One-pass VBR MPEG encoder using scene adaptive dynamic GOP structure

In this paper, we propose an algorithm for one-pass VBR (variable bit rate) MPEG video encoding. We use two techniques to enhance the picture quality in the one-pass VBR coding. One is a scene adaptive dynamic GOP (group of picture) structure control technique according to the picture characteristics estimated by macroblock activity information. The other is a precise bit budget prediction technique for appropriate bit allocation based on the activity and motion characteristics analysis. Since the processing speed of the proposed algorithm is almost equal to that of the conventional CBR (constant bit rate) MPEG encoder, fast VBR encoding can be realized with better picture quality than that of CBR.