Scalable and robust image transmission using block-based layered set partitioning in hierarchical trees

This paper presents a new image coding algorithm for scalable and robust image transmission. The algorithm, termed block-based layered set partitioning in hierarchical tree (B-LSPIHT), has both SNR and resolution scalabilities, and Its performance is resilient to transmission errors. In the algorithm, the number of layers and the rate and resolution associated with each layer can be specified before encoding. Starting from the base layer, B-LSPIHT encodes one layer at a time until the design of the top layer is completed. The transmission errors are localized using a block-based method. The bits allocated to each block are determined by a dynamic programming technique based on the ratedistortion function computed from the channel models. Numerical results show that the B-LSPIHT algorithm is effective for constructing layered image transmission systems over noisy channels.