In computer graphics, vectorization refers to the process of converting raster graphics into vector graphics.
Popular applications:
- In computer-aided design (CAD) drawings (blueprints etc.) are scanned, vectorized and written as CAD files in a process called paper-to-CAD conversion or drawing conversion.
- In geographic information systems (GIS) satellite or aerial images are vectorized to create maps.
- In graphic design and photography, graphics can be vectorized for easier usage and resizing.
Unlike the opposite process rasterization, vectorization is not well defined, meaning there is not a single correct answer. Many different algorithms exist, and each gives different results. This is because vector representations are more abstract than pixels.
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A photograph in JPEG format, 25 KB |
The photograph at left vectorized with RaveGrid, 1.64 MB |
Same photograph vectorized with AutoTrace in the Delineate GUI, 677 KB |
Same photograph vectorized with Inkscape's "Trace Bitmap" function, 1.05 MB |
See also
- Scanning
- Digitizing
- CAD data exchange
- Comparison of raster to vector conversion software
- Optical character recognition
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Categories: Computer graphics
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