Computer vision is the use of digital processing and intelligent algorithms to interpret meaning from images or video. Computer vision has mainly been a field of academic research over the past several decades. Today, however, a major transformation is underway.
“Embedded Vision” refers to the practical use of computer vision in machines that understand their environment through visual means. It has the potential to open up new applications and shape the future of many industries. The concept is revolutionary, and has far reaching implications. But what is it?
Embedded vision refers to the integration of a camera and processing board. Historically, vision systems consisted of a camera and a PC. These were both large and expensive. Over time, both cameras and PCs have shrunk in size and price until they could be easily embedded in other systems at an affordable price.
It has now become possible to incorporate practical computer vision capabilities into mobile devices, PC’s, embedded systems, and even the cloud because of the emergence of very powerful, low cost, and energy-efficient processors. Over the next few years, we anticipate rapid growth of embedded vision technology into many other kinds of systems as well.
What are the Advantages of Embedded Vision Systems?
Though embedded vision systems will not take the place of PC-based systems altogether, they do present many advantages for certain applications.
Many manufacturers and integrators alike point to four major benefits of embedded vision systems:
- Small size
- Light weight
- Low cost
- Low energy consumption
The major way that embedded vision systems differ from a PC-based system is that they are most typically built for a specific application. PC-based systems are usually intended for general image processing. This is a key factor, as it often increases the complexity of initial integration. However, this is offset by a custom system that is perfectly suited for the application and for providing return on investment.
Different applications where embedded vision systems are used is in technology like self-driving cars, autonomous vehicles in agriculture, dermascopes that help specialists make more accurate diagnoses, among many other unique and cutting-edge applications.
Though in each of the above applications, embedded vision systems are built specifically for that purpose. For example, you wouldn’t be able to use the technology for a self-driving car in a dermascope.
Even though each application uses a unique system, embedded vision as a whole is having a transformative impact on a number of industries.
Not all applications are suitable for embedded vision systems, but the ones that are will quite possibly see a disruption in the industry.
Embedded vision is an exciting new technology in the vision industry. We can supply a precision lens that works seamlessly in your design. You can rely on us to deliver the lens you require. Our engineers and manufacturers work together to provide a lens that meets your exact expectations.