Control Scheme for Moving-Picture Coding using the Multi-Encoder System

Abstract

This paper describes a control scheme for the multi-encoder system that transmits multiple video signals under the unified control of each encoder. First, the rate-distortion characteristics of the MC+DCT (MPEG) encoder are analyzed. We show that the rate-distortion characteristics can be represented by a simple power function. Based on this function, a bit-rate distribution rule for multiple encoders and a method of applying this to moving pictures is proposed. A computer simulation using real moving pictures shows that the proposed scheme reduces the total distortion of the system as well as probability of severe distortion which occurs in the case of a “difficult” picture, as compared with the non bit-rate distribution method.