Motion vector detecting device capable of accommodating a plurality of predictive modes

Abstract

A processor array includes element processors which are arranged in a matrix in correspondence to respective pixels of a template block, which is a current picture image pixel block. Each element processor stores pixel data of a search window block, which is a corresponding reference picture image pixel block, and obtains an evaluation function value component with respect to the template block pixel data. A summing part sorts the evaluation function components received from the respective element processors of the processor array in accordance with a plurality of predictive modes and sums up the components for the respective sorts, for forming evaluation function values for the respective predictive modes. A comparison part compares the evaluation function values received from the summing part for each predictive mode, to decide a displacement vector providing the best similarity as a motion vector for each predictive mode. It is possible to simultaneously detect motion vectors according to a plurality of predictive modes. It is possible to detect motion vectors employed for moving image predictive compensation in accordance with a plurality of predictive modes at a high speed with a small hardware volume.