AR Display Positioning Using Wireless Reference Anchors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality techniques for technicians and field operators in electrical transmission and distribution networks suffer from poor accuracy in positioning virtual objects relative to real objects, which is inadequate for environments requiring high precision.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a portable device with a short-range wireless transmitter to determine the location and orientation of the device relative to the transmitter, allowing for precise positioning of virtual objects in images by combining signal data with inertial measurement unit data and artificial intelligence algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If augmented reality techniques are implemented using handheld display devices with cameras, then technicians can access information about equipment, but the positioning accuracy of virtual objects relative to real objects is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a short-range wireless transmitter as an intermediary device that establishes a precise reference relationship between the portable device and the real-world object. The transmitter receives signals from multiple base stations and relays this positioning information to the portable device, enabling accurate virtual object placement without requiring complex processing within the portable device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or visual alignment methods with an electromagnetic field-based positioning system. By using wireless transmitters and signal processing to determine device location and orientation, the system achieves high positioning accuracy without relying on physical markers or complex mechanical alignment mechanisms.
2Reliability
If inertial measurement unit data is used for positioning, then the system can determine device orientation, but errors accumulate over time reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the portable device continuously receives positioning corrections from the wireless transmitter. The transmitter provides real-time reference information based on its known position relative to the real object, allowing the system to correct accumulated inertial measurement errors and maintain reliable positioning over extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning by establishing the position of the wireless transmitter relative to the real object before the actual measurement process. This pre-established reference frame allows for continuous correction of positioning data, preventing error accumulation from the outset.
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 approach provides more accurate and reliable positioning of virtual objects, reducing errors associated with inertial measurement unit data and improving direction determination, enabling precise overlay of virtual information on real-world equipment.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, at the portable device, a signal from a short-range wireless transmitter arranged at a predetermined position relative to the object
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning a virtual object in an image of a scene including a real object is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a signal from a short-range wireless transmitter arranged at a predetermined position relative to the real object and determining a location and orientation of the portable device relative to the short-range wireless transmitter based on the received signal. The image of the scene is displayed with the virtual object, wherein the position of the virtual object in the image is based on the determined location and orientation of the portable device relative to the short-range wireless transmitter and on the predetermined position of the short-range wireless transmitter relative to the real object. A system, a portable device and a computer program product is also disclosed.