Realistic simulation tool for early visual processing including space, time and colour data

Abstract

This paper presents an efficient implementation on a conventional computer architecture of some early visual processing that occurs in the eye. A retinal spatiotemporal recursive filtet, based on an extended version of Mead’s model, has been implemented by means of an original algorithm, ntuch faster than Fire (18 times for a 256 × 256 image). Various realistic aspects have been added, particularly non-homogeneotfs filtering by the clystalline lens. photoreceptor coupling, chromatic sampling and digital filtering with an irregular spatial sampling. The integration of these unconventional components of early visual organisation into a single coherent system leads to the development of clever digital realisations: among the many possibilities of this simulation tool, three of them are illustrated, concerning space-variant and colour processing. The program, written in the C language, allows synthesis, filtering and the display of colour images with moving objects.