Spatial Intra Prediction Mode Estimation for H.264 Video Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video encoding and decoding technologies face challenges in efficiently determining a macroblock's spatial predictability quality, particularly in the H.264 specification, due to computationally complex algorithms that often result in high error probabilities.
Innovation Solution
A processor-based system estimates multiple subsets of spatial prediction modes using distinct and partially overlapping pixel subsets, employing a Hadamard transform and power calculating modules to accurately classify intra prediction directivity modes, reducing computational complexity while minimizing estimation errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If exhaustive search or edge detection based algorithms are used to determine spatial intra predictability, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and loss of time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the macroblock into multiple subblocks and processes each subblock separately using different pixel subsets. This segmentation allows the system to reduce computational complexity by avoiding exhaustive search across the entire macroblock while maintaining prediction accuracy through localized analysis of each subblock's spatial characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses selective pixel subsets (e.g., only boundary pixels or specific interior pixels) rather than all pixels in the macroblock for prediction mode estimation. This partial action approach reduces the number of computations required while still capturing the essential spatial predictability information needed for accurate mode selection
2Measurement precision
If exhaustive search or edge detection based algorithms are used to determine spatial intra predictability, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the macroblock into subblocks and processing them independently with simplified pixel subset analysis, the patent reduces the overall processing time while maintaining prediction accuracy. Each subblock can be processed in parallel or sequentially with reduced computational burden compared to exhaustive search
Solution Approach 2:
The use of selective pixel subsets (boundary pixels, interior pixels, or specific patterns) instead of all pixels significantly reduces the number of operations required for prediction mode estimation, thereby reducing processing time while preserving the essential spatial information needed for accurate prediction
3Device complexity
If edge detection based algorithms are used to determine spatial intra predictability, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different pixel subset selection strategies to different subblocks based on their local characteristics. By analyzing specific pixel patterns (boundary pixels for some subblocks, interior pixels for others) tailored to local spatial structures, the system maintains high prediction accuracy while using computationally efficient methods suited to each region's properties
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for efficient determination of a macroblock's spatial predictability quality with respect to the H.264 specification are provided. A device comprises a processor operable to estimate a first subset of spatial prediction modes based on a first pixel subset of a current subblock of an intra-frame. The processor is also operable to estimate a second subset of spatial prediction modes based on a second pixel subset of the current subblock. The first subset of prediction modes is different from the second subset of prediction modes.