Transformation invariant image indexing and retrieval for image databases

This paper presents a novel design of an image database system which supports storage, indexing, and retrieval of images by content. The image retrieval methodology is based on the observation that images can be discriminated by the presence of image objects and their spatial relations. Images in the database are first automatically segmented into sets of image object descriptions. Then, transformation invariant quantities of image object descriptions are derived and used as keys to index images, described ower and distinct positioned bandpasses allow a somewhat more distinct recording of vegetational targets in the VIS/NIR range and an improvement in discrimination of various rock/soil types independently of the very high spatial resolution. The bandpass used for the panchromatic modules has also been rearranged to optimize for the contrast of vegetation to rock/soil targets. Entropy, SNR, and PSF performances are comparable to operational sensors like HRV or TM. However, data of band 3 are slightly weaker iexperiments for a simple application.