Abstract: A pattern recognition process and apparatus automatically extracts features in displays, images, and complex signals. Complex signals are processed to two- or higher-dimensional displays or other imagery. The displays or other imagery are then processed to produce one or more visual fields in which regions with certain properties are enhanced. The enchanced regions are induced to produce attractive forces. Flexible templates placed in the visual fields are acted upon by the attractive forces, causing the templates to deform in such a way as to match features which are similar, but not identical to, the template. The deformed templates are then evaluated in order to identify or interpret the feature to which the template was attracted. Apparatus utilizing the process generates a display of the features extracted from the input signal. Desired information can be obtained from such a display, such as trajectories, the location of ridges, buildings, edges, or other boundaries.