Simple interactive object extraction

About: Simple interactive object extraction is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 17 publications have been published within this topic receiving 8819 citations.

"GrabCut": interactive foreground extraction using iterated graph cuts

Abstract: The problem of efficient, interactive foreground/background segmentation in still images is of great practical importance in image editing. Classical image segmentation tools use either texture (colour) information, e.g. Magic Wand, or edge (contrast) information, e.g. Intelligent Scissors. Recently, an approach based on optimization by graph-cut has been developed which successfully combines both types of information. In this paper we extend the graph-cut approach in three respects. First, we have developed a more powerful, iterative version of the optimisation. Secondly, the power of the iterative algorithm is used to simplify substantially the user interaction needed for a given quality of result. Thirdly, a robust algorithm for "border matting" has been developed to estimate simultaneously the alpha-matte around an object boundary and the colours of foreground pixels. We show that for moderately difficult examples the proposed method outperforms competitive tools.

Interactive graph cuts for optimal boundary & region segmentation of objects in N-D images

Abstract: In this paper we describe a new technique for general purpose interactive segmentation of N-dimensional images. The user marks certain pixels as "object" or "background" to provide hard constraints for segmentation. Additional soft constraints incorporate both boundary and region information. Graph cuts are used to find the globally optimal segmentation of the N-dimensional image. The obtained solution gives the best balance of boundary and region properties among all segmentations satisfying the constraints. The topology of our segmentation is unrestricted and both "object" and "background" segments may consist of several isolated parts. Some experimental results are presented in the context of photo/video editing and medical image segmentation. We also demonstrate an interesting Gestalt example. A fast implementation of our segmentation method is possible via a new max-flow algorithm.

SIOX: simple interactive object extraction in still images

Abstract: The following article presents an approach for interactive foreground extraction in still images that is currently being integrated into the GIMP. The presented approach has been derived from color signatures, a technique originating from image retrieval. The article explains the algorithm and presents some benchmark results to show the improvements in speed and accuracy compared to state of the art solutions. The article also describes how the algorithm can easily be adapted for video segmentation tasks.

Inkscape: Guide to a Vector Drawing Program

Abstract: Inkscape: Guide to a Vector Drawing Program, Fourth Edition, is the guide to the Inkscape program. With coverage of versions 0.47 and 0.48, this authoritative introduction and reference features hundreds of useful illustrations.Using Inkscape, you can produce a wide variety of art, from photorealistic drawings to organizational charts. Inkscape uses SVG, a powerful vector-based drawing language and W3C web standard, as its native format. SVG drawings can be viewed directly in browsers such as Firefox, Opera, Chrome, Safari, and Internet Explorer 9. A subset of SVG has been adopted by the mobile phone market. Inkscape is available free for Windows,Macintosh, and Linux operating systems. Systematic coverage of the entire Inkscape program begins with twelve tutorials ranging in difficulty from very basic to highly complex. A new tutorial introduces the use of interactive SVG in HTML5.The remainder of the book covers each facet of Inkscape in detail, with an emphasis on practical solutions for common problems. The book is filled with valuable tips and warnings about the use of Inkscape and SVG. Find dozens of Inkscape illustrations from the book in the online color supplement available at http://tavmjong.free.fr/INKSCAPE/. Updated for Inkscape version 0.48, this edition includes complete coverage of new features, including the new Spray Tool, updated Node and Text tools, improved bitmap image import, LaTeX export for PDF/EPS/PS, added extensions including the JessyInk extension for web-based presentations, the adaptive UI, and the new Glyphs dialog. Complete Coverage of New and Improved Inkscape 0.48 Features Live Path Effects for tasks such as adding patterns along a path while maintaining complete editability More than two hundred pre-built SVG filters for adding textures, manipulating color, and so forth A tiling tool to create complex tilings with thirteen different symmetries Clipping and Masking objects An integrated spell checker Built-in bitmap-to-vector tracing The ability to export to more than a dozen graphics formats, including PDF and PostScript The ability to import from more than two dozen graphics formats, including PDF, Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, AutoCad, and XFig Graphics Complete vector drawing program supporting the W3C SVG standard Three path-drawing tools (Pencil, Pen, Calligraphy) Five shape-drawing tools (Rectangles, Ellipses, Stars, Spirals, 3D Boxes) Linear and Radial Gradients Pattern fills Tweak Tool for fine adjustment of paths and colors Spray Tool Eraser Tool with both Vector and Bitmap modes Sophisticated snapping for precision drawing and aligning objects Extendable through scripting; more than one hundred scripts included

SIOX plugin in ImageJ: area measurement made easy

Abstract: Area measurement is frequently needed in research. ImageJ is a powerful free image processor for this purpose and resolves the measurement in a simple way. However, the advantage of the countless functions from ImageJ may be seen as confusing by beginners. One frequently asked question about area measurement is how to select the region of the image to be quantified becausea good area estimate depends on the accurate segmentation the object of interest from its background. In this short guide, two alternative methods for object segmentation are described: a) automated extraction with plugin SIOX (Simple Interactive Object Extraction) and b) manual threshold selection.