Marker-Based Position Detection for Accurate 3D Target Orientation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing position detection systems for work machines lack accuracy in specifying the position of detection targets using learned models.

Innovation Solution

A position detection system that includes marks on the detection target, an imaging device, a measurement device, and a controller to calculate the position and attitude of the detection target based on marker information and three-dimensional shape data, with correction and estimation mechanisms to enhance accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If image recognition using a learned model is used to specify the position of a detection target, then the system can operate without physical markers, but the position detection accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarkerless operation capabilityVSAvoidposition detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple detection approaches by integrating both learned model-based image recognition and physical marker recognition systems. The system merges the advantages of both methods: the versatility of markerless operation with the precision of marker-based detection, achieving both adaptability and measurement accuracy simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces markers as intermediary objects that bridge the gap between the detection system and the detection target. These markers serve as reliable reference points that enhance position detection accuracy while maintaining the overall markerless system architecture, acting as mediators between the imaging device and the cargo bed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If multiple marks are provided on the detection target to improve position detection accuracy, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the position detection task into multiple independent components: marker detection, marker position calculation, and cargo bed position derivation. By dividing the detection target into multiple marked regions and processing each independently, the system achieves high measurement precision while managing device complexity through modular processing steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of mark quantity from one to multiple, and simultaneously changes the processing parameter from direct image recognition to coordinate-based calculation. This parameter transformation allows the system to improve measurement precision through multiple marks while reducing the computational complexity by using straightforward geometric calculations rather than complex image analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If the position is calculated based on multiple marks and three-dimensional shape information, then the position detection accuracy improves, but the calculation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidcalculation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing the three-dimensional shape information of the cargo bed and pre-defining the spatial relationships between marks and the cargo bed. This advance preparation allows the system to achieve high position detection accuracy during operation without performing complex real-time calculations, as the necessary geometric data is already prepared and stored

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables accurate detection of the position and attitude of the detection target, improving operational precision and robustness in various types of dump trucks.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging device, arranged to view the markers and generate image data representative of the relative positions of the markers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a measurement device configured to measure a distance to the at least one detection target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Radar

Data Source

PatentEP4198210B1Position detection system
Publication Date: 2025.11.26 KOBELCO CONSTR MASCH CO LTD
  • EP4198210B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4198210B1 patent drawingFigure 2
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AI summary

A position detection system includes: a mark (71) provided on a detection target (27); an imaging device (4) that images the detection target (27) so as to include the mark (71); an acquisition unit that acquires a position and an attitude of the mark (71) from imaging information that is information related to the mark (71) imaged; a storage device (13) that stores information on a three-dimensional shape of the detection target (27); and a detection target calculation unit that calculates a position and an attitude of the detection target (27) based on mark related information that is information related to acquired position and attitude of the mark (71) and stored information on the three-dimensional shape of the detection target (27).