An Effective Algorithm for Single Image Fog Removal

Abstract

Poor visibility due to the effects of light absorption and scattering is challenging for processing images captured in foggy weather conditions. This paper proposes an effective algorithm for single image fog removal based on degradation model and group-based sparse representation (GSR). The proposed degradation model is constructed based on a classical physical model, i.e., dichromatic atmospheric scattering model. Then, the new degradation model is integrated into the group-based sparse representation framework. Finally, the single image defogging problem is regarded as an image restoration problem, which can be well optimized by GSR. The method is compared with several well-known algorithms from the literature using qualitative and quantitative evaluations, and results indicate considerable improvement over existing algorithms.