Indoor Map Updates Using Location Context Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic maps and web-based mapping services do not provide effective turn-by-turn directions for specific, localized environments such as indoor spaces, due to limitations in satellite positioning technology and the lack of high-precision location information within these areas.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for operating a map server that stores and updates map information associated with a particular localized environment, using location context identifiers to provide accurate and dynamic navigation within indoor environments, incorporating data from mobile devices and affiliated entities to correct and enhance map data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If satellite-based mapping services are used, then outdoor navigation is provided, but indoor navigation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mapping service into different segments: outdoor satellite-based mapping and indoor localized environment mapping. Each segment uses appropriate technologies for its specific environment, with indoor maps stored separately and associated with location context identifiers that distinguish them from outdoor maps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating specialized indoor maps with high precision for specific localized environments (indoor spaces) rather than using generic outdoor maps. These indoor maps include detailed information about walls, doors, hallways, and other indoor features, providing accurate navigation within the specific indoor context.
2Adaptability or versatility
If general outdoor maps are used, then broad area navigation is available, but specific localized environment navigation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments map data into general outdoor maps and specific indoor maps. The system stores indoor maps separately and uses location context identifiers to associate them with specific indoor environments, enabling high-precision navigation within localized areas while maintaining broad outdoor coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating highly detailed indoor maps that provide precise location information for specific localized environments. These maps include accurate representations of indoor features such as walls, doors, hallways, and rooms, enabling precise navigation within each specific indoor context.
3Reliability
If static map data is stored, then storage efficiency is improved, but map accuracy becomes outdated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the system to update indoor maps when changes are detected. The system can receive updated map data, associate it with the appropriate location context identifier, and replace or modify existing static map data, ensuring that navigation information remains accurate and current while maintaining efficient storage through selective updates.
Data Source
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AI summary
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems, methods, apparatuses, devices, articles, and means for map handling for location based services in conjunction with localized environments. For certain example implementations, a method may comprise storing map information corresponding to a particular localized environment that is associated with a particular location context identifier, with the particular localized environment comprising an indoor environment corresponding to at least a portion of a building structure; receiving update information applicable to the map information corresponding to the particular localized environment, with the update information being associated with the particular location context identifier; updating the map information corresponding to the particular localized environment based at least partly on the update information so as to produce updated map information; and providing the updated map information to one or more mobile devices that are located at the particular localized environment. Other example implementations are described herein.