Vehicle Positioning via 2D Barcode Camera Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle positioning systems face limitations in accuracy and resolution due to the length and complexity of code carriers, are sensitive to deformation and orientation, and struggle with determining position when stationary or deviating from a normal path, especially over long distances like in industrial production lines.
Innovation Solution
A method using a digital camera on the vehicle to detect markers along the path and determine relative position through image processing, allowing for precise position determination in multiple directions, including transverse to the main direction of movement, without the need for scanning elements like light barriers, and enabling the detection of deviations from the normal path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If one-dimensional barcodes are arranged along the path with limited spatial resolution, then the code elements can be scanned sequentially, but the position resolution is limited and code carrier length cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional barcodes to two-dimensional markers arranged in multiple tracks. This dimensional change allows significantly more information to be encoded in a compact space, improving position resolution without increasing code carrier length. The 2D markers can be read simultaneously by a camera rather than scanned sequentially, further enhancing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning elements (light barriers) with an optical camera system. This substitution eliminates the spatial resolution limitations of mechanical scanners and allows simultaneous capture of multiple 2D markers, dramatically improving position determination accuracy while reducing the required code carrier length.
2Measurement precision
If a large number of code carriers are used to cover long routes with sufficient longitudinal resolution, then complete coverage is achieved, but the word length and code complexity increase rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
By using two-dimensional markers with multiple tracks instead of one-dimensional barcodes, the system can encode significantly more position information in each marker. This allows long routes to be covered with fewer, less complex code carriers while maintaining high longitudinal resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The 2D markers serve multiple functions: they encode position information, provide redundancy for error correction, and enable determination of both longitudinal and transverse vehicle positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate code carriers for different purposes, simplifying the overall system.
3Length of stationary object
If longer code carriers are used to increase coverage, then more route can be covered, but position determination resolution decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transition to 2D markers with multiple tracks allows the system to pack more position-encoding elements into a compact area. This enables use of shorter code carriers while maintaining or even improving position determination resolution, as more information is available in each compact marker.
Solution Approach 2:
Replacing sequential mechanical scanning with simultaneous optical capture by a camera allows the system to resolve finer positional details within shorter code carriers. The camera's high spatial resolution enables accurate position determination even when markers are densely packed in compact spaces.
4Measurement precision
If transmitted light method is used for position determination, then position can be determined, but the system becomes mechanically complex and susceptible to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces transmitted light methods with reflected light imaging using a camera. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical scanning systems and light barriers, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining position determination accuracy. The optical system is also less susceptible to code carrier deformation.
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
This approach provides improved position resolution and longer travel distances, reduces maintenance needs, and allows for accurate position determination of stationary vehicles, including transverse deviations, enhancing operational reliability and reducing the risk of failures.
Implementation Method 1
a digital camera arranged on the vehicle detects markers (20) arranged along the path (12)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and a method for determining the position of a vehicle moving along a track, wherein markers, in particular code carriers or barcodes, are arranged along the track. The method is characterized in that the markers are detected by a digital camera arranged on the vehicle and that, by means of image processing, a relative position of the vehicle with respect to the respective marker(s) is determined from a position of at least one marker image in the detection range of the digital camera, in the direction of a main direction of movement of the vehicle along the track and in at least one direction transverse to the main direction of movement. The invention also relates to a computer program and a computer program product.