Autonomous Valet Parking Using Visual Markers for Indoor Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous valet parking systems face challenges in precisely identifying the position of a vehicle within a parking lot, especially when GPS signals are unavailable, making it difficult to guide the vehicle to an empty parking space.
Innovation Solution
The system utilizes a vehicle-mounted sensor to identify unique and generic markers in a parking lot, combining them with a digital map to accurately set and adjust the vehicle's position, enabling precise autonomous parking operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS signal is used for positioning, then positioning can be achieved in open areas, but positioning fails in parking lots where GPS signals cannot reach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces markers as intermediary objects placed in the parking lot environment. These markers serve as mediators between the vehicle's positioning system and the physical space, enabling the vehicle to determine its location through visual recognition of markers rather than relying on GPS signals that cannot penetrate the parking lot structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the GPS satellite-based electromagnetic signal system with a local visual marker recognition system. Instead of relying on external satellite signals, the vehicle uses onboard cameras and image processing algorithms to detect and recognize markers within the parking lot, substituting a mechanical/optical system for the electronic satellite communication system.
2Measurement precision
If multiple markers are installed throughout the parking lot, then positioning accuracy is improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs markers with universal characteristics that serve multiple functions: they provide positioning information, enable vehicle identification, and can be recognized from various angles and distances. The markers use standardized patterns (such as QR codes or distinctive geometric shapes) that can be processed by the same recognition algorithm regardless of their location in the parking lot, reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs markers with specific visual parameters (contrast ratios, size, geometric patterns) that optimize recognition accuracy while minimizing the number of markers needed. By carefully selecting marker parameters such as high-contrast colors and distinctive shapes, the system achieves reliable positioning with fewer markers, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
One or more example embodiments relate to a vehicle and a method for performing autonomous valet parking. A vehicle may include at least one sensor configured to obtain image data indicating a surrounding environment of the vehicle; a controller configured to control at least one operation of the vehicle; a communication interface; and at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to: identify, based on the image data, a unique marker installed in a parking lot; set, based on the unique marker, position information of the vehicle; identify, based on the image data, a generic marker installed in the parking lot; adjust, based on the generic marker, the position information of the vehicle; and control, based on the adjusted position information of the vehicle, an autonomous parking operation of the vehicle.