Multiple layers complexity allocation with dynamic control scheme for high-efficiency video coding

Abstract

High-efficiency video coding (HEVC) has significantly improved coding efficiency; however, its quadtree (QT) structures for coding units (CU) substantially raise the overall coding complexity. This study introduces a novel complexity control scheme aimed at enhancing HEVC encoding efficiency. The proposed scheme operates at multiple layers, including the group of pictures (GOP) layer, frame layer, and coding tree unit (CTU) layer. Each coding layer is assigned a limited coding complexity based on the remaining coding time. Particularly noteworthy is the dynamic scheme implemented to activate the complexity control method. To further expedite encoding, an efficient algorithm is developed for the CTU layer. Experimental results indicate that the 0.46% and 0.98% increases in BD-rate under the target complexity are reduced to 80% and 60% of the complexity constraint, respectively. The rate-distortion performance surpasses existing state-of-the-art complexity control methods, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing HEVC encoding efficiency.