3D Tunnel Representation in Navigation Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Navigation systems lack the capability to generate a realistic 3-dimensional representation of tunnels, which are essential for improved route guidance and user navigation, as existing data primarily provides 2D map representations without 3D tunnel information.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize road network data, geographical elevation maps, and predefined patterns to generate and store a 3-dimensional representation of tunnels, allowing for their inclusion in navigation systems, with options for tunnel walls, ceiling, and entrance/exit portals, embedded in the geographical environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If 2D map representation is used, then data simplicity and ease of processing is maintained, but 3D visualization capability and realism are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms 2D road network data into 3D tunnel representations by adding vertical dimension through elevation data and predefined 3D patterns. This allows the system to maintain simple 2D input data while generating realistic 3D visualizations of tunnels, resolving the contradiction between data simplicity and 3D representation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses predefined 3D patterns as templates to generate tunnel representations. These patterns are applied to road segments identified as tunnels, creating realistic 3D models without requiring complex manual modeling. This copying approach maintains processing ease while achieving 3D visualization.
2Shape
If 3D tunnel representation is generated using predefined patterns, then visualization realism is improved, but data complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tunnel representation into standardized components (walls, ceiling, floor) using predefined patterns. Each road segment identified as a tunnel is processed independently and assigned appropriate 3D pattern segments, reducing overall data complexity while maintaining visualization realism through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters of existing road network data (adding elevation information and tunnel identifiers) to enable 3D representation generation. By modifying existing data structures rather than creating entirely new complex data formats, the system achieves realistic visualizations without excessive data complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If tunnel road segments are identified and processed separately, then 3D representation accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary identification of tunnel road segments during the data processing stage, marking them for special 3D pattern application. This preliminary action allows accurate tunnel representation while minimizing additional processing time by pre-categorizing segments before full 3D generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the road network data itself to identify tunnel segments and determine appropriate 3D patterns, making the data structure serve its own classification function. This self-service approach improves accuracy through data-driven identification while reducing processing time by eliminating separate analysis steps.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for generating a 3-dimensional representation of a tunnel. The method comprises the step of providing road network data (11) including a plurality of road segments, at least one road segment being a tunnel road segment, including the information that said at least one road segment is a road segment located in a tunnel. Furthermore, the method comprises the steps of identifying said tunnel segment in the road network, providing a geographical elevation map (12) including elevation data of the geographical region in which the tunnel road segment is located, providing predefined patterns (13) representing predefined parts of a 3-dimensional tunnel body, generating the 3-dimensional representation of the tunnel based on the tunnel road segment, the elevation map (12) and the predefined patterns (13), and storing the 3-dimensional representation of the tunnel in connection with the road network as a 3-dimensional object which is located at the geographical position of the tunnel road segment.