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.
A method and apparatus for performing motion estimation under a motion estimation mode suitable for an amount of motion within each E-block detects a motion vector with a small amount of computation. A block division section divides a frame to be encoded into E-blocks of a predetermined pixel size. For each target E-block, a motion estimation mode detection section relies on a past motion vector of a predetermined block to predict an amount of motion, and determines a motion estimation mode defining a search area that enables detection of the predicted amount of motion among a plurality of predefined motion estimation modes. If the predicted amount of motion is small, a mode defining a narrow search area and a fine search resolution is selected. If the predicted amount of motion is large, a mode defining a broad search area and a coarse search resolution is selected.
