An Alternative Algorithm for Adaptive Histogram Equalization

J.A. Stark and W.J. Fitzgerald

CVGIP: Graphical Models and Image Processing 56(2):180-185 (March 1996)

Adaptive histogram equalization has become well-established as a technique for enhancing contrast in images. This paper investigates an alternative formulation of histogram equalization. An implementation of this is presented. The resulting algorithm involves the application of a filter to a set of image fields, and the potential for filtering these fields differently is illustrated through the restoration of a deliberately degraded image. Hence the alternative algorithm is shown to be effective and to provide a framework for improved estimation of the optimal gray-level mappings over standard methods.