Top-down and bottom-up image processing
LAWRENCE W. STARK, Claudio Michele Privitera · Proceedings of International Conference on Neural Networks (ICNN'97) · 2002
We introduce the problem of fitting a picture to the eye, by referring to the scanpath theory for top-down vision in humans and discuss how even such early processes as segmentation are likely controlled top-down by internal cognitive-spatial models. Experimental evidence is adduced for this view of human vision. The internal model must approximate the external world, since our species has survived. Alternately, certain bottom-up image processing algorithms may inversely serve to identify approximate sub-features or regions of interest of the internal model. Our results indicate, however, that these algorithms can not predict the sequential ordering of the subfeatures used by a person. Applications of schemata exploiting the above notions are suggested for: image compression; guided viewing of computer screens for increased efficiency; and compensating distortions for such eye lesions as scotomas.