Objective evaluation of fabric pilling based on image analysis and deep learning algorithm

Purpose The paper aims to build a new objective evaluation method of fabric pilling by combining an integrated image analysis technology with a deep learning algorithm. Design/methodology/approach Series of image analysis techniques were adopted. First, a Fourier transform transformed images into the frequency domain. The optimal resolution matrix of an exponential high-pass filter was determined by combining the energy algorithm. Second, the multidimensional discrete wavelet transform determined the optimal division level. Third, the iterative threshold method was used to enhance images to obtain a complete and clear pilling ball images. Finally, the deep learning algorithm was adopted to train data from pilling ball images, and the pilling levels were classified according to the learning features. Findings The paper provides a new insight about how to objectively evaluate fabric pilling grades. Results of the experiment indicate that the proposed objective evaluation method can obtain clear and complete pilling information and the classification accuracy rate of the deep learning algorithm is 94.2%, whose structures are rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function, four hidden layers, cross-entropy learning rules and the regularization method. Research limitations/implications Because the methodology of the paper is based on woven fabric, the research study’s results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test other kinds of fabric further, such as knitted and unwoven fabrics. Originality/value Combined with a series of image analysis technology, the integrated method can effectively extract clear and complete pilling information from pilled fabrics. Pilling grades can be classified by the deep learning algorithm with learning pilling information.