Research on Application of Fractional Calculus Operator in Image Underlying Processing

Abstract

Fractional calculus extends traditional, integer-based calculus to include non-integer orders, offering a powerful tool for a range of engineering applications, including image processing. This work delves into the utility of fractional calculus in two crucial aspects of image processing: image enhancement and denoising. We explore the foundational theories of fractional calculus together with its amplitude–frequency characteristics. Our focus is on the effectiveness of fractional differential operators in enhancing image features and reducing noise. Experimental results reveal that fractional calculus offers unique benefits for image enhancement and denoising. Specifically, fractional-order differential operators outperform their integer-order counterparts in accentuating details such as weak edges and strong textures in images. Moreover, fractional integral operators excel in denoising images, not only improving the signal-to-noise ratio but also better preserving essential features such as edges and textures when compared to traditional denoising techniques. Our empirical results affirm the effectiveness of the fractional-order calculus-based image-processing approach in yielding optimal results for low-level image processing.