Abstract: Provided are a coded block pattern (CBP) estimating method which is performed using an average value and a dispersion value between blocks of CBPs in a moving picture encoder for IP-TVs (Internet Protocol-Televisions), and a block mode decision method, which can determine all block modes with only the first 16×16 block. Accordingly, since an additional operation for mode determination is not necessary, an amount of calculation and thus a calculation time can be remarkably reduced.

Abstract: A motion vector estimation method and continuous discrete image generation method based on a convexity property of a sub-pixel are provided. The method of estimating a motion vector includes: generating an objective function for a differential definition of a sub-pixel system composed of a chain of arbitrary n-tap filters with respect to an arbitrary k-th order sub-pixel, based on the relation between an integer pixel and a sub-pixel generated through linear FIR filtering; and estimating a motion vector of a sub-pixel by applying a conjugated quadratic algorithm to the objective function.