Route Direction Generation Using Signpost Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatically generated route directions are often overly complex and lack the natural simplicity of verbal communication, while relying on user-generated directions does not scale effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes geo-stamped images of signposts to generate route directions by compiling series of signposts with common content, resolving conflicts using relative density and reach measures, and replacing decision points with signpost-based instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatically generated directions are created using satellite navigation devices, then accuracy is improved, but complexity increases and natural simplicity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent copies the content and style of physical signposts found along the route and integrates them into the digital directions. By replicating the simple, intuitive format of roadside signage within the navigation system, the directions maintain the natural simplicity of verbal communication while preserving satellite navigation accuracy through geo-stamped image matching and coordinate-based location verification
2Ease of operation
If user-generated directions are used to achieve natural simplicity, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability decreases due to lack of scaling and content accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically capturing geo-stamped images of signposts, processing them through optical character recognition, and generating structured direction data without requiring manual user input. This automated approach maintains the simplicity of signpost-based directions while ensuring reliability through systematic data collection and verification processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms physical signpost data into digital format by changing parameters such as converting visual signpost content into geo-coordinated data points with timestamps and location metadata. This parameter transformation enables the system to maintain the authenticity of physical signage while achieving digital scalability and automated processing
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and/or computer program product automatically generates route directions based on signpost data. A calculated route from an origin to a destination includes multiple decision points where a user has more than one option to take. Geo-stamped images of signposts located at each decision point from the multiple decision points are received, and one or more series of signposts is compiled, where each series has a common signpost content. Conflicts in any overlapping series are resolved by using a measure of relative density of signpost content, and one or more decision points of the calculated route are replaced with instructions referring to the common signpost content of the series of signposts. Geo-stamped images of signposts of the series of signposts having the common signpost content are then displayed in a motor vehicle.