Quantitative design and evaluation of enhancement/thresholding edge detectors

Quantitative design and performance evaluation techniques are developed for the enhancement/thresholding class of image edge detectors. The design techniques are based on statistical detection theory and deterministic pattern-recognition classification procedures. The performance evaluation methods developed include: a)deterministic measurement of the edge gradient amplitude; b)comparison of the probabilities of correct and false edge detection; and c) figure of merit computation. The design techniques developed are used to optimally design a variety of small and large mask edge detectors. Theoretical and experimental comparisons of edge detectors are presented.