Method and apparatus for searching images

摘要

Disclosed are methods and apparatuses for searching images. An image is received and a first search path is defined for the image. The first search path may be a straight line, horizontal, and/or near the bottom of the image, and/or may begin at one edge and move toward the other. A transition is defined for the image, distinguishing a feature to be found. The image is searched for the transition along the first search path. When the transition is detected, the image is searched along a second search path that follows the transition. The apparatus includes an image sensor and a processor. The sensor is adapted to obtain images. The processor is adapted to define a first search path and a transition for the image, to search for the transition along the first search path, and to search along a second search path upon detecting the transition, following the transition.

主权项

1. A computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, at a processor, first and second images, said first and second images sharing at least a portion of subject matter therein; defining a first search path for said first image; defining a first transition for said first image; searching for said first transition along said first search path; upon detecting said first transition, searching along a second search path, said second search path substantially following said first transition; defining a third search path for said second image; defining a second transition for said second image; searching for said second transition along said third search path, said second transition corresponding with said first transition; and upon detecting said second transition, searching along a fourth search path, said fourth search path substantially following said second transition; wherein in searching along said second search path, following said first transition in at least two directions; and in searching along said fourth search path, following said second transition in at least two directions.