Agricultural Machine Localization Using Image Segmentation Instead of GPS
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing GPS-based systems for localizing agricultural machines are costly and inefficient in terms of data processing and transmission, posing challenges for reliable and cost-effective agricultural working processes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that uses sensor-generated image data to localize agricultural machines within predefined routes in agricultural areas, employing an evaluation unit to detect positions based on correlation values and output interfaces for accurate and efficient localization, thereby reducing reliance on GPS data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS-based systems are used for localization, then positioning accuracy is achieved, but data transmission costs and processing complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of localization from the complex GPS system by using only image data from sensors to detect position. The evaluation unit processes image data to determine correlation values with route sections, achieving positioning without relying on satellite data transmission, thus eliminating the complexity of GPS data processing while maintaining positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital representation of the route by dividing it into multiple sections and comparing image data against these sections to determine position. This copying approach allows the system to work with simplified route representations rather than complex GPS coordinate systems, reducing processing complexity while maintaining measurement precision
2Reliability
If GPS satellite data is used, then reliable positioning is obtained, but licensing costs and data transmission requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the agricultural machine's own sensors to capture image data and processes this data locally through the evaluation unit to determine position. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external GPS satellite data transmission, reducing data transmission volume to zero while maintaining positioning reliability through local image processing and correlation analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image data as an intermediary between the agricultural machine and the routing system. Instead of directly using GPS satellite signals, the system mediates positioning through sensor-captured images that are processed to determine correlation values with route sections, thereby eliminating the need for extensive satellite data transmission while maintaining reliable positioning
3Loss of energy
If image data processing is used instead of GPS, then data transmission costs are reduced, but processing efficiency must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the routing data into multiple discrete sections along the route. This segmentation allows the evaluation unit to process image data by comparing it against individual sections rather than analyzing the entire route at once, significantly reducing processing complexity and improving efficiency while eliminating the need for costly GPS data transmission
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for localizing an agricultural machine in an agricultural useful area. The apparatus includes an input interface configured to receive, as input, a route predefined in the useful area and image data related to a monitoring region of the useful area detected by a sensor and located in a vicinity of the agricultural machine. The apparatus also includes an evaluation unit configured to detect a position of the monitoring region with respect to the predefined route and an output interface configured to output the detected position.