Indoor Single Camera SLAM using Fiducial Markers

Abstract

In this paper, a SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) method using a single camera and planar fiducial markers is proposed. Fiducial markers are planar patterns that are mounted on the ceiling or wall. Each fiducial marker has a unique hi-tonal identification pattern with square outlines. It can be printed on paper to reduce cost or it can be painted using retro-reflective paint in order to make invisible and prevent undesirable visual effects. Existing localization methods using artificial landmarks have the disadvantage that landmark locations must be known a priori. In contrast, the proposed method can build a map and estimate robot location even if landmark locations are not known a priori. Hence, it reduces installation time and setup cost. The proposed method works good even when only one fiducial marker is seen at a scene. We perform computer simulation to evaluate proposed method.