METHOD FOR REAL-TIME EDGE EXTRACTION USING HARDWARE OF LATERAL INHIVITION TYPE OF SPATIAL FILTER

It is useful to simulate the human visual function for the purpose of image-processing. In this study, the hardware of the spatial filter with the sensitivity of lateral inhibition is realized by the combination of optical parts with electronic circuits. The diffused film with the characteristics of Gaussian type is prepared as a spatial filter. An object's image is convoluted with the spatial filter. From the difference of the convoluted images, the zero-cross position is detected at video rate. The edge of object is extracted in real-time by the use of this equipment. The resolution of edge changes with the value of the standard deviation of diffused film. In addition, it is possible to extract a directional edge selectively when the spatial filter with directional selectivity is used instead of Gaussian type of spatial filter.