Parameter Based Multi-Objective Optimization of Video CODECs

Abstract

This chapter presents a generalised framework for multi-objective optimisation of video CODECs for use in off-line, on-demand applications. In particular, an optimization scheme is proposed to determine the optimum coding parameters for a H.264 AVC video codec in a memory and bandwidth constrained environment, which minimises codec complexity and video distortion. The encoding/decoding parameters that have a significant impact on the performance of the codec are initially obtained through experimental analysis. A mathematical formulation by means of regression is subsequently used to associate these parameters with the relevant objectives and define a Multi-Objective Optimization (MOO) problem. Solutions to the optimization problem are reached through a Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). It is shown that the proposed framework is flexible on the number of objectives that can jointly be optimized. Furthermore, any of the objectives can be included as constraints depending on the requirements of the services to be supported. Practical use of the proposed framework is described using a case study that involves video content transmission to a mobile hand.