Compact Geographic Codes via Base Conversion and Interleaving
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current geographic location identification methods, such as latitude and longitude coordinates, are cumbersome and difficult to use, especially in areas with poor address systems, and existing coding systems do not allow for easy truncation or expansion of code specificity.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that converts latitude and longitude coordinates into shorter character strings using base conversion and interleaves them to generate a compact code, which can be easily lengthened or shortened to represent varying levels of geographic specificity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If latitude and longitude coordinates are used to identify geographic locations, then precise positioning is achieved, but the codes become long and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies base conversion (changing the numerical base parameter) to transform latitude and longitude coordinates into compact codes. By converting from base-10 decimal coordinates to a compact alphanumeric representation, the system maintains precise positioning while dramatically reducing code length and improving ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the coordinate system. Instead of using the original lengthy decimal coordinates, it generates a compact code that serves as an equivalent representation, preserving the precise location information while being much more user-friendly and easier to communicate.
2Ease of operation
If existing coding systems are used to identify locations, then shorter codes are achieved, but they do not allow for easy truncation or expansion of code specificity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the compact code into distinct components corresponding to latitude and longitude portions. This segmentation allows the code to be easily truncated or expanded by including or excluding specific segments, providing both short codes for general locations and longer codes for precise positioning, while maintaining code flexibility and adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If standard latitude and longitude formats are used, then accurate location identification is achieved, but the codes are cumbersome and easily confused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the representation parameter by implementing base conversion and a customized character set. This transforms the complex decimal coordinate format into a simpler alphanumeric compact code that maintains location accuracy while reducing code complexity and eliminating confusion from similar-looking characters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simplified, disposable-like representation where the compact code serves as a lightweight alternative to the heavy coordinate system. The compact code provides the essential location information without the burden of complex formatting, making it ideal for communication and storage where simplicity is paramount.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for generating a compact code that accurately identifies the position of a point on the Earth or other body are provided. The compact code can signify the position of a place in a manner that is easy to remember, easy to use, and in a way that allows a person to find the location without having to depend on local directions. The compact code can be generated independent of house numbers, street names, zip codes, local character sets and other current addressing tools. The compact code can be used for a variety of applications. For instance, the compact code can be associated with points of interest in a geographic information system, can be used to geolocate information, and/or can be used to navigate to a particular geographic location.