A method for training a deep neural network of a robotic device is described. The method includes constructing a 3D model using images captured via a 3D camera of the robotic device in a training environment. The method also includes generating pairs of 3D images from the 3D model by artificially adjusting parameters of the training environment to form manipulated images using the deep neural network. The method further includes processing the pairs of 3D images to form a reference image including embedded descriptors of common objects between the pairs of 3D images. The method also includes using the reference image from training of the neural network to determine correlations to identify detected objects in future images.