If looks could talk: A system for automatic analysis of facial expressions

Researchers at Delft University of Technology have developed a computer system capable of recognising human facial expressions from images. The system can distinguish between 30 different units such as a smile, or raised eyebrows. It is intended for use by behavioural researchers and the medical profession. A psychologist might use it to automatically receive and analyse a series of photographs of people he wishes to observe. Psychologists archives are often crammed with photographs, and processing them is just the first step.In addition, over the last decade, researchers all over the world have been looking for ways to improve the way we communicate with computers, other than through a mouse and keyboard. The interface of new multimedia products must become more intelligent and user-friendly. This requires insight into a number of aspects of non-verbal communication