3D Cursor Orientation for Map Feature Surface Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulty in orienting 3D scenes within geographic mapping applications, particularly when transitioning between aerial and street-level views, due to challenges in automatically aligning the camera view with the surface of map features.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a 3D cursor to automatically orient itself towards the surface of a map feature based on zoom level and 3D geometry, allowing users to select a point within the 3D geometry and reorient the camera view to display the map feature accordingly, using a combination of client and server modules to process and render 3D scene data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic orientation of 3D cursor toward map feature surface is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores surface normal vectors for map features during data processing. When a user hovers over a map feature, the pre-computed surface information is immediately retrieved and used to orient the 3D cursor, avoiding complex real-time calculations and reducing operational delay while maintaining automated orientation functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary orientation layer between the user interface and the 3D scene rendering. The 3D cursor acts as a mediator that translates user selection into camera view orientation, handling the complex transformation calculations centrally rather than requiring complex client or server architecture modifications
2Adaptability or versatility
If seamless transition between aerial and street-level views is enabled, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the 3D cursor orientation and camera view based on the selected map feature type and current zoom level. The cursor automatically adapts its orientation behavior - pointing toward building surfaces at aerial views and toward street-level entry points at street views - allowing seamless transitions between view modes through dynamic parameter adjustment rather than separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D cursor is designed as a universal interface element that performs multiple functions: it serves as a selection indicator, an orientation guide, and a transition controller. The same cursor mechanism handles both aerial and street-level view transitions, eliminating the need for separate control systems for different view modes and reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to devices and user interfaces for orienting a camera view toward surfaces in a 3D map. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods that determine a zoom level associated with a 3D scene and 3D geometry of a map feature with the 3D scene and orient a 3D cursor to a surface of the map feature based on the zoom level and the 3D geometry when a user moves the 3D cursor over the map feature. When a user selects a point within the 3D geometry of the map feature, the 3D map is re-oriented with a view of the surface of the map feature.