Optimal object-based video communications over differentiated services networks

In this paper, we propose an optimal unequal error protection scheme for object-based video communications over differentiated services networks. Our goal is to achieve the best video quality (minimum total expected distortion) with constraints on transmission cost and delay. An end-to-end distortion estimation approach for object-based video is proposed, which can be used for different packetization schemes. The problem is solved using Lagarangian relaxation and dynamic programming. Experimental results indicate that the proposed unequal error protection schemes can significantly outperform equal error protection methods.