Map Data Update via Mobile Location Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating map data are labor-intensive and inefficient, particularly in incorporating changes and additional information, especially in areas not or imprecisely recorded, and in representing behavior-related data that is not part of classic geographic information systems.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that collect location information from mobile units using various localization technologies, process and normalize this data to identify typical routes, and overlay it with existing map data to determine missing or inconsistent sections, allowing for updating of map data with high detail and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual measurements and extensive data collection methods are used to create and update map data, then the accuracy and completeness of map information is improved, but the time consumption and labor effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables map data to update itself automatically by collecting location information from mobile units and processing it through automated algorithms. The map database continuously receives location data from multiple sources, performs automatic overlay and comparison with existing map data, and updates missing or inconsistent portions without requiring manual intervention for each update cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses mobile units that serve multiple functions: they perform localization using various technologies (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS), collect location information, and simultaneously provide the data needed for map updates. The same mobile devices used for navigation and location-based services also contribute to map data collection and validation, eliminating the need for dedicated surveying equipment.
2Loss of information
If specialized content providers conduct systematic measurement runs with high-quality GPS receivers to collect road network information, then the detail and completeness of map data is improved, but the cost and complexity of the updating process increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges location information from multiple independent mobile units with existing map data in a unified database. By combining data from numerous sources simultaneously, the system achieves comprehensive coverage of the road network without requiring coordinated measurement runs by specialized teams, thereby reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where collected location information is continuously compared with existing map data, and discrepancies or missing information trigger automatic updates. This closed-loop process ensures completeness of map data while using simple, rule-based algorithms rather than complex manual verification procedures.
3Reliability
If public administration bodies perform extensive manual measurements with terrestrial or astronomical reference points to ensure legal durability, then the reliability and legal validity of map data is improved, but the productivity and efficiency of map updating deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs continuous collection and processing of location information from mobile units, enabling ongoing updates to map data without interruption. This continuous operation maintains reliability through constant validation against existing data while achieving high productivity through automated, uninterrupted processing cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with electronic localization technologies and automated data processing. Mobile units use satellite-based localization systems and electronic sensors to collect position data, which is then processed by computer algorithms instead of human measurers using terrestrial reference points, dramatically increasing efficiency while maintaining reliability through systematic validation.
4Ease of operation
If classic geographic information systems are used to record and store spatial data, then the structured organization and accessibility of map information is improved, but the ability to represent behavior-related data and user patterns is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a temporal dimension to traditional spatial map data by collecting and storing location information with time stamps. This transforms static geographic information into dynamic spatiotemporal data that captures when and how locations are used, enabling representation of behavior patterns, traffic flows, and usage statistics while maintaining the structured accessibility of traditional GIS through the database framework.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Provided are an apparatus (10), a method and a computer program for updating map data (12) for a predetermined region, having a device (14) for collecting location imformation of a path that has been travelled in the predetermined region, a device (18) for superimposing the collected location information with the map data (12) for the predetermined region; a device (20) for ascertaining sections, which are missing in the map data (12) for the predetermined region or are contradictory, based on the superimposed collected location information, and a device (22) for updating the map data (12) in the missing or contradictory sections based on the superimposed collected location data.