Thematic Map Route Optimization for Wearable Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart watches and similar devices face challenges in presenting useful information to users during outdoor activities due to limited screen size, and existing user interfaces often overwhelm users with unnecessary data, compromising safety and usability.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a thematic map database to determine and suggest routes based on user settings, current location, and activity type, allowing users to approve routes and initiate activity sessions, while providing contextual information and safety alerts on a limited display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a smart watch presents comprehensive information to users during outdoor activities, then the user receives sufficient information for safe operation, but the limited screen size makes it difficult to display useful information in readable format
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is segmented into multiple functional zones on the display screen, with different areas dedicated to specific types of information (route navigation, activity metrics, safety alerts, weather updates). This allows comprehensive information to be presented in an organized manner that fits the limited screen real estate while maintaining readability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temporal dimension by providing time-based information sequences and using hierarchical display levels. Critical safety information is presented immediately, while secondary information is available on demand or in condensed formats, effectively expanding the information capacity beyond the physical screen constraints.
2Loss of information
If a traditional user interface presents detailed information to users, then the user receives comprehensive data, but the user becomes overloaded with unnecessary information compromising safety
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the user interface provide different levels and types of information density. Critical safety-critical information is highlighted with high visual prominence and simplified presentation, while detailed secondary information is available in less prominent areas or on demand. This local differentiation ensures users receive comprehensive information without cognitive overload.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements adaptive feedback mechanisms that monitor user behavior and environmental conditions to dynamically adjust the amount and type of information presented. When users are engaged in high-intensity activities or when safety risks are detected, the interface automatically simplifies information presentation to reduce cognitive load while maintaining essential safety information.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising at least one processing core, at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to, with the at least one processing core, cause the apparatus at least to determine a route based at least partly on a thematic map database and a current location of the apparatus, present the determined route as a suggested route to a first user, and responsive to the first user approving the suggested route, initiate an activity session based on the suggested route.