Organizing and integrating edge segments for texture discrimination

Abstract

We propose a psychologically and psychophysically motivated texture segmentation algorithm. The algorithm is implemented as a computer program which parses visual images into regions on the basis of texture. The program's output matches human judgements on a very large class of stimuli.

The program and algorithm offer very detailed hypotheses of how humans might segment stimuli, and also suggests plausible alternative explanations to those presented in the literature. In particular, contrary to Julesz & Bergen (1983), the program does not use crossings as textons and the program does use corners as textons. Nonetheless, the program is able to account for the same data. The program accounts for much of the linking phenomena of Beck et al. (1983). It does so by matching structures between feature maps on the basis of spatial overlap. These same mechanisms are also used to account for the feature integration phenomena of Treisman (1985).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

KENZO IWAMA

Currently at: Kyoto Kodo-Gijutsu Kenkyujo, Yanaginobanba, Nakagyo, Kyoto 604, Japan.