The ETCA data-flow functional computer for real-time image processing

A data-flow computer, constituted of a large array of data-flow processors and programmed using a functional language, and its application to real-time image processing are presented. The approach integrates tightly and efficiently the data-flow architecture principle and the functional programming concept. It leads to a very simple and regular hardware. It also provides a very efficient and user-friendly software interface for application development. It remains applicable in systems that includes processors of different granularity. Results of an experimental system, running several image processing algorithm in real time at digital video speed, are reported.<>