Uniform Perceptual Quantization: Applications to Digital Radiography

The principle involved in the uniform quantization of perceived lightness is considered in the context of digital radiography. Its effects on the visibility of quantization noise (contouring artifacts) are investigated both analytically and experimentally. Several visual system models of perceived lightness as a function of stimulus luminance are used. These include a logarithmic model, various power function models, and cone models. The results can be extended for other digital imaging modalities.