Embedded image processing/compression for high-speed CMOS sensor

High-speed video cameras are powerful tools for investigating for instance the biomechanics analysis or the movements of mechanical parts in manufacturing processes. In the past years, the use of CMOS sensors instead of CCDs has made possible the development of high-speed video cameras offering digital outputs, readout flexibility and lower manufacturing costs. In this paper, we proposed a high-speed camera based on CMOS sensor with embedded processing. Two types algorithms have been implemented. The compression algorithm represents the first class for our camera and allows to transfer images using serial output link. The second type is dedicated to feature extraction like edge detection, markers extraction, or image analysis, wavelet analysis and object tracking. These image processing algorithms have been implemented into a FPGA embedded inside the camera. This FPGA technology allows us to process in real time 500 images per second with a 1.280H × 1.024V resolution.