With its diversity, computer vision assists in so many different types of tasks that take place automatically in our everyday lives. Likewise, computer vision aids researchers and scientists in developing new treatments or applications for so many different types of industries. In fact, computer vision touches so many diverse areas that a list of common tasks would be quite lengthy.
At its most basic, the tasks of computer vision can be categorized into five types:
1. Constructing a 3D View – Perhaps the most common task of computer vision is producing a 3D image from a flat or 2D image. This depth capability has proven beneficial in the medical field, as well as the military. For example, computer vision enables radar to generate a map of the surrounding ocean and identify the location of enemy ships by distinguishing them in 3D view. Besides actual applications, computer vision’s 3D view construction is also enhancing research in many areas.
2. Surface and Object Recognition – Recognizing objects and registering surface types are two common tasks performed by computer vision. It does this by capturing information, such as dimensions, composition and unique features, and producing accurate images so the object or surface can be identified. Computer vision’s surface and object recognition capabilities also are used for detection and identification purposes, such as detecting abnormal cells in medical imaging or identifying a specific person through fingerprints.
3. Scene or Event Reconstruction – Reconstructing a scene, whether from live data or a video, is another key task performed by computer vision. By inputting data of one or more scene images, computer vision can reconstruct the scene in a 3D model. As part of the reconstruction, computer vision takes into consideration essential factors, such as texture, lighting, spatial relations, gradients, and other influences. This computer vision task is often relied upon by the motion picture and film industry.
4. Motion Analysis – Tasks that require estimation of motion are often performed by computer vision. It can be used to determine velocity between two distinct points or within a scene that involves multiple objects, such as vehicles and humans. Accident reconstruction scene specialists often use motion analysis to determine the speed of a vehicle.
5. Image Restoration – Computer vision is used to recreate an image of an object or a structure that has been altered due to “noise,” such as a motion blur, sensor interference, or improper storage. It can also be used to enhance details in an image. Likewise, computer vision uses algorithms to restore image data that may have been corrupted. Applications that use computer vision’s image restoration capabilities range from art and film restoration to photography and live video streaming.