A Color Coordinate Normalizer Chip

Abstract

The use of multispectral images of the same object considerably increases the opportunity for unique selection of features. The use of color information has been receiving growing attention. This paper presents the design and VLSI implementation of a new ASIC, which performs real-time conversion of the raw RGB data into the rgb normalized color coordinates. The high speed of operation is achieved by pipelining the data in a vector fashion. Eight-bit color images have been used, since this resolution is adequate for encoding the composite video signal without noticeable degradation. The inputs to the circuit are the RGB data obtained from a color sensor and digitized through three flash ADCs. The design has been implemented using the CADENCE VLSI CAD tool. The die size dimensions for the core of the chip are 1.87 mm × 1. 80 mm = 3. 37 mm², for a DLM, 0.7 μm, N-well, CMOS technology and its maximum frequency of operation is 30 MHz. The ASIC is intended to be used in real-time pattern recognition applications, such as robotics, military systems, food, printing, pharmaceutical and agricultural industries. Real-time techniques are important not only in terms of improving productivity, but also in reducing operator errors associated with visual feedback delays.