Description: Stereo vision is a technique used to extract three-dimensional (3D) information from two or more images captured from different angles or viewpoints. This process is based on the principle of human visual perception, where our eyes see the world from two slightly different perspectives, allowing the brain to interpret depth and shape of objects. In the realm of 3D reconstruction, stereo vision becomes an essential tool, as it enables the creation of accurate and detailed three-dimensional models from two-dimensional data. The images are analyzed to identify common features, and through correspondence algorithms, the distance and position of objects in space are calculated. This technique is not only fundamental in creating 3D graphics and models but also applies in various fields such as robotics, augmented reality, and computer vision, where understanding the three-dimensional environment is crucial for interaction and navigation. Stereo vision has become a key component in the development of advanced technologies that require precise interpretation of space and shape, thus facilitating a wide range of applications in science, engineering, and entertainment.
History: Stereo vision has its roots in visual perception studies dating back to the 19th century. One of the most significant milestones was the invention of stereoscopy in 1838 by Sir Charles Wheatstone, who demonstrated how two slightly different images could be combined to create an illusion of depth. Over time, the technique has evolved with technological advancements, especially with the advent of photography and later computing. In the 1970s and 1980s, researchers began applying computational algorithms to process stereo images, allowing for more precise and automated analysis. With the rise of computer vision in the 1990s and 2000s, stereo vision became established as a fundamental technique in the development of autonomous navigation systems and robotics.
Uses: Stereo vision is used in a variety of applications, including robotics, where it enables robots to perceive their environment in 3D and navigate effectively. It is also applied in augmented and virtual reality, where creating realistic three-dimensional environments is essential for user immersion. In the medical field, it is used in imaging techniques to obtain three-dimensional representations of internal body structures. Additionally, in the film and video game industry, stereo vision is fundamental for creating visual effects and interactive experiences.
Examples: An example of stereo vision can be found in the navigation systems of autonomous vehicles, which use stereo cameras to map their environment and avoid obstacles. Another case is the use of stereo cameras in augmented reality applications, where digital elements are overlaid on the real world in a coherent manner. In the medical field, computer-assisted surgery uses stereo vision to guide surgeons in complex procedures, providing a three-dimensional view of the patient’s anatomy.
