Weather on route planning

Disclosed embodiments include systems, vehicles, and methods for presenting weather conditions a traveler may encounter while traveling a route. In an illustrative embodiment, a computing device executes instructions to present an integrated route map. An input is received indicative of a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler. A store of route data for an area encompassing the trip is accessed. At least one route is identified. A weather forecasting service is accessed from which expected weather conditions are accessible for the area through the projected time. The expected weather conditions are identified for the location at the projected time. An integrated route map is displayed showing the at least one route and the expected weather conditions for the location at the projected time.

INTRODUCTION

The present disclosure relates to systems, vehicles, and methods for presenting an integrated route map that displays a route and expected weather conditions a traveler may encounter on the route.

Systems exist that permit retrieval of weather data for selected location. For example, a system may provide current weather information for a location in response to a name of a city or a postal code for a particular location being entered. The system also may provide forecast and/or weather radar for the specified location.

However, when a traveler seeks to plan a car trip or another journey, the traveler may want more information than these systems may provide. For example, a traveler may plan to set out first thing in the morning from the traveler's current location to drive to a destination. The traveler may use a mapping application or another Global Positioning System (GPS) device to determine a route for the trip and how long the trip will take. The traveler can use a separate weather application to check what the weather may be at the current location when the traveler plans to leave. The traveler also may go back to the mapping application to check when the traveler will arrive at the destination if the traveler leaves at the currently-planned departure time. The traveler then may use a weather application to determine what the weather may be at the destination at the estimated arrival time. The traveler may consult the mapping application to identify locations through which the traveler will pass on the way to the destination, then repeatedly check the weather application for each of those locations to see what the weather may be during the journey on the way to the destination.

After working through these processes, the traveler may determine that rain is forecast at the time when the traveler would arrive at the destination or that the traveler would hit a snowstorm along the way. As a result, the traveler may decide to leave earlier in the day or postpone departure until a later time or date to avoid encountering the forecast weather conditions. The traveler would then have to work through the same processes to determine what the forecasted weather may be at the time of departure, at the expected time of arrival, and along the way.

SUMMARY

Disclosed embodiments include systems, vehicles, and methods for presenting an integrated route map that displays a route and expected weather conditions a traveler may encounter on the route.

In an illustrative embodiment, a system includes a computing device that executes instructions to present an integrated route map. An input is received indicative of a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler. A store of route data for an area encompassing the trip is accessed. At least one route is identified. A weather forecasting service is accessed from which expected weather conditions are accessible for the area through the projected time. The expected weather conditions are identified for the location at the projected time. An integrated route map is displayed showing the route and the expected weather conditions for the location at the projected time.

In another illustrative embodiment, a vehicle includes a passenger compartment. The vehicle also includes a drive system configured to motivate, accelerate, decelerate, stop, and steer the vehicle. The vehicle also includes a computing device that executes instructions to present an integrated route map. An input is received indicative of a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler. A store of route data for an area encompassing the trip is accessed. At least one route is identified. A weather forecasting service is accessed from which expected weather conditions are accessible for the area through the projected time. The expected weather conditions are accessed for the location at the projected time. An integrated route map is displayed showing the route and the expected weather conditions for the location at the projected time.

In another illustrative embodiment, in an illustrative method, a route input is received indicating a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler. Map data is accessed including route data for an area encompassing the trip. At least one of at least one route and a timeline for the trip are identified where the timeline includes a projected time at which the traveler will reach a location on the at least one route. A weather forecasting service is accessed from which expected weather conditions are accessible for the area through the projected time. The expected weather conditions are identified for the location at the projected time. The at least one route is displayed including the expected weather conditions for the location at the projected time.

Further features, advantages, and areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It will be appreciated that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description explains, by way of illustration only and not of limitation, various embodiments for presenting an integrated route map displaying a route and expected weather conditions a traveler will encounter on the route. It will be noted that the first digit of three-digit reference numbers and the first two digits of four-digit reference numbers correspond to the figure number in which the element first appears.

By way of a non-limiting introduction and overview, in various embodiments an integrated route map is presented that displays weather information for a route to be travelled or being travelled. Once a user provides input indicative of a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler, a store of route data for an area encompassing the trip is accessed and one or more routes and a timeline for the trip are identified. The timeline may include a projected time at which the traveler will reach a location on the one or more routes. A weather forecasting service is accessed to retrieve data on expected weather conditions for the area through the projected time. The expected weather conditions are identified for the location at the projected time. An integrated route map is displayed, showing the one or more routes and the expected weather conditions for the location at the projected time.

Now that an overview has been given, details of various embodiments will be explained by way of non-limiting examples given by way of illustration only and not of limitation.

Referring toFIG.1, in various embodiments a system100includes various subsystems for presenting an integrated route map. The system100, as further described below, may be implemented on a computing device having computer-readable media storing instructions configured to cause the computing system to perform the functions herein described. An illustrative computing device is described below.

The system100includes a route input interface110that enables a traveler or other user to provide input identifying a trip that the user intends to make. The route input interface110may enable the user to identify a destination and/or one or more intermediate destinations or waypoints along the route. The route input interface110also may enable the user to identify an intended starting point or point of origin of the trip, although the route input interface110may default to or enable the user to specify that the user's current location will be the origin of the trip. The route input interface110also may enable the user to specify an intended time of departure and/or may default to a current time as the time of departure.

