Detection of interest points using symmetry

An operator based on the intuitive motion of symmetry, which effectively locates interest points in real time and can be incorporated also in active visual systems, is introduced. The results of its operation agree with some psychophysical evidence concerning symmetry as well as evidence concerning fixation points. The operator can be applied successfully without prior knowledge of the world. Combining the operator with some preconceptions about the image is a powerful tool for feature detection in intricate natural scenes. The localization of faces and facial features in real time is demonstrated on detailed and noisy pictures