Recognition-by-components theory

[2] The recognition-by-components theory suggests that there are fewer than 36 geons which are combined to create the objects we see in day-to-day life.

In his proposal of RBC, Biederman makes an analogy to the composition of speech and objects that helps support his theory.

One of the most defining factors of the recognition-by-components theory is that it enables us to recognize objects regardless of viewing angle; this is known as viewpoint invariance.

For example, when viewing a brick we will be able to see horizontal sets of parallel lines and vertical ones, and when considering where these points meet (co-termination) we are able to perceive the object.

For example, a pear and an apple are easily distinguished by humans, but lack the corners and edges needed for RBC theory to recognize they are different.