Watermark Embedding in Scalable Bitstreams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scalable coded bitstreams present challenges in watermarking, as the modification of lower layer bitstreams can affect decoding of future and other layers, and the uncertainty of the decoded layer at the receiver complicates embedding watermarks without corruption or circumvention.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves techniques A and B for embedding watermarks in scalable coded bitstreams, where technique A ensures the watermark is only in the highest selected layer, and technique B embeds watermarks in all layers with hierarchical compensation to account for lower layer watermarks, ensuring the watermark is present in the highest layer selected for decoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If watermarks are embedded in lower layer bitstreams of scalable coded content, then the watermark can be transmitted with the bitstream, but the modification of lower layer can affect decoding of future and other layers, causing watermark corruption or circumvention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the watermark embedding process by layer, embedding watermarks selectively in specific layers rather than uniformly across all layers. This segmentation allows the system to isolate watermark modifications to particular layers, preventing interference with other layers' decoding while maintaining watermark integrity in the target layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different watermark embedding strategies to different layers based on their specific characteristics and roles. By tailoring the embedding process to local layer properties (such as whether a layer is base layer or enhancement layer, and its decoding dependencies), the system achieves reliable watermark placement without causing harmful decoding interference in other layers.
2Reliability
If watermarks are embedded in all layers with hierarchical compensation, then the watermark can be ensured in the highest selected layer, but the complexity of the embedding process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by embedding watermarks in lower layers before processing higher layers. The hierarchical compensation process uses information from previously embedded watermarks to adjust subsequent embeddings, ensuring that the watermark will be present in the highest selected layer regardless of which layer is ultimately decoded. This preliminary sequential embedding simplifies the overall process compared to simultaneous multi-layer embedding.
Solution Approach 2:
The hierarchical compensation mechanism incorporates feedback from lower layer watermark embeddings into the embedding process of higher layers. By using the compensation information from previously embedded watermarks, the system can adaptively adjust subsequent watermark placements to ensure proper presence in the final decoded layer, reducing the need for complex iterative optimization.
3Loss of energy
If scalable coding is used to transmit multiple resolutions, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but the uncertainty of the decoded layer at the receiver complicates watermark embedding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic watermark embedding strategy that adapts to the actual decoding behavior of receivers. Rather than using a fixed embedding approach, the system dynamically adjusts the embedding process based on layer selection signals and decoding configurations, allowing the same infrastructure to handle various resolution combinations and receiver types without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal watermark embedding solution that works across multiple scalable coding configurations and receiver types. By creating a multi-functional embedding process that can handle base layer, enhancement layer, and various resolution combinations through a single unified approach, the system achieves bandwidth efficiency without proportionally increasing embedding complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique to ensure watermarking a highest selected layer for decoding when receiving a scalable coded bitstream having a plurality of bitstream layers. In one technique, the watermark is associated only with the highest layer that is selected from the hierarchically arranged layers and not in any of the lower layers of the hierarchy. In another technique, the watermarks are present in all the layers, but each lower layer watermark is compensated in a next higher layer to remove effects of the presence of the lower layer watermark in the next higher layer.