Means For Facilitating Location Of Different Points On Map Patents (Class 434/153)
  • Patent number: 11960558
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon that return query completions are provided. A user of a computing device like a mobile phone may enter a prefix. In turn, the prefix and location information associated with the device are transmitted to a server device. The server device receives the prefix and location information. The prefix and the location information are matched with names and locations of entities stored in a database connected to the server device. The server device transmits query completion data to the mobile device. The query completion data includes one or more names that complete the received prefix. The names provided by the server device may be associated with entities that are within a threshold radius of the location information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING, LLC
    Inventors: Hussein Mohamed Mehanna, Tabreez Govani, Jun Wang, Kun Jing
  • Patent number: 9222777
    Abstract: A method and system for generating a location identification grid and for using a location identification grid. The location identification grid can include a first geographic area that correspond to a pre-existing area. This pre-existing area can correspond to a postal code such as a zip code, a telephone code such as, an area code, or any other desired pre-existing area. The location identification grid can be subdivided into smaller geographic areas to allow more accurate identification of a location. The location identification grid can include a second geographic area. The second geographic area can be a subdivision of the first geographic area. The location identification grid can be used with signals that identify a location within a location identification grid. These signals can include a first component corresponding to the first geographic area and the second component corresponding to one or more second geographic areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: The United States Post Office
    Inventors: Clayton C. Bonnell, Neri G. Terry, Jr., Kurt J. Schulz
  • Patent number: 8924872
    Abstract: Techniques in this disclosure may provide a user interface that concurrently displays multiple panels which provide visualization of emergency call data of a law enforcement agency. The user interface can provide a high-level overview of emergency calls in a geographical area. Each panel in the user interface can provide visualization of the emergency calls and/or statistics relating to the calls. A user can customize which panels to include in the user interface and/or customize setting for each panel. The user may apply various types of filters to the data displayed in the user interface, and the panels can update the visualizations according to the filters. The user interface can also provide the ability to show data at various levels of detail within the same user interface or panel. The techniques in the disclosure can provide a convenient, digestible overview of tactical and/or strategic data in a single user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Palantir Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Arseny Bogomolov, Justin Streufert, Bryan Knight
  • Patent number: 7962284
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method, medium and portable device for providing customized audio tours. The portable device includes a display displaying a map, a user input module allowing a user to select a particular point of the map displayed on the display, and a playback module playing a stored audio file corresponding to the particular point of the map selected by the user, the audio file including custom information regarding an area of the map corresponding to the particular point selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: David Cutitta, II
  • Publication number: 20090281717
    Abstract: There is provided an information supplying apparatus and an information supplying method capable of obtaining an aptitude for a route to a destination for each driver. The information supplying apparatus is used for obtaining the aptitude for the route to the destination for each user. The road information storage unit stores the road information. The route calculation unit calculates the route from the departure place to the destination, based on the road information. The driving characteristic information storage unit stores the driving characteristic information showing the experience value and the ability for driving for each of the plural users. The aptitude calculation unit calculates the aptitude for the route for each user, based on the characteristic information. The display control unit displays the image corresponding to the aptitude calculated by the aptitude calculation unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2007
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: Pioneer Corporation
    Inventor: Ippei Nambata
  • Patent number: 7574291
