Computer Vision
Real-time spatial mapping and hair characteristic detection for precision tool guidance.
System Overview
The computer vision subsystem provides continuous spatial awareness through multi-camera arrays and real-time image processing. It tracks hair boundaries, tool positions, and workspace conditions to enable informed control decisions and maintain operational safety boundaries.
What It Does
Multiple cameras positioned around the workspace capture overlapping views at 30+ frames per second. Image processing algorithms analyze these feeds to extract actionable spatial data:
- •Hair boundary detection: Identifies edges and density distribution across the work area
- •Tool position tracking: Maintains real-time awareness of tool location relative to hair and safety zones
- •Obstacle detection: Identifies unexpected objects or movement in the operational envelope
- •Distance measurement: Calculates clearances for collision avoidance and path planning
- •Operation verification: Confirms completion of styling steps against expected outcomes
Problem It Solves
Automated precision styling requires accurate spatial understanding that adapts to variations in hair type, head position, and environmental conditions. Without continuous visual feedback, mechanical systems cannot compensate for:
- •Client movement during operations
- •Hair density variations across the work area
- •Tool wear affecting positioning accuracy
- •Unexpected obstacles entering the workspace
The vision system provides the spatial awareness necessary for the control system to make real-time adjustments, ensuring operations remain within validated parameters regardless of these variations.
Technical Specifications
Constraints and Limitations
Environmental Requirements
The system requires controlled lighting conditions. Ambient light variations can affect detection accuracy. External light sources must remain stable and within specified color temperature ranges (5000-6500K).
Processing Limitations
Complex hair patterns or extreme density variations may require additional processing time. The system prioritizes safety over speed—if visual data clarity falls below threshold, operations slow or pause until confidence is restored.
Occlusion Handling
Temporary visual obstructions are managed through multi-camera redundancy. However, complete occlusion of critical tracking zones will halt operations until visibility is restored. The system cannot operate without spatial awareness.
Calibration Requirements
Cameras require periodic calibration to maintain spatial accuracy. Calibration frequency depends on usage intensity and environmental stability, typically ranging from weekly to monthly intervals.
Safety Integration
The computer vision system functions as a primary safety layer, continuously monitoring workspace conditions and triggering protective responses when anomalies are detected:
Movement Detection
Unexpected movement in the work area triggers immediate notification to the control system, which determines appropriate response from operation slowdown to complete halt.
Boundary Monitoring
Tool proximity to safety boundaries is continuously tracked. Approaching defined limits triggers graduated responses to prevent boundary violations.
Tracking Loss Response
Loss of visual tracking on critical elements results in immediate operation halt. The system cannot proceed without confirmed spatial awareness.
Pattern Deviation Detection
Deviations from expected operational patterns are flagged for operator review. The system learns normal operation signatures and alerts on anomalies.
Related Systems
Precision Mechanics
Executes tool movements based on spatial data provided by the vision system, translating control commands into physical actions.
Adaptive Control
Processes vision data to make real-time control decisions, coordinating mechanical responses and monitoring safety parameters.
System Integration
Computer vision is one component of Helixa's integrated architecture. Explore how subsystems work together to enable supervised automation.
View Technology Overview