Software-based encoder for a software-implemented end-to-end scalable video delivery system

摘要

A software-based encoder is provided for an end-to-end scalable video delivery system that operates over heterogeneous networks. The encoder utilizes a scalable video compression algorithm based on a Laplacian pyramid decomposition to generate an embedded information stream. The decoder decimates a highest resolution original image, e.g., 640x480 pixels, to produce an intermediate 320x240 pixel image that is decimated to produce an intermediate 160x120 pixel image that is compressed to form an encodable base layer 160x120 pixel image. A decompressed base layer image is also up-sampled at step to produce an up-sampled 640x480 pixel image that is subtracted from the original 640x480 pixel image 200 to yield an error image. At the receiving end, the decoder extracts from the embedded stream different streams at different spatial and temporal resolutions. Because decoding requires only additions and look-ups from a small stored table, decoding occurs in real-time.