Object Retrieval in Microscopic Images of Rocks Using the Query by Sketch Method

Abstract

This paper presents the retrieval method of geological images or their fragments using Query by Sketch method. The sketch can be created manually, for instance using a graphics editor, and may show the shape of objects or their distribution within an image. This query is then used to search the image database for objects showing the greatest similarity. As an example of the proposed method, the detection of porosity in microscopic images of carbonate rock and sandstone was presented. An approach was described which is founded on the designation of parameters of selected properties of the query image and images in databases, as well as on the conformity analysis of these parameters. Two methods were proposed: the first one searches for the most similar object in the image database with respect to the set criteria. The second method performs a search based on a sketch of images which are similar in terms of object distribution (i.e., porosity). The presented research results confirm that database search using the query by sketch method forms an interesting and modern approach and may constitute one of the functionalities of IT systems intended for use in geology and mining industry.