Reversible integer-to-integer wavelet transforms for image compression: performance evaluation and analysis

Abstract

In the context of image coding, a number of reversible integer-to-integer wavelet transforms are compared on the basis of their lossy compression performance, lossless compression performance, and computational complexity. Of the transforms considered, several were found to perform particularly well, with the best choice for a given application depending on the relative importance of the preceding criteria. Reversible integer-to-integer versions of numerous transforms are also compared to their conventional (i.e., nonreversible real-to-real) counterparts for lossy compression. At low bit rates, reversible integer-to-integer and conventional versions of transforms were found to often yield results of comparable quality. Factors affecting the compression performance of reversible integer-to-integer wavelet transforms are also presented, supported by both experimental data and theoretical arguments.