Digital video technology

• describe the main components of a typical video coder and decoder
• define the hybrid video coding paradigm
• explain the role of video coding in the internet and digital communication applications
• implement software components for a video coding and communication system
• evaluate video coding methods in terms of visual quality and compression rate
• simulate visual communication systems
• select the optimal video coding techniques under different technical constraints
• identify which aspects of human vision can be leveraged to compress videos
• collaborate within a group for a project work related to video processing

The course focuses on the techniques of digital video compression for communication and Internet applications. Technical aspects of the process from coding to distribution (network/communication, mass storage) are covered. The course treats the principles of video coding, such as block transforms, motion estimation and rate control. The most important standards and formats, i.e. MPEG/h.26x, are presented as well as the relevant compression noise and common noise removal techniques. The main tools for video streaming are introduced: from the basic transmission protocols to methods addressing error prone networks such as packetization, error control or adaptive streaming. The course presents the main elements of the human visual system and explain how its limitations are used to reduce the size of videos while minimizing the perception of resulting distortions. The key indicators used to evaluate and monitor performance both in terms of visual experience and service are covered. Applications of video technology for multimedia such as post-production or digitalization are presented. Video communication for drones is treated as an example.

34220/34230/34231/34240/02502, or experience with image processing. Experience with either Matlab or Python required (exercises can be done in one of the two languages).

Lectures and exercises, project work.

The course 34240 is recommended as a supplementary course simultaneously

Maximum: 40.

Please be aware that this course has a limited number of seats available. If there are too many applicants, a pool will be created for the remainder of the qualified applicants, and they will be selected at random. You will be informed 8 days before the start of the course, whether you have been allocated a spot.