Dynamic Map Elements for Mobile Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mobile devices lack the capability to provide dynamic and user-controlled graphical elements on maps, limiting their functionality in facilitating communication and location-based services beyond basic mapping and location identification.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilizes multiple mobile devices and a server to generate and display dynamic map elements, enabling communication between users, updating elements based on events, and modifying their appearance based on user interactions and geographical movements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If mobile devices provide basic mapping and location identification services, then location-based services are enabled, but the functionality for facilitating communication and providing interactive services is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidcommunication capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling map elements to serve dual purposes: traditional location identification and communication facilitation. Map elements not only mark geographical locations but also function as interactive interfaces that enable users to initiate communication sessions, share information, and interact with other users based on their proximity to the same location, thereby expanding device functionality without compromising reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces map elements as intermediary objects that mediate between location-based services and communication functions. These elements act as a bridge, allowing users to interact with the communication system through the map interface, thereby enabling seamless integration of navigation and communication capabilities while maintaining system reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If static map elements are displayed on mobile devices, then location information is provided, but dynamic updates based on user interactions and geographical movements are not possible

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveinteractivityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by transforming static map elements into dynamic, interactive objects that automatically update based on user interactions and geographical movements. Map elements can change their state, appearance, and behavior in response to user actions, device location changes, and proximity to other users, enabling real-time interactivity without requiring complex manual updates

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies self-service by enabling map elements to automatically update themselves based on pre-defined conditions such as user proximity, interaction events, and location changes. The system autonomously manages the dynamic updates without requiring direct user intervention for each change, thereby providing high interactivity while keeping the user interface simple and intuitive

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If map elements are used solely for location identification, then basic mapping functionality is maintained, but communication facilitation between users is not enabled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoiduser interface simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges communication functionality with the existing map element interface by integrating communication initiation capabilities directly into the visual map markers. Users interact with familiar map elements to access communication features, combining location identification and communication initiation into a single unified interaction model, thereby enabling new functionality without complicating the user interface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies multi-functionality by designing map elements that simultaneously perform location identification and serve as communication triggers. The same visual element that marks a location also functions as an interactive button for initiating communication sessions, information sharing, and social interactions, thereby expanding functionality while maintaining interface simplicity through familiar visual metaphors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8750906B2Dynamic elements on a map within a mobile device, such as elements that facilitate communication between users

Publication Date: 2014.06.10 T MOBILE US INC

AI summary

A system and method for providing information on a map displayed by a mobile device is described. In some examples, the system facilitates user control of map elements, such as dynamically changing map elements based on events that occur at a user's mobile device or at locations associated with the map elements. In some examples, the system enables communication between users via map elements.