A Three-Level Hierarchical Encoder Using Shape Independent Transform

Abstract

In this paper a scheme for utilizing shape independent basis functions for a hierarchical multiresolution image compression is shown. First, an image is segmented and its segments\' boundaries are polygon approximated, thus achieving an image mask. Second, this image mask and the image are used as an input of a three-level hierarchical encoder. The hierarchical encoder subsamples the image and the image mask and encodes them shape independently; it produces an output bit stream on a respective level that is also used on lower level(s) for further coding. On the base level a triangulation of the image mask is performed for superior performance. Another compression mode is, hence, introduced for the shape independent transform coding.