Fuzzy curve-tracing algorithm

This paper presents a fuzzy clustering algorithm for the extraction of a smooth curve from unordered noisy data. In this method, the input data are first clustered into different regions using the fuzzy c-means algorithm and each region is represented by its cluster center. Neighboring cluster centers are linked to produce a graph according to the average class membership values. Loops in the graph are removed to form a curve according to spatial relations of the cluster centers. The input samples are then reclustered using the fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm, with the constraint that the curve must be smooth. The method has been tested with both open and closed curves with good results.