Feature extraction from faces using deformable templates

A method for detecting and describing the features of faces using deformable templates is described. The feature of interest, an eye for example, is described by a parameterized template. An energy function is defined which links edges, peaks, and valleys in the image intensity to corresponding properties of the template. The template then interacts dynamically with the image, by altering its parameter values to minimize the energy function, thereby deforming itself to find the best fit. The final parameter values can be used as descriptors for the features. This method is demonstrated by showing deformable templates detecting eyes and mouths in real images.>