A Distorted-Image Quality Assessment Algorithm Based on a Sparse Structure and Subjective Perception

Abstract

Most image quality assessment (IQA) algorithms based on sparse representation primarily focus on amplitude information, often overlooking the structural composition of images. However, structural composition is closely linked to perceived image quality, a connection that existing methods do not adequately address. To fill this gap, this paper proposes a novel distorted-image quality assessment algorithm based on a sparse structure and subjective perception (IQA-SSSP). This algorithm evaluates the quality of distorted images by measuring the sparse structure similarity between a reference and distorted images. The proposed method has several advantages. First, the sparse structure algorithm operates with reduced computational complexity, leading to faster processing speeds, which makes it suitable for practical applications. Additionally, it efficiently handles large-scale data, further enhancing the assessment process. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the algorithm, showing that it achieves a high correlation with human visual perception, as reflected in both objective and subjective evaluations. Specifically, the algorithm yielded a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.929 and a mean squared error of 8.003, demonstrating its robustness and efficiency. By addressing the limitations of existing IQA methods and introducing a more holistic approach, this paper offers new perspectives on IQA. The proposed algorithm not only provides reliable quality assessment results but also closely aligns with human visual experience, thereby enhancing both the objectivity and accuracy of image quality evaluations. This research offers significant theoretical support for the advancement of sparse representation in IQA.