Apple is looking into improve Maps by implementing schematic maps that distort data to emphasize more important areas and deemphasize areas that are less important, according to a recent patent filing.
"The technology described herein presents maps, driving directions, and other map-related features in a schematic fashion. A schematic map on a computing device is similar to a subway map one would see on a subway train. While the subway track itself might wind and turn, a typical subway map represents the subway route as a mostly straight line. Further, the subway map often does not have any particular scale and frequently shows every destination approximately evenly dispersed along the route.
"Thus, a schematic map as discussed below is one that does not adhere to geographic "reality," but rather represents map features in a schematic fashion by illustrating directions as a route made of one or more roads, trails, or ways that can be represented as substantially straight lines instead of by their actual shapes (which would be represented in a non-schematic map by adhering to geographic reality). The schematic map can also be devoid of a particular scale. Thus, in some parts of the map, such as an area of the map representing a destination, such area can be "distorted" somewhat to clearly illustrate important details, while map areas that represent portions of a route where there are no turns or other significant features can be very condensed.
"In short, the map can be a schematic of the real world that can provide a simple and clear representation that is sufficient to aid a user in guidance or orientation without displaying unnecessary map features or detail that could otherwise clutter a small display space
Read More [via AppleInsider]
"The technology described herein presents maps, driving directions, and other map-related features in a schematic fashion. A schematic map on a computing device is similar to a subway map one would see on a subway train. While the subway track itself might wind and turn, a typical subway map represents the subway route as a mostly straight line. Further, the subway map often does not have any particular scale and frequently shows every destination approximately evenly dispersed along the route.
"Thus, a schematic map as discussed below is one that does not adhere to geographic "reality," but rather represents map features in a schematic fashion by illustrating directions as a route made of one or more roads, trails, or ways that can be represented as substantially straight lines instead of by their actual shapes (which would be represented in a non-schematic map by adhering to geographic reality). The schematic map can also be devoid of a particular scale. Thus, in some parts of the map, such as an area of the map representing a destination, such area can be "distorted" somewhat to clearly illustrate important details, while map areas that represent portions of a route where there are no turns or other significant features can be very condensed.
"In short, the map can be a schematic of the real world that can provide a simple and clear representation that is sufficient to aid a user in guidance or orientation without displaying unnecessary map features or detail that could otherwise clutter a small display space
Read More [via AppleInsider]