A route data interface112enables the system100to access a store of route data for an area that may encompass the trip. The route data may include map or other roadway data in the area that may be used to identify one or more available routes of travel between an origin and a destination in the area. The route data may include a local store of route data114that may be maintained within the system100. In various embodiments, the local store of route data114may include, for example, map data for a nation in which the user resides and/or in which the system100is initially deployed, as well as map data for one or more neighboring nations.

The route data interface112also may engage a remote store of route data116. The remote store of route data116may be used to update the local store of route data114to present map information that represents new or changed roads or road conditions, and/or data regarding current road or traffic conditions. The remote store of route data116also may be used to augment the local store of route data114to include map data for one or more additional areas that are not included in the local store of route data114. The remote store of route data116may be maintained on a remote computing system that is accessible by the system100, as further described below.

A routing module118uses the data indicative of the trip received by the route input interface110and the route data accessible by the route data interface112to identify one or more routes the user may travel from the origin to the destination. In various embodiments, the routing module118may employ a vector map of road segments with defined end points of each segment. A process such as Dijkstra's algorithm, an A* algorithm, or another suitable method may be used to determine one or more shortest path trees between the origin and destination. Based on user preferences, such as preferences for or against freeways, the desire to avoid toll roads, and the like, various possible segments may be eliminated from consideration before determining the shortest path tree. The user may be presented with an option to choose from more than one available route.

Each of the one or more routes presented by the routing module118is associated with a timeline. The timeline incorporates an expected time of travel between the origin and the destination based on a total time to travel each of the segments included in the route at an anticipated travel speed. The anticipated travel speed may be based on a combination of the legal speed limit for each of the segments, anticipated or actual traffic delays, and one or more additional factors. Based on a specified time of departure (or a presumed time of departure, such as the current time), the timeline indicates an anticipated time of arrival.

A weather service interface120accesses weather forecast data for an area encompassing the route (or routes) identified by the routing module118for the time period encompassing the time of travel between the origin and the destination represented by the timeline. The weather service interface120may access a weather forecasting service122that, like the remote store of route data116, is maintained on a remote computing system that is accessible by the system100. The weather forecasting service122may be accessed via a network and may be maintained on a different or a same remote computing system as the remote store of route data116.

In various embodiments, the weather forecast data includes weather radar data, including actual weather radar data of existing weather formations or projected weather radar data based on existing and expected weather conditions. In various embodiments, the weather forecast data also may include a forecasted temperature, likelihood of participation (and what kind), and other weather conditions anticipated at times spanned by the timeline. In various embodiments, the weather forecast data also may incorporate available daylight based on sunrise and/or sunset times for the area or areas encompassing the route. In other various embodiments, additional weather parameters may be included, such as an ultraviolet (UV) index, humidity, air quality index, allergen index, and other factors may be presented to or accessible by the user. These additional considerations may be desirable to aid a user in deciding whether to open the roof of a convertible or to drive with the windows open, or whether the user may wish to reschedule the trip.

A correlation module124receives the route and weather data collected and/or generated by other modules of the system and generates an integrated route map150. The integrated route map150, as described in further detail below, includes a composite of the route data and the weather data spanning the timeline associated with the route. The correlation module124communicates with a display module126of the system100to interactively display the integrated route map150on a display130for viewing by the user and/or to permit user interaction with the integrated route map150, as further described below.

In various embodiments, the integrated route map150includes several items of visual data. The integrated route map150includes a map160that represents an area that encompasses a route170. The map160shows roadways, communities, points of interest, geographical features, and other area details. The route170, which may be one of multiple routes presented (not shown) for selection by the user, shows a route of travel along roadways between an origin172and a destination174. A position indicator176represents a position of the traveler along the route170. As is further explained below, the position indicator176may represent a current position of the traveler or an expected position at a selected time.

The integrated route map150also may display weather patterns178in the area. As described further below, the weather patterns178may be associated with particular times on the timeline. In various embodiments, the weather patterns178may include fronts, cloud formations, precipitation clusters, or other weather objects that may discernible by weather radar. As will be appreciated, weather radar may represent different weather patterns using different colors, fill patterns, and intensities to signify different weather conditions ranging from cloudy skies or fog, through light and heavy rain to hail or snow, to high wind conditions such as tornadoes. Other weather objects may be represented with directional arrows where the direction shows the wind direction and a thickness or other attribute of the arrow may be indicative of velocity. Atmospheric considerations, such as a UV index, humidity, or an air quality index may be represented with dotted or dashed lines or with indicia of other patterns or colors.

The integrated route map150includes a timeline180that spans a time period from a departure time182through an expected arrival time184. A sliding input181may represent a current time182or may be manipulated to select a subsequent time on the timeline180to be visualized on the integrated route map150, as further described below. A current situation indicator186may display a time188and a current weather condition189, as described further below. The timeline180also may include an animation control190to enable a time-lapsed view of movement of the weather formations178across the integrated route map150corresponding with passage of time along the timeline180, as further described below.

