Map Runway Overlay for Contextual Image Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing map display technologies on computing devices often distract users with additional information, failing to provide it in a responsive and complementary manner during map viewing sessions.
Innovation Solution
A computing device-based system that generates and displays a map with overlay imagery, using image rating algorithms to prioritize and sequence images based on type, location, quality, popularity, viewing mode, user location, and spatial perspective, presenting them as a 'runway' alongside the map, adjustable in size according to user interest.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional map information is provided to the user, then the map viewing experience is improved, but the user's attention is distracted from the map
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively displaying different types of information in different regions of the interface. Thumbnail images are displayed in a condensed format in the sidebar, while full-size images are displayed only when the user hovers over or selects a specific location. This ensures that information is provided locally where needed without creating global distraction across the entire map view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the information display adaptive and responsive to user interaction. The thumbnail images remain static in the sidebar, but the full-size image display dynamically appears only when the user hovers over or selects a thumbnail, and disappears when the user returns to map viewing. This dynamic behavior allows the system to provide information on demand without permanently distracting the user.
2Loss of information
If thumbnail images are displayed along with the map, then additional information is provided, but the user's attention is distracted from the map
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the information display into two distinct segments: a condensed sidebar region containing thumbnail images and a main map region. The thumbnails are segmented into individual selectable units, each representing a specific location or object. This segmentation allows information to be organized and presented in a structured manner that provides comprehensive information while maintaining clear visual separation from the main map view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by displaying only a selected subset of available images as thumbnails in the sidebar, rather than all possible images. Additionally, full-size images are displayed only partially (on hover or selection) rather than continuously. This partial display approach provides sufficient information to the user without overwhelming the interface or causing excessive distraction.
3Loss of information
If a runway of images is generated and displayed, then relevant imagery is provided, but the display space competes with the map
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by placing the thumbnail image runway within the sidebar region, which itself is nested within the overall interface layout. The full-size image display is nested within the main content area, appearing only when needed. This nested structure allows multiple levels of information to be contained within each other without requiring separate, competing display areas, thereby preserving maximum map display space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dimensionality change by transitioning from a two-dimensional map view to a three-dimensional interface layout that includes a vertical sidebar and a main content area. The thumbnail runway is positioned in the vertical dimension of the sidebar, while full-size images appear in the horizontal dimension of the main area. This use of multiple spatial dimensions allows comprehensive imagery display without reducing the map's primary display area.
Data Source
AI summary
Map data for generating a digital map of a geographic area is received, the digital map is generated using the received map data, and the digital map is displayed via a user interface. An interactive runway of photographic images corresponding to objects located within the geographic area is generated, the runway being an arrangement of the photographic images. Generating the runway may include rating each of the candidate photographic images corresponding to objects located within the within the geographic area using viewing signals related to at least one of the photographic image or an object depicted in the photographic image, and selecting, from among the candidate photographic images, the photographic images for inclusion in the interactive runway, using the rating. The interactive runway is displayed over the digital map.