnecessary computational time for blocks that can use simpler prediction methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12537960B2Method and apparatus for estimating motion vector of inter-frame coding
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 BEIJING BAIDU NETCOM SCI & TECH CO LTD
  • US12537960B2 patent drawing
  • US12537960B2 patent drawing
  • US12537960B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for predicting motion vector for inter-frame encoding are provided. An implementation scheme of the method includes: acquiring first and second sets of motion vectors; dividing, in response to the number of valid adjacent PUs being greater than or equal to a preset number, the second set of motion vectors into at least one motion vector subset; calculating a correlation between the first set of motion vectors and each motion vector subset respectively, to obtain a priority of each adjacent PU; calculating, sequentially according to the priority in descending order, a rate distortion based on a motion vector of each adjacent PU, and stop calculating until a rate distortion smaller than a predetermined threshold is obtained; and determining a motion vector of an adjacent PU used when the rate distortion smaller than the predetermined threshold is obtained as the motion vector of the current PU.