Kernel snakes: non-parametric active contour models

In this paper, a new non-parametric generalized formulation to statistical pressure snakes is presented. We discuss the shortcomings of the traditional pressure snakes. We then introduce a new generic pressure model that alleviates these shortcomings, based on the Bayesian decision theory. Non-parametric techniques are used to obtain the statistical models that drive the snake. We discuss the advantages of using the proposed non-parametric model compared to other parametric techniques. Multi-colored-target tracking is used to demonstrate the performance of the proposed approach. Experimental results show enhanced, real-time performance.