Variable-Sized Macroblocks for High-Resolution Video Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video compression technologies, such as H.264/AVC, use fixed macroblock sizes that are inefficient for high-resolution images like 4Kx2K, leading to suboptimal encoding efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for encoding and decoding video using variable-sized macroblocks, where the block type is determined based on encoding costs to match image characteristics, allowing for larger pixel blocks over 16x16 as encoding units, and including information in the bitstream for the decoder to reconstruct the image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed macroblock size of 16x16 is used, then encoding simplicity is maintained, but encoding efficiency for high-resolution images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed macroblock sizes to variable macroblock sizes. The encoder dynamically selects macroblock sizes (16x16, 32x32, 64x64, or custom sizes) based on image characteristics and encoding costs, allowing the system to adapt to different content requirements while maintaining encoding flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of macroblock size from a fixed value to a variable parameter. By introducing multiple size options and allowing custom sizes based on image characteristics, the system optimizes encoding efficiency for high-resolution images while maintaining compatibility with standard formats
2Productivity
If larger macroblock sizes are used for high-resolution images, then encoding efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different image characteristics deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different macroblock sizes to be used in different regions of the image. The encoder evaluates encoding costs for various block type candidates and selects the most appropriate size for each macroblock based on local image characteristics, such as texture complexity and motion patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts macroblock sizes to match image characteristics by evaluating multiple block type candidates and selecting the optimal size based on encoding costs. This allows the encoder to respond to varying image content requirements across different regions and scenarios
3Productivity
If variable sized macroblocks are implemented, then encoding efficiency for high-resolution images is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the image into multiple macroblocks with different sizes based on encoding requirements. The encoder processes each macroblock independently with its own size selection, allowing flexible adaptation while maintaining manageable processing complexity through modular block-based operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by systematically varying macroblock size parameters based on image characteristics and encoding costs. By establishing clear rules for size selection and maintaining compatibility with existing video coding frameworks, the patent achieves improved efficiency without excessive complexity increase
Data Source
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AI summary
A video encoding apparatus includes a candidate block type configuration unit for configuring block type candidates for encoding an image by using variable sized macroblocks; a video encoder for encoding an input image for each block type candidate; and a block type determiner for determining a block type based on encoding costs by the block type candidate, and generating a bitstream including image data encoded by the determined block type and information for the determined block type. Determining the block type to match the image characteristics enables combinations of diverse modes such as a large block and macroblock size, a minimum subblock size, available divisional block type, prediction mode type within a macroblock, and so on to achieve more effective encoding and decoding of high resolution images.