Real-time gray-scale video processing using a moment- generating chip

A system for performing visual processing on gray-scale images in real time (60 Hz) has been constructed. The custom VLSI moment generator chip computes area, center of gravity, orientation, and size. An image preprocessor allows separate moments to be computed for separate regions. A standard set of buses allows new processing elements to be easily added. The system is expected to find application in real-time sensor-based electronic assembly and in automated inspection and registration tasks. A simple application to a real-time visually servoed robot task is summarized.