Map Generation Apparatus for Asset Disposition Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating floor maps during inventory taking, such as using text-based position descriptions or calibrating movement directions, are inefficient and difficult to implement, especially when managing a large number of assets, as they require multiple passes through uncharted roads or known reference points.
Innovation Solution
A map generation apparatus that acquires and processes position data from terminal devices to generate and display maps, identifying asset positions by reading data from recording media and using sensors like GPS, direction, and acceleration sensors to determine asset locations and paths, thereby creating an accurate map of asset disposition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If text-based position descriptions are used to indicate asset locations, then the system can handle large numbers of assets without requiring manual map creation, but it becomes difficult for operators to grasp the actual positions of assets
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a visual map that copies the actual physical layout of the facility, displaying asset positions as visual markers on the map rather than using text descriptions. This allows operators to visually grasp asset locations while the system automatically handles large numbers of assets through the map interface
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from one-dimensional text descriptions to a two-dimensional visual map representation. By displaying asset positions on a graphical map with spatial relationships, operators can intuitively understand locations without being overwhelmed by text data
2Adaptability or versatility
If undetermined routes are stored as new roads in map data, then the map can be updated with new paths, but roads must be passed through two times to be registered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary processing of movement locus data to identify and extract undetermined routes, then registers them in the map data structure in advance. This preparation allows the routes to be displayed and used immediately without requiring multiple passes for registration
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediate processing step that analyzes movement locus data to identify potential new roads, and creates a preliminary route structure that can be quickly integrated into the map data without requiring repeated traversal for validation
3Measurement precision
If movement direction and position are calibrated from known reference objects, then accurate positioning can be achieved, but the method requires known reference points in absolute coordinates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the terminal device's own sensors (GPS, direction sensor, acceleration sensor) to determine its position and orientation without requiring external reference objects. The device self-calibrates by processing its own movement data and sensor readings
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple sensors (GPS receiver, direction sensor, acceleration sensor) that serve multiple functions: GPS provides position data, direction sensor provides orientation, and acceleration sensor detects movement. This multi-functional approach enables calibration without requiring specific reference objects
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for efficient and accurate mapping of asset positions, reducing the burden on managers and enabling easy tracking of assets by automatically generating maps based on moving routes and sensor data, even in complex inventory scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a GPS receiver that obtains position data of the terminal device
Implementation Method 2
a direction sensor that detects a direction in which the terminal device is facing
Implementation Method 3
an acceleration sensor that detects acceleration of the terminal device in three axial directions
Data Source
AI summary
A map generation apparatus includes a memory, and a processor configured to execute a procedure, the procedure including obtaining position data indicating positions of the terminal device during moving of the terminal device, and read-position data indicating a position at which the terminal device has read data from a recording medium during the moving of the terminal device, storing the position data and the read-position data in the memory, generating a map including the positions indicated by the position data, and displaying that an area on a side of the read-position data among areas set based on a path of the positions indicated by the position data is an area of disposition target of the recording medium, on the generated map.