Motion Picture Encoding Using Motion Vector Similarity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion picture coding techniques, such as those disclosed in JP-A-2005-124001, generate encoded data that cannot be decoded by decoders supported by existing standards like H.264/AVC, due to the lack of a prescribed method for deriving prediction vectors.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that split motion picture blocks into areas based on motion vector similarity, derive a prediction vector from adjacent blocks, and use a representative motion vector to improve compression efficiency while ensuring compatibility with existing decoding standards by coding the difference between motion and prediction vectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If a prediction vector is derived from motion vectors of adjacent blocks to improve compression efficiency, then the compression ratio is improved, but the encoded data cannot be decoded by existing decoders that follow standards like H.264/AVC
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by encoding not only the differential motion vector but also metadata indicating whether a prediction vector was used and how it was derived. This metadata acts as a mediator that enables standard decoders to understand and correctly interpret the encoded data, resolving the compatibility issue while maintaining compression efficiency benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter set by extending the encoding to include flags and metadata about prediction vector usage alongside the differential motion vector. This parameter extension allows the system to maintain improved compression through prediction vectors while ensuring existing decoders can handle the data by providing them with the necessary interpretation information
2Loss of substance
If blocks are split into areas based on motion vector similarity to improve compression, then the compression efficiency is improved, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the picture into blocks and further into areas based on motion vector similarity. This segmentation allows the system to apply prediction vector derivation selectively in regions where it provides benefit, balancing compression improvement with manageable processing complexity through localized processing
3Loss of substance
If a differential motion vector is encoded instead of the full motion vector to reduce data amount, then the compression ratio is improved, but the decoder must perform additional calculations to reconstruct the original motion vector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and encoding metadata about the prediction vector derivation process. This preliminary encoding of auxiliary information simplifies the decoding operation, as the decoder receives all necessary information upfront to reconstruct the original motion vector without performing complex iterative calculations
Data Source
AI summary
A motion picture recording apparatus that includes a similar-motion-area setup unit which sets up blocks having a similar motion vector as a similar motion area, the similar motion vector being included in motion vectors calculated by a block-based motion search unit. The recording apparatus also includes a representative-motion-vector calculation unit which calculates a representative motion vector by use of a motion vector provided by each block included in the similar motion area. The recording apparatus further includes a selection unit which selects either the representative motion vector or the motion vector provided by each block, which is to be used for each block in the similar motion area. The recording apparatus also includes an encoder which performs coding processing using the selected motion vector and a prediction picture, for each block in the similar motion area.