In various embodiments, the integrated route map150also includes other information. For example, while a user is traveling, the integrated route map150may include one or more navigational cues195to inform the user of a next turn or other navigational maneuver and a distance and/or time until that maneuver is to be made to follow the route170.

Referring toFIG.2, the integrated route map display system100ofFIG.1may be integrated with a vehicle200or transportable aboard a vehicle200. In various embodiments, the vehicle200includes a body202that may support a cabin204capable of accommodating an operator, one or more passengers, and/or cargo. In various embodiments, the vehicle200may be controlled by an operator or the vehicle200may be a self-driving vehicle. The vehicle200may be an autonomous vehicle that travels without an operator to transport passengers and/or cargo. The body202also may include a cargo area206separate from the cabin204, such as a trunk or a truckbed, capable of transporting cargo. The vehicle200includes a drive system201selectively engageable with one or more front wheels203and/or one or more rear wheels205to motivate, accelerate, decelerate, stop, and steer the vehicle200. The drive system201may include an electrically-powered system, a fossil-fuel-powered system, a hybrid system using both electric power and fossil fuels, or another type of power source.

In various embodiments, the integrated route map display system100may be an integral part of the vehicle200, including a computing system that is part of the vehicle200, powered by a power system aboard the vehicle200, and that uses a display130(FIG.1) that is integrated with one or more instrument panels220disposed in the cabin204of the vehicle200. The instrument panels220might include various operational gauges, such as a speedometer, tachometer, and odometer, climate controls, entertainment controls, and other instruments along with presenting an integrated route map150(FIG.1). In various embodiments, the integrated route map display system100may include a separate computing device transportable aboard the vehicle200, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, table computer, or other portable computing device. In various embodiments, the integrated route map display system100may include a computing device that is usable separate from the vehicle200, such as a portable or non-portable personal computer usable for trip planning.

Referring toFIG.3, a dashboard300within the cabin204shows one of the instrument panels220(FIG.2) that includes the display130that presents the integrated route map150. In various embodiments, the display130may include a touchscreen display that enables an individual to directly engage the display130to interact with the display, for example, to enter route information or interact with the timeline180, as further described below. In various embodiments where the display130does not include a touchscreen display, controls301-304adjacent to the display130may enable user engagement with the display130to move a cursor, enter characters, or perform other control functions. In various embodiments in which the system100is configured to receive voice inputs, a user also may use voice commands to engage the system100and thereby interact with the integrated route map150and/or other information presented via the display130.

In various embodiments, instead of or in addition to using the display130on the dashboard300, a portable computing device310, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet computer, or other portable computing device, may execute an application that operates to provide functions of the integrated route map display system100. The portable computing device310may operate alone or in some combination with a remote computing system, as further explained below. The portable computing device310may engage with other systems aboard the vehicle200, such as a speedometer or other devices, via an interface320. The interface may include a wireless interface, such as a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi interface, or a wired interface using a USB or other wired connection.

Referring additionally toFIG.4and given by way of example only and not of limitation, an illustrative computing system400may be used aboard the vehicle200(FIG.2) to perform the functions of the integrated route map display system100(FIG.1). In various embodiments, the computing system400typically includes at least one processing unit420and a system memory430. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, the system memory430may be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (“RAM”), non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (“ROM”), flash memory, and the like, or some combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The system memory430typically maintains an operating system432, one or more applications434—such as computer-executable instructions to support operation of the integrated route map display system100—and program data436. The operating system432may include any number of operating systems executable on desktop or portable devices including, but not limited to, Linux, Microsoft Windows®, Apple OS®, or Android®, or a proprietary operating system.

The computing system400may also have additional features or functionality. For example, the computing system400may also include additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, tape, or flash memory. Such additional storage is illustrated inFIG.4by removable storage440and non-removable storage450. Computer storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. The system memory430, the removable storage440, and the non-removable storage450are all examples of computer storage media. Available types of computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory (in both removable and non-removable forms) or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computing system400. Any such computer storage media may be part of the computing system400.

The computing system400may also have input device(s)460such as a keyboard, stylus, voice input device, touchscreen input device, etc. Output device(s)470such as a display, speakers, short-range transceivers such as a Bluetooth transceiver, etc., may also be included. The computing system400also may include one or more communication systems480that allow the computing system400to communicate with other computing systems490, as further described below. As previously mentioned, the communication system480may include systems for wired or wireless communications. Available forms of communication media typically carry computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” may include a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of illustrative example only and not of limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared and other wireless media. The term computer-readable media as used herein includes both storage media and communication media.

In further reference toFIG.4, the computing system400may include global positioning system (“GPS”) circuitry485that can automatically discern its location based on relative positions to multiple GPS satellites. As described further below, GPS circuitry485may be used to determine a location of the vehicle200. In various embodiments, the GPS circuitry485may be used to determine a position of the vehicle200for generation and analysis of the integrated route map150.

In addition to one or more onboard computing systems, various embodiments may communicate with remote computing systems to perform the functions herein described. Referring toFIG.5, an operating environment500may include one or more sets or remote computing systems520and550. A first remote computing system520supports a weather reporting service and a second remote system550supports a map or route data service. It will be appreciated that the remote systems520and550may be separate services or the functions of both the remote systems520and550may be combined into a single system.

