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Image processing in a strict sense is the transformation of one image into another (better) one. We will include the automatic image analysis and classification or pattern recognition, just like computer graphics (the input is not an image but other data). Image processing in a strict sense is used a.o. for image restoration (compensation for deformation, blurring, degradation), enhancement, addition of pseudo colour, for interactive processing. Computer graphics may expand the ability of humans e.g. in decision making and designing. A human analyses the images in all these cases. Automatic analysis and classification makes is possible to analyse and classify automatically. Some illustrative fields of the application of image processing in industry are given. They concern: materials science for R & D and production; inspection of moving surfaces; inspection of internal structures including radiography, ultrasonics and NMR; inspection and handling of objects; measuring from a distance; administration and design. A few remarks concerning the relation with non-industrial applications are made. Finally some expectations for the future are discussed. The difficulties and bottlenecks of image processing are mentioned. Image processing is not always an ideal solution. One has to try to avoid image processing by a redesign of the problem or the system (for example when the objects remain ordered it is not necessary to sort and orient them). But when this is not possible image processing systems may be very helpful. Technological advances are to be expected in the field of hardware, the architecture of image processing systems, and in the field of the theory of images.
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