Pattern detection and location in a processed image
The present invention is a method of processing a video image in an electronic video processor, including the steps of receiving an input image having an input field of view, generating a processed image from the input image, and having an output field of view smaller than the input field of view, searching for a predetermined pattern within the input image, providing an indication when the predetermined pattern is found in the input image, zooming the processed image to the input field of view and highlighting the predetermined pattern in the processed image in response to the indication.
1. A visual prosthesis comprising:
A visible light camera suitable to be external to the body;
an infrared camera suitable to be external to the body;
a video processing unit receiving video data from the visible light camera and the infrared camera, the video processing unit combining video data from the infrared camera and the visible light camera, producing an input image having an input field of view, and producing an output image having an output field of view smaller than the input field of view, in the form of stimulation codes indicating electrode patterns to be presented;
the video processing unit including a pattern detection component detecting predetermined patterns in the input image;
a wireless transmitter receiving codes from the video processing unit and transmitting the codes;
an implantable wireless receiver suitable to be implanted within a body, receiving the codes from the wireless transmitter;
an implantable signal generator receiving the codes from the wireless receiver and generating stimulation signals; and
an implantable electrode array receiving the stimulation signals and suitable to stimulate visual neural tissue;
wherein the pattern detection component provides an indication of a detected predetermined pattern in the stimulation signal.
2. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the pattern detection component detects faces.
3. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the pattern detection component detects heat hazards.
4. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , further comprising a zoom component adapted to zoom out when the pattern is detected in an input field of view of the video data, but not an output field of view defined by the stimulation signals.
5. The visual prosthesis according to claim 4 , wherein the zoom component and pattern detection component are manually operable.
6. The visual prosthesis according to claim 4 , wherein the pattern detection component is continuous and cues a user to manually operate the zoom component.
7. The visual prosthesis according to claim 4 , wherein the pattern detection component is continuous and automatically activates the zoom component in response to a detected pattern.
8. The visual prosthesis according to claim 7 , wherein the visual prosthesis cues a user in response to the zoom component being automatically activated.
9. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , further comprising a pattern recognition component recognizing features of the detected pattern.
10. The visual prosthesis according to claim 9 , wherein the pattern recognition component includes a look up table of patterns and identifying information.
11. The visual prosthesis according to claim 10 , wherein the look up table associates faces with names.
12. The visual prosthesis according to claim 11 , further comprising an enunciator to announce a name associated with a detected face.