Gap closure in (road) networks using higher-order active contours

We present a new model for the extraction of networks from images in the presence of occlusions. Such occlusions cause gaps in the extracted network that need to he closed. Using higher-order active contours, which allow the incorporation of sophisticated geometric information, we introduce a new, non-local, ´gap closure´ force that causes pairs of network extremities that are close together to extend towards one another and join, thus closing the gap between them. We demonstrate the benefits of the model using the problem of road network extraction, presenting results on aerial images.