Diamond Search Algorithm for Motion Estimation in Video Sequences

This documentation provides a detailed comparison between the Diamond Search algorithm and the Three-Step Search method for motion estimation in video processing. The Diamond Search approach demonstrates superior performance characteristics, employing an efficient diamond-shaped search pattern that reduces computational complexity while maintaining estimation accuracy. Unlike the Three-Step Search method which uses a fixed search pattern, the Diamond Search algorithm adapts dynamically through small diamond search (SDS) and large diamond search (LDS) patterns, achieving better motion vector prediction with fewer search points. The implementation includes complete C++/MATLAB source code featuring key functions for pattern initialization, search point evaluation, and early termination criteria. Validation datasets provided contain ground truth motion vectors and performance metrics including PSNR calculations and computational efficiency comparisons. By implementing the Diamond Search method, developers can achieve more accurate motion vector estimation, significantly enhancing video compression quality and processing efficiency through optimized block matching operations. Further technical discussions explore algorithm customization possibilities for specific video codec requirements and hardware optimization strategies.