Camera-Based Vehicle Positioning Using Markings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems for vehicles within closed environments face errors due to radiation reflection and require complex electronic circuits, while methods like laser beam detection are costly and complicated.
Innovation Solution
A method using a camera to detect and evaluate markings, estimating vehicle position by analyzing image size, distortion, and orientation, allowing for simple and cost-effective navigation by exchanging data between vehicles or a stationary unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS systems are used for navigation in vehicles, then position determination is possible in open spaces, but position determination becomes inaccurate in enclosed spaces due to radiation reflection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces markings as intermediary objects placed in the environment that reflect light in a controlled manner. These markings serve as mediators between the vehicle's camera system and the position determination algorithm, providing reliable reference points that are not affected by GPS signal reflection issues in enclosed spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified optical model that copies the essential geometric relationships between camera, markings, and vehicle position. By capturing images of markings and processing them through a calibrated camera model, the system recreates position information without relying on GPS signals that are susceptible to reflection errors.
2Measurement precision
If complex electronic circuits are used for position determination, then measurement precision can be improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic position determination systems with a simpler optical-mechanical approach. Instead of using sophisticated electronic sensors and signal processing circuits, the system uses a camera (optical device) to capture images of markings, combined with geometric calculations based on the known camera model and marking positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive markings that can be easily manufactured and deployed in the environment. These markings serve as disposable or temporary reference objects that provide precise position information without requiring expensive electronic infrastructure. The markings can be simple printed patterns or painted symbols that are far cheaper than complex electronic positioning systems.
3Measurement precision
If laser beam detection methods are used for vehicle navigation, then position determination accuracy is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential function of laser range finders - distance measurement - and replaces it with a simpler optical approach using a camera. By taking out the complex laser emission and detection hardware and substituting it with passive optical imaging of markings, the system achieves comparable position determination accuracy with significantly reduced complexity and cost.
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
Enables accurate and efficient vehicle positioning within closed environments using a camera and markings, reducing errors and operational complexity, and allowing navigation in areas without stationary markings.
Implementation Method 1
one or more markings arranged on a vehicle and/or in the facility are detected by means of a camera on the vehicle, in particular an image is captured and/or recorded
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a system, to a method for determining the position of a vehicle within a system and to a method for creating an improved target path for a vehicle within a system, comprising at least one vehicle which has at least one camera, wherein means are provided for determining the position of at least one vehicle and wherein markings are arranged in the system.