Electromagnetic Models for Perceptual Grouping

Abstract

The use of electromagnetic analogies for perceptual grouping of image primiti ves is presented. This approach assumes that grouping is a lo w-level, data-driven and global process, with all image tokens interacting in some way. Two computational models are introduced, which allo w determination of proximity and directionality of image primiti ves. With the second model, prominent image features are considered as being electrical charges. According to Poisson’s equation, they generate a scalar potential and an associated “electrical” v ector field. The potential and field, determined by the combined global influence of all image features, are well defined o ver the entire image. The scalar potential can be used for proximity grouping, while the local direction of the field allows grouping of primitives according to their common directional tendency. Implementation problems and solutions are presented. V arious results are sho wn and discussed.