    Abstract: A new human interface scheme compresses geographical information, latitudes and longitudes, into a 10 symbols of 36 radices number systems which are based on 36s. It is to simplify the conventional representation of the latitudes and longitudes into much easier to be remembered and accessed by human beings, 10 symbols of 36 radices numbers, “Universal Geo Numbers”. The 5 symbols here can give the accuracy for latitudes and longitudes down to 5 meters which should be enough to accommodate the specifications for most geographic navigation related systems (i.e. GPS/GLONASS) and navigation equipments in the consumer market. The apparatus includes all means that comprise latitude/longitude information into the compressed codes for interfacing between human and machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Yun-Feng Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7373218
    Abstract: An information distribution system capable of presenting an image photographed by a moving body, such as a robot or vehicle, selected by a user. The information distribution system includes moving bodies, local managers, and a global manager. When a user requests a connection with one of the moving bodies to the global manager through a portable terminal such as a portable phone, a menu generation section of the global manager generates a menu screen, and sends it to the portable terminal. The user selects one from the moving bodies through the menu screen, so that the portable terminal of the user connects with the selected moving body. An image photographed by a camera of the moving body is sent to the local manager, and information related to the image is superimposed on the image. Consequently, the superimposed image is sent to the portable terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Sakagami
  • Publication number: 20080076097
    Abstract: A kit for manipulating regional spatial data includes at least one package for storing a set of materials of said kit; and a set of materials which includes, a map puzzle including a plurality of interlocking jigsaw pieces of predetermined shapes each representing a geopolitical feature, wherein said interlocking pieces are able to be assembled to form a graphic image of a geographic area; a plurality of reusable sticker icons representing persons, places or things, which are releasably attachable to the graphic image of the geographic area to identify the location of the geographic feature; a plurality of reusable text labels each expressing a place name and which are releasably attachable to the graphic image of the geographical area to identify the location of the place; lesson plan(s); and a set of instructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: John M. Sherin
  • Patent number: 7065886
    Abstract: A system for localizing a zone in space in relation to a predetermined point on a surface, wherein the surface is divided into nine zones of first rank obtained by dividing the surface into three parts in two different directions, a predetermined respective number from 1 to 9 is attributed to each of the zones of first rank, each zone of rank n, n being a whole number greater than or equal to 1, is divided successively into zones of rank n+1, a predetermined respective number from 1 to 9 being attributed to each of the zones of rank n+1 of a zone of inferior rank n, and a zone of rank n is position referenced by a zone reference sequence having n digits containing the number of the zone, the respective numbers of all of the zones of inferior rank, 1 to n?1, in which the zone is located, including means for determining the position reference sequence of a zone of rank n in which is located a zone to be localized in the surface, n being the maximum value such that the surface of the zone to be localized is incl
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Patrick Ségur
  • Patent number: 6425581
    Abstract: An educational map puzzle game teaches children and adults to locate political entities of the world on a map. Puzzle pieces comprised of postage stamp reproductions or simulated postage stamp reproductions correspond to specific sites on large-format continental and regional outline maps. Players earn points for matching puzzle pieces with correct map sites within a predetermined time period. Learning value is enhanced by reference material relating the significance of each postage stamp image to the country or territory it represents. Self-adhesive hook-and-loop members removably attach game pieces to the base. The game can be played on a vertical or horizontal surface. The base is attractive enough to be framed and vertically suspended, or pasted directly to a wall and used interactively with the puzzle pieces. In an alternate embodiment, the map base serves as an ornamental display device for stamp and coin exhibitors and collectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Patricia E. Barrett
  • Patent number: 6264025
    Abstract: A device is provided in the form of a map of the United States to display a set of commemorative coins in relation to state geographic regions associated with the coins. A color-coded indexing system is set forth in a chart which associates the date of issuance of the coins, the chronology of issuance according to order of statehood, and the geographic state region represented by the coin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: New York Mint, Ltd.
