Video Encoding Mode Selection via Segmentation and Distortion Thresholds
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for selecting encoding types and predictive modes for video data, such as those used in H.264 compression standards, are inefficient due to the exhaustive search approach which requires considering numerous combinations of prediction modes, making them practically infeasible for real-time processing.
Innovation Solution
A more efficient method is introduced that selects the encoding type (16×16 or 4×4) based on easily computable attributes and uses improved predictive mode search algorithms based on distortion thresholds and positional relationships to determine the optimal predictive modes, reducing the computational burden.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an exhaustive search approach is used to determine optimal encoding type and predictive modes, then encoding quality is improved, but computational complexity and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the macroblock into four 8×8 blocks and processes each block independently to determine encoding type and predictive mode. This segmentation reduces the overall computational complexity from evaluating all possible combinations for the entire macroblock to evaluating smaller subsets for each block, while still achieving optimal or near-optimal encoding quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary classification of each 8×8 block into homogeneous or heterogeneous regions before determining the final encoding type and predictive mode. This preliminary action allows the system to make informed decisions about which modes to evaluate, reducing the search space and computational requirements while maintaining encoding quality.
2Measurement precision
If an exhaustive search approach is used to determine optimal encoding type and predictive modes, then encoding quality is improved, but processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the macroblock into four 8×8 blocks and processing them independently, the patent enables parallel processing and reduces the sequential computation time required for exhaustive search, thereby improving processing speed while maintaining encoding quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs partial exhaustive search by evaluating only the necessary predictive modes for each 8×8 block based on its classification, rather than evaluating all possible modes for the entire macroblock. This partial action reduces processing time while achieving sufficient encoding quality.
3Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to determine encoding type and predictive modes, then computational accuracy is maintained, but processing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary classification of each 8×8 block before determining encoding type and predictive mode. This preliminary action provides accurate guidance for subsequent mode selection, maintaining computational accuracy while reducing the time required for exhaustive evaluation of all possible modes.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the processing into classification and mode selection phases for each 8×8 block, the patent improves processing efficiency through structured computation while maintaining the accuracy of optimal mode selection through systematic evaluation.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a method of determining encoding type and predictive mode(s) selections for a macroblock of a video frame is provided. In some embodiments, a general method 1) selects the encoding type (16×16 or 4×4) that is initially considered for a macroblock using an encoding type selection algorithm (based on an attribute of the macroblock that is easy to compute), 2) if the 16×16 encoding type is selected in step 1, consider the four 16×16 prediction modes that may be used on the macroblock using conventional methods or an improved 16×16 predictive mode search algorithm based on distortion thresholds, and 3) if the 4×4 encoding type is selected in step 1, select the 4×4 prediction mode to be used for each of the sixteen 4×4 blocks of the macroblock using conventional methods or an improved 4×4 predictive mode search algorithm based on the positional relationships between predictive modes.