The accurate estimation of the end-effector’s pose in large operating spaces is the key for the mobile manipulator to realize efficient manufacturing of large and complex components. We propose a novel pose tracking method in large-range using visual fiducial markers, and further propose the layout optimization method for the encoded fiducial markers. A metric named orientational dilution of precision (ODOP) is proposed to evaluate the magnification of the pose estimation error compared with the measurement error of the coded fiducial markers. The distribution pattern of the coded markers is analyzed based on ODOP, and the square-shaped layout is determined to be a satisfactory distribution pattern for the minimum positioning unit of markers, and the side length of the square-shaped layout is further selected. The simulations and experiments prove the effectiveness of the ODOP index. Finally, the square-shaped layout and the designed distribution density for positioning coded markers are adopted to realize the high-precision measurement of large components by the mobile manipulator.
