Image Acquisition & Sensors
The process begins with capturing an image. Robots typically utilize cameras, often CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors. These sensors convert light into electrical signals.
Image Processing – Pre-processing
Raw image data is noisy and requires processing. Common pre-processing steps include noise reduction (e.g., Gaussian blur), contrast adjustment, and geometric correction to account for camera distortions.
Gaussian Blur: σ = k * |x| + k * |y| , where σ is the standard deviation of the blur kernel, k is a scaling factor, and (x, y) are pixel coordinates.
Feature Extraction & Object Recognition
Once an image is pre-processed, algorithms extract key features – lines, edges, corners, or even more complex shapes. These features are then matched against known patterns (templates) to identify objects.
Perception & Decision Making
The identified object information is fed into a perception system, which combines it with robot’s internal state and planned actions. This allows the robot to make decisions about its movement and interaction with the environment.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a camera and a sensor?
A camera is the entire device, including optics and processing. A sensor is the component that converts light into an electrical signal.
Why are cameras distorted?
Camera lenses warp straight lines to correct for perspective distortion. Image correction algorithms then undo this effect.
How do robots 'know' what they're seeing?
Robots use computer vision algorithms, primarily pattern recognition and feature matching, to interpret images.
Try it live
Everything above runs in your browser — open Inverse Kinematics (FABRIK) and change the parameters while it is running. Nothing is installed, nothing is uploaded, the whole model lives in one tab.
▶ Open Inverse Kinematics (FABRIK) simulation