Image vectorization using optimized gradient meshes

ABSTRACT

Recently, gradient meshes have been introduced as a powerful vector graphics representation to draw multicolored mesh objects with smooth transitions. Using tools from Abode Illustrator and Corel CorelDraw, a user can manually create gradient meshes even for photo-realistic vector arts, which can be further edited, stylized and animated.

In this paper, we present an easy-to-use interactive tool, called optimized gradient mesh, to semi-automatically and quickly create gradient meshes from a raster image. We obtain the optimized gradient mesh by formulating an energy minimization problem. The user can also interactively specify a few vector lines to guide the mesh generation. The resulting optimized gradient mesh is an editable and scalable mesh that otherwise would have taken many hours for a user to manually create.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.4 IMAGE PROCESSING AND COMPUTER VISION
      I.4.8 Scene Analysis

Additional Classification:
  F. Theory of Computation
  F.2 ANALYSIS OF ALGORITHMS AND PROBLEM COMPLEXITY
      F.2.2 Nonnumerical Algorithms and Problems
          Subjects: Geometrical problems and computations

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.1 Hardware architecture
          Subjects: Parallel processing
      I.3.6 Methodology and Techniques
          Subjects: Interaction techniques
  I.4 IMAGE PROCESSING AND COMPUTER VISION
      I.4.7 Feature Measurement

General Terms:
Algorithms, Design, Measurement