Surveys are made of both character recognition and image
processing. The need to apply image processing techniques
to character recognition is pointed out. The
fields are then combined and tested in sample programs.
Simulations are made of recognition systems with and
without image preprocessing. Processing techniques
applied utilize Walsh-Hadamard transforms and l ocal window
operators. Results indicate that image prepro c ess i ng
improves recognition rates when noise degrades input
images. A system architecture is proposed for a hardware
based video speed image processor operating on local
image windows. The possible implementation of this
processor is outlined.