am_markup

A tool for interactive search with Active Appearance Models.

Invoke from the command line with

am_markup
or
am_markup xxxx
where xxxx.smd is an SMD file.

Loading a model

The filenames defining the various components of each model are encapsulated by the SMD file.

To load in a model, either pass in the SMD file path as a parameter when running the command, or use the "File->Load Model" menu option.

Loading images to search

To load a single image, use the "File->Load Image" menu item.

We are so often interested in sets of images, possibly with existing annotations. The simplest method of dealing with them is to set up a basic SMD file listing the images of interest. This can then be loaded using the "File->Load Image Set". The first image (and any associated annotation points listed in the SMD file) will then be displayed. You can move through the set using the arrow buttons above the main window.
This is the preferred technique when marking up a set of images, as the tool can automatically create a suitable file name for any saved points.

Note: When you load in a model, the SMD file defines an initial set of images, the first of which is automatically loaded.

Manipulating the Model

Because the AAM is a local search algorithm, the model must be started in roughly the correct position. The buttons on the left of the main window allow selection of a variety of interactions as follows:

Note that when you move individual points, they go red. This indicates they are "Fixed" and will not be moved during the search. The assumption is that if the user has moved them, they are moved to a particular desired location, and the machine would not be so presumtios as to move them again. To return them to a "Normal" state, use the buttons in the panel obtained using the "Props->Point State" menu item. Note: When a new image is loaded, all points return to a Normal state.

Searching with the Model

Use the "Props->Search" menu item to pop up a panel of search controls.

These allow you to define the parameters controlling the search (though the defaults will usually work reasonably).

To run the search, simply press the "Search" button.

Search parameters

Saving Results

The current positions of the model points can be saved to a points file using the "File->Save Points" menu item.

When images are loaded using an SMD file, mechanisms exist for automatically generating an appropriate file name (based on the image name) and saving the points.

Display Issues

The "Props->Graphics" menu item brings up a panel allowing control of the graphics (line width, point radius etc)

Generating screenshots and video sequences

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