Extracting Graphics information for Better Video Compression

Abstract

Cloud gaming services are heavily dependent on the efficiency of real-time video streaming technology owing to the limited bandwidths of wire or wireless networks through which consecutive frame images are delivered to garners. Video compression algorithms typically take advantage of similarities among video frame images or in a single video frame image. This paper presents a method for computing and extracting both graphics information and an object's boundary from consecutive frame images of a game application. The method will allow video compression algorithms to determine the positions and sizes of similar image blocks, which in turn, will help achieve better video compression ratios. The proposed method can be easily implemented using function call interception, a programmable graphics pipeline, and off-screen rendering. It is implemented using the most widely used Direct3D API and applied to a well-known sample application to verify its feasibility and analyze its performance. The proposed method computes various kinds of graphics information with minimal overhead.