What the Eye Cannot See

In this Masterclass, we will explain how it is possible to see beyond what the human eye can perceive thanks to SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) technology. The human eye perceives only a small fraction of the spectrum, but there are invisible wavelengths that contain relevant information. SWIR technology allows us to access that information and transform what we cannot see into useful data.

Throughout the session, we will explain what the SWIR spectrum is and why it offers such remarkable capabilities. We will explore how these cameras can see through smoke and fog, penetrate certain plastics, and reveal differences between materials that appear identical to the naked eye. This opens the door to applications that go far beyond conventional imaging.

Finally, we will share real examples and experiments showing how this technology is being applied in industrial environments, such as advanced plastic sorting in EcoParks, where correctly identifying materials is key to improving efficiency and sustainability.

Programa

Seeing Beyond the Visible
Which part of the spectrum the human eye can perceive and what SWIR is. Understanding how this technology allows us to access information that normally remains hidden.

How SWIR Technology Works
A simple explanation of its physical principles and how SWIR light interacts with different materials.

What Makes It Different
Its ability to see through smoke and fog, penetrate certain plastics, detect moisture, or distinguish between materials that appear identical to the naked eye.

Real Applications and Practical Demonstrations
Examples such as advanced plastic sorting in EcoParks and other use cases where SWIR provides a clear advantage over conventional vision.

Computer Vision Center

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Taught by:

Coen Antens

Head of the CVC Innovation Unit

He studied Computer Science at the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands.
To complement his education, he took part in the Mathematics for Industry programme at the same university, and to complete his master’s degree he carried out a six-month stay at the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics in Kaiserslautern.
After finishing university, he worked for a machine vision company called Beltech, where for three years he provided artificial vision solutions for industrial environments.
After this period, he decided he needed a change and began working as a Research Support Engineer at the Computer Vision Center (CVC) in Barcelona.
After several years working as an engineer and programmer, he is now the Head of the CVC Innovation Unit.