Real-time facial expression recognition system based on HMM and feature point localization

Abstract

It is difficult for computer to recognize facial expression in real-time. Until now, no good method is put forward to solve this problem in and abroad. In this paper, we present an effective automated system that we developed to recognize facial gestures in real-time. According to psychologists' facial expression classification, we define four basic facial expressions and localize key facial feature points exactly then extract facial components' contours. We analyze and record facial components' movements using information in sequential frames to recognize facial gestures. Since different facial expressions can have some same movements, it is necessary to use a good facial expression model to describe the relation between expression states and observed states of facial components' movements for achieving a good recognition results. HMM is such a good method which can meet our requirement. We present a facial expression model based on HMM and get good real-time recognition results. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.