Infrared Small Target Detection Using Regional Feature Difference of Patch Image

Abstract

Aiming at a thorny issue, that conventional small target detection algorithm using local contrast method is not sensitive for residual background clutter, robustness of algorithms is not strong. A Gaussian fusion algorithm using multi-scale regional patch structure difference and Regional Brightness Level Measurement is proposed. Firstly, Regional Energy Cosine (REC) is constructed to measure the structural discrepancy among a small target with neighboring cells. At the same time, Regional Brightness Level Measurement (RBLM) is constructed utilizing the brightness difference characteristics between small target and background areas. Then, a brand new Gaussian fusion algorithm is proposed for the generated saliency map in multi-scale space to characterize the overall heterogeneity in original infrared small target and local neighborhood. Finally, a self-adapting separation algorithm is adopted with the objective to obtain a small target from background interference. This method is able to utmostly restrain background interference and enhance the target. Extensive qualitative and quantitative testing results display that the desired algorithm has remarkable performance in strengthening target region and restraining background interference compared with current algorithms.