Dynamic Map Scale and Measuring Tool for Digital Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital mapping systems fail to provide accurate and updated map scales during zooming and panning operations, requiring users to provide external measuring devices and often providing incorrect distance information due to separate scale images and map projection distortions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for a digital mapping system that dynamically updates the graphical map scale in response to user interactions, switching between scale mode and measuring tool mode, allowing users to specify units and measure distances accurately, with the scale being drawn correctly based on map projection and position, and providing driving directions between selected locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a written scale is provided on the map, then the scale information is clearly displayed, but the scale becomes ineffective when the map is zoomed or reproduced at a different size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic graphic scale that automatically updates its visual representation in response to zoom operations. The scale transitions from a static written form to a dynamic graphic form that can be redrawn at appropriate sizes, maintaining accuracy across different zoom levels through programmatic adjustment of its display parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The scale's display parameters (size, position, visual properties) are dynamically changed in response to zoom events. The system monitors zoom level changes and automatically adjusts the graphic scale's parameters to maintain proportional accuracy, transforming the scale from a fixed textual annotation to an adaptive visual element
2Ease of manufacture
If a graphic scale is provided separately from the map image, then the scale can be updated independently, but the scale is not always updated with panning and zoom operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where zoom and pan operations on the map trigger automatic updates to the graphic scale. The scale monitoring system detects changes in map state and sends update commands to the scale display, ensuring the scale remains synchronized with the current map view without requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the scale update mechanism with the map rendering system. Rather than treating the scale as a completely separate element, the system combines the scale's update logic with the map's event handling, so that scale updates are triggered by the same events that trigger map rendering, ensuring consistent behavior
3Quantity of substance
If conventional graphical scales are used, then users can see distance representations, but users still require external measuring devices to obtain accurate distance measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically providing digital distance measurements between map locations. Users can select locations on the map and the system automatically calculates and displays the distance using the stored scale information, eliminating the need for external measuring devices while maintaining ease of use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital measurement intermediary that acts between the graphic scale and the user. This intermediary component automatically performs the measurement calculation based on user selections and the scale data, replacing the need for physical measuring tools while maintaining the user-friendly interface
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple graphical scale lines are provided for different units, then more distance units are available, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal scale mechanism that can display multiple distance units (miles, kilometers, yards, feet) through a single graphic scale line. The scale's display parameters are dynamically adjusted based on the selected unit, allowing one scale structure to serve multiple measurement purposes without requiring separate physical scale lines for each unit
Data Source
AI summary
A combined map scale and measuring tool can be used in digital mapping systems. In the scale mode, the scale indicates the correct scale, for example, at the center of the map. It can be updated with every pan, zoom or resize operation the user performs, and can further update to compensate for map distortion caused by the map projection. The tool mode is entered once the user drags one or both of the scale endpoints onto the map. The distance between two endpoints of the tool can be displayed. A new point can be added each time the user drags a line between existing endpoints of the tool. Info windows can be opened that include relevant information about the endpoints (e.g., latitude/longitude, geo code), and provide option to convert the tool segments to driving directions. A drag and drop location marker is also provided.