Fast multi-face detection in color images using fuzzy logic

Human face detection plays an important role in applications such as video surveillance, human computer interface, face recognition, and face image database management, etc. We propose a face detection algorithm for color images in complex backgrounds, using fuzzy logic, fast marching method and some image processing techniques. The algorithm is mainly based on skin colors. Sizes, shapes of faces and facial features are fuzzy factors for verifying face candidates. To reduce computation time, we deal only with border points of each object. Regardless of positions of true faces detected, we also get their relatively accurate borders for the results. Experimental results demonstrate successful face detection over a wide range of facial variations in color, position, scale, orientation, 3D pose, and expression in images from several photo collections (both indoors and outdoors). The computation time is also faster than many other face algorithms based on skin colors.