    Inventor: Karen Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6164970
    Abstract: A selectively transparent map system, for use by a driver in an automobile having an automobile windshield, comprising a map having map indicia printed thereupon. The map is selectively transparent so that when the map is held against the windshield in front of the driver, and the map is viewed at a first angle, the driver can read the map indicia while simultaneously watching the road by looking directly through the map. However, when the map is viewed at a second angle, the driver can read the map indicia, but cannot see through the map. The map thus includes a selective transparency means which preferably includes a grating having a plurality of blocking members which allow light and images to be easily transmitted through the map at the first angle, but substantially block light from being transmitted through the map at the second angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Sergiy Mazuryk
  • Patent number: 6016606
    Abstract: A hand-holdable viewer having a viewing end and a viewing axis, along the latter of which a transparent display is disposed. The viewer includes a Global Positioning System receiver (GPS) and a microprocessor connected to the GPS. The viewer is also provided with a slide holder for receiving a map slide having a map image and a EEPROM containing information about the geographical extent of the map image. When a map slide is inserted into the slide holder, it is aligned with the display, and so one is superimposed on the other, when viewed through the viewing end. The microprocessor reads the EEPROM and checks the GPS to determine whether the current position of the device is within the geographical extent of the map image. If this is so, the current position appears on the display. The EEPROM may also contain information about waypoints and routes which have previously been downloaded from a personal computer, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Navitrak International Corporation
    Inventors: Michael F. Oliver, Richard A. MacDonald, David C. Hill
  • Patent number: 5902113
    Abstract: A map which may also be a calculating or teaching device includes a flat representation of a planet with one hemisphere on one side and the opposite hemisphere on the opposite side. The hemispheres are projected to the same scale with matching meridian lines, an arbitrary point of interest forms the center of one side and the antipode of the point of interest forms the center of the other side. Scales are provided by which great circle routes may be plotted and measured. The maps are preferably conformed to an azimuth equidistant projection. A variation is disclosed by which the change from night and day is delineated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignees: C. Robert Pryor, William E. Pryor
    Inventors: Paul L. Pryor, deceased, C. Robert Pryor, executor
  • Patent number: 5865628
    Abstract: A storm mapping system is used to track the location, path, and strength of a storm. The system is comprised of an erasable marker-board surface having a map and a chart permanently immobilized thereon. The map is of any desired geographic region and may have additional map features, such as longitude and latitude lines, distance scale, hurricane category chart, and geographic names thereon. The chart is a table member having columns for date, time, latitude & longitude, wind speed, wind direction, and barometric pressure, in inches of mercury, millibars or both. At least one token representing a storm, is removably attachable to the map in any desired fashion. The token is attached to the map in order to visually locate a storm thereon and a path line may be drawn on the map for historical tracking of the storm. Information about the storm is entered into the chart at desired time intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Peggy A. Burns
  • Patent number: 5759040
    Abstract: A system for locating various entities on a map is provided comprising at least one map page having a map printed thereon. Each map page includes indicia representative of streets printed thereon. Further provided is a transparent sheet having a plurality of horizontal and vertical intersecting lines printed thereon for defining a matrix of boxes with a plurality of rows. Each square has a small indicia printed thereon. Next provided is at least one index page associated with each map page. The index page includes names of a plurality of streets which are depicted on the associated map page printed thereon in alphabetical order and a small printed adjacent each street. Each small indicia corresponds with that of the box of the transparent sheet that contains the associated street when the transparent sheet is situated on the corresponding map page.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Abdul A. Harunah
  • Patent number: 5626525
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention comprises a tee marker sign (90) which includes a graphic representation of a particular golf hole, number 10, which includes three separate tee boxes--a ladies' tee (92), a men's tee (94) and a championship tee (96). The tenth hole includes a water hazard that is depicted on sign (90) at (100). A golfer teeing off on the tenth hole needs to know the distance to the pin from the tee box. The golfer also needs to know the distance to the water hazard (100). As such, sign (90) includes settable distance indicators associated with each tee box and the distance from each tee box to the water hazard (100).The blue tee box includes distance indicator (102), that is set using selector dial (104). Manipulating selector dial (104) changes the value in distance indicator (102). Adjusting the selector dial (104) also changes the distance simultaneously in distance indicator (106). A distance indicator (108) and a distance indicator (110) are associated with the men's tees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventors: Philip A. Tolley, Kraig A. Walker
  • Patent number: 5497988
