Zero-Residual Coding Control via Block Artifact Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional zero-residual coding in predictive image/video coding often results in noticeable artifacts due to its inefficiency in analyzing block statistics, leading to suboptimal perceptual quality and reduced coding efficiency, as current methods either fail to effectively remove 'sticky' artifacts or penalize blocks where zero-residual coding does not generate artifacts.
Innovation Solution
A method that analyzes blocks to predict the likelihood of artifact generation and selectively enables or disables zero-residual coding based on the prediction errors of sub-blocks within each macroblock, using adaptive thresholds and Just Noticeable Difference calculations to determine the suitability of zero-residual coding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If zero-residual coding mode is selected based on rate-distortion cost, then coding efficiency is improved, but perceptual quality deteriorates due to noticeable artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of block characteristics (variance, gradient, texture complexity) before selecting zero-residual coding mode. This advance assessment prevents artifact generation by identifying suitable blocks beforehand, allowing the encoder to apply zero-residual coding only where appropriate while maintaining high coding efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different coding strategies to different blocks based on their local characteristics. By analyzing variance, gradient, and texture complexity individually for each block, the encoder enables zero-residual coding only for blocks with suitable local properties, while using other coding modes for blocks that would generate artifacts, thus maintaining both efficiency and quality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional block statistics analysis is used to control zero-residual coding, then some artifacts are reduced, but sticky artifacts persist because the method cannot effectively predict artifact generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the analysis parameters from conventional block statistics to more predictive features including variance, gradient magnitude, and texture complexity. These parameter changes enable more accurate prediction of artifact generation, allowing the encoder to reliably identify blocks that will produce sticky artifacts and prevent their occurrence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the encoder analyzes block characteristics, predicts potential artifact generation, and adjusts coding mode selection accordingly. This closed-loop approach continuously improves artifact prediction accuracy by learning from encoding results and refining block classification.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the probability of choosing zero-residual coding mode is reduced to eliminate artifacts, then artifact generation decreases, but coding efficiency is penalized for blocks where zero-residual coding would be appropriate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies zero-residual coding selectively to blocks with suitable local characteristics (low variance, low gradient, simple texture) while using other coding modes for blocks where artifacts would occur. This localized application maintains high coding efficiency for appropriate blocks while eliminating artifacts in unsuitable blocks, avoiding the need to reduce overall zero-residual coding probability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary classification of blocks based on their characteristics before encoding. By identifying suitable blocks in advance, the encoder can confidently apply zero-residual coding mode to these blocks without risking artifact generation, thereby maintaining high coding efficiency while eliminating the need to penalize overall mode selection probability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for coding video is disclosed. The method generally includes the steps of (A) receiving a video signal having a series of pictures, each of the pictures having a plurality of blocks, (B) analyzing the blocks to forecast if coding the blocks in a zero-residual coding mode would generate a plurality of artifacts, (C) disabling the zero-residual coding mode for the blocks forecasted to generate at least one of the artifacts and (D) enabling the zero-residual coding mode for the blocks forecasted to generate none of the artifacts.