Integral Spiral Image for Fast Hexagonal Image Processing

A common requirement for image processing tasks is to achieve real-time performance. One approach towards achieving this for tradition rectangular pixel-based images is to use an integral image that enables feature extraction at multiple scales in a fast and efficient manner. Alternative research has introduced the concept of hexagonal pixel-based images that closely mimic the human visual system: a real-time visual system. To enhance real time capability, we present a novel integral image for hexagonal pixel based images and associated multi-scale operator implementation that significantly accelerates the feature detection process. We demonstrate that the use of integral images enables significantly faster computation than the use of conventional spiral convolution or the use of neighbourhood address look-up tables.