Outdoor Monocular Depth Estimation: A Research Review

Abstract: Depth estimation is an important task, applied in various methods and applications of computer vision. While the traditional methods of estimating depth are based on depth cues and require specific equipment such as stereo cameras and configuring input according to the approach being used, the focus at the current time is on a single source, or monocular, depth estimation. The recent developments in Convolution Neural Networks along with the integration of classical methods in these deep learning approaches have led to a lot of advancements in the depth estimation problem. The problem of outdoor depth estimation, or depth estimation in wild, is a very scarcely researched field of study. In this paper, we give an overview of the available datasets, depth estimation methods, research work, trends, challenges, and opportunities that exist for open research. To our knowledge, no openly available survey work provides a comprehensive collection of outdoor depth estimation techniques and research scope, making our work an essential contribution for people looking to enter this field of study.