Footpath Mapping via GNSS Track Averaging and Privacy Extraction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In areas with limited vehicle access and non-traditional addressing, such as densely populated regions and apartments, there is a lack of accurate maps for route and location information, hindering service delivery and emergency access.
Innovation Solution
A method for creating and maintaining accurate maps of both footpaths and mechanical transportation routes, using GNSS signals and route tracking devices to record and combine track data, with weighted averaging for improved accuracy, while ensuring user privacy through encrypted data sharing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional mapping methods are used in areas with foot paths and no vehicle access, then mapping coverage is limited, but accuracy and completeness of route information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single mobile computing device that serves multiple functions: capturing images, recording GNSS location data, storing mapping information, and processing route data. This multi-functional approach enables comprehensive mapping of both vehicle-accessible and foot-path areas without requiring specialized equipment for each terrain type.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile computing device acts as an intermediary between the user and the mapping system, collecting data through cameras and GNSS receivers, processing it through algorithms, and generating accurate route information. This intermediary approach enables accurate mapping of foot paths by mediating between casual user movements and structured mapping data.
2Measurement precision
If multiple track data sets are combined to improve route accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and data processing requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by collecting and storing multiple track data sets during normal device usage before route calculation is needed. Location data, images, and metadata are continuously recorded and cached, so when route accuracy is needed, pre-processed data is already available, reducing real-time processing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where previously collected track data is analyzed to improve future route mappings. As more users traverse the same foot paths, their data feeds back into the system, allowing the algorithm to refine and verify route accuracy without requiring complex real-time processing of every new data point.
3Ease of operation
If location data is shared to improve service delivery, then service accessibility improves, but user privacy protection worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and separates personally identifiable information from location data. User locations are anonymized and aggregated into route mappings without retaining direct associations between specific users and their movement patterns. This extraction of identifying information allows service providers to access location data for delivery and emergency services while protecting user privacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of location data from precise, user-specific coordinates to aggregated, anonymized route information. By transforming individual track data into generalized footpath mappings, the system maintains the utility of location data for service delivery while altering its parameters to eliminate privacy risks associated with tracking individual users.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables precise and secure mapping of locations and routes, enhancing service delivery and emergency access by providing accurate route and location information while protecting user privacy.
Implementation Method 1
device 1 which has means to know its location, for example by wirelessly receiving Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals
Data Source
AI summary
A method for creating a map navigable by human means through unmapped areas including footpaths, small alleyways, structural and geographical barriers is disclosed. Mobile position recording devices including for example global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers, accelerometers, and magnetic orientation circuits plus monitoring software and means for data storage are provided to individuals who then travel to various destinations on foot and/or by mechanically assisted means. The position recording devices record route and location information with sufficient detail to provide a navigable map of the routes taken. The routes of various individuals are combined to provide an area wide map of navigable routes and repeated routes are identified and averaged over time to provide increased route detail and accuracy. The location and route data are separated into public and private data and the identity of the service recipient is protected from disclosure to service providers.