Learning OpenCV 3

Chapter 3. Getting to Know OpenCV Data Types

The Basics

In the next few chapters, we will see all of the basic data types of OpenCV, from the primitives to the larger structures that are used to handle arrays such as images and large matrices. Along the way, we will also cover the vast menagerie of functions that allow us to manipulate this data in a host of useful ways. In this chapter, we will start out by learning about the basic data types and will cover some useful utility functions that the library provides.

OpenCV Data Types

OpenCV has many data types, which are designed to make the representation and handling of important computer vision concepts relatively easy and intuitive. At the same time, many algorithm developers require a set of relatively powerful primitives that can be generalized or extended for their particular needs. This library attempts to address both of these needs through the use of templates for fundamental data types, and specializations of those templates that make everyday operations easier.

From an organizational perspective, it is convenient to divide the data types into three major categories. First, the basic data types are those that are assembled directly from C++ primitives (int, float, etc.). These types include simple vectors and matrices, as well as representations of simple geometric concepts like points, rectangles, sizes, and the like. The second category contains helper objects. These objects represent more abstract concepts such ...