Rate-Distortion Optimized Transcoder Selection for Multimedia Transmission in Heterogeneous Networks

In this paper we propose a solution for selection of appropriate transcoding nodes in a network operating in ad-hoc mode. The heterogeneity present in today's networked devices necessitates different quality of video for different end users. One possible solution for this heterogeneity is to transcode the video stream as per user demand. In this work, we define significant parameters to facilitate decision on selection of transcoding nodes within a wireless access network. We formulate the problem as a rate-distortion optimization to achieve conflicting objectives of high quality and minimum time of delivery to an end user. Unlike past works which have focused on transcoding to develop efficient distributed transcoders, our aim is to come up with methods for placement of these parallel transcoding nodes in a heterogeneous network, keeping in view the constraints of timely delivery of video and minimal distortion.