2D Camera Container Positioning via Marking Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the target position of a container on a carrier vehicle using loading cranes are costly and prone to errors due to the reliance on 3D laser scanners, which are expensive, require extensive calibration, and are susceptible to interference and failure.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing at least one optical 2D camera attached to the container gear with a vertically downward field of view, leveraging existing camera systems to provide video images for a computing unit to calculate target position data, eliminating the need for additional devices like line lasers and enabling precise positioning of containers without increasing error susceptibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D laser scanners are used to determine target position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 2D camera images (copies of the scene) to extract depth information and calculate 3D target positions, replacing the need for expensive 3D laser scanners. The computing unit processes image data to determine depth values and coordinates, achieving accurate positioning through computational methods rather than direct 3D measurement hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/optical 3D measurement systems (laser scanners) with an electronic computing system that processes 2D image data. The computing unit calculates target positions using image processing algorithms, substituting complex optical-mechanical depth measurement with computational analysis of 2D images.
2Measurement precision
If 3D laser scanners are used, then measurement precision is improved, but susceptibility to interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures multiple 2D image copies from different angles and processes them to extract depth information. This approach is less susceptible to interference because it uses redundant information from multiple views rather than relying on a single direct 3D measurement that can be blocked or distorted by environmental factors.
3Measurement precision
If 2D cameras with additional line lasers are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts depth information and 3D position data from standard 2D camera images by analyzing geometric relationships and perspective projections. This extraction method eliminates the need for additional line laser devices, using only the existing camera system to obtain all necessary measurement information.
4Reliability
If multiple cameras are used to reduce error susceptibility, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing 2D cameras on the container gear multi-functional by using them not only for visual monitoring but also for precise target position determination. The same camera system serves dual purposes: operational monitoring and automated positioning, eliminating the need for separate dedicated measurement devices.
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 achieves high accuracy in positioning, allowing for automated and reliable anchoring of containers on trucks or rail wagons, reducing the risk of property damage and personal injury, while being cost-effective and robust against environmental interference.
Implementation Method 1
at least one optical 2D camera (3) is attached to the container gear (1)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for positioning a container harness (1) via a holding device (21) for containers (12), said at least one optical 2D camera as an imaging sensor (3) to the container ware (1) is attached with an overhang and a vertically downwards directed viewing area (a, B) opens out and measured values to a computing unit (22) supplies. The calculation unit calculates the target position data to anchor positions (2.11). The holding device (21) has on its surface at least one marking (7) of defined size au available to the computing unit (22) as parameters. The computing unit (22) is calculated from the two-dimensional measurement of the markings (7), a height information (8) between the sensor (3) and surface of the retainer (21) and a horizontal displacement (23, 30) of the container dishes (1) for marking the target position data to the anchor position (2, 11).