Embedded Wavelet Coder with Multistage Vector Quantization

An embedded image coder based on wavelet transform coding and multistage vector quantization (VQ) is proposed in this research. We have examined several critical issues to make the proposed algorithm practically applicable. They include the complexity of embedded VQ, design of the successive vector quantizer, significance evaluation of a vector symbol, and integration of wavelet transform coding and vector quantization. It is shown in experiments that the new method achieves a superior rate-distortion performance.