This volume assesses approaches to the construction of
computer vision systems. It shows that there is a spectrum
of approaches with different degrees of maturity and
robustness. The useful exploitation of computer vision in
industry and elsewhere and the development of the discipline
itself depend on understanding the way these approaches
influence one another.
The chief topic discussed is autonomy.True autonomy may not
be achievable in machines in the near future, and the
workshop concluded that it may be more desirable - and is
certainly more pragmatic - to leave a person in the
processing loop.
The second conclusion of the workshop concerns the manner in
which a system is designedfor an application. It was agreed
that designers should first specify the required
functionality, then identify the knowledge appropriate to
that task, and finally choose the appropriate techniques and
algorithms.
The third conclusion concerns the methodologies employed in
developing vision systems: craft, engineering, and science
are mutually relevant and contribute to one another.
The contributors place heavy emphasis on providing the
reader with concrete examples of operational systems. The
book is based on a workshop held as part of the activities
of an ESPRIT Basic Research Action.