Patent ID: 8442764
Filing Date: 2013-05-14
Classification: G01C,G06T,G09B

Abstract:
1. A map display system for presenting a three-dimensional map on a display, the map display system being operative to: present a map, defining a geographic area, on a display as a curved surface which comprises a first plane, a second plane and a non-linear portion which is intermediate the first and second planes, wherein a direction normal to the first plane is substantially orthogonal to a direction normal to the second plane; and present a reference icon, identifying an observation point in the geographic area represented by the map, in the first plane of the curved surface of the map; wherein: the height of land marks and buildings in a defined foreground relative to the reference icon are presented normal to the first plane of the curved surface of the map, the height of land marks and buildings at a defined far distance relative to the reference icon are presented normal to the second plane of the curved surface of the map, the height of land marks and buildings in a defined middle ground relative to the reference icon are presented normal to the non-linear portion of the curved surface of the map, and the geographic area represented by the map can be translated along the curved surface of the map to provide a perception that the reference icon is roaming through the displayed geographic area.