Enhancement of image watermark retrieval based on genetic algorithms

A watermark hidden in an image is retrieved differently from the original watermark due to the frequently used rounding approach. The simple rounding will cause numerous errors in the embedded watermark especially when it is large. A novel technique based on genetic algorithms (GAs) is presented in this paper to correct the rounding errors. The fundamental is to adopt a fitness function for choosing the best chromosome which determines the conversion rule of real numbers into integers during the cosine transformation. Experimental results show that the dramatic improvement in reducing the errors is successful when GAs are used in decision making. Furthermore, we develop an initial chromosome by comparing the difference between the original image and the rounded watermarked image to speed up the process. In additional to correct fragile-watermarking rounding errors, our algorithm can also be applied in robust watermarking to achieve higher watermarked image quality. 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.