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Image Classification

The document discusses image classification in GIS and remote sensing, detailing its importance in categorizing images based on content and texture using machine learning algorithms. It outlines four main classification techniques: unsupervised, supervised, object-based image analysis, and deep learning object detection, each with specific methodologies and applications. The document emphasizes the growing significance of deep learning in enhancing accuracy and automation in remote sensing tasks.

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Mary Jane
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2 views

Image Classification

The document discusses image classification in GIS and remote sensing, detailing its importance in categorizing images based on content and texture using machine learning algorithms. It outlines four main classification techniques: unsupervised, supervised, object-based image analysis, and deep learning object detection, each with specific methodologies and applications. The document emphasizes the growing significance of deep learning in enhancing accuracy and automation in remote sensing tasks.

Uploaded by

Mary Jane
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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IMAGE
CLASSIFICATION
IN GIS AND
REMOTE SENSING

Shehroz Khan
@Shehroz Khan
linkedin.com/in/shehroz-khan-gis 2/8

WHAT IS IMAGE
CLASSIFICATION
Image classification is the process of
categorizing image into groups based on their
content and texture. It's a key part of computer
vision, and uses machine learning algorithms to
identify patterns in images and assign them to
the most relevant category

Image classification in remote sensing


categorizes pixels in satellite or aerial images
into meaningful classes like land use, vegetation,
or water bodies. It uses algorithms (e.g.,
supervised, unsupervised) to analyze spectral
signatures, helping GIS professionals and
students extract valuable insights for mapping,
monitoring, and decision-making in various
applications.

Shehroz Khan
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TYPES OF IMAGE
CLASSIFICATION TECHNIQUES
The 4 main types of image classification
techniques in remote sensing are:

1. Unsupervised image classification


2. Supervised image classification
3. Object-based image analysis
4. Deep learning object detection

Unsupervised and supervised image


classification are the two most common
approaches.

However, object-based classification and deep


learning has gained more popularity because it’s
useful for high-resolution data.

Shehroz Khan
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UNSUPERVISED CLASSIFICATION
Unsupervised classification in remote sensing
groups pixels into clusters based on their
properties, without requiring sample data. It’s an
easy and fundamental technique for segmenting
images.

Steps in Unsupervised Classification:

1. Generate Clusters: Use algorithms like K-means


or ISODATA to group pixels.
2. Assign Classes: Manually label clusters with land
cover types like vegetation, water, or urban
areas.

Fewer clusters show more similarity within groups,


while more clusters capture greater variability. For
example, clusters can help distinguish vegetation
from non-vegetation, providing a clearer image
understanding.

Shehroz Khan
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SUPERVISED CLASSIFICATION
Supervised classification in remote sensing uses sample
areas, called training sites, to identify land cover
classes across an entire image. It’s a more controlled
and accurate method for image classification.

Steps in Supervised Classification:

1. Select Training Areas: Mark representative samples


for each land cover type (e.g., urban, vegetation).
2. Generate Signature File: Store spectral information
from training samples.
3. Classify: Use a classification algorithm like Maximum
Likelihood, SVM, or Minimum-Distance to classify
the image.

Supervised classification allows precise mapping


because the algorithm relies on user-defined samples,
ensuring greater accuracy. For example, Support Vector
Machine (SVM) is often preferred for its reliable
performance.

Shehroz Khan
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OBJECT-BASED IMAGE ANALYSIS


Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) groups pixels into meaningful
vector shapes, not individual pixels, based on size and geometry. This
method provides more precise results than pixel-based classification.

Steps in OBIA:

1. Perform Multiresolution Segmentation: Group pixels into objects.


2. Select Training Areas: Identify sample areas for land cover types.
3. Define Statistics: Use shape, texture, spectral, or geographic
context properties.
4. Classify: Apply algorithms like Nearest Neighbor to classify
objects.

Key Methods:

Shape: Classify objects using geometric properties (e.g.,


“rectangular fit” for buildings).
Texture: Identify homogeneity, such as smooth water or varied
forest patterns.
Spectral: Use mean values of bands like infrared or visible light.
Geographic Context: Analyze proximity and spatial relationships.

OBIA is highly effective for complex images, where segmentation can


highlight meaningful objects like buildings, enhancing precision and
automation in image analysis.

Shehroz Khan
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DEEP LEARNING OBJECT DETECTION


Deep learning has revolutionized remote sensing by
enabling object detection, such as buildings, trees, and
fields, through neural networks trained on large datasets.

Key Applications:

Building Detection
Car/Ship Detection
Tree Segmentation
Agricultural Field Delineation
Wildfire Delineation

Esri's Living Atlas integrates deep learning models, often


leveraging Meta’s Segment Anything Model (SAM). These
models deliver higher accuracy and repeatable results,
making deep learning the future of remote sensing for
automated, precise object detection.

Shehroz Khan
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COMMENT

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MORE INSIGHTFULL
CONTENT ABOUT
GIS AND REMOTE
SENSING

Shehroz Khan

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