In this example, we show a basic image segmentation algorithm to partition an image into segments based on their pixel values. To solve this problem, we use the hybrid discrete quadratic model solver available in Leap, and demonstrate how to build a DQM object from a set of numpy vectors.

To run the demo, type the command:

python image_segmentation.py

This will build a random image based on the specifications stated by the user. The first prompt will ask for the dimensions in pixels (a square image will be created), and the second prompt will ask how many segments we want in our image.

Alternatively, the user can specify an input image such as test_2_segments.png by typing:

python image_segmentation.py test_2_segments.png

The program prompts the user for the number of segments to partition the image into.

After the program executes, a file is saved as output.png that shows the original image on the left and the partition outlines in an image on the right.

A few example images have been provided.

• test_2_segments.png is a small image with 2 segments.
• test_4_segments.png is a small image with 4 segments.
• test_image.jpeg is a larger image with 2 segments (foreground and background) that will take longer to run.

Note: For this demo to run relatively quickly, image sizes should be kept below 50x50 pixels with fewer than 10 segments. Several small image files are included in the repository.

A simple method to partition an image into segments is to compare their pixel values. If colors are similar, then they might belong to the same object in the image. This program builds a DQM object in which we have a variable for each pixel and a case for each segment. As we compare pixels, we examine their difference using the provided weight function, which assigns smaller values for more alike colors, and larger values for more different colors. Using this weight function, we assign quadratic biases between pixels in the same cases. As the solver minimizes the energy landscape, it is then minimizing the difference between pixels placed in the same segment or partition.