IR retinal vision processor hybrid IC

A concept in focal plane design referred to as the "neuromorphic" infrared focal plane array has the capability of performing real-time local contrast enhancement, spatial filtering, and pixel-based sensor fusion. Local contrast enhancement allows the system to use the full dynamic range of the focal plane, and user-controllable spatial filtering permits the user to "tune" the focal plane spatial response to the dimensions of the desired target. Both spatial and temporal characteristics are accomplished using a switched-capacitor resistive network integrated into the CMOS readout architecture to perform a two-dimensional averaging function as well as temporal control of charge admitted into the spatial averaging array.<>