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A signed pulse-train-based image processor-array for parallel kernel convolution in vision sensors

Ahmad Reza Danesh (Department of Electrical Engineering, Sensors and Interfaces Research Group, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran)
Mehdi Habibi (Department of Electrical Engineering, Sensors and Interfaces Research Group, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran)

Sensor Review

ISSN: 0260-2288

Article publication date: 24 June 2020

Issue publication date: 21 July 2020

75

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a kernel convolution processor. High-speed image processing is a challenging task for real-time applications such as product quality control of manufacturing lines. Smart image sensors use an array of in-pixel processors to facilitate high-speed real-time image processing. These sensors are usually used to perform the initial low-level bulk image filtering and enhancement.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, using pulse-width modulated signals and regular nearest neighbor interconnections, a convolution image processor is presented. The presented processor is not only capable of processing arbitrary size kernels but also the kernel coefficients can be any arbitrary positive or negative floating number.

Findings

The performance of the proposed architecture is evaluated on a Xilinx Virtex-7 field programmable gate array platform. The peak signal-to-noise ratio metric is used to measure the computation error for different images, filters and illuminations. Finally, the power consumption of the circuit in different operating conditions is presented.

Originality/value

The presented processor array can be used for high-speed kernel convolution image processing tasks including arbitrary size edge detection and sharpening functions, which require negative and fractional kernel values.

Keywords

Citation

Danesh, A.R. and Habibi, M. (2020), "A signed pulse-train-based image processor-array for parallel kernel convolution in vision sensors", Sensor Review, Vol. 40 No. 4, pp. 521-528. https://doi.org/10.1108/SR-10-2019-0242

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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