    Abstract: A distance indicator (10) is provided that comprises a housing (12). Distance indicator wheels (22), (24) and (26) are provided through openings (14), (16) and (18) of the housing and the information indicator (28) specifies the point from which the distance indicated by the distance indicator wheels (22), (24), (26) is measured. An information indicator (28) is provided through an opening (20) of the housing. The distance indicators are controlled using selectors (46), (48) and (50). The information indicator is controlled using a selector (44). The distance marker (10) enables the distance on a golf hole to be calculated by groundskeepers and to be reflected exactly for any placement of the tees on a pin on a given day.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventors: Philip A. Tolley, Kraig A. Walker
  • Patent number: 5458492
    Abstract: A portable holder for a street atlas is provided. The holder includes a hollow transparent body dimensioned to hold a street atlas and enable viewing of a page of the street atlas. A cover is pivotally coupled to the body. The cover includes a magnifying lens dimensioned to enhance viewing of an additional page of the street atlas. A retaining portion is attached to a bottom surface of the cover to retain the page. A locating mechanism for locating a specific area on the page of the street atlas is made integral with the cover and interposed between the retaining portion and the magnifying lens. The locating mechanism includes horizontal and vertical adjustment mechanisms that extend through a top surface of the cover and are disposed adjacent opposite sides of the cover. A target is coupled to the adjustment mechanisms for moving the target to a specific area on the page when the bands are adjusted horizontally and vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventor: Ernest Holguin
  • Patent number: 5445524
    Abstract: A geographical region is circumscribed by a rectangular parallelogram and identified by a letter or numeral prefix. The parallelogram is divided by an equal number of rows and columns into a series of smaller rectangles circumscribing a section of the geographical region and each is assigned a different whole number representing its position relative to the others. Each section is identified by the prefix and its whole number. Each smaller rectangle is divided by the same number of rows and columns into a second series of smaller rectangles circumscribing a subsection of the previous section and each is assigned a different whole number representing its relative location, and each is identified by the prefix and the whole number assigned to the previous section followed by the whole number assigned to the subsection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: John A. Jones
  • Patent number: 5411253
    Abstract: A base with a referenced concave surface and a movable indicator form a putting aid which indicates direction and amount of slope on a golf green. Diametrically opposed sighting rods provide convenient and accurate visual alignment while the putting aid is situated down upon the golf green. Arrowheaded linear, transverse linear and concentric circular indicia located upon the concave surface serve as reference markings. A first method of operation includes facilitating the training of a golfer to putt a golf ball into a golf hole by aligning the putting aid between the golf ball and the golf hole such that the sighting rods and arrow indicium are aligned with an imaginary direct line between the golf club and the golf hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Robert L. Kimble
  • Patent number: 5362239
    Abstract: A system for locating geographic points on maps, charts and the like uses a rectangular grid with sides tangent to the corresponding geographical extremities of the area (city, county, state, nation, etc.) represented on the chart. Two decimal scales extend from the zero ordinate of the grid, with unit ordinates at their opposite ends. Thus, a feature along either scale and therefore a line of position across the enclosed geographical area represented, may be defined by a decimal number between zero and one and the intersection of the lines of position representing a point on the represented area may be defined by a two decimal array. Tables of the decimal arrays for specific points may be provided, and the system is extendible to different maps and/or insets of dissimilar scale, so long as the decimal scales are consistently used between each map. The system may be further extended to provide point feature within three dimensional volumes by using a three decimal array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Dave Pfuetze
  • Patent number: 5275568
    Abstract: A system for locating geographic points on maps, charts and, the like uses a rectangular grid with sides tangent to the corresponding geographical extremities of the area (city, county, state, nation, etc.) represented on the chart. Two decimal scales extend from the zero ordinate of the grid, with unit ordinates at their opposite ends. Thus, a location along either scale and therefore a line of position across the enclosed geographical area represented, may be defined by a decimal number between zero and one and the intersection of the lines of position representing a point on the represented area may be defined by a two decimal array. Tables of the decimal arrays for specific points may be provided, and the system is extendible to different maps and/or insets of dissimilar scale, so long as the, decimal scales are consistently used between each map. The system may be further extended to provide point location within three dimensional volumes by using a three decimal array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventor: Dave Pfuetze
  • Patent number: 5259763
    Abstract: Silk screened United States, world, regional or individual continent, country and state maps on a looped backed material, which illustrate the outline of the states, countries, as well as the location of pertinent rivers, water bodies and major cities/capitals. The locations are not labeled on the map, but instead, location names are provided on a small tab. At least one small square of hook material attaches to the backside of the tab, and can be correctly placed on the map at predetermined points and easily removed from the map for further usage. The hooks on the tab engage into the loops of the map. Other activities can be utilized, such as numbers, spellings, or other educational activities with hooked tabs engaging onto the loop material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: High Touch Learning, Inc.
