Method and Apparatus for Image Content Detection and Image Content Replacement System

An image content detection apparatus, comprising:

• a video image receiving unit which receives video images observing a scene including a subject;
• a detector signal processing unit which processes a plurality of detector signals relating to the scene including the subject, wherein a first detector signal observes the scene in a first wavelength band which is absorbed by a filter of the subject and wherein a second detector signal observes the scene in a second wavelength band which is distinguished from the first wavelength band;
• and
• a mask signal generating unit which generates and outputs a mask signal that defines target areas of the video images corresponding to the subject according to regions of contrast between the first detector signal and the second detector signal.

A method of detecting image content comprising:

• receiving video images of a scene that includes a first subject that absorbs radiation in a selected first wavelength band;
• receiving a first detector signal observing the scene in the first wavelength band;
• receiving a second detector signal observing the scene in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band;
• generating a mask signal that defines a target area of the video images corresponding to the subject according to regions of contrast between the first detector signal and the second detector signal;
• and
• outputting the mask signal for application to the video images.