Color Block Tag Localization for Indoor Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing localization and mapping techniques for mobile devices in unknown environments, such as GPS and bar code positioning, face challenges like signal issues and pollution, making them impractical for indoor environments with complex settings.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using color block tags, where a mobile device takes the location of a first color block tag as a coordinate origin, records its information and coordinates, and constructs a map by traversing the area, calculating and recording obstacle coordinates, and using unique coding information to distinguish positions and areas, enabling effective navigation and mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS positioning is used for indoor localization, then global location can be obtained, but signal problems make it impractical in indoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces color block tags as intermediary objects that reflect light to carry positioning information. Instead of relying on GPS signals that penetrate poorly through building structures, the system uses locally placed color blocks that actively reflect light to provide positioning data, effectively mediating between the positioning system and the indoor environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic wave-based GPS system with an optical reflection-based system using color blocks. By substituting the mechanical/electromagnetic positioning mechanism with an optical reflection mechanism, the system overcomes signal interference issues in indoor environments while maintaining localization capability
2Reliability
If bar code positioning mode is used, then positioning can be achieved, but bar codes are easily polluted and can not be read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color blocks with distinct color patterns instead of traditional bar codes. The color-based encoding scheme is more resistant to pollution because color information can be detected from a greater distance and is less susceptible to degradation from dirt or damage compared to the precise geometric patterns of bar codes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified copies of positioning information through color blocks that contain encoded spatial data. These color block tags serve as readable copies of location information that can be easily detected by the mobile device's camera or color sensor, replacing the more fragile bar code system
3Measurement precision
If complex positioning techniques are used to achieve high precision in complicated environments, then positioning accuracy improves, but operation becomes cumbersome and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the positioning system into simple, independent components: color blocks placed in the environment and a mobile device with color detection capability. This segmentation allows each component to perform a single function simply, avoiding the need for complex integrated systems while achieving accurate positioning through the coordination of these simple elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive color blocks as positioning markers that can be easily manufactured and deployed. These simple colored objects serve as temporary but effective positioning references, replacing expensive and complex positioning infrastructure while providing sufficient precision for indoor navigation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a method and an apparatus for localization and mapping based on color block tags, applicable for real-time mapping of an area to be localized in which at least one color block tag is arranged, the method comprises: taking a location of a first color block tag as a coordinate origin of a coordinate system when information of the first color block tag is obtained by a mobile electronic device; moving the mobile electronic device to start to traverse the entire area to be localized from the coordinate origin, calculating coordinates of an obstacle detected by the mobile electronic device based on a location of the mobile electronic device relative to the coordinate origin; constructing a map based on recorded information of the color block tags and coordinates thereof and the coordinates of each obstacle when the traversal has been finished.