Automatic creation of 3D facial models

Model-based encoding of human facial features for narrowband visual communication is described. Based on an already prepared 3D human model, this coding method detects and understands a person's body motion and facial expressions. It expresses the essential information as compact codes and transmits it. At the receiving end, this code becomes the basis for modifying the 3D model of the person and thereby generating lifelike human images. The feature extraction used by the system to acquire data for regions or edges that express the eyes, nose, mouth, and outlines of the face and hair is discussed. The way in which the system creates a 3D model of the person by using the features extracted in the first part to modify a generic head model is also discussed. >