Fast motion estimation with multilevel successive elimination algorithm in and early termination for H.264/AVC video coding

In this paper, we present a new fast motion estimation algorithm suitable for H.264/AVC encoding systems by combining a multilevel successive elimination algorithm with early termination (MSEAET). Firstly, based on an insight in pyramid structure defined in the standard we apply the multilevel successive elimination algorithm into blocks larger than 8 x 8 pixels. By using the sum norms of the blocks and the sub-blocks, tighter and tighter decision boundaries can be obtained for eliminating the unnecessary search positions. According to statistical analysis of the rate-distortion mode decision, an early termination principle is used to judge whether it is necessary to continue the searching process for the other blocks smaller than 8x8 pixels. The efficiency of the proposed algorithm compared with a full search algorithm and a fast search algorithm is verified by simulation results.