Camera-GPS Offset Calibration for Precise PTC Asset Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positive train control (PTC) systems face inaccuracies in locating critical assets due to field errors and environmental changes, which can compromise their performance.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a vehicle equipped with a camera and GPS unit to collect data, calibrating GPS locations with offset distances to accurately locate PTC critical assets without manual measurements, leveraging geometry cars for improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurements are used to locate PTC critical assets, then location accuracy may be improved, but safety and efficiency deteriorate due to the need for manual intervention in railroad environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical system. A camera captures images of PTC critical assets, and image processing algorithms automatically determine their locations. This substitution eliminates the need for personnel to physically measure or mark assets in the railroad environment, thereby improving safety and efficiency while maintaining location accuracy through automated computer vision techniques.
2Ease of operation
If GPS locations are used directly without calibration, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to field errors and environmental changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where GPS locations are continuously calibrated against actual asset locations identified in camera images. The system compares the GPS-derived locations with the visually confirmed locations from image processing, detects discrepancies caused by field errors or environmental changes, and adjusts the GPS calibration parameters accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that GPS locations remain accurate despite environmental variations, while the automated process maintains ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving an image generated by a camera associated with a vehicle. The image includes a point of interest (POI) associated with a physical object. The method also includes determining a number of pixels from the POI of the image to an edge of the image. The edge of the image represents a location of the camera. The method further includes determining an offset distance from the POI to a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit associated with the vehicle using the number of pixels.