Computer Vision: Possibilities and applications

In recent times, due to its extreme prominence, we associate AI mostly with its “generative” side. However, other fields of AI are also changing the business world forever. One of the most remarkable, and the one we are going to focus on in this article, is computer vision.

Computer vision allows machines to analyze digital photos and videos to extract insights from them. To do so, it combines image processing, machine learning and advanced analytics.

Computer vision can recognize objects or faces, identify patterns or anomalies, understand medical images, etc. Images are then converted into actionable information for the business.

The solutions provided by computer vision

The scope of computer vision is extensive. Some outstanding applications are:

Healthcare

It accelerates the diagnosis and treatment of diseases thanks to an efficient interpretation of studies such as X-rays, CT scans or MRIs. Combined with other types of AI and data analysis, it could even improve accuracy and speed in the diagnosis of different types of cancer.

Entertainment and digital media

Thanks to the intelligent gaze of computer vision, it is possible to create more immersive experiences. By analyzing data and interpreting context, the technology can propose highly personalized and accurate effects or situations.

Manufacturing

Quality control: with computer vision, it is possible to quickly find defects or problems in products before they are shipped to end customers.

Agribusiness

With specific devices it is possible to monitor crops to anticipate pests or diseases in the fields and take corrective measures in time, avoiding losses or waste.

Security and video surveillance

Intelligently monitor the enormous number of security cameras used in public spaces, homes and businesses. Among many examples, with video analytics it is possible to detect the presence of people in prohibited places. Or an accumulation of people larger than a capacity limit.

Robotics

Machines capable of understanding what they “see” and carrying out tasks independently in the real world. From autonomous vehicles to remote surgery assistants. And from remote operations in mines and oil fields to autonomous machinery for risky tasks in manufacturing plants.

Computer vision: how it improves our daily lives

One of the most interesting aspects of new technologies has to do with the real impact they have on people’s quality of life.

In the case of computer vision, this is one of its most important values, beyond the results or improvements it can offer to organizations in various industries.

Higher levels of security at airports or a lower probability of bank fraud thanks to face detection. Faster and more accurate medical diagnoses. Lower risks for workers in potentially high-risk plants, as many of these tasks can be completed by machines.

It also impacts accessibility. For example, visually disabled people can use assistants to describe the environment to them.

Just a few examples of an almost infinite number: in every industry, in every company and in every use case, new positive impacts of computer vision for everyday life are appearing.

Computer vision and edge: a powerful combination

The power of computer vision is multiplied when combined with another emerging technology: edge. Edge devices are able to process data where it is produced, without the need for it to travel to data centers.

This has multiple benefits. One, it speeds up processing: everything is produced on site. One of the requirements of computer vision applications is that the response must be in real time. It is no use for an autonomous vehicle in the middle of a journey to get an instruction with a delay of several seconds. Or if a security alert arrives at an airport several minutes after the person being reported has passed through the checkpoints.

Another benefit is that it increases data privacy and security. Because they are processed locally, they are less time-consuming and less exposed to some kind of attack. In addition, they are not transmitted over public networks.

Latency is also reduced, which means a better user experience and energy efficiency.

Conclusions

Computer vision technology, as a branch of AI, has an enormous power. Its multiple applications make it an ally for organizations that need to process and understand large volumes of images.

Among its benefits, it can reduce costs, increase productivity, take security to a new level and reduce risks. And, fundamentally, it is a key tool for improving accuracy and speed in decision making.

Does your organization need to know how to unlock the power of this technology? Our team of experts is waiting for your contact to start helping you. Schedule your meeting!