An Image Synthesis Method Generating Underwater Images

The objective of this study is to convert normal aerial images into underwater images based on attenuation values for different water types by utilizing the image formation model (IFM) with Jerlov water types. Firstly, the depth values are derived from RGB-D images. If the depth information is not available, the values between 0.5 m to 10 m are chosen, and the transmission map is estimated by these values. Secondly, the statistical average background light values of Br = 0.6240, Bg = 0.805, and Bb = 0.7651 have been derived by analyzing 890 images using two methods, namely quad-tree decomposition and four-block division. Finally, the conversion of aerial-to-underwater images is done using the derived values, and the images are verified by computer simulation using MATLAB software. The result indicates that this method can easily generate underwater images from aerial images and makes it easier for the availability of ground truth.