A Three Dimensional Electronic Retina Architecture.
Abstract
The biological retina is a compact, real-time image processor. It performs analog computations in parallel in depth. Such processing capabilities have so far been unattainable in comparably sized man-made processors. This thesis investigates using VLSI technology and a three dimensional architectural approach in designing an electronic retina. This effort involves the comparison of alternative 3D designs and the implementation of VLSI circuitry capable of low-level image processing. The 3D architectures compared include a model based on the Hughes 3D computer, a model using a monolithic wafer with multiple circuit layers, and a model using stacked wafers with fiber optic interconnects. A conventional 2D architecture is presented for comparison/reference. Circuits for photo detection, and spatial and temporal processing were implemented. It was shown that using VLSI analog circuits and a 3D architecture it is feasible to fabricate a real-time image processor in a compact package.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA188871
Entities
People
- Gray L. Salada
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology