A real-time center-of-mass tracker circuit implemented by neuron MOS technology

A new architecture integrated circuit has been developed as a key element of a system that can real-time track the center of mass of an moving image on a two-dimensional (2-D) pixel array. The circuit has been implemented using a high-functionality transistor called neuron MOSFET (neuMOS or /spl nu/MOS for short), hence having a very simple circuit configuration. A quasi-two-dimensional algorithm is assumed for system in the circuit. A one-dimensional (1-D) array of neuron MOS circuits automatically finds the center-of-mass location using the image intensity distribution projected onto the x or y axis. The unique feature of the circuit is that it accepts analog inputs without A/D conversion but produces binary outputs, thus providing a very smooth interfacing between the real world and digital systems. Test circuits have been fabricated by a double-polysilicon CMOS process and their operation has been experimentally demonstrated.