    Inventors: LeRoy V. Wendel, Steve Kerska
  • Patent number: 5217226
    Abstract: A plurality of three-dimensional puzzle pieces will create model atmospheres for model globes and flat puzzles, having a thickness suitable to comprise of all types of subject matter to be embedded within the pieces displaying the subject matter in three-dimensional forms. The subject matter will include the geography of a world, all elements of an atmosphere such as cloud formations and storm systems, and make possible to represent events that were and are being effected by nature and man, such as objects in flight, volcanic eruptions, nuclear explosions, and events of historical importance. Descriptive indicia may appear at any level of the atmosphere adding many areas whereon a great many more listings of significant information can be included, compared to standard globes and maps that have one surface of indicia where crowded confusion can exist when heavily referenced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Inventor: Anthony F. Christopher
  • Patent number: 5105544
    Abstract: A geographical location pinpointer comprises a map having a set of spaced indicia located along its periphery, and a locator device including a linearly extending, radial arm and at least one curved arm both of which are movable with respect to the center of the map. Each point of interest on the map is uniquely identified by first and second indicia, and then located by positioning the radial arm and the curved arm at locations corresponding to such indicia so that the two arms intersect over the point of interest. Because the radial arm extends linearly from the center and the curved arm does not, the two arms intersect at only one point for each set of first and second indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventors: Othon Ontiveros, Terry A. Ontiveros
  • Patent number: 5030117
    Abstract: A global mapping system which organizes mapping data into a hierarchy of successive magnitudes or levels for presentation of the mapping data with variable resolution, starting from a first or highest magnitude with lowest resolution and progressing to a last or lowest magnitude with highest resolution. The idea of this hierarchical structures can be likened to a pyramid with fewer stones or "tiles" at the top, and where each successive descending horizontal level or magnitude contains four times as many "tiles" as the level or magnitude directly above it. The top or first level of the pyramid contains 4 tiles, the second level contains 16 tiles, the third contains 64 tiles and so on, such that the base of a 16 magnitude or level pyramid would contain 4 to the 16th power or 4,294,967,296 tiles. This total includes "hyperspace" which is later clipped or ignored. Digital data corresponding to each of the separate data base tiles is stored in the database under a unique filename.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: David M. Delorme
  • Patent number: 4978302
    Abstract: A computer program to serve as a teaching aid in the recognition of the shape of land masses is disclosed. The program generates visual displays of a boundary map of the United States, a boundary map of an individual state and a list of names of states which includes the correct name for the displayed individual state. The user selects a name for the displayed individual state and the computer program audibly indicates whether the selection was correct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventor: Mary Clossey
  • Patent number: 4897038
    Abstract: A cartographic device consists in particular of a globe inside which is placed a driving and controlling mechanism able to move a point radiator (42) along the inner wall of the globe in such a way that a point of light visible from the outside and movable at will in the horizontal and vertical directions indicates the geographical location of a place the name of which has been entered in the computer arranged in the base of the globe. The device is controlled by a permanently programmed micro-computer connected to the stepping motors (31, 41) of the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Inventors: Ingrid Frohlich, Andreas Pachler
  • Patent number: 4836785
    Abstract: The device facilitates the quick location of a wanted detail depicted on information material, which is divided into at least two grid squares by a large-scale grid of lines at an angle to each other. At least one of these grid squares contains the wanted detail. A fine division is provided on at least one of these lines and an indicator unit, which extends crosswise to the line across at least one grid square of the large-scale grid, is movably disposed along the finely divided line. The indicator unit is disposed as at least one thread-like line. At least two of the thread-like lines intersect at the same angle as the lines defining a grid square. Two of the intersecting thread-like lines are movably disposed independently of each other on each of a line associated to each of a line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Inventor: Klaus Linder
