Navigation system with geocaching mechanism and method of operation thereof

A method of operation of a navigation system includes: identifying a geocache at a geocache-location; determining an external association for representing the geocache associated with an entity, an event, or a combination thereof; determining an external status for identifying the external status of the entity, the event, or a combination thereof; and generating a cache status based on the external status for displaying on a device.

TECHNICAL FIELD

An embodiment of the present invention relates generally to a navigation system, and more particularly to a system with a geocaching mechanism.

BACKGROUND ART

Modern consumer and industrial electronics, especially devices such as graphical navigation systems, televisions, projectors, cellular phones, portable digital assistants, and combination devices, are providing increasing levels of functionality to support modern life including location-based information services. Research and development in the existing technologies can take a myriad of different directions.

As users become more empowered with the growth of mobile communication technology, new and old paradigms begin to take advantage of this new space. One such space is regarding use of locations of interest. The possible applications for combination of navigational capabilities and various locations of interest have not yet been fully utilized.

Thus, a need still remains for a navigation system with geocaching mechanism. In view of the ever-increasing commercial competitive pressures, along with growing consumer expectations and the diminishing opportunities for meaningful product differentiation in the marketplace, it is increasingly critical that answers be found to these problems. Additionally, the need to reduce costs, improve efficiencies and performance, and meet competitive pressures adds an even greater urgency to the critical necessity for finding answers to these problems.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of operation of a navigation system including: identifying a geocache at a geocache-location; determining an external association for representing the geocache associated with an entity, an event, or a combination thereof; determining an external status for identifying the external status of the entity, the event, or a combination thereof; and generating a cache status based on the external status for displaying on a device.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of operation of a navigation system including: identifying a geocache at a geocache-location; determining an external association for representing the geocache associated with an entity, an event, or a combination thereof; determining an external status for identifying the external status of the entity, the event, or a combination thereof; generating a cache status based on the external status; and generating a completion reward based on the cache status for displaying on a device.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a navigation system, including: a cache identification module for identifying a geocache at a geocache-location; an association module, coupled to the cache identification module, for determining an external association for representing the geocache associated with an entity, an event, or a combination thereof; a remote status module, coupled to the association module, for determining an external status for identifying the external status of the entity, the event, or a combination thereof; and a cache update module, coupled to the remote status module, for generating a cache status based on the external status for displaying on a device.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In order to avoid obscuring an embodiment of the present invention, some well-known circuits, system configurations, and process steps are not disclosed in detail.

One skilled in the art would appreciate that the format with which navigation information is expressed is not critical to some embodiments of the invention. For example, in some embodiments, navigation information is presented in the format of (X, Y); where X and Y are two coordinates that define the geographic location, i.e., a position of a user.

In an alternative embodiment, navigation information is presented by longitude and latitude related information. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the navigation information also includes a velocity element including a speed component and a heading component.

The term “relevant information” referred to herein can include the navigation information described as well as information relating to points of interest to the user, such as local business, hours of businesses, types of businesses, advertised specials, traffic information, maps, local events, and location based community or personal information.

The term “module” referred to herein can include software, hardware, or a combination thereof in an embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the context in which the term is used. For example, the software can be machine code, firmware, embedded code, and application software. Also for example, the hardware can be circuitry, processor, computer, integrated circuit, integrated circuit cores, a pressure sensor, an inertial sensor, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), passive devices, or a combination thereof.

Referring now toFIG. 1, therein is shown a navigation system100with anomaly detection mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. The navigation system100includes a first device102, such as a client or a server, connected to a second device106, such as a client or server. The first device102can communicate with the second device106with a communication path104, such as a wireless or wired network.

For example, the first device102can be of any of a variety of display devices, such as a cellular phone, personal digital assistant, a notebook computer, automotive telematics navigation system, or other multi-functional mobile communication or entertainment device. The first device102can couple, either directly or indirectly, to the communication path104to communicate with the second device106or can be a stand-alone device. The first device102further be separate form or incorporated with a vehicle, such as a car, truck, bus, or train.

For illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is described with the first device102as a mobile computing device, although it is understood that the first device102can be different types of devices. For example, the first device102can also be a non-mobile computing device, such as a server, a server farm, or a desktop computer.

