Increase Recognition Accuracy with Sticker-Type AR Markers

Enhancing Recognition with Low-Reflection, Non-Glossy AR Markers

The logistics industry is facing challenges due to labor shortages, prompting continuous advancements in autonomous driving technology. One essential component for autonomous operations and picking systems is AR markers, which provide location and other vital information.

Traditional AR markers often struggle with recognition issues caused by reflections from factory lighting, sunlight, or the glossy surface of the markers themselves. In some cases, inadequate lighting can reduce contrast, making it difficult to detect AR markers effectively.

To address these issues, we've developed a specialized AR marker using light-absorbing materials. The black portions of these markers have low reflectivity, which enhances the contrast between black and white, leading to improved recognition accuracy. This article introduces these low-reflection AR markers as a solution to challenges in autonomous logistics.

Sticker-Type AR Markers: Easy to Install and Highly Effective

A newly developed AR marker, approximately 10×10 cm in size, is designed as a thin, lightweight sticker that is easy to install. Even when exposed to direct sunlight, these markers maintain their visibility without excessive reflection, ensuring that their patterns remain readable. The reverse side is equipped with adhesive tape, allowing them to be applied conveniently like labels or stickers.

Features of Low-Reflection AR Markers

These AR markers use light-absorbing materials, offering the following advantages:

• Reduced reflection for better recognition
• High contrast between black and white, improving detection by robots and drones
• Sticker-type adhesive backing, allowing for easy and lightweight installation

Thanks to their ease of use, these markers work well in a variety of settings, including warehouse shelving for autonomous forklifts, temporary events, store displays, promotional activities, and AR-based advertising.

The Secret Behind High Recognition Accuracy: "Fineshut" Material

The key to these high-recognition AR markers lies in the use of Fineshut, our specialized black material designed for light absorption and reflection prevention. While these markers can be made with any variant in the Fineshut lineup, "Fineshut SP" is the one most commonly used for this application. It not only possesses exceptional optical properties but also maintains an ultra-thin profile of just 0.22mm. Because of these characteristics, it's even used to reduce stray light inside the mirror boxes of DSLR cameras.

A comparison video below demonstrates the difference in blackness between printed materials and "Fineshut SP." It shows how the low-reflection AR marker minimizes glare and stays visible even in dimly lit environments.

Customizable AR Panels with Non-Glossy QR Codes

In addition to sticker-type markers, which are thin and flexible, AR markers can also be fabricated on rigid white acrylic panels. This option is ideal for applications where adhesive tape cannot be used or where enhanced durability is required. This same light-absorbing technology isn't limited to AR markers, either — Fineshut SP works equally well for QR codes and ArUco markers, both of which benefit from the same high-contrast, low-glare surface. For more on non-reflective AR panels and their applications, see our related article, "Eye-Catching Event Signage! High Visibility with a Bold Black Design."

Additionally, this low-reflection panel technology can be applied to create calibration boards. For any concerns related to reflection and recognition issues in calibration boards, please feel free to contact us!