Scalable Video Coding Using Shift and Offset Alignment

The patent applies preliminary action by generating an auxiliary picture sequence (base layer) in advance from the original video signal. This base layer is encoded and transmitted separately to provide a fallback option for low-bitrate conditions. When the enhanced layer cannot be decoded due to insufficient bitrate, the decoder can use the pre-prepared base layer to maintain acceptable image quality, thus preventing quality degradation in advance.

The patent applies local quality by making the auxiliary picture sequence (base layer) have different characteristics from the enhanced layer. The base layer is generated with lower spatial resolution and/or lower frame rate, matching the specific requirements of low-bitrate transmission. This localized optimization allows the system to maintain image quality where needed while reducing data redundancy in areas where quality requirements are lower.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the video signal into multiple layers (base layer and enhancement layer) during the initial encoding process. Each layer is independently encoded with different quality characteristics. This allows the receiver to select and decode only the necessary layer(s) based on device capabilities and network conditions, eliminating the need for time-consuming transcoding operations and reducing latency.

The patent applies universality by creating a multi-layer video code structure where a single encoded bitstream contains both base layer and enhancement layer data. This universal format can be decoded by any device depending on its capabilities - low-end devices can decode only the base layer while high-end devices can decode both layers for higher quality. This eliminates the need for content providers to create and manage multiple separate video files for different devices.