Dr Stuart Gibson (speaker) & Dr Christopher Solomon, School of Physical
Sciences, University of Kent

Statistical appearance models have previously been used for computer face
recognition applications in which an image patch is synthesized and morphed
to match a target face image using an automated iterative fitting
algorithm. Here we describe an alternative use for appearance models,
namely for producing facial composite images (sometimes referred to as
E-FIT or PhotoFIT images). This application poses an interesting real-world
optimization problem because the target face exists in the mind of the
witness and not in a tangible form such as a digital image. To solve this
problem we employ an interactive evolutionary algorithm that allows the
witness to evolve a likeness to the target face. A system based on our
approach, called EFIT-V, is used frequently by three quarters of UK police.