GB2377124A - Map having a unique telephone number allowing a user to determine his position on the map - Google Patents

Abstract

A map, e.g. a street map, has a telephone number. When the number is called with a mobile phone, the user audibly receives his position in the form of co-ordinates relating to that map. The co-ordinates may also be displayed on the mobile phone, and the user may be provided with a choice of languages in which to receive the co-ordinates. Each map is provided with a telephone number unique to that map, and the position of the phone may be determined by the network using triangulation.

Description

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Innovative, Easy to Use Maps-with Location Based Mobile Telephone Application for Travelers and Tourists The problem with most of the announced wireless location based services is that they require technology that is complex, expensive and of dubious value to the average mobile phone user.

My idea is for an utterly simple location service that can be used by anyone with no requirement for advanced equipment or technical knowledge. What the market needs is a service with demonstrable utility for everyone.

My idea is as follows: You have a need for a map of, say, Sweden, an area of Sweden, or perhaps a particular city such as Stockholm. Michelin is, in this example, a business partner and user of my system, so you purchase a new Michelin map that covers your area of interest in Swe- den. On the front of the map is a bold, unique telephone number. If you are lost, or wish to know more precisely where you are while traveling, simply call the number on the front of the map. You receive an automated voice response (after choosing a re-

sponse language), and, equipment permitting, a response on the phone's display. The response is tied direct y to M map you are using, and is unambiguous,"Page 3, G 4.

I repeat, Page 3, coordinates G and 4." (tm) C'-j

Because each map has a unique phone number associated with it, the response you receive is specific to the map, the vicinity it covers, and the resolution it offers. Anyone, with any kind of equipment, can use this service. It is a demand service that doesn't require constant tracking or intrusion (which will be important to some people), as trian-

gulation on demand would be sufficient (such as Cursor from CPS), but the response would obviously be quicker, and more accurate, if the end user had an"always on"3G

system. (Cucr fA TM)

The map maker would have the opportunity to sell new maps to anyone interested in such a service, and could also charge a nominal fee each time the service is accessed.

There is an opportunity to make money both on the main product (the map), and also on an enquiry transaction basis.

This is a compelling application that does not require special equipment or a complicated service provider relationship (e. g. IP access), and is so easy to use that virtually any man, woman or child can access the service with ease.

Claims (1)

1. Claims 1. Maps which have a unique telephone number printed on them allowing a map user to dial the unique number using a mobile telephone of any type and receive map coordinates. audibly (with language options) and on the phone's display screen (if available), that relate directly to the map being used and the resolution which it offers.