WinTrack 2000 - Real time image analysis

WinTrack 2000 is a real time image analysis program running under Windows 95 or 98 which allows the user to count, track and follow objects. All tasks are performed on a single computer monitor in adjustable and moveable windows. Built-in calibration unit adjusts the internal calculation algorithms to physical units. Look-up tables allow the user to view the b/w original video image in black and white or inverse or in a wide combination of pseudocolors. Brightness and contrast are adjusted by software on-line and can be controlled by a gray value histogram. Integer zoom can be selected between 1:16 and 16:1. Individual images can be stored and retrieved in high resolution. In addition, an electronic time lapse video recorder is installed which allows the user to record sequences of images at about 3 frames per second. These sequences can be retrieved and analyzed using the software tools described below. Objects are recognized based on a gray value threshold either in dark or bright field mode and can be selected based on their individual minimal or maximal size, minimal or maximal velocity. Modern mathematical software tools are available to perform smoothing, Laplace transformations, image sharpening and edge detection. The count module allows the user to count and analyze objects. Both single and repetitive counting is possible. The software module calculates number, mean area, form factor and size distribution of the identi fied objects on screen. All measured data can be stored in data files for later analysis, where either cumulative data can be selected or all individual data of each object are recorded.

The track module identifies all objects on screen which match the user selected criteria (minimal area, maximal area, minimal velocity, maximal velocity) and follows up to 1500 objects in parallel for a predefined time. On a modern PC (400 MHz) up to 12 000 measurements can be performed per minute. The measured parameters are shown in the "measured values" panel.

The long track module is designed to follow individual objects in real time as long as they are visible on screen. Either a fixed number of objects is selected to be tracked or a search area can be defined using the mouse, or an individual object can be singled out to be followed. Specific algorithms are implemented to track even colliding objects. As in the track module, the user can define the objects according to their gray value as well as to their size and velocity.

Circular histograms of the direction of movement or velocity of movement in dependence of movement direction are shown in a separate window. Statistical values concerning the motility and orientation are calculated on line and indicated. The kinetics of the motility parameters can be shown on screen. All measured data (x and y coordinates of the center of gravity for each object, velocity, direction of movement, area, form factor) can be stored in files for future analysis. Sequences of measurements can be programmed at selected time intervals.

Both on line analysis of the incoming video and playback of data from the built-in electronic time lapse recorder are possible. In addition to the tracks, circular histograms can be displayed which show the direction of movement, or alternatively the velocity distribution can be visualized.

Applications

- Microorganisms
Bacteria, flagellates, sperm cells, gametes, ciliates, amoebae, multicellular organisms such as rotifers and nematodes

- Macroscopic organisms
Insects, spiders, fishes, reptiles, small and large mammals

- Size and area calculation
Plant growth: macroalgae and higher plants
Estimation of size and size distribution of stones and pebble

If you wish tu get further information mail to: PD Dr. M. Lebert

Or download the flyer: WinTrack Flyer (Englisch)