KISS - A MULTIAGENT SEGMENTATION SYSTEM

We present a multiagent computer segmentation system, named KISS. This system has been implemented under our multiagent problem solver (MAPS ), a generic programming environment dedicated to multiagent architect ure design. MAPS entails a basic distinction between object-oriented a nd action-oriented agents, which allows flexible alternation between f igurative and operative focusing tasks. KISS demonstrates the applicab ility of a multiagent approach to computer vision by offering a clear distribution of knowledge among several agents, dedicated successively to low-, intermediate-, and high-level analysis steps. Segmentation i s approached through a cooperative analysis, involving both region and contour-based detection. Interpretation of patterns is made under thr ee successive steps, using geometrical, relational, and semantic label ing, respectively. Such interpretation makes it possible to guide the selection of handling procedures to improve the initial segmentation. The potential power of such an approach is exemplified by its applicat ion to muscle fiber analysis.