Combining fuzzy theory and a genetic algorithm for satellite image edge detection

Abstract

Edge detection of an image by remote sensing is an important tool for the detection of oil spilled on sea. There are many algorithms for edge detection by image processing. Each algorithm has its own advantages and disadvantages for different images. In this paper, the author makes some improvements to the Pal–King fuzzy edge detection algorithm and proposes an algorithm combining improved fuzzy theory and a genetic algorithm for the detection of oil spilled on the sea by remote sensing. The Pal–King fuzzy detection algorithm has a good capability for the detection of fuzzy and thin edges. However the complex and large calculation and the fixed threshold value do not suit some kinds of image processing. The algorithm presented in this paper is composed of two parts: an improved fuzzy enhancement algorithm, which simplifies the complex G and G ⁻¹ calculation in the Pal–King algorithm; a genetic algorithm with which we are able to obtain the threshold value precisely and quickly for image processing. Finally the paper gives the results of image processing using the algorithm mentioned above and the Pal–King algorithm. Through comparison, we can conclude that the processing results obtained using the algorithm suggested in this paper are more legible than by the Pal–King algorithm.