Weyl-Heisenberg Transform Capabilities in JPEG Compression Standard

TL;DR

This paper introduces a Weyl-Heisenberg transform-based modification to JPEG, replacing DCT with DWHT, leading to improved compression efficiency and better image decorrelation.

Contribution

It proposes using the discrete orthogonal Weyl-Heisenberg transform in JPEG, enhancing decorrelation and compression over the traditional DCT-based method.

Findings

Higher compression efficiency demonstrated experimentally

Better decorrelation and element screening in image blocks

Improved quality metrics compared to standard JPEG

Abstract

This paper is devoted to the development and research of a new compression technology based on Weyl-Heisenberg bases (WH-technology) for modifying the JPEG compression standard and improving its characteristics. For this purpose, the paper analyzes the main stages of the JPEG compression algorithm, notes its key features and problems that limit further enhancement of its efficiency. To overcome these limitations, it is proposed to use the real version of the two-dimensional discrete orthogonal Weyl-Heisenberg transform (DWHT) instead of the discrete cosine transform (DCT) at the stage of transformation coding. This transformation, unlike DCT, initially has a block structure and is built on the basis of the Weyl-Heisenberg optimal signal basis, the functions of which are orthogonal and well localized both in the frequency and time domains. This feature of DWHT allows for more efficient decorrelation and compression of element values in each block of the image after transformation coding. As a result, it is possible to obtain more efficient selection and screening of insignificant elements at the subsequent stages of quantization and information coding. Based on DWHT, a new version of the JPEG compression algorithm was developed, and convenient criteria for evaluating the compression efficiency and metrics of quality losses were proposed. The results of an experimental study are presented, confirming the higher compression efficiency of the proposed algorithm in comparison with the JPEG compression standard.