The second device106can be any of a variety of centralized or decentralized computing devices, or video transmission devices. For example, the second device106can be a computer, grid computing resources, a virtualized computer resource, cloud computing resource, routers, switches, peer-to-peer distributed computing devices, or a combination thereof.

The second device106can be centralized in a single room, distributed across different rooms, distributed across different geographical locations, embedded within a telecommunications network. The second device106can couple with the communication path104to communicate with the first device102. The second device106can also be a client type device as described for the first device102.

For illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is described with the second device106as a non-mobile computing device, although it is understood that the second device106can be different types of computing devices. For example, the second device106can also be a mobile computing device, such as notebook computer, another client device, or a different type of client device. The second device106can be a standalone device, or can be incorporated with a vehicle, such as a car, a truck, a bus, or a train.

Also for illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is described with the second device106as a computing device, although it is understood that the second device106can be different types of devices. Also for illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is shown with the second device106and the first device102as end points of the communication path104, although it is understood that the navigation system100can have a different partition between the first device102, the second device106, and the communication path104. For example, the first device102, the second device106, or a combination thereof can also function as part of the communication path104.

The communication path104can span and represent a variety of networks. For example, the communication path104can include wireless communication, wired communication, optical, ultrasonic, or the combination thereof. Satellite communication, cellular communication, Bluetooth, Infrared Data Association standard (IrDA), wireless fidelity (WiFi), and worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) are examples of wireless communication that can be included in the communication path104. Ethernet, digital subscriber line (DSL), fiber to the home (FTTH), and plain old telephone service (POTS) are examples of wired communication that can be included in the communication path104. Further, the communication path104can traverse a number of network topologies and distances. For example, the communication path104can include direct connection, personal area network (PAN), local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), or a combination thereof.

Referring now toFIG. 2, therein is shown an example of a display interface202of the first device102ofFIG. 1. The display interface202can show geocaching related information. For example, the display interface202can show a geocache-location204for a geocache206having an item status208.

Geocaching is an activity where users use the navigation system100to hide or seek one or more items. Geocaching can be a recreational activity using a device or a component associated with a global positioning system (GPS). Geocaching can include hiding and seeking containers or items at or around a physical location.

The geocache206is the container, the item, or a combination thereof used as the goal of the activity. The geocache206can be the container, the item, or a combination thereof to be hidden or found during geocaching activity.

The geocache-location204is the physical location or a geographic area for the geocache206. The geocache-location204can be the GPS coordinates for an area where the geocache206is hidden. For example, the geocache-location204can be the GPS coordinates determined by the first device102for the location where a user hid the geocache206. Also for example, the geocache-location204can be an area likely corresponding to a specific set of coordinates based on the accuracy and the granularity of the first device102for a user seeking the geocache206.

The geocache-location204can include a specific geographic location or a set of locations matching a condition. For example, the geocache-location204can include a specific location associated with a particular business entity, such as under a particular sign for a particular burger restaurant. Also for example, the geocache-location204can include a specific set of locations associated with one or more instances of an entity, such as under any main sign for a particular chain of burger restaurants. As a more specific example, the particular chain of burger restaurants can use the geocache206at the geocache-location204to conduct a promotion of giving away prizes, such as free toys or food coupons, to the first limited set of participants who check in under the main sign of the restaurant.

The item status208is information regarding the geocache206at the geocache-location204. The item status208can include information representing existence of the item inside the container, time since last removal of item from the box, or a combination thereof. The item status208can be used to represent whether the user found the geocache206, replaced the item, read or signed a log therein, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can include or interface with the geocache206having a sensor, a communication device, or a combination thereof. The item status208can be based on information from the sensor, the communication device, or a combination thereof for the geocache206.

Geocaching can utilize a cache clue210, a completion reward212, or a combination thereof. The cache clue210is information for identifying the geocache206, the geocache-location204, or a combination thereof. For example, the cache clue210can be a song, a riddle, a phrase, set of numbers, or a combination thereof that can hint at the location, appearance, size, type, or a combination thereof for the geocache206.

The completion reward212is an item, a notice, a proof, or a combination thereof related to successfully completing the geocaching activity. For example, the completion reward212can be an email notification, a code, a voucher, a coupon, the item previously in the container for the geocache206, a physical item, or a combination thereof given to or obtained by the user based on the user finding the geocache206, completing a related activity, a person related to the user finding the geocache206or completing a activity related therewith, or a combination thereof.

