Edge and region image segmentation processes on the parallel vision machine: Transvision

The authors present a method of setting up image processing chains for applications with strict temporal constraints. The method is based on the concept of a modular parallel vision machine, also called an evaluation machine. Starting from this concept, the authors define the most suitable target machine for helping with a real time application. This evaluation machine, which is called Transvision, is based on two operation models: the first, of pipeline type, is based on real time video models and deals with a certain amount of low level processings. The second, of MIMD distributed memory type, is based on the transputer. It deals with low, medium and high level algorithms. A modular bridge called a video node makes exchange and control possible between the two worlds. The procedure is described for two examples of image segmentation chains; one of them is the contour type and the other the region type. The authors present parallelization schemes and the temporal performances obtained for each of the chains.