Handwritten digit recognition: applications of neural network chips and automatic learning

Abstract

Two novel methods for achieving handwritten digit recognition are described. The first method is based on a neural network chip that performs line thinning and feature extraction using local template matching. The second method is implemented on a digital signal processor and makes extensive use of constrained automatic learning. Experimental results obtained using isolated handwritten digits taken from postal zip codes, a rather difficult data set, are reported and discussed.