A Multipass Spatial and Temporal Image Filtering APS CMOS Image Sensor

This paper presents a monolithic implementation of a programmable multipass image processing hardware capable of spatial and temporal image filtering at the focal plane in 0.18 mum CMOS technology. The novel architecture enables image processing at readout using a sliding kernel processing element and a dedicated class AB analog memory. It has a unique pixel write-back feature that enables multi-pass image processing in the analog domain. The design is ideal for low power, low cost image sensor applications. The current design can achieve 900 MOPS/mW, and can easily be improved.