Multi-Exposure Image Fusion Based on Patch using Global and Local Characteristics

In this paper, we propose an algorithm that improves the weight map part consisting of signal strength, signal structure, and mean intensity. The patch-based conventional weight map causes the brightness of the image to be shifted to one side, resulting in loss of image information, unexpected artifacts, and an overall unbalance in image brightness. In this study, we propose a novel algorithm by improving the weight map. First, the order-statistic filter using maximum values. Second, the unsharp masking filter using Laplacian. Third, the linear combination using gamma transformation. The proposed algorithm prevents the loss of image information by reducing the over-saturation of the image, accurate representation of dark and bright areas by increasing contrast, and preserve the detail such as the edge. Through subjective and objective experimental results, it is confirmed that the proposed algorithm shows better performance than the conventional algorithms.