๐ค AI Summary
To address the labor-intensive parameter tuning and poor generalizability of conventional stereo matching algorithms (SGBM+WLS) in UAV-based forestry applications, this paper proposes the first genetic algorithm (GA) framework for automated joint optimization of SGBM and WLS parameters. The method eliminates manual intervention by introducing a multi-objective evaluation function integrating Mean Squared Error (MSE), Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), and Structural Similarity Index (SSIM), thereby significantly enhancing disparity map quality and cross-illumination-condition generalization. Evaluated on radiata pine branch imagery, the optimized configuration achieves a 42.86% reduction in MSE, an 8.47% improvement in PSNR, and a 28.52% gain in SSIM over the baselineโwhile maintaining real-time processing capability suitable for resource-constrained onboard UAV systems.
๐ Abstract
Traditional stereo matching algorithms like Semi-Global Block Matching (SGBM) with Weighted Least Squares (WLS) filtering offer speed advantages over neural networks for UAV applications, generating disparity maps in approximately 0.5 seconds per frame. However, these algorithms require meticulous parameter tuning. We propose a Genetic Algorithm (GA) based parameter optimization framework that systematically searches for optimal parameter configurations for SGBM and WLS, enabling UAVs to measure distances to tree branches with enhanced precision while maintaining processing efficiency. Our contributions include: (1) a novel GA-based parameter optimization framework that eliminates manual tuning; (2) a comprehensive evaluation methodology using multiple image quality metrics; and (3) a practical solution for resource-constrained UAV systems. Experimental results demonstrate that our GA-optimized approach reduces Mean Squared Error by 42.86% while increasing Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio and Structural Similarity by 8.47% and 28.52%, respectively, compared with baseline configurations. Furthermore, our approach demonstrates superior generalization performance across varied imaging conditions, which is critcal for real-world forestry applications.