Pylon Grid is a fast and accurate algorithm for human head detection in range images. It processes images captured by a stereo camera that is positioned vertically, pointing from the roof to the ground. A static grid of measure points (pylons) is used to detect the heads.

The Pylon Grid algorithm detects all local minima in the range image and has a linear time complexity in respect to the number of pylons. One important prerequisite for applying the Pylon Grid algorithm to human head detection is a one-to-one relationship between human heads in the scene and local minima in the range image.

The algorithm has excellent accuracy and robustness of detection. Its linear complexity and predictable operation make it suitable for real-time application.

For more information see http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neucom.2011.12.040