Local operator for computing curvature

Ernest M. Stokely; Elizabeth Mazorra

doi:10.1117/12.59431

1 June 1992 Local operator for computing curvature

Ernest M. Stokely, Elizabeth Mazorra

Proceedings Volume 1652, Medical Imaging VI: Image Processing; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.59431
Event: Medical Imaging VI, 1992, Newport Beach, CA, United States

Abstract

Several approaches to medical image understanding require the measurement of curvature along the object boundary. Conventional methods for determining the curvature of an edge involve object segmentation and boundary tracking techniques. In this report, a local operator is described which computes curvature directly from either a gray scale or binary image without explicit detection of the edge. The operator defines two concentric circular boundaries which are used to map underlying pixel intensities into two 1-D functions. These functions are fit with a square wave which is optimum in the least-squares sense, providing four candidate points on an iso-intensity contour. By fitting a circle to this boundary, the curvature of the iso- intensity contour can be found as (kappa) equals 1/radius. A number of design questions are addressed, including the question of the correct relative size of the two concentric circles, and the method and threshold for rejecting uncertain determinations of the isocontour points due to noise. The operator is tested using simulated images, planar radiographs, and MR proton density images. Use of the operator in determining isocontours which have a specified curvature is demonstrated.

Citation Download Citation

Ernest M. Stokely and Elizabeth Mazorra "Local operator for computing curvature", Proc. SPIE 1652, Medical Imaging VI: Image Processing, (1 June 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.59431

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available