Parallel Video Encoding for Fast Bit Rate Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional encoder switching techniques in satellite communication systems cause latency and poor user experience due to interruptions and delays in bit rate adjustments, particularly when using variable bit rate encoders, which result in undesirable latency and peak bit rates.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing multiple image encoding devices to simultaneously encode image data at different bit rates, enabling fast switching between encoders without activating or deactivating constant bit rate encoders, thereby reducing latency and operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a variable bit rate encoder is used to adjust bit rate based on feedback, then data quality can be maintained, but latency increases due to interruptions and processing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-encodes multiple versions of video data at different bit rates (first bit rate and second bit rate) before receiving quality feedback. This preliminary encoding action allows the system to immediately switch between pre-prepared versions without interruption, eliminating the latency that would otherwise occur during encoder reconfiguration and data flushing operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bit rate switching techniques are used, then bit rate can be adjusted, but peak bit rate occurs causing data delivery delay
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple bit rate versions of the video data are encoded and prepared in advance before the feedback loop activates. When bit rate switching is required, the system simply switches between pre-encoded versions rather than performing real-time re-encoding, which prevents peak bit rate spikes and associated delivery delays.
3Device complexity
If a single encoder is used, then device complexity is low, but switching between encoders causes operational delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains multiple encoders that are pre-configured and continuously encode video data at different bit rates. This preliminary setup of multiple encoding paths allows for instantaneous switching between encoders based on feedback, achieving fast switching speeds without the operational delays associated with activating or deactivating encoders during transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for fast encoder switching comprise a plurality of image encoding devices of a vehicle receive image data comprising a plurality of frames from an imaging component of the vehicle. A first image encoding device of the plurality of image encoding devices encodes a first frame of the plurality of frames at a first bit rate. A second image encoding device of the plurality of image encoding devices encodes the first frame of the plurality of frames at a second bit rate simultaneously with the first image encoding device encoding the first frame at the first bit rate. One or more communication components of the vehicle encode transmit the first frame encoded at the first bit rate.