Aggregate Map Feature Selection via Vector Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current map rendering systems face inefficiencies in storage and manipulation of raster images, requiring large storage space and difficulty in zooming or changing visual properties without noticeable quality loss, as they rely on raster data that needs to be retrieved or enlarged from servers.
Innovation Solution
Generating map data in a non-raster format, such as vector graphics, that allows for the creation of aggregate map features, enabling efficient manipulation and rendering of map elements by providing unique identifiers for features, allowing clients to select, update, and render multiple related elements efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If raster images are used for map rendering, then rendering ease is improved, but storage space requirement increases and manipulation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses vector data as a mathematical description model to represent map elements, creating an abstract representation that can be rendered into raster images only when needed. This vector-based copying approach allows the system to store compact geometric definitions rather than full pixel data, significantly reducing storage requirements while maintaining rendering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter representation from fixed pixel values (raster) to geometric parameters such as coordinates, shapes, and topological relationships (vector). This parameter transformation enables the map data to be stored in a compact form and dynamically rendered at different resolutions, resolving the contradiction between storage efficiency and rendering performance.
2Ease of operation
If raster images are used for map rendering, then rendering ease is improved, but manipulation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the map into discrete vector-based map elements (roads, buildings, parks, etc.), each represented by independent geometric descriptions. This segmentation allows individual elements to be selectively manipulated, highlighted, or updated without affecting the entire map image, dramatically improving manipulation efficiency compared to working with monolithic raster images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic rendering where vector map data can be interactively manipulated and re-rendered in real-time based on user actions such as zooming, panning, or selecting specific elements. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt the map visualization on-the-fly without requiring pre-generated raster images for every possible view, enhancing both manipulation efficiency and rendering flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If raster images are used for map rendering, then rendering ease is improved, but quality maintenance during zooming deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic zooming and panning operations by transforming the vector map data coordinate systems rather than simply enlarging fixed raster pixels. When users zoom in, the system mathematically transforms the vector representations to display appropriate detail at the new scale, maintaining image quality without the blurriness or pixelation that occurs with static raster image enlargement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based geometric representations that scale mathematically with zoom levels. Vector shapes, lines, and polygons maintain their geometric precision regardless of display size, allowing the system to transition smoothly between different zoom levels while preserving image quality. The geometric parameters are recalculated based on the current view scale, eliminating the quality loss inherent in raster image scaling.
4Ease of operation
If raster images are retrieved from server for map rendering, then rendering capability is improved, but network communication frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-processes and stores vector map data in a compact, structured format on the server, organizing it by geographic regions and zoom levels. This preliminary organization allows the system to efficiently retrieve only the necessary vector data for the current view without requiring large raster image transfers, reducing network communication time while maintaining full rendering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses vector data as a compact mathematical copy of the map that can be transmitted efficiently over the network. Instead of transferring large raster images, the system transmits concise geometric descriptions that can be rendered locally, significantly reducing network bandwidth requirements and communication time while preserving rendering quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple individually renderable map elements, each representing a respective physical entity in a geographic area, are rendered to generate a digital map of the geographic area. A description of an aggregate map feature that includes several but not all of the multiple map elements is received. The several map elements represent physical entities that form a common administrative unit. A selection of one of the several map elements is received via the user interface. In response to receiving the selection, the several map elements included in the aggregate map feature are automatically selected, and an indication that the aggregate map feature has been selected is provided on the user interface.