An edge-detecting VLSI image sensor-towards dedicated sensors for industrial automation?

Edge detection is of major importance in the interpretation of images by traditional means, but it is a computationally expensive process. Thus, low resolution image sensors inherently capable of edge-map production would seem to be particularly attractive for low-cost industrial MV applications. The author discusses the development of edge-detecting sensor architectures and a prototype VLSI implementation. He discusses the preliminary testing of the new sensor and the prospects for such dedicated sensors