Event-based Optical Marker Systems: A survey

Abstract:The advent of event-based cameras, with their low latency, high dynamic range, and reduced power consumption, marked a turning point in machine perception and robotic vision. In~particular, the combination of these neuromorphic sensors with widely-available passive or active optical markers (e.g. AprilTags, arrays of blinking LEDs), has recently opened up a new field of opportunities. This survey paper provides a comprehensive review of Event-Based Optical Marker Systems (EBOMS). We~analyze the underlying principles and technologies on which these systems are based, with a special focus on their asynchronous operation and robustness against challenging lighting conditions. We also describe the most relevant applications of EBOMS, including object detection and tracking, pose estimation, and optical communication. The article concludes with a discussion of possible future research directions in this rapidly-emerging and multidisciplinary area.

Robotics (cs.RO); Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (cs.CV)

arXiv:2504.20736 [cs.RO]

(or arXiv:2504.20736v3 [cs.RO] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2504.20736 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite

https://doi.org/10.1109/MRA.2026.3703696 Focus to learn more DOI(s) linking to related resources

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.