A space domain approach for multiple description video coding

In this paper we address the problem of video transmission over unreliable networks using multiple description (MD) coding approach. Recent literature on MD techniques has shown the success of using motion compensation prediction scheme. Even though these MD systems have proved to be robust to error environment, they are forced to use only two descriptions. For this reason this paper proposes two architectures of MD video coders. The first, called DC-MDVC, is based on the classical MD video codec architecture and the principle contribution is the use of a new MD algorithm based on a spatial domain polyphase down-sampling technique. The second architecture, called IF-MDVC, proposes multi-level scalability generating a flexible number of descriptions. The results of both architectures are interesting and the second architecture, the subject of the current research, appears to perform impressively.