Image-Based Positioning in Satellite-Denied Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning systems rely on satellite signals, which can be unreliable in certain conditions, leading to positioning failures.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize image processing to match image information from a captured image with a pre-configured information set to determine position, using image features and shooting direction information to enhance positioning reliability without satellite signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite signals are used for positioning, then positioning can be achieved in open environments, but positioning reliability deteriorates in environments with poor satellite signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces image information as an intermediary between the positioning system and the environment. Instead of directly relying on satellite signals, the system captures images of the surrounding environment, extracts feature information from these images, and uses this information to determine position. This intermediary approach allows positioning in environments where satellite signals are blocked or weak, as the image-based method can identify locations through visual features of the environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic wave-based satellite positioning system with an image processing-based positioning system. The mechanical/optical system (camera capturing images) substitutes for the radio wave-based satellite system. This substitution enables positioning in environments where electromagnetic signals from satellites cannot penetrate, such as urban canyons, indoors, or under dense foliage
2Reliability
If image processing is used for positioning, then positioning reliability improves in satellite-denied environments, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the imaging device serve multiple functions: it acts as both the primary positioning sensor and the source of environmental information. The same camera used to capture images for positioning can also be used for navigation, identification, and other tasks. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized hardware, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining improved positioning reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's own imaging capability to solve its positioning problem without requiring external infrastructure. The device captures images of its surrounding environment, processes these images to extract position information, and determines its location autonomously. This self-service approach avoids the need for complex external positioning infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability in satellite-denied environments
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning method includes obtaining a first image at a first position; obtaining first image information from the first image, matching the first image information with second image information in an information set to obtain target information corresponding to the first image, and obtaining position information of the first position based on one of a plurality of pieces of position information that corresponds to the target information. The first image includes an image captured at the first position. The first position is a position within a target area. The information set includes the plurality of pieces of position information of a plurality of positions within the target area and the second image information respectively corresponding to each of the plurality of pieces of position information. The second image information is obtained based on a second image that is captured from the plurality of positions respectively within the target area.