Embedded vision technology is an essential component for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) environments and allows headsets to capture the world around them in an extremely compact space.
Embedded vision technology is an essential component for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) environments. AR and VR headsets used embedded vision to capture the world around them in a compact space. Without embedded vision, AR environments wouldn’t be able to superimpose virtual objects onto real ones and virtual reality wouldn’t be able to recreate virtual worlds based off of real ones.
AR and VR technologies are advancing rapidly. Embedded vision is at the heart of this technological process.
Recent embedded vision and AR/VR advances
One of the more recent advances is simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). SLAM uses physical data to construct maps of unknown environments while also identifying the location within that map. This technology allows for multiple people to be working together in the same virtual map in real-time.
Another AR/VR development involves headset display inspection. This has been a challenge because there was no way to inspect displays that mimicked how the human eye would view the display. Now, inspection systems have been developed that are designed to inspect AR/VR displays from a few millimeters away.
The future of embedded vision and AR/VR
One project under development from a deep-pocketed tech company combines AR and VR to create a mixed-reality environment. This technology relies on embedded depth-sensing camera technology for accuracy and detail.
Similar technology is used to create systems that understand hand gestures and facial expressions, which is a valuable AR and VR capability. Video game players, for example, can use their hands as controllers and to grasp things while detecting and avoiding physical objects in the real world.
Embedded vision technology is at the heart of AR and VR technology. As one technology advances, the other benefits. Recently, both technologies have progressed toward a more radical future of AR/VR environments.
This article originally appeared in Vision Online. AIA is a part of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), a CFE Media content partner. Edited by Chris Vavra, production editor, CFE Media, [email protected].
