An analog parallel-processing array for motion detection

The chip reported consists of an array of cells which functionally simulate the light-intensity-variation detecting neurons that exist in the retina of most highly developed animals. This chip performs motion detection using sub-nanoampere differentiation of the output currents of photodiodes arranged in a 2D array. As in most cases of image processing systems, the image projected onto the array must be time-invariant and spatially-variant. Experimental results show that fast moving images can be detected reliably by the array which dissipated a static power of less than 10 μW. Images moving at a velocity lower than 1 mm/s can be detected if image contrast is high