Optimization of the Gaussian Kernel Extended by Binary Morphology for Text Line Segmentation

In this paper, an approach for text line segmentation by algorithm with the implementation of the Gaussian kernel is presented. As a result of algorithm, the growing area around text is exploited for text line segmentation. To improve text line segmentation process, isotropic Gaussian kernel is extended by dilatation. Furthermore, algorithms with isotropic and extended Gaussian kernels are examined and evaluated under different text samples. Results are given and comparative analysis is made for these algorithms. From the obtained results, optimization of the parameters defining extended Gaussian kernel dimension is proposed. The presented algorithm with the extended Gaussian kernel showed robustness for different types of text samples

An Approach to a Comprehensive Test Framework for Analysis and Evaluation of Text Line Segmentation Algorithms

The paper introduces a testing framework for the evaluation and validation of text line segmentation algorithms. Text line segmentation represents the key action for correct optical character recognition. Many of the tests for the evaluation of text line segmentation algorithms deal with text databases as reference templates. Because of the mismatch, the reliable testing framework is required. Hence, a new approach to a comprehensive experimental framework for the evaluation of text line segmentation algorithms is proposed. It consists of synthetic multi-like text samples and real handwritten text as well. Although the tests are mutually independent, the results are cross-linked. The proposed method can be used for different types of scripts and languages. Furthermore, two different procedures for the evaluation of algorithm efficiency based on the obtained error type classification are proposed. The first is based on the segmentation line error description, while the second one incorporates well-known signal detection theory. Each of them has different capabilities and convenience, but they can be used as supplements to make the evaluation process efficient. Overall the proposed procedure based on the segmentation line error description has some advantages, characterized by five measures that describe measurement procedures

Estimation of the Text Skew in the Old Printed Documents

Old printed documents represent the significant part of our heritage. In order to preserve them, the digitalization is indispensable. The paper proposed a robust skew estimation method for old printed document. It is based on the connected components made by filled convex hulls around text element. The connected components are enlarged by oriented morphological operation. Then, the longest connected component is extracted. The global orientation of the document is detected by its orientation. Accordingly, document image was globally de-skewed. The algorithm is tested on synthetic and real datasets. Obtained results proved the algorithmscorrectness

Active and passive-source seismic imaging for exploration of deep-seated massive sulphide mineralization in the Zinkgruvan mine, south-central Sweden

[EN]This communication presents the acquisition of active and passive source seismic data in the Zinkgruvan mine in Sweden in an effort to develop highly resolved and cost-effective exploration method

Investigating the use of 3-D full-waveform inversion to characterize the host rock at a geological disposal site

The U.K. government has a policy to dispose of higher activity radioactive waste in a geological disposal facility (GDF), which will have multiple protective barriers to keep the waste isolated and to ensure no harmful quantities of radioactivity are able to reach the surface. Currently no specific GDF site in the United Kingdom has been chosen but, once it has, the site is likely to be investigated using seismic methods. In this study, we explore whether 3-D full-waveform inversion (FWI) of seismic data can be used to map changes in physical properties caused by the construction of the site, specifically tunnel-induced fracturing. We have built a synthetic model for a GDF located in granite at 1000 m depth below the surface, since granite is one of the candidate host rocks due to its high strength and low permeability and the GDF could be located at such a depth. We use an effective medium model to predict changes in P-wave velocity associated with tunnel-induced fracturing, within the spatial limits of an excavated disturbed zone (EdZ), modelled here as an increase in fracture density around the tunnel. We then generate synthetic seismic data using a number of different experimental geometries to investigate how they affect the performance of FWI in recovering subsurface P-wave velocity structure. We find that the location and velocity of the EdZ are recovered well, especially when data recorded on tunnel receivers are included in the inversion. Our findings show that 3-D FWI could be a useful tool for characterizing the subsurface and changes in fracture properties caused during construction, and make a suite of suggestions on how to proceed once a potential GDF site has been identified and the geological setting is known

Three-component digital-based seismic landstreamer : Methodologies for infrastructure planning applications

To support urban infrastructure planning projects, along with various other near-surface applications, a multicomponent landstreamer was developed. The landstreamer was built with broadband (0-800 Hz), three-component (3C) micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) sensors. The digital nature of the MEMS sensors makes the developed landstreamer insensitive to electric/electromagnetic noise. The landstreamer’s design and its seismic imaging capabilities, along with the MEMS technical specifications, were evaluated in several studies. When comparing signals recorded with the streamer with planted MEMS sensors, no negative effects of the design were noted. Compared to different geophones tested, the streamer produced higher quality and broader signal bandwidth data. Additionally, a seismic study conducted in a tunnel demonstrated its electric/electromagnetic noise insensitivity. The streamer combined with wireless seismic recorders was used to survey logistically challenging areas for improved imaging and characterizations and avoid interference with traffic. For example, at the Stockholm Bypass site, the landstreamer recorded data were used for traveltime tomography with results showing a well delineated bedrock level and potential low-velocity zones matching with inferred poor-quality-class rocks. The seismic response of fractures and their extent between a tunnel and the surface was studied at the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory site. The velocity model obtained using the traveltime tomography approach showed known well-characterized fracture systems and potential additional formerly unknown ones. Additionally, compressional- and shear-wave velocities, seismic quality factors, Vp/Vs and dynamic Poisson’s ratios of the known fracture zones were obtained. Fractures and/or weakness zones in the bedrock were imaged using refraction and reflection imaging methods at a site contaminated with a cancerogenic pollutant in southwest Sweden, illustrating the potential of the streamer for environmental-related applications. In southern Finland, the landstreamer was used for SH-wave reflection seismic imaging from a vertically oriented impact source with the results showing a well-delineated bedrock level and weak reflections correlating well with geology. At the same site, its potential for multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) was demonstrated. The surface-wave obtained shear-wave velocities match well with the borehole based stratigraphy of the site and are complementary to the SH-wave reflectivity and previous investigations at the site. Studies conducted in this thesis demonstrate the landstreamer’s potential for various near-surface applications and show the benefits and need for 3C seismic data recording.