Super high definition image coding using wavelet vector quantization

A method of coding super high definition (SHD) still images based on vector quantization of wavelet coefficients is proposed. A compression scheme for SHD images should achieve data compression without any visible picture quality deterioration. We demonstrate that the proposed method meets this requirement. In this coding technique, each vector of wavelet coefficients is coded by a series of vectors of decreasing magnitudes, resulting in a successive approximation process. It also exploits the structural similarities among the bands. This provides efficient coding together with the ability to guarantee arbitrary distortion levels for each band, which can be exploited to achieve subjectively optimum performance. Conventional image compression techniques such as transform, subband, and vector quantization have already been tested for the coding of SHD images. Simulation results show that the proposed method outperforms the other SHD image coding methods reported in the literature.