Automated Image Segmentation Methods for Digitally-Assisted Palaeography of Medieval Manuscripts

Brian Maher, Kathleen Steinhofel & Peter Stokes

We explore methods of automating the digital palaeographic process, using a divide and conquer approach. Firstly, image noise is reduced using a combination of colour removal, and varied blurring and thresholding techniques. Initial values for these processes are calculated by the system based on the average greyscale colour of the image upon initial importation. By combining these algorithms, the system is able to achieve high levels of noise reduction.