Geocaching can be associated with an entity214, an event216, or a combination thereof. The entity214is a unit regarding a person, a place, an organization, a grouping thereof, or a combination thereof having its own distinct existence or character.

The entity214can have a goal independent of or related to the geocaching activity. For example, the entity214can be a group or an organization organizing or planning the geocaching activity. Also for example, the entity214can be a business existing independent of the geocaching activity or supporting the geocaching activity, such as by providing the completion reward212, supplying the cache clue210, determining or providing the geocache-location204, or a combination thereof.

The entity214can include a point of interest218. The point of interest218can be a specific geographical location that a user may find useful or interesting. The point of interest218can be a location determined by the navigation system100.

For example, the point of interest218can be predetermined based on one or more instances of the entity214existing at a location associated with or of interest to the user, such as a business or a residence, popularity of the location with other users, social significance associated with the location, such as historical sites or scenic points, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the point of interest218can be a commercial entity or location the user may have interest in visiting.

The event216is an organized occasion, occurrence, or a series thereof having a particular theme, purpose, activity, or a combination thereof. For example, the event216can include a sporting competition, a themed or purposed gathering or activity, a promotional activity, a discount sale, or a combination thereof.

The event216can be affiliated with the entity214. For example, the event216can be affiliated with the entity214when the entity214plans, organizes, hosts, assists, funds, or a combination of actions thereof for the event216.

The geocache206or the geocaching activity can have an external association220with the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof. The external association220is a connection or a relationship between the geocaching activity and a separate unit, grouping, occurrence, or a combination thereof.

For example, the external association220can be the connection or the relationship between the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof and the geocaching activity, the geocache206, the completion reward212, the cache clue210, or a combination thereof.

As a more specific example, the external association can include the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof suggesting or providing the geocache-location204, providing the geocache206, the completion reward212, a portion thereof, or a combination thereof, providing or suggesting the cache clue210, or a combination thereof. The external association220can be based on contractual relationship, sponsorship or promotional opportunity, or a combination thereof.

Geocaching can further involve a cache status222, a cache schedule224, a challenge task226, or a combination thereof. The cache status222is a state describing the geocache206, the completion reward212, or a combination thereof for the geocaching activity. The cache status222can be a current state or a state at a corresponding time. For example, the cache status222can include an availability of the geocache206, the completion reward212, or a combination thereof for the geocaching activity, the item status208for representing when the geocache206was last found or accessed by any user, or a combination thereof.

As a more specific example, the cache status222can indicate that the geocache206is available for a specific session of the geocaching activity, or indicate that the geocache206has been reserved or is being used for a different session of the geocaching activity by a different user and thus unavailable to the user. As a further specific example, the cache status222can indicate that the geocache206has been found during the specific session of the geocaching activity.

The cache schedule224is a time-based limitation or condition indicating different values of the cache status222according to date and time. The cache schedule224can include a time-related condition or constraint, such as sunrise or low tide, a specific time, such as a calendar or a timetable, or a combination thereof.

For example, the cache schedule224can indicate when the geocache206is reserved or unavailable. Also for example, the cache schedule can indicate when the completion reward212associated with the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof, such as a code or a coupon, is available or redeemable.

As a more specific example, the cache schedule224can be used to conduct a scavenger-hunt type of activity or promotion. The cache schedule224can indicate the geocache206reserved between sunrise and sunset. As a further specific example, the cache schedule can indicate availability of the completion reward212after low tide for finding an item or taking a picture during the low tide condition to fulfill a requirement of the scavenger-hunt type of activity.

The challenge task226is an action or circumstance required in addition to accessing the geocache206for the navigation system100to distribute or enable the completion reward212. For example, the challenge task226can be a requirement to access the geocache206within a specified duration, such as within a specific amount of time from signing up, based on the operating time of the entity214, based on the time of the event216, or a combination thereof.

Also for example, the challenge task226can be a requirement to be within a set number of users first to access or find the geocache206, a set of actions, such as taking and submitting a specific picture or repeating a specific phrase when presenting the completion reward212, or a combination thereof. For further example, the challenge task226can be a requirement to access multiple instances of the geocache206in a specific sequence.

