1. A method for processing an image containing an object, comprising: a. capturing an image as an array of image pixel data, wherein said array is comprised of a plurality of columns and rows whereby each image pixel has an associated x-coordinate and y-coordinate; b. generating a respective memory address for each image pixel datum in said array of image pixel data and maintaining information in association with each said memory address identifying the position within said image of its respective image pixel datum; c. storing each image pixel datum in its respective memory address; d. comparing each image pixel datum to a threshold to identify linear spot segments wherein the pixel data from two or more pixels located in adjacent columns in the image exceed said threshold, said linear spot segments representing a portion of said object; and e. identifying and storing the respective x-coordinates and y-coordinates associated with only the first pixel and the last pixel in each linear spot segment in said image pixel data from the respective memory address.