3D Terrain Mapping via Mobile Unit GPS Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generating three-dimensional terrain maps for geographic areas, such as golf courses, is a complex and costly process, making them rarely available to users, while two-dimensional maps provide limited information.
Innovation Solution
Equipping mobile units like lawn mowers and golf carts with satellite receivers to generate location data, which is used to create three-dimensional terrain maps, leveraging their existing routes to minimize incremental costs and perform the mapping function iteratively over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated mobile units are used solely for generating location data, then mapping accuracy is improved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling existing mobile units (lawn mowers, golf carts) to perform both their primary functions and secondary location data collection for mapping. The mobile units are equipped with GPS receivers and communication devices that allow them to serve dual purposes: their original function plus generating location data for three-dimensional terrain mapping, thereby avoiding the need for dedicated mapping equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile units perform the mapping function as a byproduct of their normal operation. The location data is collected automatically during their regular tasks without requiring separate dedicated operations, making the system self-sufficient and reducing overall project costs.
2Measurement precision
If three-dimensional terrain maps are generated using traditional methods, then mapping accuracy is improved, but cost and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mapping process continues simultaneously with the mobile units' normal operations. Location data is collected continuously as the units traverse the geographic area during their regular tasks, eliminating the need for separate dedicated mapping operations and reducing total project time.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile units are already positioned and operating in the geographic area before mapping data collection begins. Their existing routes and operations are leveraged to collect mapping data, so no preliminary surveying or dedicated data collection trips are required.
3Ease of manufacture
If mobile units perform both primary function and location data collection, then cost is reduced, but data availability may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts mapping data collection based on mobile unit operations. As the units traverse the geographic area during their normal tasks, location data is automatically captured and transmitted. The system handles data gaps by using available data from different units and temporal patterns to maintain comprehensive coverage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the cost-effective generation of three-dimensional terrain maps, incorporating elevation data and additional enhancements like wind direction and water vapor data, with the ability to update and analyze historical maps for trends and changes.
Implementation Method 1
Mobile units are equipped with satellite receivers (e.g., GPS receivers) for generating location data
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a technique for generating a three dimensional terrain map of a geographic area. Mobile units are equipped with satellite receivers (e.g., GPS receivers) for generating location data. A map generator uses the location data to generate a three dimensional terrain map. In one embodiment, the mobile units have primary uses other than mapping, and are traversing the geographic area to be mapped in connection with their primary function. The map generation process may be performed iteratively over time, as additional location data becomes available. During a time period when location data is unavailable for a portion of the three dimensional terrain map, the map generator may estimate the missing portion of the map using the available data. The estimated portion may later be updated with actual data as that data becomes available. The map may also contain enhancements based on enhancement data received by the map generator.