Isochrone Time Map for Travel Time Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic maps primarily focus on geographical spatial aspects, inadequately providing information on travel times, which is less useful for users who prioritize temporal factors in route planning.
Innovation Solution
A system generates a time map with a well-designed graphical user interface (GUI) that represents travel times using isochrones, allowing users to select destinations based on travel time, with actionable elements for changing reference locations and transportation methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic maps display geographical spatial aspects, then spatial accuracy is improved, but temporal information (travel time) becomes inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional two-dimensional spatial map into a three-dimensional representation by adding the temporal dimension through isochrones. Each isochrone layer represents a different travel time threshold, creating a stacked visualization where users can see both spatial location and temporal cost simultaneously. This dimensional addition resolves the contradiction by preserving spatial accuracy while incorporating temporal information as a visual layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The isochrone acts as an intermediary element that bridges spatial distance and temporal cost. Rather than directly displaying travel time numbers that would be abstract, the isochrone creates a visual buffer zone representing the area reachable within a specific time, making temporal information tangible and comparable with spatial relationships on the map.
2Shape
If electronic maps focus on geographical distance, then spatial representation is improved, but route planning utility for time-sensitive users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual qualities to different regions of the map based on their temporal characteristics. Areas within shorter travel times are highlighted with distinct visual properties (such as brighter colors or larger isochrone layers), while farther areas have different properties. This local differentiation helps users quickly identify time-efficient destinations without altering the overall geographical accuracy of the map.
3Device complexity
If traditional maps display only spatial locations, then map simplicity is maintained, but travel time information becomes unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous space into discrete temporal zones using isochrones. Instead of presenting a continuous gradient of travel times that would be visually complex, the space is divided into distinct layers representing specific time thresholds (e.g., 5-minute, 10-minute, 15-minute zones). This segmentation maintains visual simplicity while encoding comprehensive travel time information in an easily interpretable format.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for displaying location information on a display of an electronic device as part of a graphical user interface involves accessing a reference geographical location. The method further involves receiving a set of geographical destinations, each destination of the set of destinations comprising a name and a location. The method further involves determining a set of travel times between the reference geographical location and each of the locations associated with the destinations in the set. The method further involves generating for display in a map display region of the graphical user interface a reference graphical element, a set of isochrone graphical elements, and a set of destination graphical elements.