Oriented Map Image Generation via Satellite Reference
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing map services face challenges in efficiently collecting and orienting map images at client devices without requiring users to visit multiple locations, and in providing high-quality, oriented map images to users.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that captures map images, associates them with geographic locations, and orients them with respect to Earth images using user-input information, allowing for the generation and transmission of oriented map images to servers, which can then be shared and displayed on client devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users manually orient map images by visiting multiple locations, then orientation accuracy is improved, but user time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses satellite imagery as a reference copy of the Earth's surface to orient user-contributed map images. Instead of requiring users to physically visit multiple locations for orientation, the system creates a digital reference model from satellite data and matches it with user-submitted images, automatically determining orientation and geographic coordinates through image correlation algorithms.
2Measurement precision
If users manually orient map images by visiting multiple locations, then orientation accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic orientation and geographic registration of user-contributed images through self-service mechanisms. The satellite imagery reference model and automated image matching algorithms enable the system to independently determine orientation parameters without requiring user intervention in the physically demanding task of visiting multiple field locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical fieldwork process (physically traveling to multiple locations with orientation tools) with a digital image processing system. Satellite imagery and computer vision algorithms substitute for traditional mechanical orientation methods, allowing users to contribute images from any location while maintaining accurate geographic registration through automated processing.
3Reliability
If comprehensive image coverage is provided, then map service quality is improved, but data collection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal data collection framework where a single satellite imagery reference model serves multiple functions: it provides the basis for orienting user-contributed images, establishes geographic coordinate systems, enables automatic image registration, and supports comprehensive map coverage across diverse locations. This multi-functional approach simplifies the overall data collection process while maintaining high map service quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to collecting images of maps at plurality of client devices, orienting the images with respect to the Earth, and providing the oriented maps to users. The map images may be collected by users who orient the maps by arranging the position of the image over a picture of the Earth. In another example, users may orient the maps by using “pushpins” to indicate the location of two or more points in the map image to two or more locations on the image of the Earth. The images may be processed in order to generate high quality images which may then be downloaded and used by other users.