AGV Orientation Device Using Data Matrix Code Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in factory halls are limited by fixed guidance tracks, which are vulnerable and restrictive, and lack efficient navigation and collision avoidance systems, especially when handling mixed loads and navigating around obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a data matrix code-based positioning system with a camera and light field sensor, combined with a laser scanner and ultrasonic sensors, allows for flexible route correction and obstacle detection, enabling AGVs to navigate freely and efficiently, even when carrying heavy loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed guidance tracks are used for AGV navigation, then the AGV can follow a defined path, but the freedom of movement is limited and the system becomes vulnerable and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical fixed guidance track system with an optical/marker-based navigation system. AGVs use cameras to detect and follow dynamic visual markers (QR codes, data matrices) displayed on screens or surfaces, eliminating the need for physical embedded tracks while maintaining reliable navigation through software-based path following and real-time position correction
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system transitions from static fixed tracks to dynamic visual markers that can be moved, rotated, and repositioned freely. The markers can adapt to changing environmental conditions and vehicle positions, allowing the AGV to dynamically adjust its path while maintaining reliable guidance through continuous visual feedback
2Reliability
If on-board proximity detection is used for collision avoidance, then the AGV can detect obstacles, but the system can only move in one direction along the track
Solution Approach 1:
The visual marker system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides navigation guidance, enables bidirectional movement detection, and supports collision avoidance. The same camera-based detection system that guides the AGV along the path also detects obstacles and determines whether the AGV is moving in the correct direction, eliminating the need for separate unidirectional track constraints
3Device complexity
If conventional AGV systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the position resolution is insufficient and travel distances are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple mechanical position detection with an optical image processing system using cameras and computer vision algorithms. The camera captures images of visual markers, and software processes these images to determine precise position, orientation, and distance information, dramatically improving measurement precision while keeping the overall system structure relatively simple and scalable
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the rapid and trouble-free transport of load shelves by allowing AGVs to adapt routes in real-time, detect deviations, and navigate around obstacles, improving the overall operational efficiency and reliability in dynamic environments.
Implementation Method 1
a camera, in particular a CCD camera, whose position in relation to the vehicle in the X direction is known and which is preferably arranged rigidly on the vehicle, participates in its movement and can be positioned by moving the vehicle in such a way that the marker shown on the display is within the detection range of the camera
Implementation Method 2
a positioning system with a vehicle is also known from DE 20 2007 012 798 U1, which is based on the objective of creating a positioning system that can work using the incident light method and enables a greatly improved position resolution
Implementation Method 3
A device and method utilizing a data matrix code-based positioning system with a camera and light field sensor, combined with a laser scanner and ultrasonic sensors
Implementation Method 4
combined with a laser scanner and ultrasonic sensors, allows for flexible route correction and obstacle detection
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device and method for the orientation of electrically driven transport vehicles, especially so-called AGVs (automatic guided vehicles), automatically guided in factory buildings, the invention having the following features: a) a camera (6, 25) for identifying the reference points of a planned route using markers, in particular on the basis of the data matrix code, wherein a position marker is made up of an arrangement of nine data matrix codes arranged in a square, and wherein the diagonals of 3 individual codes are located on a straight line; b) a front ultrasound sensor (20) and a rear ultrasound sensor (13); c) a laser scanner (9); and d) a light-field sensor (21).