As technology continues to push forward, businesses are constantly finding new and exciting ways to harness this progress to improve the way things are done. One of the most exciting technologies being adopted by many companies is the concept of computer vision. As the name implies, this is a technology that uses sensors or cameras to gather information, and then actively interprets it so that it becomes actionable in some way.
How Does Computer Vision Work?
At first glance, the concept of computer vision is relatively simple. A platform is set up that uses advanced sensors or high-resolution cameras that enable it to ‘see’ what is going on in a given area. Depending on what the system is used for, the hardware and software associated with it will then analyze the images or videos that have been taken. This is often done using advanced artificial intelligence that is able to process massive amounts of information very rapidly.
The system will then be able to assign various attributes to what it sees, which make it actionable. For example, if the system is designed to perform facial recognition, it may assign a person who is visible by a camera a name and a set of access permissions within the building. That information will then automatically be passed along to another system where it can be used. In this case, it may be to the security system so it can unlock doors that the individual has permission to use.
How Can Computer Vision be Used by Businesses?
The example listed above is just one of many different ways that computer vision can be used.
- Autonomous Driving – Autonomous driving relies on advanced computer vision that scans the area around the vehicle so that it can make decisions on what to do in order to get to the desired destination safely.
- Healthcare Monitoring – Computer vision can actively monitor a patient to ensure regular breathing, watch for symptoms, look for signs of distress, and much more. If a problem is observed by the system, it can notify a doctor or other medical professional to investigate.
- Quality Control – Advanced computer vision systems can monitor manufacturing systems to ensure there are no defects in the products as they are made. Any defects that are found can be flagged immediately so the issue can be addressed before it progresses.
- Retail Marketing – Retail stores can track what type of person enters a store, and market to them directly. For example, offering text-based discounts based on age or gender can be very effective at boosting sales.
- Law Enforcement and Security – Law enforcement and security teams can use computer vision to track down criminals in crowded areas. They can also look for suspicious activity in high-risk areas.
There are, of course, dozens of other ways that computer vision can be used by businesses today. Companies are harnessing existing systems to dramatically improve the way they operate, and many are investing heavily into developing custom solutions based on their unique needs.
The Future of Computer Vision
Basic versions of computer vision have been around for several years now, but advancements in cloud technology, artificial intelligence, and sensors have really helped to push it forward more recently. In the coming years, companies will be able to actively monitor virtually any situation using this technology and take action on what the system sees. For many industries, including automotive, manufacturing, warehousing, and others, this technology will truly be revolutionary. Whether implemented on its own, or part of an overall digital transformation, computer vision is a powerful technology that will see great advancements in the future.