Image processing system for PC through the enhanced parallel port

In this paper we present a video processing circuit for a 3D machine vision system designed with an FPGA that processes images in real time and provides them through the EPP (Enhanced Parallel Port) to a computer. The system is useful in 3D vision applications so different as robot guidance in MIG and laser solder or control of treated woods. The connection of the processing system to a PC through the EPP achieves an easy installation for industrial applications. The implementation of processing in a programmable device (SRAM-cells based like an FPGA), let us to modify the design easily in order to adapt it rapidly to new applications or to make different versions of the same system.