Image-based navigation

Abstract

Image-based navigation aims at navigating objects by processing series of image data. These image data may be recorded with passive sensors like digital cameras or active instruments like laser scanners. Image-based navigation allows to extend the definition of navigation beyond the so far primarily geometric task. Due to the interaction of the sensor with its surrounding, sophisticated techniques may be developed permitting autonomous vehicles to find their way even within unknown surroundings. Image-based navigation has the potential of complementing traditional tasks of navigation with intelligent problem solutions. Thus, current fields of application often refer to robot technology, covering the operation and control of industrial robot arms up to the guidance of mobile robots. In many of today’s realizations, image-based navigation serves as one component of a multisensor navigation system and is responsible for specialized tasks like collision avoidance.