Implicit Concept-based Image Indexing and Retrieval for Visual Information Systems

This thesis focuses on Implicit Concept-based Image Indexing and Retrieval (ICIIR), and the development of a novel method for the indexing and retrieval of images. Image indexing and retrieval using a concept-based approach involves extraction, modelling and indexing of image content information. Computer vision offers a variety of techniques for searching images in large collections. We propose a method, which involves the development of techniques to enable components of an image to be categorised on the basis of their relative importance within the image in combination with filtered representations. Our method concentrates on matching subparts of images, defined in a variety of ways, in order to find particular objects. The storage of images involves an implicit, rather than an explicit, indexing scheme. Retrieval of images will then be achieved by application of an algorithm based on this categorisation, which will allow relevant images to be identified and retrieved accurately and efficiently. We focus on Implicit Concept-based Image Indexing and Retrieval, using fuzzy expert systems, density measure, supporting factors, weights and other attributes of image components to identify and retrieve images