Machine vision refers to a set of complex technologies allowing machines, or computers, the ability to view images, and also determine what they are viewing. The main components of machine vision are:

-Hardware to allow the machine to view photons of light, and hence images
-Software to process the images, and determine or categorize what they are viewing
-Software that allows the machine or computer to determine a response based upon what it is viewing

Example uses of machine vision include quality control checking as part of a rapid assembly line or other manufacturing process, as guides for robots such as pickers or welders, and rapid recording or cataloging of parts assembly.