Indoor Location Estimation via Image Feature Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location estimation methods, such as GPS and cellular base station signal strength, fail to provide accurate indoor location determination and lack granularity, unable to distinguish between floors or adjacent rooms.
Innovation Solution
Automated location estimation using image analysis, where images are matched with previously stored images using key feature extraction, color histogram analysis, or pattern matching techniques to determine location information, which can be used by users and applications for precise location determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS methods are used for location estimation, then outdoor location can be determined, but the system fails to work indoors where satellite communication is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces visual landmarks and image recognition as an intermediary method between GPS and indoor location needs. By capturing images of distinctive features (landmarks, signage, architectural elements) and matching them against a database, the system enables location determination indoors without relying on satellite communication, thus bridging the gap between outdoor GPS capability and indoor location requirements
2Ease of operation
If cellular base station signal strength methods are used, then location can be estimated, but the accuracy is insufficient and cannot distinguish between floors or adjacent rooms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location identification task into multiple visual features rather than relying on a single signal strength measurement. By extracting and matching multiple distinctive features (landmarks, signage, architectural elements) within images, the system achieves finer granularity in location determination, enabling differentiation between adjacent rooms and floors that cellular signal methods cannot distinguish
3Measurement precision
If image analysis with multiple techniques is employed, then location accuracy and granularity are improved, but the computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hierarchical image processing approach where not all image analysis techniques are applied uniformly to every image. Instead, the system performs initial processing (image capture, basic feature extraction) and then selectively applies more computationally intensive techniques (pattern matching, color histogram analysis, landmark recognition) based on the specific requirements and available computational resources, thus balancing accuracy with complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An implementation of automated location estimation using image analysis is described. In this implementation, an image of a place is obtained and matched with previously stored images. The matching may be achieved by employing methods based on key feature extraction algorithm, color histogram analysis, pattern matching or other image comparison techniques. Upon determining a match, the location information associated with the matched previously stored images provides the location. The location information may be in the form of location tags or location keywords and the location information may be used by the user or other applications for the purposes of location determination. The above technique also allows for the user to enter location information to improve accuracy. The location information may also be assigned to the previously stored images residing in local and remote databases for users and applications to automatically assign information or keywords to images.