Movable Object Localization with Environment-Adaptive Reference Images

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Solution Overview

Problem

The accuracy of matching between registration images and observation images is reduced in varying environments, such as different weather conditions or times of day, which affects the precision of self-position estimation for vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that generate a dynamic reference image based on estimated environmental conditions and a reference image from a map, allowing for improved position estimation of a movable object by adjusting the reference image to match the observation image, thereby enhancing matching accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If matching is performed between registration image and observation image in varying environments, then position estimation can be performed, but matching accuracy is significantly reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematching accuracyVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent generates a dynamic reference image by adjusting the registration image according to detected environmental conditions (weather, time of day, seasonal changes). This dynamic adjustment allows the reference image to adapt to varying environments while maintaining matching accuracy, resolving the contradiction between static reference images and environmental variability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes parameters of the reference image based on environmental detection results. By modifying image parameters (such as lighting conditions, weather effects, temporal characteristics) to match current environmental conditions, the system maintains high matching accuracy across different environments without requiring multiple pre-captured registration images.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Area of stationary object

If multiple registration images are captured at different positions and postures to improve coverage, then map data completeness is improved, but data processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemap coverage areaVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a single dynamic reference image that can serve multiple purposes across different environmental conditions. Instead of maintaining separate registration images for each condition, the system uses one adaptable reference image that adjusts to various scenarios, reducing data storage and processing requirements while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11288860B2Information processing apparatus, information processing method, program, and movable object
Publication Date: 2022.03.29 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US11288860B2 patent drawing
  • US11288860B2 patent drawing
  • US11288860B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided methods and apparatus for estimating a position of a movable object. A dynamic reference image is generated based on an environment and a reference image extracted from a map. A position of the movable object is estimated based on the dynamic reference image and an observation image of an area around the movable object.