The remote computing system520and550each may include a server or server farm and may communicate with the network510over wired and/or wireless communications links521and551, respectively. The remote computing systems520and550may access programming and data used to perform their functions over high-speed buses525and555to interact with data storage530and560, respectively. In various embodiments, the remote computing system520may service requests for actual weather radar data532, projected weather radar data534, and other weather data536maintained in the data storage530. The weather data532,534, and536is providable to the integrated route map display system100for the generation of integrated route maps150, as further described below. In various embodiments, the remote computing system550may service requests for map data562to serve the route data interface112of the integrated route map display system100or to augment or update the store of local route data114maintained by the integrated route map display system100, as previously described with reference toFIG.1.

The integrated route map display system100may be disposed aboard the vehicle200. As previously described, the integrated route map display system100may be supported by a computing device integrated with the vehicle200or supported by a portable computing device carried aboard the vehicle200, as previously described. The integrated route map display system100may communicate over the network510via a communications link512to access the remote computing systems520and550to access weather and/or map data. The communications link512may include a wireless communications link to enable mobile communications with a system aboard the vehicle200or may include a wired link when the vehicle200is stopped.

The integrated route map display system100also may be supported by a computing system570that is not integrated with or transportable aboard the vehicle200. The computing system570may be used to generate the integrated route map150(FIG.1) for travel planning purposes and/or to input route and timing information for an integrated route map150to be sent to or made available for a computing device aboard the vehicle200. The computing system570may communicate over the network510via a communications link571to access the remote computing systems520and550to access weather and/or map data. The communications link571may include a wireless or a wired communications link.

Operation of the integrated route map display system100is further described with reference to the following figures. Referring toFIG.6, a route input screen600enables a user to enter information about a trip to potentially be taken. The route input screen600includes a destination input610in which a user can enter an address, a coordinate location, or another descriptor to indicate a destination of a trip. When the destination input610is a touchscreen, engaging the destination input may invoke a keyboard into which a user can enter an address, coordinates, or other information to identify a destination for a trip. Alternatively, instead of using a touch screen, the destination input610may be engaged by voice input or other controls, such as conventional controls available on a computing system or, for example, the input controls301-304(FIG.3) maintained on a vehicle dashboard300.

Additionally, the route input screen600may include an intermediate destination(s) input612to enable the user to identify waypoints or other places the user may wish to go on the way to the destination identified via the destination input610. The destination(s) input612may operate via touchscreen input, voice input, or other inputs as previously described to identify any intermediate destination(s). The route input screen600also may include a departure input614to enable a user to specify a time of departure, if the user is not planning to depart at the present time. In various embodiments, if the departure input614is not engaged, the departure time may default to or be assumed to be the current time. Once the user has entered the desired information, the user may engage a start button616to generate and display the route data. Descriptions of subsequent screen displays that show a specified route assumes that the user has already engaged the route input screen600to identify at least one destination of a trip.

Referring toFIGS.7A and7B, embodiments of the integrated route map display system100(FIG.1) may present weather conditions to aid a user in planning a trip or may present weather conditions during travel even when no route information has entered to allow the user to see the local weather. Referring toFIG.7A, an integrated route map700may be used for making or adjusting trip planning. The integrated route map700includes a map710of an area near or surrounding a point of origin712. The point of origin712may be a location where the user is currently located or that the user has otherwise identified. As previously described, the point of origin712may be determined from GPS data and used as a default unless the user identifies another location. The map710may include both the origin712and, if specified, a destination714.

As previously described, the integrated route map display system100retrieves weather forecast data for the area and displays weather formations716currently in the area covered by the map710. The weather forecast data retrieved may include current or projected weather radar data for the area that is superimposed upon or otherwise presented as part of the integrated route map700.

According to various embodiments, the integrated route map700also includes a timeline730that may span a period of time beginning at a current time or another specified starting time. In various embodiments, a sliding input732may be moved along the timeline730to choose a different time to display for the integrated route map700. The sliding input732currently is set at a current time734, identified as “Now” inFIG.7A. As a result, the weather formations716are depicted for the current time734. In addition, a current situation indicator736is presented to show a specific time738indicated by a position of the sliding input732which, in the example ofFIG.7A, is 12:47 p.m. The current situation indicator736also may include a weather indicator740that represents the weather for the point of origin712at the selected time738. The weather indicator740may present a symbol (as shown inFIG.7A) that shows weather and daylight conditions at the point of origin712at the selected time738. In the example ofFIG.7A, the weather indicator740shows that it is daytime and that it is partly cloudy.

Referring toFIG.7B, another integrated route map750again includes the map710of the area encompassing the point of origin712and the destination714. However, the integrated route map750ofFIG.7Bshows the forecast weather conditions at a subsequent time as a result of the user manipulating the sliding input732along the timeline730to a second time735. To correspond with the second time735, the weather formations717have been updated to shown how the weather formations have changed or have moved since the previous time734(FIG.7A). In the example ofFIG.7B, a current situation indicator737shows a new current time739as 1:13 p.m., which was selected from the timeline730by manipulation of the sliding input732. The current situation indicator737also includes a weather indicator741that, in the example ofFIG.7B, shows that the weather conditions have changed from partly cloudy to rainy. Thus, in various embodiments, a user can engage and manipulate the integrated route map display system100to plan when to depart on a trip in consideration of what the weather conditions may be at different departure times.

