Analog VLSI Circuits for the Perception of Visual Motion (PDF)

Although it is now possible to integrate many millions of
transistors on a single chip, traditional digital circuit
technology is now reaching its limits, facing problems of cost and
technical efficiency when scaled down to ever-smaller feature
sizes. The analysis of biological neural systems, especially for
visual processing, has allowed engineers to better understand how
complex networks can effectively process large amounts of
information, whilst dealing with difficult computational
challenges.

Analog and parallel processing are key characteristics of
biological neural networks. Analog VLSI circuits using the same
features can therefore be developed to emulate brain-style
processing. Using standard CMOS technology, they can be cheaply
manufactured, permitting efficient industrial and consumer
applications in robotics and mobile electronics.

This book explores the theory, design and implementation of
analog VLSI circuits, inspired by visual motion processing in
biological neural networks. Using a novel approach pioneered by the
author himself, Stocker explains in detail the construction of a
series of electronic chips, providing the reader with a valuable
practical insight into the technology.

Analog VLSI Circuits for the Perception of Visual
Motion:

* analyses the computational problems in visual motion
perception;

* examines the issue of optimization in analog networks through
high level processes such as motion segmentation and selective
attention;

* demonstrates network implementation in analog VLSI CMOS
technology to provide computationally efficient devices;

* sets out measurements of final hardware implementation;

* illustrates the similarities of the presented circuits with the
human visual motion perception system;

* includes an accompanying website with video clips of circuits
under real-time visual conditions and additional supplementary
material.

With a complete review of all existing neuromorphic analog VLSI
systems for visual motion sensing, Analog VLSI Circuits for the
Perception of Visual Motion is a unique reference for advanced
students in electrical engineering, artificial intelligence,
robotics and computational neuroscience. It will also be useful for
researchers, professionals, and electronics engineers working in
the field.