Encoded Map Image Segmentation for Limited Bandwidth Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems face challenges in efficiently transmitting real-time traffic information to mobile navigation devices operating in limited bandwidth environments, where data transmission rates are restricted, making it difficult to send large map data files efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The development of encoded map images that are broken into smaller payloads, transmitted over-the-air using AM or FM signals, and decoded by navigation devices for display, allowing for real-time traffic and weather data access without requiring high bandwidth connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If map data is transmitted using traditional methods (RDS-TMC, Agora-C, TPEG) with pre-defined identifications or latitude/longitude representations, then the system can provide traffic information, but the data transmission requires significant bandwidth and is inefficient for limited bandwidth environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments map data into image blocks that can be transmitted in smaller units. Instead of transmitting entire map images or large data structures, the system divides the map into discrete image blocks that are encoded and transmitted efficiently over limited bandwidth channels, directly addressing the contradiction between transmission efficiency and data size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses image encoding and compression techniques to create compact representations of map data. By converting map data into encoded image formats and transmitting only the essential visual information rather than complete data structures, the system reduces data size while maintaining the ability to reconstruct and display traffic information.
2Adaptability or versatility
If encoded map images are broken into smaller payloads and transmitted over-the-air, then real-time traffic information can be received in limited bandwidth environments, but the system complexity increases due to encoding, transmission, and decoding requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of image block encoding and transmission based on available bandwidth conditions. The system can adjust the level of compression, image block size, and transmission frequency according to current network conditions, allowing it to function effectively across a range of bandwidth limitations while managing system complexity through adaptive rather than static configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters such as image resolution, color depth, and compression ratios to optimize transmission for limited bandwidth environments. By adjusting these parameters dynamically based on bandwidth availability, the system achieves broad adaptability without requiring completely different systems for different bandwidth conditions, thereby managing complexity through parameter optimization rather than architectural complexity.
3Productivity
If image compression and encoding are applied to reduce data size, then transmission efficiency improves in limited bandwidth environments, but image quality and data accuracy may be degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different encoding and compression strategies to different regions of the map image based on their importance. Critical areas such as the user's current location, nearby traffic conditions, and major roadways receive higher quality encoding with less compression, while less important areas use more aggressive compression. This local quality differentiation maintains transmission efficiency while preserving image quality where it matters most.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transmits only the portion of the map image that is currently relevant to the user's location and navigation needs, rather than transmitting the entire map. By focusing transmission resources on the partial image data that provides the most value, the system achieves high transmission speed while maintaining adequate image quality for the displayed region, avoiding the need to compress and transmit unnecessary data.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided for transmitting map data images in a limited bandwidth environment. In one embodiment, the method comprises determining or predicting, using a processor, a traffic condition or a weather condition for a location. The method further comprises developing at least one map image depicting the traffic condition or weather condition. The method further comprises encoding the map image in at least one payload. The method further comprises transmitting the at least one payload over-the-air to a navigation device.