Classical Machine Vision vs. Deep Learning

Two Approaches – One Goal: Precise Machine Vision

In machine vision, two fundamental approaches are used today: classical, rule-based machine vision and deep learning. Both pursue the same goal – reliable detection, inspection, and classification of objects – but differ in how they work.

While classical methods rely on manually defined rules and features, deep learning learns these features automatically from sample data. With MVTec HALCON and MERLIC, both approaches can be flexibly combined to leverage the best of both worlds.

How Classical Machine Vision Works

In classical machine vision, the relevant features are defined by the machine vision engineer. Based on these rules, the software detects edges, shapes, colors, or textures. The approach is transparent, deterministic, and precise—especially for repeatable processes under stable conditions.

Examples of classical technologies
  • Blob analysis and thresholding for defect detection.
  • Template-based matching for positioning.
  • OCR for text recognition.
  • Filters and morphology for image preprocessing.
  • 3D vision for measurement and object detection.

How Deep Learning Works

Deep learning is based on artificial neural networks that learn features from sample data automatically. The system analyzes many training images and identifies which structures, textures, or shapes are relevant for a given class. This makes deep learning well suited for scenarios with high variability, non-specific defects, or irregular patterns.

Go to the workflow

Typical applications
  • Surface and texture inspection
  • Anomaly detection
  • Object and defect classification
  • Text recognition (Deep OCR)

COMPARISON

When To Use Which Approach

Classical machine vision remains essential when maximum precision, traceability, and performance are required. Deep learning complements these methods as soon as objects become variable, complex, or not clearly definable. MVTec offers both approaches integrated in one software environment – for efficient, future-proof machine vision solutions.

Classical Machine Vision

Ideal for precise, well-defined tasks – such as measurement, positioning, or barcode reading.

Deep Learning

Best for variable objects, complex textures, or unknown defects.

Combining Both Approaches

A hybrid setup often delivers the best results: deep learning handles preprocessing or segmentation, while classical operators ensure precise geometric measurement or quality evaluation. In HALCON, classical and deep learning operators can be combined seamlessly – for example, for pre-segmentation, classification, or quality inspection.

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