Method of analyzing points of interest with probe data

Abstract

A method of analyzing points of interest (22) using traces from probe data is provided. The method includes providing a database of a digital vector map (18) configured to store a plurality of traces (1′-14′) representing roads. The method further includes collecting probe data from vehicles traveling along the traces. Then, bundling a group of select traces (2′, 5′, 7′, 9′, 11′) having routes with a common origin (20) and at least one divergence point (24, 1) downstream from the origin (20) and building a database of vehicle maneuvers over the routes. Further, computing average speeds and delay times of a random population of vehicles traversing the vehicle maneuvers. Further yet, computing average speeds and delay times of all vehicles traversing the routes. Then, comparing the computed results from the random population of vehicles with the computed results from all vehicles traversing said routes.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]This invention relates generally to methods for analyzing points of interest, and more particularly to methods of analyzing points of interest with Global Positioning System (GPS)-enabled devices.[0003]2. Related Art[0004]Points of interest (POIs) are often analyzed via tabular information, such as via manual research; via directories of restaurants in a chain with their addresses; points supplied by customers, third parties, address lists, and the like, wherein the points of interest are assigned a coordinate (latitude / longitude) via manual research or automated means such as geocoding (the use of a known address and map match to assign an approximate coordinate). Unfortunately, the results can be fraught with errors, such as due to human error; furthermore, not all addresses are available on point lists, may have been changed, or the map itself may have incorrect street names or numbers, leading to incorrect locations...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention provides a method for analyzing points of interest using traces from probe data. The method involves collecting probe data from vehicles traveling along roads and storing it in a database. The method also involves bundling together traces with similar routes and collecting data on vehicle maneuvers over those routes. The method then compares the data from a random population of vehicles with all vehicles on the selected routes to identify statistically probable differences. This allows for the identification of points of interest based on the behavior of vehicles on specific routes."

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, the results can be fraught with errors, such as due to human error; furthermore, not all addresses are available on point lists, may have been changed, or the map itself may have incorrect street names or numbers, leading to incorrect locations.

Further, rating of the POIs is typically manual, and thus, generally proves difficult and costly.

In addition, the manual data gathered can become dated in a relatively short period of time, thereby rendering the data obsolete and increasingly inaccurate.

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