Video Error Concealment via Adaptive Reference Frame Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video decoding methods in error-prone transmission environments, such as the Internet and wireless networks, face challenges in effectively concealing lost video frames, particularly in low bit-rate applications, as they often rely on using a previously received and decoded reference frame for error concealment, which may not produce the best results for all bitstream patterns, leading to unnecessary degradation in concealment quality.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a block-based error concealment approach that selects a reference frame based on specific patterns in the bitstream, such as using the last available inter-coded picture from a previous group of pictures for the first inter-coded picture in an intra-coded picture sequence, or the temporally closest preceding picture for inter-coded reference pictures, to improve concealment performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a previously received and decoded reference frame is always used for error concealment, then the concealment process is simple and reliable, but the concealment quality deteriorates for specific bitstream patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reference frame selection adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically chooses between different reference frame selection methods (using the last available inter-coded picture from a previous GOP or the temporally closest preceding picture) based on the specific bitstream pattern and GOP structure. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high concealment quality across different video sequences while keeping the implementation reliable through clear decision rules.
2Manufacturing precision
If the last available inter-coded picture from a previous group of pictures is used for the first inter-coded picture, then motion information from relevant frames is utilized, but the complexity of reference frame selection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the reference frame selection parameters based on the GOP pattern. Instead of using a fixed reference frame, the system changes the selection criteria based on whether the lost frame is the first inter-coded picture in a GOP or an inter-coded reference picture. This parameter adaptation allows the system to leverage motion information from the most relevant frames while managing complexity through clear, pattern-based decision logic.
3Manufacturing precision
If the temporally closest preceding picture is used for inter-coded reference pictures, then concealment quality improves through better motion correlation, but the selection criteria become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the reference frame selection strategy to the specific local context of each lost frame. Instead of using a universal reference frame selection method, the system adapts the selection criteria based on the local characteristics of the lost frame (whether it's the first inter-coded picture in a GOP or an inter-coded reference picture). This localized adaptation improves concealment quality by selecting the most appropriate reference frame for each specific case while keeping the overall system manageable through clear categorical rules.
Data Source
AI summary
There are provided methods and apparatus for block-based error concealment. An apparatus includes an error concealment module for concealing a current block in a lost picture in a group of pictures by using a last available inter-coded picture in a previous group of pictures, when the lost picture is a first inter-coded picture in the group of pictures. The group of pictures has a pattern characterized as an intra-coded picture followed by a sequence of inter-coded pictures.