Visual Tracking of Amorphous Object Groups via Feature Point Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tracking methods, both GPS-based and vision-based, are inadequate for accurately tracking groups of moving objects, especially in environments with poor GPS signal reception or when objects lack defined features, and struggle with amorphous groups that change shape and size over time.
Innovation Solution
A visual tracking system that uses an imaging device and image analyzer to identify and track moving objects by computing movement characteristics of feature points, distinguishing between tracking features and background features, allowing for autonomous tracking of groups without manual input, even in complex or dynamic environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS-based tracking methods are used, then tracking of moving objects can be achieved, but tracking is not useful in places with poor GPS signal reception or if tracked objects do not have GPS receivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an aerial vehicle as an intermediary carrier that transports a camera to capture images of moving objects. This mediator enables tracking in environments where direct GPS reception fails or objects lack GPS receivers, by establishing an indirect observation pathway through aerial imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces GPS-based electronic tracking with vision-based optical tracking using a camera mounted on an aerial vehicle. This substitution allows tracking in GPS-denied environments by using visual features and image processing instead of satellite signals.
2Measurement precision
If manual selection and control methods are used, then operators can select moving objects to be tracked, but tracking ability is limited and reduces usefulness of aerial vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated object selection and tracking where the system itself identifies and tracks moving objects without continuous manual intervention. The camera automatically captures images, processes them to identify moving objects, and maintains tracking autonomously, enabling the system to serve itself in the tracking task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where captured images are processed to identify moving objects, their positions are determined, and this information feeds back to guide subsequent image capture and tracking. This closed-loop feedback enables automated adaptation and continuous refinement of tracking without manual input.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional vision-based tracking methods are used, then moving objects can be tracked, but capability for precisely tracking a group of moving objects is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tracking task by identifying and tracking individual moving objects within a group separately. Each object is detected and its position determined independently through image processing, allowing precise tracking of multiple objects simultaneously while maintaining individual object identification and trajectory accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods and devices are provided herein for detecting and tracking one or more movable objects. A method for supporting visual tracking may be provided. The method may comprise: receiving a plurality of image frames (112-1,112-2) captured at different times (T1,T2) using an imaging device (110), wherein each image frame comprises a plurality of pixels that are associated with a plurality of feature points; analyzing the plurality of image frames (112-1,112-2) to compute movement characteristics of the plurality of feature points; and identifying at least one tracking feature (216) relative to at least one background feature (214) based on the movement characteristics of the plurality of feature points.