The challenge task226can include a challenge detail228. The challenge detail228is a threshold, a range, a requirement for data, or a combination thereof for verifying satisfaction of the challenge task226. For example, the challenge detail228can be a verification of an uploaded image or a content of the uploaded image, verification of an uploaded sound file or a content therein, a time range for accessing the geocache206, an order of locations or a sequence of access for multiple instances of the geocache206, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can compare a task completion proof230from the user to the challenge detail228. The task completion proof230is data associated with the user in performing the challenge task226. The task completion proof230can be the data describing the user performing or completing the challenge task226. The navigation system100can generate the completion reward212, the cache status222, or a combination thereof when the task completion proof230is within or matches the challenge detail228.

The cache status222, the cache schedule224, the challenge task226, or a combination thereof can be based on an external status232. The external status232is a state describing the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof in relation to the geocaching activity. The external status232can be a current state or a state for a corresponding time for an aspect of the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof.

For example, the external status232can indicate current availability of supplies for generating, distributing, redeeming, or a combination thereof for the completion reward212. Also for example, the external status232can be based on the duration of the promotion event or sponsorship related to the geocaching activity.

The external status232can include a temporal status234, a supply status236, or a combination thereof. The temporal status234is a time limitation associated with the external status232. For example, the temporal status234can be the dates or duration for the sponsorship or advertising event where the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof is related to the completion reward212.

The supply status236is a state of resource controlled by the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof associated with the geocaching activity. The supply status236can indicate availability or validity of the completion reward212associated with the event216or the entity214. For example, the supply status236can indicate the availability or the remaining quantity of prizes at the event216or the entity214offered as the completion reward212. Also for example, the supply status236can indicate the validity or the remaining duration for the coupon applicable to the event216or the entity214and offered as the completion reward212.

The navigation system100can further display a current time238, a current location240, an activity group242, an activity team244, or a combination thereof. The current time238can be represented using year, month, date, hour, minute, second, or a combination thereof. The current location240can represent the location of the user, the first device102, or a combination thereof.

The current location240can be represented with navigation information, including latitude-longitude or GPS coordinates, address, cross streets, or a combination thereof. The current location240can further be represented with relevant information, such as information related to the point of interest218, the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof.

The activity group242is a specific grouping of users participating in a specific instance of the geocaching activity. The activity group242can be based on a reservation, a notice, an assignment or organization by the entity214or people organizing the event216, or a combination thereof. For example, the activity group242can be a set of contestants or a group of people using the navigation system100to collectively participate in the same instance of geocaching activity.

The activity team244is a subset of grouping within the activity group242for the geocaching activity. For example, the activity group242can be divided into two or more instances of the activity team244to see who can complete their goals faster based on the geocache206, the cache schedule224, the cache clue210, the challenge task226, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can further include a geocache mode246for accommodating various modes. The geocache mode246is a collection of settings, processes, or a combination thereof for accommodating the geocaching activity. For example, the geocache mode246can accommodate a single user differently than the activity group242with many users.

Also, for example, the geocache mode246can include a race mode248, an elimination mode250, or a combination thereof. The race mode248is a collection of settings, processes, or a combination thereof for accommodating a competitive instance of the geocaching activity for the activity group242with the instances of the activity team244attempting to complete the objectives of the geocaching activity first. The navigation system100can track, display, notify, or a combination thereof for the geocache206, the activity team244, or a combination thereof.

The elimination mode250is a collection of settings, processes, or a combination thereof for accommodating a different competitive instance of the geocaching activity with the instances of the activity team244attempting to access as many instances of the geocache206first. The navigation system100can display, notify, or a combination thereof for the progress and further disable the geocache206from the geocaching activity after one person or team has accessed the geocache206. The navigation system100can determine the winner as the person or the activity team244having accessed the most instances of the geocache206first.

For further example, the geocache mode246can include a geocache reservation252. The geocache reservation252is a collection of settings, processes, or a combination thereof for limiting access for one or more instances of the geocache206according to the geocaching activity.

The navigation system100can take reservations for a single user or a group of users, and generate the cache status222, the completion reward212based on the geocache reservation252. The navigation system100can further facilitate the geocaching activity by tracking the progress based on time and location of the users, the item status208, the cache status222, the cache schedule224, the task completion proof230, or a combination thereof. The navigation system100can generate a cache announcement254to notify the single user or the activity group242regarding the progress of the geocaching activity.

