Quadtree-based block merging algorithm for subband coding

An efficient video coding algorithm is described. It is based on a new quadtree block merging algorithm and wavelet decomposition of video signals using orthonormal and biorthogonal filter banks. The merging algorithm represents the motion compensated predicted images in a small set of rectangular regions in order to improve the coding efficiency and to minimize the border affects associated to the wavelet transform. Results of coding simulations using 8 X 8 and 16 X 16 blocks are presented. Also, subjects such as choice of the optimal filter bank, boundary effects, quantization of the wavelet coefficients, and filtering the prediction error by wavelet decomposition are discussed.