Java Cellular Phone GIS Data Collection via Software Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GIS data collection systems are limited by high costs, complex user interfaces, and the need for specialized training, which restricts the number of devices that can be deployed and the timeliness of data collection.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that uploads a GIS data collector application onto a Java-equipped cellular telephone, enabling it to perform GIS data collection functions, and automatically manages data dictionaries and data transmission, reducing the need for dedicated hardware and extensive training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated GIS data collectors are deployed, then data collection capability is provided, but cost per unit increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling standard cellular telephones to perform GIS data collection functions through software applications. Instead of requiring specialized dedicated GIS data collectors, the system allows multiple functions (telephony, messaging, and GIS data collection) to be integrated into a single widely-available device platform, thereby reducing per-unit costs while maintaining data collection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs copying by transferring GIS data collection software and data dictionaries onto standard cellular telephone devices. Rather than manufacturing specialized hardware for each data collector, the system copies the necessary software functionality to mass-market devices, achieving cost reduction through economies of scale in device production
2Reliability
If dedicated GIS data collectors with comprehensive functionality are used, then complete GIS data collection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies extraction by separating the GIS data collection functionality from dedicated specialized hardware and extracting it as software that can run on standard cellular telephones. This extracts the essential data collection capability while removing the need for complex specialized device structures, buttons, and interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical systems (physical buttons, switches, and dedicated hardware interfaces found in traditional GIS data collectors) with software-based solutions running on cellular telephones. The user interface is replaced with touchscreen or keyboard input, and data transmission is handled through wireless communication protocols rather than physical connections
3Productivity
If conventional GIS data collectors are deployed, then data collection is performed, but operator training time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using standard cellular telephones that operators are already familiar with for GIS data collection tasks. Since operators already know how to use these devices for communication, no additional specialized training is required, eliminating the training bottleneck while maintaining data collection productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by designing the GIS application to leverage the existing skills and familiarity operators have with their cellular telephones. The interface and operation methods align with what operators already know, allowing them to perform data collection tasks independently without requiring extensive specialized training programs
4Productivity
If more GIS data collectors are deployed, then data collection timeliness improves, but per-unit cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of using inexpensive devices (standard cellular telephones) that can be widely deployed without significant per-unit cost investment. These mass-market devices are inherently more affordable than specialized GIS collectors, enabling organizations to deploy many units simultaneously to improve data collection timeliness across multiple locations
Solution Approach 2:
By using universally available cellular telephones instead of specialized equipment, the system enables widespread deployment at low per-unit cost. The multi-functionality of these devices (already owned by many employees, wireless connectivity, familiar interface) allows organizations to rapidly scale their data collection network without proportionally increasing costs
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention recite a method and system for provisioning a Java equipped cellular telephone. In one embodiment, a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data collector application is uploaded onto a Java equipped cellular telephone for enabling the Java equipped cellular telephone to perform GIS data collection functions. The method further comprises uploading a data dictionary onto the Java equipped cellular telephone comprising at least one GIS feature type.