Referring toFIGS.8A-8D, an animation control815may be used to initiate a presentation of a series of views of weather conditions for a period covered by a timeline830. Thus, instead of the user moving the sliding input732(FIGS.7A and7B) to select specific times to view the weather conditions at that time, a series of views of the weather conditions at various intervals may be sequentially and automatically presented. Referring toFIG.8A, an integrated route map800includes a map810for an area encompassing a point of origin812and a destination814. Weather formations816are shown for a currently represented time. A current situation indicator836shows the currently represented time838(12:47 p.m.) and a weather indicator840. To initiate the presentation of a series of views of weather conditions for the period covered by the timeline830, a user engages the animation control815. The animation control815may be a virtual button on a touchscreen that may be engaged, for example, by tapping the animation control815with a finger, or the animation control815may be activated by a physical button, by issuing a voice command, or by another method of engaging with the integrated route map display system100.

FIGS.8B-8Dshow a series of subsequent views presented as a result of engaging the animation control810. Referring toFIG.8B, an integrated route map801includes updated weather formations817after passage of a time interval. In the example ofFIGS.8A-8D, the interval is 15 minutes. As shown by a situation indicator846, a currently represented time848is 1:02 p.m., 15 minutes after the currently represented time838ofFIG.8A. The weather formations817show that the weather formations816(FIG.8A) have moved to east, edging toward the origin812and the destination814. A weather indicator850shows that the current weather at the point of origin continues to be partly cloudy.

Referring toFIG.8C, an integrated route map802includes updated weather formations818after passage of another 15-minute interval. As shown by a situation indicator856, a currently represented time858is 1:17 p.m., another 15 minutes after the currently represented time848ofFIG.8B. The weather formations818have continued to move to the east. Although the weather formations818are moving into the area of the destination814, a weather indicator860shows that the current weather at the point of origin812continues to be partly cloudy.

Referring toFIG.8D, an integrated route map803includes further updated weather formations819after passage of another 15-minute interval. As shown by a situation indicator866, a currently represented time868is 1:32 p.m., another 15 minutes after the currently represented time858ofFIG.8C. The weather formations819have continued to move to the east, moving away from the point of origin812and beginning to move away from the destination814. A weather indicator870shows that the current weather at the point of origin812continues to be partly cloudy.

Based on the series of views of weather conditions presented, a user may see that, by postponing his or her departure, the trip to the destination may be made without encountering inclement weather at the point of origin812, at the destination814, or points therebetween. The series of views sequentially presented by engaging the animation control815enables the user to evaluate the change in weather conditions spanning the timeline830without manually selecting individual times as described with reference toFIGS.7A and7B. In various embodiments, the animated presentation of the series of views may continue to loop through the times along the timeline830until the animation control815is once more engaged to stop the presentation of the series of views. It will be appreciated that the animation control815may include a toggle-type switch that may be engaged once to initiate the animation and engaged again to stop the animation.

In various embodiments, the animation may present views in various ways. For example, the animation may present views that are one minute apart so that the animation will appear as a relatively smooth, continuous video. Alternatively, the interval between views may be several minutes apart which may result in a less smooth animation, but may use less bandwidth or other resources to generate. In various embodiments, a user may be able to set or change options as to whether the series of views is automatically repeated, how often the series is repeated, and/or how long a view of each interval is displayed before a next view is presented. In various embodiments, the user may be able to set or change other options via an interface of the integrated route map display system100.

Referring toFIGS.9A and9B, integrated route maps900and901may be used while a user is traveling and, thus, may show development and movement of weather formations, progress along a route, and how weather may interact with travel along the route. Referring toFIG.9A, the integrated route map900shows a map901that encompasses an area including a point of origin912and a destination914. Using methods as previously described, the integrated route map display system100identifies one or more routes that may be traveled between the point of origin and the destination914. An identified and/or selected route916between the point of origin912and the destination914is displayed on the integrated route map900. A position indicator917identifies a current location of the user, which may be generated from GPS data as previously described. The position indicator917reflects that, in the situation represented byFIG.9A, the user is still at or just leaving the point of origin912. A sliding indicator934along the timeline930shows identifies a current point in time934along the timeline.

Weather formations918are shown for a currently represented time. A current situation indicator936shows the currently represented time938(12:47 p.m.) and a weather indicator940that shows that the weather is currently partly cloudy at the current time and location. In various embodiments, a navigational cue990also may be presented to alert the user to the next turn or other navigational maneuver to remain on the route916and a distance until that maneuver should be made.

According to various embodiments of the integrated route map display system100, as the user travels along the route916, a user's location, the weather conditions, and the weather locations at the user's location are updated. Referring toFIG.9B, a position indicator927shows the user's progress along the route916toward the destination914. Changed or moved weather formations919are shown for a currently represented time which, in the example ofFIG.9B, shows the weather formations919having moved into the route916traveled by the user. A current situation indicator946shows the currently represented time948(1:13 p.m.) and a weather indicator950that shows that the weather is rainy at the current time and location. The sliding indicator934has moved along the timeline930to identify a current point in time944along the timeline. A navigational cue991also may be presented to alert the user to the next turn or other navigational maneuver to remain on the route916and a distance until that maneuver should be made.