  • Patent number: 4725236
    Abstract: This invention refers to a universal contour chart that allows to read the values of the elevation and azimuth angles that the parabolic antenna of an earth station must have so that it can receive and/or transmit television, telephony or data signals from and/or towards any artificial satellite in geostationary orbit. The invention is of easy operation and very practical, and consists of a geographical map of the world over which slides or displaces a separate transparent sheet that contains the printed angle contours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Inventors: Rodolfo Neri Vela, Bernardo J. Martinez Avalos
  • Patent number: 4703425
    Abstract: Morphemic, conceptional or semantic, and syntaxic dictionaries (21-23) keep morphemic, conceptional, and syntaxic items, respectively. Each morphemic item comprises a morphemic description and a first pointer pointing to a set of syntaxic items corresponding to the morphemic description. Similarly, each conceptional item comprises a conceptional description or symbol and a second pointer pointing to a set of syntaxic items. Each syntaxic item comprises a syntaxic description and a third and a fourth pointer pointing to a set of morphemic items and to a set of conceptional items, respectively. Responsive to an input expression, a retrieving arrangement (24) retrieves a morphemic and a conceptional item when the input expression is morphemic and conceptional, respectively. The first or the second pointer of the retrieved item is used in retrieving a syntaxic item by which the morphemic and/or the conceptional dictionary is referred back to.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1987
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Kazunori Muraki
  • Patent number: 4698759
    Abstract: A quantitative method of geologic structural analysis of digital terrain data is described for implementation on a computer. Assuming selected valley segments are controlled by the underlying geologic structure, topographic lows in the terrain data, defining valley bottoms, are detected, filtered and accumulated into a series line segments defining contiguous valleys. The line segments are then vectorized to produce vector segments, defining valley segments, which may be indicative of the underlying geologic structure. Coplanar analysis is performed on vector segment pairs to determine which vectors produce planes which represent underlying geologic structure. Point data such as fracture phenomena which can be related to fracture planes in 3-dimensional space can be analyzed to define common plane orientation and locations. The vectors, points, and planes are displayed in various formats for interpretation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Jay R. Eliason, Valerie L. C. Eliason
  • Patent number: 4673197
    Abstract: Map display apparatus for travelers and drivers presenting geographical regions (the world, continents, countries, states, cities, etc.) as a combination of sequential zones illustrated on pocket size cards with each zone repeated four times for North, East, West, and South (N E W S) orientation. It is supplemented by a set of accessories for tracing directions in an erasable or washable form with a provision for card's multiple usage and a portable holder for their storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventors: Manya Shtipelman, Boris A. Shtipelman
  • Patent number: 4641440
    Abstract: A map holder for automotive vehicles comprising a transparent cover and a bottom plate adapted to receive a map therebetween. A telescopic pointer is slidably and pivotally secured on the bar which is mounted on the bottom plate. This arrangement allows tracing a route and pinpointing the actual location of the vehicle on the map. A non-permanent marker is used to apply a route on the transparent cover. After the desired destination is reached, the marking on the transparent cover is erased by a soft paper tissue or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1987
    Inventor: Vladimir Agranov
  • Patent number: 4609359
    Abstract: An educational game for developing recognition skills regarding items of significance on a map, the map being any generally two dimensional depiction of a system (e.g. geological, astronomical, etc.). A map has a selecting electrode and a plurality of selectable electrodes, each selectable electrode being associated with one and only one item of significance on the map. A player draws a card from a deck of cards. The card bears a code and the name of an item of significance on the map. The code refers to a setting for a multiple pole, single throw switch. The switch is adapted to bring the selectable electrodes individually into an energizing circuit. The player sets the switch according to the code and then attempts to locate the named item of significance by contacting the selecting electrode with the selectable electrode associated with said item. If the player's choice is correct an indicator is energized. Optionally, a push button switch must be depressed before the indicator is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1986
