title: A Linked List-Based Algorithm for Blob Detection on Embedded Vision-Based Sensors.
abstract: Blob detection is a common task in vision-based applications. Most existing algorithms are aimed at execution on general purpose computers; while very few can be adapted to the computing restrictions present in embedded platforms. This paper focuses on the design of an algorithm capable of real-time blob detection that minimizes system memory consumption. The proposed algorithm detects objects in one image scan; it is based on a linked-list data structure tree used to label blobs depending on their shape and node information. An example application showing the results of a blob detection co-processor has been built on a low-powered field programmable gate array hardware as a step towards developing a smart video surveillance system. The detection method is intended for general purpose application. As such, several test cases focused on character recognition are also examined. The results obtained present a fair trade-off between accuracy and memory requirements; and prove the validity of the proposed approach for real-time implementation on resource-constrained computing platforms.
authors.affiliation: Department of Postgraduate Studies, Tecnol&#243;gico de Monterrey, Campus Estado de M&#233;xico, Atizap&#225;n de Zaragoza, Estado de M&#233;xico 52926, Mexico. ricardo.acevedo@itesm.mx.
authors.forename: Ricardo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Acevedo-Avila
authors.affiliation: Department of Postgraduate Studies, Tecnol&#243;gico de Monterrey, Campus Estado de M&#233;xico, Atizap&#225;n de Zaragoza, Estado de M&#233;xico 52926, Mexico. mgonza@itesm.mx.
authors.forename: Miguel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gonzalez-Mendoza
authors.affiliation: Department of Postgraduate Studies, Tecnol&#243;gico de Monterrey, Campus Estado de M&#233;xico, Atizap&#225;n de Zaragoza, Estado de M&#233;xico 52926, Mexico. garcia.andres@itesm.mx.
authors.forename: Andres
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Garcia-Garcia
keywords: embedded computer vision; field programmable gate array (FPGA); object detection