An independent-layer fuzzy rate controller for streaming applications of H.264/SVC standard

A fuzzy rate control algorithm (RCA) with buffer constraint is presented for H.264/SVC standard with independently controlling each layer. By calculating the variation of quantization parameter (QP) instead of QP itself on group of pictures (GOP) level, this algorithm can be used efficiently for video streaming applications. The initial buffering in these applications allows slight variations in bit rate leading to produce a variable bit rate video bit stream with a consistent quality. A low computational complexity makes this controller suitable for real time applications. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm effectively adapts itself to available buffer space, while strictly preventing it from overflow and underflow so that a PSNR gain up to 0.5dB in some cases is obtained.