Unified image computing method for spectral and spatial feature extraction from remotely sensed imagery

In this paper, a unified method of image computing for spatial and spectral feature extraction is described. It is named as 'pixel swapping method.' This method facilitates identification of types and features of objects such as point- like objects, line-like objects or region-like objects, and to detect line-start/end points, line intersections and vertices. It is also used to identify spatial association among objects. This method can be extended to non-linear image processing, as well as, the conventional numeric image processing. As an example of application of this method, automated road feature extraction from LANDSAT TM data will be demonstrated, employing fuzzy spectral and spatial image processing using the 'pixel swapping' method.