Indoor Location Selection Using Electronic Maps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GPS systems fail to function accurately indoors or in areas with satellite signal blockage, limiting the ability of users to determine their precise location in such environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for mobile devices that utilize communication modules like GSM, PHS, CDMA, Wi-Fi, or GPS to obtain an approximate location, display an electronic map, and allow users to select a precise location on the map, or choose from a pre-defined location list, with the option to convert this information into a format suitable for sharing with remote devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS satellite signal reception is used for positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but positioning availability deteriorates in areas with satellite signal blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electronic map data and location list data as intermediary resources to bridge the gap between GPS positioning and actual location determination. When GPS signals are unavailable, the system uses the mobile device's approximate position (from alternative sources) to retrieve relevant electronic map data and location lists, enabling location determination without direct satellite signal dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-loads and stores electronic map data and location list data in the mobile device before GPS signal loss occurs. By having this reference data readily available in advance, the system can immediately switch to alternative positioning methods when satellite signals are blocked, maintaining positioning availability without sacrificing accuracy
2Reliability
If alternative positioning methods are used when GPS fails, then positioning availability is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple positioning data sources (GPS coordinates, electronic map data, location list data) into a unified location determination system. By combining these different types of data and cross-referencing them, the system achieves accurate location determination even when GPS alone is insufficient, maintaining precision while improving availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from relying solely on the spatial dimension of GPS coordinates to incorporating informational dimensions through electronic map data and location lists. This dimensional shift allows the system to determine location through data matching and pattern recognition rather than pure signal triangulation, achieving accuracy without satellite signals
Data Source
AI summary
A method, an apparatus, and a recording medium for selecting a location are provided. The present method uses a communication module to position a mobile device so as to get a first location of the mobile device. Then, an electronic map of a range around the first location is displayed. A second location selected on the electronic map by a user is received and used as location information. Accordingly, the user can select precise location of himself/herself in an indoor place and share the location information to remote contacts.