Abstract: A method for matching a recorded image with geographic data substantially corresponding to a geographic location where the image was recorded, is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, global positioning system data logs are time matched with other data collected, including image data, for the purpose of spatially mapping the collected data. Two important underpinnings of the present invention are that first, the real time of the data acquisition is recorded along with the data acquired; and second, that the offset time between the data logging clock and the world standard time is accurately determined. A primary advantage of the present invention is its wireless functionality; no information transmitters, receivers, special interfaces or power suppliers are required. In addition, a wide variety of off-the-shelf equipment may be used with the present invention as system components.

Abstract: The system of the present invention includes a hardware device (40) and software, which are configurable and operable in three modes: recording mode, indexing mode, and playback mode. In the recording mode, the hardware device (40) is connected to a GPS receiver (44) and video recording device (42), and permits GPS data to be recorded on the same recording medium that images are recorded on using the video recording device (42). As a result, a particular geographic location associated with particular images can be directly referenced by GPS data. After recording the images, the hardware device (40) is connected to a computer (46) having the software of the present invention installed, and the system causes GPS data to be transferred from the recording medium to the computer (46) as the recorded images are replayed. During this step, called the indexing mode, the computer (46) draws a map showing all of the GPS referenced locations recorded on the recording medium.