Multi-Layer Video Encoding Using Output Layer Subset Indexing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional scalable video and multi-view video coding methods are limited in coding efficiency, particularly in adapting to various network conditions and terminal capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer video encoding and decoding method that determines and encodes output layer subsets within a target output layer set, generating an index for the bitstream to efficiently decode and display specific layers, improving compression efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional limited-encoding method based on macroblock is used, then encoding simplicity is maintained, but coding efficiency is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoding efficiencyVSAvoidencoding complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The video data is divided into multiple layers with different levels of detail or quality. The encoding apparatus segments the video into base layer and enhancement layer(s), where each layer can be independently encoded and decoded. This segmentation allows receivers with different capabilities to efficiently process only the necessary layers, improving overall coding efficiency without significantly increasing encoding complexity for each individual layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension of layering beyond the conventional single-layer macroblock encoding. By adding the layer dimension, the system can provide scalable video where the same encoded data can serve multiple quality or resolution requirements. This dimensional change enables better adaptation to various network conditions and terminal capabilities while maintaining encoding simplicity through unified multi-layer structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multi-layer video encoding is implemented, then adaptability to various network conditions and terminals is improved, but data complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to network conditionsVSAvoiddata structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-layer encoding structure creates a universal bitstream that can serve multiple functions and adapt to different network conditions and terminal capabilities. The same encoded multi-layer data can be decoded at different quality levels, making the system universally applicable across diverse environments without requiring separate encoding for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The encoding system dynamically adapts to different conditions by allowing receivers to selectively decode appropriate layers based on their capabilities and network conditions. The layer structure enables dynamic adjustment of quality and data rate without requiring re-encoding, as receivers can process only the necessary layers for their specific requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If multiple output layer subsets are determined, then flexible adaptation to terminal capabilities is enabled, but decoding complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in output selectionVSAvoiddecoding complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The decoding apparatus determines multiple output layer subsets, where each subset represents a different combination of layers that can be output. By preparing multiple subsets in advance, the system enables flexible adaptation to different terminal capabilities without requiring complex real-time decisions during decoding. The receiver can select the appropriate subset based on its capabilities, simplifying the actual decoding operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS10230967B2Method and apparatus for encoding multilayer video, and method and apparatus for decoding multilayer video
Publication Date: 2019.03.12 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10230967B2 patent drawing
  • US10230967B2 patent drawing
  • US10230967B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-layer video encoding/decoding method and a multi-layer video encoding/decoding apparatus are provided. In the multi-layer video encoding method, image data is encoded to a multi-layer encoded image, at least one of encoded layers of a target output layer set is determined as an output layer, an index of at least three output layer subsets including at least one output layer from among the encoded layers of the target output layer set are generated based on the determined output layer, and a bitstream including the generated index and the multi-layer encoded image is generated.