Multi-Part Place Identifier for Data Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in uniquely identifying physical places across different data sources due to non-standardized and often conflicting identifiers, which hinders data sharing and integration.
Innovation Solution
The generation of a standardized multi-part place identifier, known as Placekey, composed of a 'What' part for POI data and a 'Where' part for geographical location, joined by a '@' symbol, allowing for consistent identification and integration of place-related data across various datasets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different identifiers (name, address, geocode) are used to identify places from different data sources, then data coverage and source diversity are improved, but identifier consistency and data integration become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal Placekey identifier that can be applied across all physical places regardless of data source. This single standardized identifier format serves multiple functions: it uniquely identifies places, enables cross-source data matching, and maintains consistency across different datasets. The What@Where structure provides a universal solution that works for businesses, POIs, and locations from any data provider.
Solution Approach 2:
The Placekey acts as an intermediary between different data sources and their various identifier systems. Instead of directly comparing conflicting identifiers (names, addresses, geocodes) from different providers, the system translates them all into the standardized Placekey format, which then serves as a common reference point for data integration and matching.
2Reliability
If place identifiers are standardized using a uniform format, then data integration and matching are improved, but the ability to capture diverse place information from different sources is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The Placekey is segmented into two distinct parts: the What component (identifying the place type and name) and the Where component (identifying the geographical location). This segmentation allows each part to specialize in capturing different aspects of place information, enabling both standardized integration and diverse information representation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different components of the Placekey have different qualities optimized for their specific purposes. The Where part uses standardized geocoding for consistent location identification, while the What part can accommodate varied place names and types from different sources. This local optimization within the unified structure allows diverse information to be captured while maintaining overall standardization.
3Measurement precision
If traditional geocoding systems (latitude/longitude or grid-based) are used to identify places, then location precision is improved, but unique identification of specific businesses or POIs is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate identification systems into a unified Placekey: the What component (which captures place-specific information like business names and types) and the Where component (which captures precise geospatial location). This combination ensures that both location precision and place uniqueness are maintained simultaneously, as the Where part provides precise geocoding while the What part distinguishes specific businesses at that location.
Data Source
AI summary
The technology disclosed relates to systems and methods for generating a multi-part place identifier with at least one part. The system includes logic to receive a location address and a place name wherein the location address is a validated address. The system includes logic to calculate a geocode for the location address and use the geocode to identify a geometrical boundary encompassing the location address. The system includes logic to convert the identified geometrical boundary to an alpha-numeric identifier forming a Where part of the multi-part place identifier. The system can use an input location address or a place name to match a previously generated and stored multi-part place identifier. The system can provide the generated or matched multi-part place identifier to a user for use in further analysis.