Point-of-interest display system

Abstract

A point of interest display system (20) includes an updatable database which interfaces with a microprocessor (50) which receives data from a GPS receiver (40) providing the system with current vehicle location and direction of travel information. A display (26) provides the operator graphic display data information and easily accessible control switches (24) allow the operator to select upcoming highway exits, categories of points of interests, and points of interest.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a display system for a vehicle and particularly to one which provides a display of selected names of points of interest arranged by category and elemental directions to a selected point of interest. One embodiment provides a graphic display of cross-streets or addresses as the vehicle travels along a local roadway.[0002]There exist numerous vehicle navigation systems which provide graphic map displays, which allow the vehicle operator, through significant manipulation of controls, to plan a travel route and obtain information about arrival destinations, typically by address. Some systems provide navigation control through the use of voice recognition programs and control circuits. All of these systems are relatively expensive, complicated and difficult for a vehicle operator to utilize, particularly when preoccupied with surrounding traffic in congested areas. Some suggested simplified navigation systems allow the veh...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a point-of-interest display system for vehicles that includes a database of road network information and user-updatable point-of-interest information. The system uses a microprocessor and GPS receiver to provide current vehicle location and direction of travel information. The display provides textural and elemental graphic display information, and control switches are positioned in an easily accessible location within the vehicle for the operator to select points of interest. The system can provide two modes of operation: while the vehicle is traveling on a limited access highway or once the vehicle has exited the highway. The display can also show the street addresses on which the vehicle is traveling and update the address as the vehicle moves. The system allows selection between these features, either manually or automatically as the vehicle moves between a limited access highway and a local roadway.

Problems solved by technology

All of these systems are relatively expensive, complicated and difficult for a vehicle operator to utilize, particularly when preoccupied with surrounding traffic in congested areas.

Such systems are relatively inexpensive but do not provide the operator with the flexibility of providing points-of-interest information in a user-friendly format nor additional desirable features, such as easily accessible alternate displays of forthcoming highway exits, street intersections, or street addresses when traveling on a local street.

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