An image database system with support for traditional alphanumeric queries and content-based queries by example

Large image databases are commonly employed in applications like criminal records, customs, plant root databases, and voters' registration databases. Efficient and convenient mechanisms for database organization and retrieval are essential. A quick and easy-to-use interface is needed which should also mesh naturally with the overall image management system. In this paper we describe the design and implementation of an integrated image database system. This system offers support for both alphanumeric query, based on alphanumeric data attached to the image file, and content-based query utilizing image examples. Content-based retrieval, specifically Query by Image Example, is made possible by the SHOSLIF approach. Alphanumeric query is implemented by a collection of parsing and query modules. All these are accessible from within a user-friendly GUI.