Key Takeaways

• Implement computer vision to gain an operational advantage through automated inventory checks and enhanced customer experiences.
• Apply computer vision systems to analyze visual data like shelf stock, medical scans, or road obstacles for specific, actionable information.
• Improve healthcare outcomes and road safety by using computer vision for earlier diagnoses and real-time hazard detection
• Discover how computer vision transforms everyday tasks, from virtual clothing try-ons to assisting surgeons during operations.

In many industries, like retail or healthcare, this data can be used in very important ways, however. With the help of computer vision technology, also referred to as CV, vast amounts of visual information can be analyzed in real-time to provide impactful insights. In some cases, they can even be life-saving. Here are some examples of CV already revolutionizing various sectors.

Retail: enhanced operations and shopping experience

The retail industry is undergoing some big changes thanks to computer vision. With the ability to effectively detect and track objects as well as analyze videos and images in real-time, the technology is completely transforming retail operations. For example, CV can constantly monitor shelves and inventory levels, notifying employees of misplaced products or trigger alerts when items need to be restocked. In earlier stages, during manufacturing and packaging, CV can also detect defects in products, without the need for manual checking.

Moreover, computer vision can be used to help optimize the shopping experience for the customers. In self-checkout kiosks, it can effectively identify and verify scanned items to not only stop potential theft, but also make the process quick and seamless. But, for those who prefer to order online, businesses can implement smart CV-powered solutions to help customers pick up the right products. For instance, face analysis systems let consumers try on make up products or clothes without leaving their own home. Similarly, augmented reality solutions allow you to see what a specific sofa would look like in your living room. 

Healthcare: better diagnostics and patient care

In healthcare, computer vision is particularly important, helping doctors, nurses, and technicians analyze various visual data quicker and more effectively. A prime application for this is analyzing medical images like X-rays and MRI scans. The precision in which CV can do this analysis is fascinating, detecting even the faintest signs of cancerous nodules or smallest bone fractures that may be sometimes missed by the human eye. While doctors will always need to double-check the results and make final decisions for treatment, this could lead to earlier diagnosis and, therefore, early intervention with potentially life-threatening illnesses. 

Another great example of CV in healthcare is during surgery. Analyzing and monitoring the video in real-time, the technology is extremely accurate in recognizing different intraoperative phases. It can be extremely helpful in the surgeon’s decision-making process, providing valuable interpretations of subtle tissue changes or other issues found during the operation. While this use of CV is not yet widely implemented, the impact of it is tangible: better patient healthcare and increased overall efficiency, which is particularly important in this overwhelmed sector. 

Automotive: autonomous mobility and safer roads 

Computer vision is also a fundamental part of modern automotive technology. As many car manufacturers are aiming to allow for autonomous vehicle mobility, in simple terms known as self-driving cars, CV will be crucial to ensure safety. This advanced technology is capable of detecting obstacles in real-time, like other cars nearby, pedestrians crossing the road, temporary maintenance signs blocking access, pavements, and even a bin that flew onto the road during strong winds. Although it may still require human monitoring at this stage, autonomous vehicles are getting increasingly better at operating with no intervention. But, even when a person is driving the car, CV can provide important information regarding traffic lights or speed signs in case you’ve missed it, to ensure a safer driving experience.

Leading computer vision companies

The computer vision development sector is relatively niche, but it already has quite a few players providing services, ranging from tech startups to well-established names. If you are interested in the impact and use of this technology, here are some notable companies to keep an eye on:

• DigitalSense: Established in 2008, DigitalSense computer vision solutions are making an impact in a variety of industries, including retail, manufacturing, beauty, healthcare, automotive, and many more. The company provides a full scope of services, from business analysis to building the right solutions, deploying them and, finally, maintaining.
  
• Softweb Solutions: With a focus on diverse industries and applications, like defect detection during manufacturing and quality control in electronics, Softweb Solutions specialize in integrating CV into existing systems, such as ERP programs, POS portals, CCTV cameras, and diagnostic software.
  
• CHI Software: From image generation, segmentation and classification to object tracking and detection, pose estimation and optical character recognition, CHI Software are experts in developing end-to-end software solutions to enable the use of CV in numerous different industries. 

The world through smarter eyes

This incredible technology of is advancing rapidly, and different industries are finding more and more applications for computer vision. In some cases, it’s about boosting the efficiency of day-to-day business operations but, in other, it can have a significant impact on public safety and wellness. Either way, it’s clear that CV is no longer just a theoretical possibility – it’s a real, tangible technology that is fast revolutionizing the world around us.