Video Encoding Mode Pruning for Processing Time Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video codecs are inefficient due to the time-consuming process of examining multiple encoding modes for each macroblock, leading to a need for a more efficient encoding method that can forego unnecessary mode examinations while maintaining video quality.
Innovation Solution
A method that selects a primary encoding mode for a set of pixels, determines if it satisfies quality criteria, and eliminates less suitable modes, using pruning techniques to simplify the encoding process by skipping interblock and intrablock encodings when the primary mode meets criteria, and performing motion estimation on remaining modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the encoder examines multiple encoding modes for each macroblock to ensure video quality, then the video quality is maintained, but the encoding time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a quick assessment of encoding modes before full examination. The encoder evaluates candidate modes using simplified criteria first, and only performs detailed examination of modes that pass the preliminary screening, thus reducing overall encoding time while maintaining quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by examining only a subset of possible encoding modes rather than all modes. The encoder selectively prunes the search space to examine only the most promising modes, achieving sufficient video quality without the excessive time cost of examining every possible mode
2Manufacturing precision
If the encoder examines all possible encoding modes for each macroblock, then the best encoding solution is found, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the encoding mode examination into distinct stages: a preliminary assessment stage that quickly filters modes, and a detailed examination stage for selected modes. This segmented approach reduces processing complexity while still finding high-quality encoding solutions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by adaptively adjusting the encoding mode examination process based on content characteristics. The encoder dynamically prunes the search space and adjusts which modes receive detailed examination, reducing processing complexity while maintaining solution quality through content-aware adaptation
3Productivity
If the encoder skips examining certain encoding modes to reduce processing time, then the encoding efficiency improves, but the video quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the results of preliminary mode assessments to guide detailed examination. The encoder uses feedback from initial quality checks to determine which modes warrant further investigation, ensuring that skipped modes are those unlikely to produce superior results while maintaining overall video quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by adjusting the examination threshold and pruning criteria based on content characteristics and quality requirements. The encoder dynamically modifies which parameters are examined and to what depth, balancing encoding efficiency with video quality preservation through adaptive parameter adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A method for encoding a first set of pixels in a first image in a sequence of images is described. From a set of encoding modes, the method selects a first mode for encoding the first set of pixels. The method then determines whether encoding the first set of pixels in the first mode satisfies a set of quality criteria. The method foregoes encoding the first set of pixels in a second mode from the set of encoding modes, when the first mode encoding satisfies the set of quality criteria. The method also provides a video encoding method that examines several different methods for encoding a set of pixels in a first image. From a list of possible encoding modes, the method eliminates a set of encoding modes that are not likely to provide a suitable encoding solution. The method then examines different encoding solutions based on the remaining encoding modes in the list.