Patent ID: 8014619
Filing Date: 2011-09-06
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. An image encoding method comprising: using a processor which performs the method comprising the steps of: dividing a group of pictures (GOP) including a plurality of image pictures included in an image sequence into sub-groups according to consecutive bi-directional pictures; calculating correlations between first bi-directional pictures of a first sub-group and reference pictures referred to by the first bi-directional pictures for each of a plurality of encoding modes including a bi-directional picture non-reference mode wherein the first bi-directional pictures are not used as reference pictures, and a bi-directional picture reference mode wherein at least one of the first bi-directional pictures is used as reference picture; selecting one of the plurality of encoding modes based on the correlations; and encoding B pictures of the first sub-group according to the selected encoding mode.