Variational Image Dehazing using a Fuzzy Membership Function

Abstract

This paper presents a dehazing method based on a fuzzy membership function and variational method. The proposed algorithm consists of three steps: i) estimate transmission through a pixel-based operation using a fuzzy membership function, ii) refine the transmission using an L1- norm–based regularization method, and iii) obtain the result of haze removal based on a hazy image formation model using the refined transmission. In order to prevent color distortion of the sky region seen in conventional methods, we use a trapezoid-type fuzzy membership function. The proposed method acquires high-quality images without halo artifacts and loss of color contrast.