Thus, the example ofFIGS.9A and9Bshows how various embodiments of the integrated route map display system100enable a user to get directions and view upcoming weather forecast data but, as the user travels a provided route, the user can see how the weather may impact travel the route916. For example, the user can thus choose to alter travel plans, such as by stopping to avoid undesirable weather or to allow the weather to pass, or, at least, to be prepared for the expected weather conditions.

In various embodiments, the integrated route map display system100(FIG.1) may display weather conditions at the user's location without the user specifying a route. Accordingly, without specifying a route, the integrated route map display system100enables a user to monitor current, changing, or developing weather in an area around the user's location.

Referring toFIGS.10A and10B, integrated route maps1000and1001, respectively, may be displayed to represent weather conditions around a user's location. Referring toFIG.10A, the integrated route map1000includes a map1010of an area near or surrounding a user's location as represented by a location indicator1012. As previously described, the location for the map1010and the position indicator1012may be determined from GPS data or other sources. As also previously described, the integrated route map display system100(FIG.1) is configured to retrieve weather forecast data for the area and displays weather formations1016currently in the area covered by the map1010. As in other embodiments, the integrated route map1000may also include a timeline1030that may span a period of time beginning at a current time. The timeline1030also may include a sliding input1032that may be moved along the timeline1030to choose a different time to display for the integrated route map1000to view changing, developing, and/or predicted weather conditions as described with reference toFIGS.7A and7B. However, it will be appreciated that, because the user has not entered and/or is not following a specified route, moving the sliding input1032may show changes in the weather conditions but will not move the location indicator1012as shown inFIGS.7A and7B; instead, the location indicator1012will correspond with the current location.

The integrated route map1000may also include a current situation indicator1036to show a specific time1038which may display the present time (12:47 p.m. in the example ofFIG.7A) or a time associated with a position of the sliding input1032. The current situation indicator1036also may include a weather indicator1040that represents the weather for the user's location1012. The weather indicator1040may present a symbol (as shown inFIG.10A) that shows weather and daylight conditions at the user's current location at the current or selected time.

Referring toFIG.10B, another integrated route map1001again includes the map1010of the area around the user's location but at a later time. An updated position indicator1013shows a user's new location.

It will be appreciated that an updated current situation indicator1037shows the current time1039(1:02 p.m. in the example ofFIG.10B). The integrated route map1001ofFIG.10Bshows the updated weather formations1017. The current situation indicator1037also includes a weather indicator1041that, in the example ofFIG.10B, shows that the weather conditions have changed from partly cloudy to rainy.

In addition, because the current time1039has advanced, in various embodiments, the timeline1030may shift to maintain a same time range accessible by advancing the sliding input1032. In the example ofFIGS.10A and10B, the time range spanned by the timeline1030is three hours. Thus, because the current time1039is now after 1:00 p.m., the range spanned by the timeline1030now extends to include an end time1031beyond 4:00 p.m.

In addition to scrolling the timeline1030to maintain a consistent time range from the current time, the timeline1030(FIGS.10A and10B) may be scaled to encompass travel along a planned route and/or for an additional time beyond the anticipated arrival. By scaling the time range, by using the sliding input1032, a user can access weather conditions throughout travel along the planned route. By adding an additional time beyond the anticipated arrival, for example, if the user may be delayed or plans to engage in an outdoor activity at the user's destination, the user can check on what the weather will be after an estimated arrival.

Referring toFIGS.11A-11F, in various embodiments, timelines are scaled based on an anticipated length of a trip. Referring toFIG.11A, a timeline1100for a one-hour trip1102spans from a current time1104(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1106(prior to 2:00 p.m.). In various embodiments, a post-arrival interval1108is included in the represented time range. In various embodiments, the post-arrival interval1108may be a default level, which is two hours in the example ofFIGS.11A-11F. It will be appreciated that the post-arrival interval1108may be changed by a user by manipulating user settings. Referring again toFIG.11A, the post-arrival interval extends to a time prior to 4:00 p.m. In the example ofFIG.11A, hourly time increments1109are displayed. As described below, for a longer trip, longer time increments may be displayed so as not to visually clutter the timeline.

Referring toFIG.11B, a timeline1110for a two-hour trip1112spans from a current time1114(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1116(prior to 3:00 p.m.). A post-arrival interval1118of two hours is included in the time range represented. As shown inFIG.11B, in various embodiments, the timeline1110is scaled to encompass the combined two-hour trip1112and the post-arrival interval1118. Referring again toFIG.11A, the timeline1100extended from a time prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 4:00 p.m. to encompass the one-hour trip1102and the two-hour post-arrival interval1108. Accordingly, the timeline1100was scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-third of the timeline1100. By comparison, the timeline1110ofFIG.11Bis scaled to encompass the two-hour trip1112beginning prior to 1:00 p.m. and the two-hour post-arrival interval1118. Thus, the timeline1110extends from the current time1114prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 5:00 p.m. with the timeline1110scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-fourth of the timeline1110. The timeline1110continues to display hourly time increments1119.

