A smart "single line" pixel sensor for industrial vision

This paper presents an original active pixel sensor for industrial vision. It shows how, in the framework of industrial control, motion detection and pattern recognition can be performed with a single line of pixels. A novel methodology is introduced to tackle the sensor processing part design, that relies on GAUT, our architecture synthesis tool for dedicated signal processors. The paper focuses on the circuit´s VLSI design. The sensor includes mechanisms to tackle light dynamics and to adapt to its variations. The pixel´s layout is detailed, as well as the sensor´s performance. The chip´s architecture and floorplan are finally outlined