Digitally Encoded Markers for Accurate AR Registration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current augmented reality (AR) systems face challenges in achieving accurate geographic registration of virtual objects in the real world, with existing methods like GPS being inaccurate and marker-based systems lacking precision, leading to digital models drifting or appearing in unexpected locations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of Digitally Encoded Markers (DEMs) that contain geographic coordinate data, allowing for real-time accurate registration of virtual objects by encoding and decoding geospatial data onto high-contrast markers, enabling seamless AR experiences without relying on GPS or single marker technologies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If GPS is used for location-based AR, then the system can provide location information, but the location accuracy is insufficient for precise viewing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation accuracyVSAvoidAR registration precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces markers as intermediary objects placed in the physical environment. These markers serve as mediators between the GPS system and the AR display, providing precise local reference points that compensate for GPS inaccuracy. The markers contain encoded geographic coordinate data that enables accurate registration of virtual objects at specific locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the continuous GPS coverage area into discrete segments marked by individual markers. Each marker represents a specific location with precise coordinates, breaking down the broad GPS coverage into localized, high-precision reference points that can be individually tracked and registered.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If traditional markers are used, then object tracking is enabled, but geographic coordinate precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeographic coordinate precisionVSAvoidcoordinate data accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-encoding accurate geographic coordinate data into the markers before they are placed in the environment. This pre-encoded information ensures that when the marker is detected, the precise coordinate data is already available, eliminating the need for subsequent calculation or approximation of location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by encoding geographic coordinate information directly into the marker structure. The marker serves as a physical copy or representation of the geographic location data, allowing the system to retrieve precise coordinate information by simply reading the encoded data from the marker rather than calculating it from GPS signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If high-contrast markers are introduced, then tracking precision improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking precisionVSAvoidmarker system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing markers that perform multiple functions simultaneously: they provide high-contrast visual tracking, encode geographic coordinate data, and serve as reference points for AR registration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for each function, thereby managing complexity while achieving multiple goals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the tracking function and the geographic information function into a single marker structure. By combining high-contrast visual patterns with encoded coordinate data in one object, the system eliminates the need for separate tracking markers and information markers, simplifying the overall system while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10242456B2Digitally encoded marker-based augmented reality (AR)
Publication Date: 2019.03.26 GEOSYMM VENTURES LLC
  • US10242456B2 patent drawing
  • US10242456B2 patent drawing
  • US10242456B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for markers with digitally encoded geographic coordinate information for use in an augmented reality (AR) system. The method provides accurate location information for registration of digital data and real world images within an AR system. The method includes automatically matching digital data within an AR system by utilizing a digitally encoded marker (DEM) containing world coordinate information system and mathematical offset of digital data and a viewing device. The method further includes encoding geographic coordinate information into markers (e.g., DEMs) and decoding the coordinate information into an AR system. Through use of the method and corresponding system, marker technology and the basis of geo-location technology can be combined into a geo-located marker, thereby solving the problem of providing accurate registration within an augmented reality.