Referring toFIG.11C, a timeline1120for a three-hour trip1122spans from a current time1124(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1126(prior to 4:00 p.m.). A post-arrival interval1128of two hours is included in the time range represented. As shown inFIG.11C, in various embodiments, the timeline1120is scaled to encompass the combined three-hour trip1122and the post-arrival interval1128. Thus, the timeline1120ofFIG.11Cextends from a time prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 6:00 p.m. to encompass the three-hour trip1120and the two-hour post-arrival interval1128. The timeline1120is scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-fifth of the timeline1120. The timeline1120continues to display hourly time increments1129.

Referring toFIG.11D, a timeline1130for a four-hour trip1132spans from a current time1134(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1136(prior to 5:00 p.m.). A post-arrival interval1138of two hours is included in the time range represented. As shown inFIG.11D, in various embodiments, the timeline1130is scaled to encompass the combined four-hour trip1132and the default post-arrival interval1138. Thus, the timeline1130ofFIG.11Dextends from a time prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 7:00 p.m. to encompass the four-hour trip1130and the two-hour post-arrival interval1138. The timeline1130is scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-sixth of the timeline1130. However, unlike the example ofFIGS.11A-11C, the timeline1130displays two-hour time increments1139. The longer, two-hour time increments1139allow the entire time range to be represented without the increments1139being compressed too closely together to be readable.

Referring toFIG.11E, a timeline1140for a six-hour trip1142spans from a current time1144(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1146(prior to 7:00 p.m.). A post-arrival interval1148of two hours is included in the time range represented. As shown inFIG.11E, in various embodiments, the timeline1140is scaled to encompass the combined four-hour trip1142and the default post-arrival interval1148. Thus, the timeline1140ofFIG.11Eextends from a time prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 9:00 p.m. to encompass the six-hour trip1140and the two-hour post-arrival interval1148. The timeline1140is scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-eighth of the timeline1140. As in the example ofFIG.11D, the timeline1140displays two-hour time increments1149.

Referring toFIG.11F, a timeline1150for an eight-hour trip1152spans from a current time1154(prior to 1:00 p.m.) through an arrival time1156(prior to 9:00 p.m.). A post-arrival interval1158of two hours is included in the time range represented. As shown inFIG.11F, in various embodiments, the timeline1150is scaled to encompass the combined eight-hour trip1152and the default post-arrival interval1158. Thus, the timeline1150ofFIG.11Fextends from a time prior to 1:00 p.m. to a time prior to 11:00 p.m. to encompass the eight-hour trip1150and the two-hour post-arrival interval1158. The timeline1150is scaled so that each hour represents approximately one-tenth of the timeline1150. As in the example ofFIGS.11D and11E, the timeline1150displays two-hour time increments1159.

It will be appreciated that, for even longer trips spanning additional hours or days, the timelines may be appropriately scaled and may include time increments ratiometrically appropriate to fit the scaled timeline. In addition, a length of post-arrival interval may be set, changed, or removed. In any case, the scaled timelines enable a user, for example, using a sliding input, to view weather conditions that may be expected along the route.

It also will be appreciated that, in various embodiments, once the user is en route to the destination, the current time will change, thus changing the scale of the timeline. For example, as previously described, at the start of the eight-hour trip1152ofFIG.11F, the timeline1150is scaled so that each hour represents one-tenth of the timeline and time is represented in two-hour increments1159. However, once the user is, for example, within one-hour of reaching the destination, with the post-arrival interval1158of two hours, the timeline1150may be scaled so that each hour represents one-third of the timeline1150and the timeline1150displays one-hour increments like the timeline1100ofFIG.11A(but with a different current time, one hour from arrival).

It also will be appreciated that, as a user travels along a route, in various embodiments, the timeline is scaled so that an originating point on the timeline is updated to a current time. In other words, rather than the timeline including what has transpired in the past, the timeline is updated to include current and future times. This updating of the originating point was depicted inFIGS.10A and10B.

Referring toFIGS.12A-12D, in various embodiments, a user may be presented with an opportunity to choose from among different routes based on anticipated weather conditions and/or other conditions. Using a sliding input1232, as previously described with reference toFIGS.7A-7Band/or animations as described with reference toFIGS.8A-8D, a user can evaluate possible routes based on how weather and/or other conditions may affect travel on each route.

Referring toFIG.12A, on a selection screen1200, after a user specifies a destination1202, an input field1204lists multiple possible routes1206-1208between a starting location1201to a destination1202. The listing of the multiple routes1206-1208may also include information identifying the route and a travel time. Routes1270-72also may be graphically displayed on a map1220encompassing the routes1270-72. Travel time indicators1222and1224also may be superimposed on the map1220of an area encompassing the starting location1201and the destination1202. The travel time indicator1224may be highlighted to correspond with a recommended or currently selected route1206. In various embodiments, the map1220may signal non-weather travel conditions1228, such as traffic or construction zones. Once the user has chosen a route, a user can select a start trip option1280to begin trip navigation, or the user may select a weather preview option1290to view anticipated weather or other conditions that may affect the routes1206-1208. As previously described, a touchscreen or other controls may be used to receive user selections.

