Lagrange multiplier based perceptual optimization for high efficiency video coding

In this paper, a Lagrange multiplier based perceptual optimization scheme is proposed for high efficiency video coding (HEVC). Firstly, we propose a non-linear adjustment scheme for the Lagrange multiplier based on the specialized coding structure of HEVC and human visual system (HVS) characteristic. Then the Lagrange multiplier is incorporated into the rate distortion optimization for mode decision. Experimental results demonstrate the proposed scheme can significantly improve the subjective video quality. Compared to the HM anchor, the maximum subjective quality improvement can be up to 30% and the average subjective performance improvement is over 7%, 11% and 10% for random access, low delay P and low delay B testing configurations respectively.