Electronic Map Tile Directory for Versioned Object Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in efficiently storing and accessing electronic map data, particularly in scenarios involving updates, shifting geometries, and versioned data, which affect access times and data integrity.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a tile-based directory structure for electronic map data, allowing objects to be stored and retrieved efficiently, accommodating shifting geometries and versioned data, while maintaining efficient access and data integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If electronic map data is stored in a single file per tile, then file structure is simple, but access time increases when objects shift across tile boundaries requiring deletion and re-creation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage system into multiple segments: primary files for each tile and secondary files for storing object data. This segmentation allows objects to be stored in secondary files regardless of which tile they currently occupy, eliminating the need to delete and recreate objects when they cross tile boundaries. The tile directory then manages references to these segmented storage locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tile directory as an intermediary layer between the tile-based spatial organization and the actual file storage. The tile directory contains references to secondary files that store object data, allowing the system to decouple the spatial location (tile) from the storage location (file). This intermediary enables fast access by resolving object locations without requiring objects to be physically relocated when crossing tile boundaries.
2Quantity of substance
If object data is stored in the first file associated with the object's current tile, then access is direct, but storage space increases when objects extend across multiple tiles
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of copying object data to multiple files when an object spans multiple tiles, the patent uses a single secondary file to store the object data once. The tile directory maintains references to this single storage location, allowing multiple tiles to reference the same object data without duplication. This eliminates redundant storage while maintaining fast access through the reference mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If map data is updated continuously to reflect changes, then data relevance is improved, but data consistency and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements version control by maintaining multiple versions of the tile directory and associating each version with specific file versions. Before making updates, the system preserves the previous version, allowing for rollback if inconsistencies are detected. This preliminary preservation of state enables continuous updates while maintaining data consistency through version management and rollback capabilities.
4Productivity
If objects are deleted and re-created when shifting across tile boundaries, then data structure simplicity is maintained, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to the storage model by introducing secondary files that are decoupled from the tile-based spatial organization. Instead of managing objects solely within their tile's file structure, the system uses a separate dimension (secondary files) for object storage, with the tile directory serving as the connector between spatial location and storage location. This dimensional change eliminates the need for object deletion and recreation during tile boundary crossings.
Data Source
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AI summary
For performance of a map data-related function, a processing system (20) is operative to access electronic map data stored in a plurality of files (24). Each of the plurality of files (24) is associated with a tile of a tiling. Different tiles relate to different geographic regions. At least some of the files may include references, which are used to obtain object data for at least one map object. A tile directory (26) may provide version information useful for retrieval of the object data.