Apparatus for detecting primitive patterns in an image

摘要

In an apparatus for extracting primitive patterns included in an image such as a character or any other figure, the image subjected to primitive pattern extraction is optical multiplied by a multiplier to form simultaneously in parallel a plurality of optical pattern images of a substantially identical shape, and optical correlation calculation between the plurality of optical pattern images and the primitive patterns which are formed in the various types of primitive masks is performed individually and instantaneously, the various type of primitive masks being arranged at a position spaced apart by a predetermined distance therefrom, thereby detecting beams emitted through the various types of primitive masks. Image multiplication, optical correlation calculation between the primitive pattern and the optical pattern image, and transmission of the result of the optical correlation calculation to the photosensors can be simultaneously performed at the light propagation speed. The apparatus structure can be simplified at low cost, and primitive pattern extraction operations can be performed at high speed.