    Inventors: Alan N. Erickson, Steve E. Erickson
  • Patent number: 4504910
    Abstract: A present position display device suitable for use on automobiles or the like vehicles, having a head member provided with a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element; a driving mechanism for driving the head member in the directions of an X and Y-axes; a mechanism for rotationally driving the driving mechanism; a sheet pack detachably mounted in the vicinity of and in parallel with the plane of movement of the head member; and a map transferrably disposed in the sheet pack; whereby the present position of the vehicle is indicated by the light coming from the light-emitting element on the map. Means are provided to read codes of specific positions marked on the map and to make an indication of the specific position as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeru Araki, Nobuhiko Suzuki
  • Patent number: 4477254
    Abstract: A paper foldable map which includes a cover, a map portion, paper reinforcing and a present location indicator with the marker. The cover is a single combined body which includes a front cover side and a back cover side. The paper reinforcing is of an appropriate width and is provided transversely along a center line of the map. The map portion itself is folded in a specific way. First, with the paper reinforcer as the center line and with an appropriate number of cuts made in the upper and lower portions of the map portion, the map portion is folded towards the paper reinforcer by following the steps of inward folding and outward folding with an equal width one after another. Then, the map portion is further folded from its right and left sides opened. An appropriate portion of the back side of the folded map portion is bonded to one side of the cover. The present location indicator provided with the marker fits over both sides of the cover in a manner to be freely slidable in the vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Inventor: Kozutoyo Yokayama
  • Patent number: 4474557
    Abstract: This world map game is a teaching aid for easing the learning process of school pupils who have difficulty in the recognition of land masses of the world map. Primarily, it consists of a board structure, having a map of the world on its face, which includes figures and objects that represent continent and countries, and bulbs of diodes are positioned in the masses and the question and answer read-out portion of the structure. The game further includes, a pair of pull-out slides for further instruction, when the game is being played.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 2, 1984
    Inventor: Mary Clossey
  • Patent number: 4451874
    Abstract: This Earth Photo Globe is characterized in that LANDSAT or other remote sensing geographical indicia is reproduced on the globe sphere with a definition smaller than that resolvable by the unaided human eye. An optical magnifier is mounted above the globe sphere to enable resolution of the full globe definition. A "cloud cover" spherical overlay may surround the sphere and contain a representation of the earth's cloud cover. The magnifier may be supported by this overlay.Various systems are disclosed for making the Earth Photo Globe. One uses a laser beam that is raster scanned across a photosensitized sphere, and is modulated by LANDSAT pixel data. In another system the LANDSAT data is used to prepare a set of photographic negative images each covering a section of the globe, and each containing alignment and positioning information. These images are projected onto a photosensitized sphere to make the globe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Inventor: Jon Friedman
  • Patent number: 4449941
    Abstract: An educational device for use in learning the locations and names of the various states in the United States as well as other information pertinent to each state is disclosed. The device comprises a rectangularly shaped board having a map of the United States on its front surface, a plurality of lamps mounted on the board, one lamp within the boundary of each state and preferably at the state capitol, a battery holder containing a battery, a cartridge receptacle mounted on the board and arranged to selectively connect the battery to each lamp, and a plurality of cartridges adapted to be inserted into the receptacle one at a time to electrically connect one of the lamps to the battery. Each cartridge contains printed matter pertinent to its particular state and is made of translucent material. When inserted into the receptacle, the cartridge is illuminated by a lamp mounted on the bottom of the receptacle and connected to the battery so that the printed matter can be easily read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: John McGuire, David G. Bories
