Polynomial filters for higher order correlation and multi-input information fusion

摘要

A method and apparatus for detecting a pattern within an image. Image data (22) is received which is representative of the image. Filter values (70) are determined which substantially optimizes a first predetermined criterion (68). The first predetermined criterion (68) is based upon image data (22). A correlation output (40) is determined which is indicative of the presence of the pattern within the image data (22). The correlation output (40) is based upon the determined filter values (70) and the image data (22) via a non-linear polynomial relationship (78).