Rule-based image segmentation: A dynamic control strategy approach

The structure and functional aspects of a rule-based image segmentation system are briefly described. This paper focuses mainly on the control aspects of the system. A set of measurements is defined that evaluates the quality of an image segmentation and thereby determines the control. To accomplish this, focus of attention areas are created within the image. These are processed in an order that depends on their properties, as reflected by the set of performance measures, computed for each area. A dynamic control strategy within each area is also determined based on the individual characteristics of that area. One aspect involves determining the spatial order in which the system will process the data entries inside the area. In addition, an ordering must be established among all the rules included in the model. Dynamic strategy setting is formulated as a fuzzy decision-making problem, whose solution depends on the performance parameters. Because the individual characteristics of areas are reflected in different performance measurements, the resulting control strategies will vary from one area to the next. In addition, the strategy within each area will vary with time to reflect the changing properties. This spatial and temporal updating process is designed to ensure both efficiency and improved output.