Algorithms for determining bitrate for a statistical multiplexing system to ensure stream alignment from encoders to the multiplexer

A statistical multiplexing system comprising:

• encoders for coding a plurality of channels of video data sources;
• a multiplexer for receiving the output of the encoders and providing from the output of the encoders a single data stream;
• and
• a statistical multiplexer (statmux) controller for receiving need parameter data from the encoders and for providing to the encoders bit rate data based on the need parameter data, the statmux controller including a memory storing code to enable the statmus controller to:
• allocate a first bit rate allowed for the output of each of the encoders supplying the multiplexer during a first time period;
• determining a bit rate increase from the first bit rate for each of the encoders;
• and
• allocating a second bit rate allowable to each of the encoders for a second time period, subsequent to the first time period, wherein the second bit rate is limited by the determined bit rate increase.

A non-transitory computer readable medium containing an executable program to enable a controller in of a statistical multiplexer (statmux) system that provides a bit rate signal to a plurality of encoders in the statmux system, the program causing controller to:

• allocate a first bit rate allowed for the output of each of a plurality of encoders supplying a multiplexer during a first time period;
• determine a bit rate increase from the first bit rate for each of the encoders;
• and
• allocate a second bit rate allowable to each of the encoders for a second time period, subsequent to the first time period, wherein the second bit rate is limited by the determined bit rate increase.