A new general framework for shape extraction is presented, based on the paradigm of water flow. The mechanism embodies the fluidity of water and hence can detect complex shapes. A new snake-like force functional combining edge-based and region-based forces produces capability for both range and accuracy. Properties analogous to surface tension and adhesion are also applied so that the smoothness of the evolving contour and the ability to flow into narrow branches can be controlled. The method has been assessed on synthetic and natural images, and shows encouraging detection performance and ability to handle noise, consistent with properties included in its formulation.
Xin U. Liu, Mark S. Nixon