Originally Posted by Jwscud
My understanding is that image processing and recognition is the big Achilles heel for high power computer systemsat the moment.
It is pretty processor intensive to process an image, but not beyond capability. You don't need to recognise things just classify them - "ball = catch : knife = don't catch".
I've seen a stereo camera system that can interpret a lot of information in real time. With some relatively simple high contrast markings it can give orientation, speed and distance/height above runway etc.
Infra-structure costs would not be that great IMHO. A combination of Rad Nav for identification, then DGPS plus "visual" can deal with most of it.
But, for me, there isn't a lot of advantage unless we're talking about cargo aircraft. Better place our efforts elsewhere.