Modified block matching algorithm for fast block motion estimation

Motion estimation is the most important component of any video coding standard. So development of an efficient algorithm for fast motion estimation is the basic need for video encoder design. Block based motion estimation algorithms are used for fast motion estimation as block matching algorithms eliminate the temporal redundancy present in any video sequence and use optimized search area to reduce computational time. In this paper I have reviewed existing block based motion estimation algorithms like exhaustive full search (FS), three step search (TSS), adaptive dual cross diamond hexagon search (ADCDHS) and performed a comparative analysis of their performance. I have also proposed a Modified Diamond Hexagon Search which will use reduced search area compare to existing TSS, DAHSA, and ADCDHS and in turn it will reduce computational time. Application of proposed algorithm for local motion analysis is also discussed in this paper.