Image Classification and Object Detection
In this section, we explore two fundamental aspects of computer vision: image classification and object detection.
9.2.1 Image Classification
Image classification involves assigning a label to an entire image based on its content. For example, determining whether an image depicts a cat or a dog. Traditional techniques utilized handcrafted features such as SIFT (Scale-Invariant Feature Transform) and HOG (Histogram of Oriented Gradients). However, modern approaches heavily depend on deep learning methods, especially Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), which have significantly improved classification accuracy and speed.
9.2.2 Object Detection
Object detection goes beyond simple image classification by identifying and locating specific objects within an image. The outputs of object detection systems typically include bounding boxes that outline the detected objects along with associated labels and confidence scores. Several popular algorithms have emerged in this field:
- R-CNN, Fast R-CNN, Faster R-CNN: These methods focus on region proposal-based detection.
- YOLO (You Only Look Once): Known for its ability to perform real-time object detection using a single neural network.
- SSD (Single Shot MultiBox Detector): Strikes a balance between speed and accuracy in detection tasks.
Overall, the advancements in image classification and object detection are critical in developing applications and systems capable of interpreting visual information for industries ranging from robotics to healthcare.