Bidimensional shape detection is a process with high computational complexi
ty. In this work, an algorithm, based on the generalized Hough transform (G
HT), is presented in order to calculate the orientation, scale, and displac
ement of a image shape with respect to a template. To reduce the complexity
, the uncoupled of the parameter calculation is carried out. The generation
of the invariant information needed by the uncoupled is implemented by usi
ng three transformation functions that pair shape edge points, Differences
between gradient vector angles are used to choose the paired points, An "a
priori" study of the template shape is carried out to select. the most suit
able values for the difference angles. (C) 1999 Pattern Recognition Society
. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.