Abstract: An image segmentation system segments images into component elements by modelling the image as a series of combined layers. The brightness of pixels within each layer is modelled as a parametric function of pixel position. Weights are assigned to each pixel position within each layer and describe how the layers are combined to form a recovered image. By modelling the image as a compilation of layers having different brightness functions, the system segments elements within an image, including text, when the image is corrupted by noise and when elements are combined, such as text and graphics. Enhanced image compression is obtained by modelling the image in multiple layers.

Abstract: Generally, and in one form of the invention, a method is presented for the photo-stimulated removal of trace metals 16 from a surface 11, comprising the steps of covering the surface 11 with an ambient species 14, exciting the trace metals 16 and/or the ambient species 14 by photo-stimulation sufficiently to allow reaction of the trace metals with the ambient species to form metal products, and removing the ambient species 14 and the metal products from the surface 11.Other methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed of producing a corrosion resistant product from a billet comprising a core of finely divided ferrous swarf compacted into briquettes in a stainless steel jacket and in which the billet is heated to a temperature at which it becomes sufficiently plastic to be worked into a finished or semi-finished product by an operation such as rolling. An additive is pre-mixed with the swarf which, when the billet is heated, reacts to form an atmosphere inside the jecket which displaces or prevents the formation of carbon dioxide and/or other gases which at elevated temperatures would oxidise the stainless steel to form chrome oxides at the interface between the jacket and the core. The additive is preferably in powder form. Examples of suitable additives include urea and ammonium chloride.

Abstract: An exercise cycle is propelled by a stair-stepping action of the driver's legs, with the feet placed on a pair of front-hinged footboards located along opposite sides of the vehicle. A novel cable and chain drive system delivers driving torque to the rear wheel assembly to propel the vehicle forward in response to the driver's weight being applied via the legs and feet to depress the footboards alternately: the driving mechanism is located in a lower forward portion of the cycle so as to keep the mechanism below the rear wheel height and thus provide a low profile.