Integrated Mapping Application Adaptive Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current mapping and navigation applications have user interface and feature shortcomings that cause inconvenience to users, such as complex navigation and lack of seamless transitions between browsing, searching, and routing modalities.
Innovation Solution
An integrated mapping application with a touch-sensitive device interface that uses a minimum set of adaptive on-screen controls, allowing users to interact through touch and gestural inputs, providing seamless transitions between modalities with features like 3D viewing, virtual camera adjustments, and intelligent search field behaviors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate applications are used for mapping, searching, and navigation, then each application can have specialized features, but the user interface becomes complex and transitions between modalities are not seamless
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mapping, searching, and navigation functionalities into a single integrated application. The system merges multiple modalities (browsing, searching, routing) into one unified interface that can seamlessly transition between different operational states, eliminating the need for users to switch between separate applications while maintaining all specialized features.
Solution Approach 2:
The mapping application is designed as a universal platform that performs multiple functions: it can display maps, perform searches, provide routing directions, and offer navigation guidance. The single application serves as both a map browser, search engine, and navigation system, reducing interface complexity while maintaining functional versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive navigation features are provided, then user needs are met, but the interface becomes cluttered and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface dynamically adapts its layout and controls based on the current operational modality. When in browsing mode, the interface shows map controls; when in search mode, it prioritizes search fields; when providing turn-by-turn directions, it simplifies to show only essential navigation information. This dynamic reconfiguration maintains ease of operation while providing comprehensive navigation features.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the interface are optimized for their specific functions. The search field area is designed for text input, the map area for visual exploration, and the directions area for clear instruction display. Each region of the interface has specialized controls and layout optimized for its local task, improving overall usability.
3Measurement precision
If detailed search and routing options are provided, then route planning accuracy is improved, but the time required to configure navigation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the user's current location and pre-configuring routing options based on common destinations. When a user initiates a search, the system already has location data ready and can immediately present relevant routing options without requiring the user to manually input their position or browse through extensive configuration menus.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system serves itself by automatically gathering location data, suggesting destinations based on search queries, and pre-calculating routing options. The system reduces the need for user configuration by autonomously performing data collection and initial route planning, allowing users to quickly select from pre-prepared options rather than manually configuring all parameters.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
For a device that executes an integrated map and navigation application, a method for providing different operational modes of the application is described. The method provides a first operational mode for browsing and searching a map and a second operational mode for providing a navigation presentation that provides a set of navigation directions along a navigated route by reference to the map.