defog

Defog is a term that can refer to several different concepts, primarily related to removing mist or condensation. In the context of optics and vision, defog refers to the process or ability of optical instruments, such as eyeglasses, camera lenses, or vehicle windshields, to resist or remove fogging. Fogging occurs when moisture condenses on a surface, obstructing vision. This can happen due to temperature differences between the surface and the surrounding air, or due to high humidity. Defogging methods can include specialized coatings, heating elements, or chemical treatments.

In the realm of computer vision and image processing, defogging, also known as dehazing, is an algorithmic technique used to remove fog or haze from images. This process aims to improve the visibility and clarity of images captured in adverse weather conditions. Defogging algorithms typically work by estimating the atmospheric light and transmission properties of the scene and then using this information to reconstruct a clearer image. This is crucial for applications like autonomous driving, surveillance, and aerial photography where clear visual data is essential.

The term can also be used more generally to describe the act of clearing any obscuring mist or vapor, such as defogging a bathroom mirror after a shower. The underlying principle remains the same: to restore clear visibility by eliminating condensation or suspended particles.