Depth map compression via 3D region-based representation

In 3D video, view synthesis is used to create new virtual views between encoded camera views. Errors in the coding of the depth maps introduce geometry inconsistencies in synthesized views. In this paper, a new 3D plane representation of the scene is presented which improves the performance of current standard video codecs in the view synthesis domain. Two image segmentation algorithms are proposed for generating a color and depth segmentation. Using both partitions, depth maps are segmented into regions without sharp discontinuities without having to explicitly signal all depth edges. The resulting regions are represented using a planar model in the 3D world scene. This 3D representation allows an efficient encoding while preserving the 3D characteristics of the scene. The 3D planes open up the possibility to code multiview images with a unique representation.Postprint (author's final draft

Automatic Subjective Quality Estimation of 3D Stereoscopic Videos: NR-RR Approach

A method for estimating subjective quality score of 3D stereoscopic video is proposed which is based on decision trees. The output of this estimation can be fed into encoding and transmission units for compensation. The proposed method operates with minimum dependency on reference video. Content characteristics, no reference (NR) and reduced reference (RR) quality metrics are extracted and summarised prior to training stage. Content features are based on spatio-temporal activities within depth layers. Quality features include NR blockiness, NR blurriness and RR 3D stereoscopic video quality metric. Due to fast and accurate requirements for the quality estimation, decision trees are employed where a 0.94 accuracy is achieved

Video Quality Assessment: From 2D to 3D - Challenges and Future Trends

International audienceThree-dimensional (3D) video is gaining a strong momentum both in the cinema and broadcasting industries as it is seen as a technology that will extensively enhance the user's visual experience. One of the major concerns for the wide adoption of such technology is the ability to provide sufficient visual quality, especially if 3D video is to be transmitted over a limited bandwidth for home viewing (i.e. 3DTV). Means to measure perceptual video quality in an accurate and practical way is therefore of highest importance for content providers, service providers, and display manufacturers. This paper discusses recent advances in video quality assessment and the challenges foreseen for 3D video. Both subjective and objective aspects are examined. An outline of ongoing efforts in standards-related bodies is also provided