framecan

Framecan is a theoretical data container described in discussions of frame-based video processing. It envisions a self-describing file or stream that stores a sequence of video frames as independent blocks, with per-frame metadata and lightweight headers that permit random access and modular transport of frame data.

Origin and scope: The term Framecan has appeared in academic and experimental contexts as a concept rather than a formal standard. There is no single official specification. Proposals vary in details but share the goal of decoupling frame data from encoding and transport mechanisms.

Structure and features: A Framecan file begins with an optional global header carrying properties such as width, height, color space, timing base, and total frame count. Each frame is stored in a frame block consisting of a frame header (timestamp, duration, keyframe flag) and the compressed pixel data. The format supports multiple codecs, optional delta frames, and metadata for each frame. Random access and streaming-friendly indexing are central design goals.

Usage and applications: Framecan is proposed for archival, research datasets, and experimental streaming systems where frame-level access is important. It can serve as a transport wrapper around existing encoders or as a basis for frame-accurate editing and processing pipelines.

Relation to other formats: Framecan is not a replacement for established containers like MP4 or MKV. Rather, it is intended as an interoperable layer that can coexist with standard codecs while enabling frame-centric workflows. Implementations remain experimental and are primarily found in research prototypes.

See also: Video file formats, container formats, frame metadata, streaming protocols.