We extend the data fusion pixel level to the more semantically meaningful blob level, using the mean-shift algorithm to form labeled blobs having high similarity in the feature domain, and connectivity in the spatial domain. We have also developed Bhattacharyya Distance (BD) and rule-based classifiers, and have implemented these higher-level data fusion algorithms into the CZMIL Data Processing System. Applying these new algorithms to recent SHOALS and CASI data at Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts, we achieved improved benthic classification accuracies over those produced with either single sensor, or pixel-level fusion strategies. These results appear to validate the hypothesis that classification accuracy may be generally improved by adopting higher spatial and semantic levels of fusion.

Date Published: 11 May 2012
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 8390, Algorithms and Technologies for Multispectral, Hyperspectral, and Ultraspectral Imagery XVIII, 839009 (11 May 2012); doi: 10.1117/12.918646

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 8390:
Algorithms and Technologies for Multispectral, Hyperspectral, and Ultraspectral Imagery XVIII
Sylvia S. Shen; Paul E. Lewis, Editor(s)