  • Patent number: 4443198
    Abstract: A folding board used as a backing for pamphlets, maps and graphic and printed material consists of four or more sections. Three sections are hinged together along the lengths of abutting edges; the fourth is hinged to one section along the length of an edge abutting one other section, but disconnected along the length of another such edge except by a fourth hinge. The sections are folded flat against each other along three hinges. The fourth hinge has its axis above the place of two sections to permit flat folding of all sections. Various types of hinges are disclosed. How more than four rectangular sections may be hinged together is disclosed. Illumination means for the board and compass to be used with a map on the board are shown and described. Various scales for locating the coordinates for a map may be used. One such scale is hinged; another is telescopic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Inventor: Kamran Ehsanipour
  • Patent number: 4402672
    Abstract: A method for plotting and disseminating information on the paths of violent storms, which can be used to accurately and quickly describe the affected region in a manner easily comprehended by the residents of the region. A map is provided with a grid system consisting of intersecting, generally vertical and horizontal columns and rows, dividing the area into subregions. Each row and each column has an identifying designation, and each subregion of the map has a distinct designation including the designations for the row and the column in which it is located. A weather bulletin for an area includes reference to the designations for the subregion involved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1983
    Inventor: Henry E. Lowe, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4360346
    Abstract: Folded map booklets showing street and street names fit into pockets in the cover of a map holder. The holder may be folded into compactform. In open position, individual sections of the folded map may be selectively exposed. Along the top edge of the holder is a horizontal scale; slidable along the horizontal scale is a vertical scale. Means is provided to pivot the vertical scale out of the way when the holder is to be folded. An index is provided showing for each street the precise horizontal and vertical scale readings where the name of the street is printed on the map.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1982
    Inventor: Kamaran Ehsanipour
  • Patent number: 4289333
    Abstract: The map of this invention is permanently folded and attached to the cover which is folded along a front hinge and a rear hinge. A cover flap is attached to the rear hinge. The map is folded laterally so that is comprises a bottom strip and a lateral strip which are attached to the cover, a lateral pleat therebetween which can be flipped upwardly or downwardly, and a top lateral flap which can be flipped downwardly upon the lateral pleat or upwardly.The map is further folded longitudinally and alternately along seven longitudinal fold lines to provide three longitudinal leaves between the outer sections which are attached to the cover. The central leaf is adhesively secured together along the bottom strip and the lateral strip. The three leaves are slit along their outwardly folded fold lines, except along the bottom strip and the lateral strip thereof. The central leaf can be pulled outwardly to create a centerfold that is pivotable to the right or to the left.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1981
    Assignee: Think, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph R. Gaetano
  • Patent number: 4247994
    Abstract: A device for indicating to a golfer the location of the cup in the green of a hole on a golf course is composed of a plate that is either itself bodily shaped and formed to correspond on a relative basis to the shape and size of the green or is of a substantially rectangular shape and has pictorially depicted or otherwise formed on a viewable surface a visual representation on a relative basis of the shape and size of the green. Either plate is provided with a device for mounting it vertically on the tee at ground level and at an inclined angle to the perpendicular so that a golfer can easily glance at it while he is in the teeing area. The plate is provided with a plurality of apertures that represent various potential placements of the cup in the green and an indicating member is disposed on the viewable surface of the plate and removably fastened in one of the apertures to indicate where the cup is on the green.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1981
    Inventor: Brown Cullen, Jr.