Video Encoder and Decoder Buffer Control for Parallel Picture Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video codecs like H.265/HEVC do not efficiently support advanced parallel processing capabilities for video encoding and decoding, particularly in handling CTU processing, slice organization, and error mitigation techniques such as Region of Interest encoding and Reference Picture Resampling.

Innovation Solution

The invention introduces mechanisms for determining whether to output certain pictures preceding dependent random access pictures, managing coded picture buffer delays, and controlling buffer offset information to enhance parallel processing in video encoding and decoding, including the use of supplemental enhancement information to manage picture output and buffer delays.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If CTUs are processed in raster scan order with fixed-size blocks, then the encoding process is simple and standardized, but parallel processing capabilities are limited and processing load cannot be effectively balanced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparallel processing capabilityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the picture into multiple CTU rows that can be processed in parallel. Each CTU row contains multiple CTUs arranged horizontally, and the entire picture is divided into multiple such rows that can be processed simultaneously by different processing units, thereby enabling parallel processing while maintaining manageable complexity through structured segmentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension of organization by arranging CTUs into CTU rows and processing them in a raster scan pattern across multiple rows. This dimensional reorganization enables parallel processing across different rows while maintaining the hierarchical structure of CTUs within each row, thus improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If slices are used for segmentation of coded data, then error mitigation and processing load balancing are improved, but buffer management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror mitigation capabilityVSAvoidbuffer management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses slices to divide the picture into multiple segments that can be processed independently. Each slice contains one or more CTU rows and can be processed separately, enabling error mitigation where errors in one slice do not propagate to other slices, and allowing processing load balancing across different slices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs preliminary action by pre-defining the slice structure and CTU row organization before processing begins. This allows the decoder to know in advance how the picture is segmented, enabling proper buffer management and reducing complexity during actual decoding by having the structure already established.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If dependent random access pictures are used for advanced parallel processing, then processing efficiency is improved, but control over picture output and buffer timing becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidbuffer timing control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic control mechanisms that allow flexible management of picture output timing. The system can dynamically determine which pictures to output and when, based on the dependent random access structure, enabling efficient parallel processing while adapting buffer timing control to the specific needs of each picture and sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the decoder receives information about the video sequence structure and adjusts its picture output and buffer management accordingly. This feedback loop allows the system to optimize processing efficiency while maintaining proper buffer timing control by continuously adapting to the actual video content and structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250220207A1Video Encoder, Video Decoder, Methods for Encoding and Decoding and Video Data Stream for Realizing Advanced Video Coding Concepts
Publication Date: 2025.07.03 DOLBY VIDEO COMPRESSION LLC
  • US20250220207A1 patent drawing
  • US20250220207A1 patent drawing
  • US20250220207A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus (200) for receiving an input video data stream according to an embodiment is provided. The input video data stream has a video encoded thereinto. The apparatus (200) is configured to generate an output video data stream from the input video data stream.