Referring toFIG.12B, when the user selects the weather preview option1290(FIG.12A), the user may engage either a sliding input1232or an animation control1215to manually or automatically, respectively, advance an integrated route map1250to show how the anticipated weather conditions or other conditions will affect the routes1206-1208. As the time presented on the integrated route map1250is advanced to show conditions at various times, position indicators1260-62show where the user might be projected to be along each route at each time. The position indicator1260corresponding to the recommended or selected route1206(FIG.12A) is highlighted. In various embodiments, a current status indicator1236, as described with reference toFIGS.7A-B, shows information for a time1237at a selected position1235on a timeline1230. For a recommended or currently selected route, the current status indicator1236shows a weather indicator1238to show, for example, the current weather at a location of the position indicator1260for the recommended or selected route at the selected position1235on the timeline1230.

It will be appreciated that, looking at the integrated route map1250, the user can compare the conditions for the different routes1206-1208. For example, on a route1272associated with the position indicator1262(labelled as route 2 on the integrated route map1250), at the presented time, rainy conditions may exist and the road condition1228(e.g., traffic or construction) may affect travel. On the other hand, the routes1271(labelled as route 3) and1270(labelled as route 1) associated with the position indicators1261and1262, respectively, do not show rainy conditions at the presented time1235or any road conditions ahead. In the current status indicator1236, at the time1237represented, the weather situation indicator1238shows partly cloudy weather.

Referring toFIG.12C, an integrated route map1251is presented for a next position1255along the timeline1230as a result of user selection or continuing animation. Weather formations1243that have moved or developed are updated on the integrated route map1251. As a result, on the route1272associated with the position indicator1262(labelled as route 2), at the presented time, the weather has cleared, although the road condition1228(e.g., traffic or construction) persists. On the other hand, the routes1271(labelled as route 3) and1270(labelled as route 1) associated with the position indicators1261and1262respectively, will encounter rain at the next position1255along the timeline1230. An updated current status indicator1256shows that, at a time1257at a selected position1255on the timeline1230, a weather situation indicator1258reporting that there will be rainy weather.

As previously mentioned, the user can manually engage the sliding input1232to manipulate the integrated route map or may engage an animation control1215to automatically advance the views presented by the integrated route map. When animated, the integrated route map may continue to loop through the views. When the user is done with the weather views, the user may revert back to the selection screen1200(FIG.12A) to select or change a route and activate a start trip option1280and begin travel. As previously described, the integrated route map may be updated to show developing weather conditions and other conditions as the user travels.

It will be appreciated that integrated route maps are not limited to showing only particular types of atmospheric or road conditions. In various embodiments, other conditions may be included instead of or in addition to, for example, precipitation conditions.

For example, referring toFIG.13A, an integrated route may1300may include wind conditions1310instead of or in addition to other conditions. The wind conditions1310may be represented, for example, by arrows1312to show wind direction. In addition, the arrows may be of varying thickness or color to show wind speed with, for example, a thinner arrow1313showing a low wind speed and a thicker arrow1314showing a high wind speed. The wind conditions1310may be updated on predictive maps used for planning purposes or as the user is travelling, as previously described with regard to precipitation conditions with reference toFIGS.7A-7B,8A-8D,9A and9B,10A and10B, and12A-C. The wind conditions1310may be of interest to any number of users, including individuals who drive convertibles, individuals who prefer to drive with their windows open, individuals who drive high-profile trucks or pull tall trailers that are subject to wind forces.

Similarly, referring toFIG.13B, an integrated route may1350may include other atmospheric conditions1360, such as ultraviolet (UV) index, air quality, allergen density, or any other conditions. The other atmospheric conditions1360may be represented, for example, by shaded overlays1370-1372to show ranges of increased index or intensity. For example, if the weather condition is a pollution index, a denser pattern (or a different color) may reflect a higher pollution content. Thus, a user may choose to travel a route in an area spanned by the overlay1372instead of an area spanned the overlay1373to avoid the more polluted air. Similarly, as previously described, a user may plan when to travel to avoid undesirable air quality or UV levels. Again, these conditions may be combined with other travel or weather conditions. It will be appreciated that which conditions to show may be made by changing user options.

Referring toFIG.14, in various embodiments an illustrative method1400is provided for presenting an integrated route map displaying the route and the expected weather conditions a traveler may encounter on the route. The method1400starts at a block1405. At a block1410, a route input is received indicating a trip to be made to a destination by a traveler. At a block1420, map data is accessed including route data for an area encompassing the trip. At a block1430, at least one route and a timeline for the trip are identified where the timeline includes a projected time at which the traveler will reach a location on the at least one route. At a block1440, a weather forecasting service is accessed from which expected weather conditions are accessible for the area through the projected time. At a block1450, the expected weather conditions are identified for the location at the projected time. At a block1460, the at least one route is displayed including the expected weather conditions for the location at projected time. The method ends at a block1465.

It will be appreciated that the detailed description set forth above is merely illustrative in nature and variations that do not depart from the gist and/or spirit of the claimed subject matter are intended to be within the scope of the claims. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.