Using Markers to Refine GPS Positioning for Augmented Reality Warehouse Navigation

Abstract

When picking inventory from outdoor warehouses we encounter several problems, including locating the destination and determining the shortest route to sub-targets. One technology that could help the user during the localization and navigation process is augmented reality. This technology allows 3D virtual artefacts to be displayed in the real environment, in this case for example, navigation elements or a visual representation of the target. There are already various commercial solutions available for use in navigation, but their application in general warehousing is unique. In the case of outdoor warehouses, GPS technology can be a great benefit. However, this technology has positioning inaccuracies. For the optimal implementation of a navigation system, the GPS position needs to be found as accurately as possible. This paper deals with one option for achieving GPS positioning accuracy by using markers. Once the position of the observer is refined, the position of the digital artefacts is also refined. First, the inaccuracy without corrections is experimentally measured within the proposed technical solution, then the optimal size and rotation angle of the marker is experimentally determined. The output is then a mathematical model that determines minimum marker sizes, spacing, and rotation angles based on the aisle width of the outdoor warehouse. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.