A novel hybrid-maximum neural network in stereo-matching process

In the present paper, the completely innovative architecture of artificial neural network based on Hopfield structure for solving a stereo-matching problem—hybrid neural network, consisting of the classical analog Hopfield neural network and the Maximum Neural Network—is described. The application of this kind of structure as a part of assistive device for visually impaired individuals is considered. The role of the analog Hopfield network is to find the attraction area of the global minimum, whereas Maximum Neural Network is finding accurate location of this minimum. The network presented here is characterized by an extremely high rate of work performance with the same accuracy as a classical Hopfield-like network, which makes it possible to use this kind of structure as a part of systems working in real time. The network considered here underwent experimental tests with the use of real stereo pictures as well as simulated stereo images. This enables error calculation and direct comparison with the classic analog Hopfield neural network as well as other networks proposed in the literature.