Image segmentation as an estimation problem

Picture segmentation is expressed as a sequence of decision problems with the framework of a split-and-merge algorithm. First regions of an arbitrary initial segmentation are tested for uniformity and if not uniform they are subdivided into smaller regions, or set aside if their size is below a given threshold. Next regions classified as uniform are subject to a cluster analysis to identify similar types which are merged. At this point there exist reliable estimates of the parameters of the random field of each type of region and they are used to classify some of the remaining small regions. Any regions remaining after this step are considered part of a boundary ambiguity zone. The location of the boundary is estimated then by interpolation between the existing uniform regions. Experimental results on artificial pictures are also included.