An object oriented approach for an iconic kernel system IKS

Abstract

To provide for the realization of machine-independent image-processing systems which support both problemoriented procedure description and development as well as the generation of reusable software, an Iconic Kernel System (IKS) was developed. IKS provides a description foundation for iconic processing and serves as a concrete organizational framework for both implementation and application of image processing tasks. This is achieved using a uniform and comprehensive fundamental operation model for iconic operations and an object oriented approach for system architecture. IntroductionDigitial image processing and pattern recognition is used for the solution of sophisticated problems in a wide range of application areas. For this purpose many image processing systems and utilities were developed. Despite of many similarities in functionality and design a uniform and well-organized comprehensive system environment for both the implementation and application of image operations i s well as testing of new methods is not available till today. Rather there exist more or less comprehensive insular solutions which in most cases are system-and application-specific or incomplete [6].In the field of iconic image processing commonly accepted and approved data and operation structures exist for the development of a comprehensive system environment. To overcome problems and deficiencies associated with current systems, the primary goals of this standardized iconic-level image processing system IKS are: system portability to alternate host systems; support for problem-oriented algorithm development (data abstraction and information hiding); generation and delivery of interchangeable software components (reuseability); support for developing, testing, comparing, and applying of image operations provision for a well-defined, comprehensive coverage of iconic building-blocks; support for addition of new data structures, operations, and devices through included structured mechanism; modularity and transparency through readily understood module structure; consistent system structure; and well-defined communication interface.CH2898-5/90/0000/008!5$01 .OO 0 1990 IEEE 85In the following, the Iconic Kernel System conceptual basis is presented. IKS provides a description foundation for iconic processing and serves as a concrete organizational framework for both implementation and application of image processing tasks. The stated goals are met using a fundamental operation model for the uniform description and development of iconic image operations (chapter Z), as well as defining the basic building blocks of the system together with an ob'ect oriented approach for system architecture (chapter 3). Finally some technical aspects of system implementation and interfaces of the system-realization concept are described. Fundamental Operation Model for Iconic Image ProcessingIconic image processing is often denoted also as low level vision and encompasses the processing of image-like data structures (matrices, rasters) with geometric relations ...