Urho Konttori

Beyond the Windshield: Imaging, Perception, and Augmented Vision for the Physical World

Abstract: Modern imaging systems are evolving beyond image capture and display toward integrated perception systems that help people understand and act in the physical world. Advances in sensors, computational imaging, computer vision, foundation models, and real-time graphics are enabling new forms of augmented vision that can enhance situational awareness across applications ranging from transportation and industrial operations to defence and aviation.

This talk explores the emerging architecture of augmented vision systems, where information from multiple sensors, imaging pipelines, and AI models is combined into a coherent visual experience for a human operator. Drawing on experiences from the development of automotive, aerospace, and wearable visual technologies, the presentation discusses the challenges of latency, registration accuracy, visual trust, human factors, and deployment at scale. The talk also examines how recent progress in AI and multimodal perception is changing the role of image processing—from improving image quality to helping users understand complex environments in hard real time requirements.

Finally, the presentation outlines key research opportunities at the intersection of image processing, computer vision, human perception, and interactive systems, and argues that the next generation of imaging technologies will be defined not only by what machines can see, but by how effectively visual information can support human decision-making.

Bio: Urho Konttori is serial founder and product maker. Currently as the founder-CEO of Distance, dual use startup focusing on next generation heads up displays for increased safety and battlefield superiority. Previously he founded Varjo, a global leader in professional grade VR/XR headsets. He is a product innovator with tens of patents and a manager with over 15 years of experience in designing, engineering and managing large-scale hardware and software projects at Microsoft and Nokia.