Fast Single-Image Dehazing Algorithm Based on Piecewise Transformation in Optical Model

Abstract

Single-image dehazing techniques are extensively used in outdoor optical image acquisition equipment. Most existing methods pay attention to use various priors to estimate scene transmission. In this paper, a fast single-image dehazing algorithm is proposed based on a piecewise transformation model between the minimum channels of the hazy image and the haze-free image in optical model. The minimum channel of the haze-free image is obtained by the piecewise transformation, which is a quadratic function model that we establish for the dark region, and a linear transformation model is established for the bright region. Using the minimum channels of the hazy image and the haze-free image, a transmission estimation model is established based on the haze optical model with adjustment variables. To obtain an accurate estimation of atmospheric light, we estimate the atmospheric light twice. Finally, the haze-free image is restored. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has minimal halo artifacts and color distortion in various depths of field, flat areas and sky areas. From the subjective evaluation, objective evaluation and running time analysis, it can be seen that the algorithm in this paper is superior to most existing technologies.

Keywords

• Image dehazing
• piecewise transformation
• transmission map
• minimum channel