The navigation system100can generate the cache status222based on the geocache reservation252, the progress of the geocaching activity, the external status232, the cache schedule224, the item status208, or a combination thereof. The navigation system100can generate the cache status222based on the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can further generate the completion reward212based on the geocache reservation252, the progress of the geocaching activity, the external status232, the cache schedule224, the item status208, or a combination thereof. The navigation system100can generate the completion reward212based on the event216, the entity214, or a combination thereof. Details regarding the operation of the navigation system100will be described below.

Referring now toFIG. 3, therein is shown an exemplary block diagram of the navigation system100. The navigation system100can include the first device102, the communication path104, and the second device106. The first device102can send information in a first device transmission308over the communication path104to the second device106. The second device106can send information in a second device transmission310over the communication path104to the first device102.

For illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is shown with the first device102as a client device, although it is understood that the navigation system100can have the first device102as a different type of device. For example, the first device102can be a server having a display interface.

Also for illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is shown with the second device106as a server, although it is understood that the navigation system100can have the second device106as a different type of device. For example, the second device106can be a client device.

For brevity of description in this embodiment of the present invention, the first device102will be described as a client device and the second device106will be described as a server device. The embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this selection for the type of devices. The selection is an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

The first device102can include a first control unit312, a first storage unit314, a first communication unit316, and a first user interface318, and a location unit320. The first control unit312can include a first control interface322. The first control unit312can execute a first software326to provide the intelligence of the navigation system100.

The first control unit312can be implemented in a number of different manners. For example, the first control unit312can be a processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) an embedded processor, a microprocessor, a hardware control logic, a hardware finite state machine (FSM), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination thereof. The first control interface322can be used for communication between the first control unit312and other functional units in the first device102. The first control interface322can also be used for communication that is external to the first device102.

The first control interface322can be implemented in different ways and can include different implementations depending on which functional units or external units are being interfaced with the first control interface322. For example, the first control interface322can be implemented with a pressure sensor, an inertial sensor, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), optical circuitry, waveguides, wireless circuitry, wireline circuitry, or a combination thereof.

The first storage unit314can store the first software326. The first storage unit314can also store the relevant information, such as data representing incoming images, data representing previously presented image, sound files, or a combination thereof.

The first storage unit314can include a first storage interface324. The first storage interface324can be used for communication between the first storage unit314and other functional units in the first device102. The first storage interface324can also be used for communication that is external to the first device102.

The first storage interface324can include different implementations depending on which functional units or external units are being interfaced with the first storage unit314. The first storage interface324can be implemented with technologies and techniques similar to the implementation of the first control interface322.

The first communication unit316can enable external communication to and from the first device102. For example, the first communication unit316can permit the first device102to communicate with the second device106ofFIG. 1, an attachment, such as a peripheral device or a desktop computer, and the communication path104.

The first communication unit316can also function as a communication hub allowing the first device102to function as part of the communication path104and not limited to be an end point or terminal unit to the communication path104. The first communication unit316can include active and passive components, such as microelectronics or an antenna, for interaction with the communication path104.

The first communication unit316can include a first communication interface328. The first communication interface328can be used for communication between the first communication unit316and other functional units in the first device102. The first communication interface328can receive information from the other functional units or can transmit information to the other functional units.

The first communication interface328can include different implementations depending on which functional units are being interfaced with the first communication unit316. The first communication interface328can be implemented with technologies and techniques similar to the implementation of the first control interface322.

The first user interface318allows a user (not shown) to interface and interact with the first device102. The first user interface318can include an input device and an output device. Examples of the input device of the first user interface318can include a keypad, a touchpad, soft-keys, a keyboard, a microphone, an infrared sensor for receiving remote signals, or any combination thereof to provide data and communication inputs.

The first user interface318can include a first display interface330. The first display interface330can include an output device, such as the display interface202ofFIG. 2. The first display interface330can include a display, a projector, a video screen, a speaker, or any combination thereof.

The first control unit312can operate the first user interface318to display information generated by the navigation system100. The first control unit312can also execute the first software326for the other functions of the navigation system100, including receiving location information from the location unit320. The first control unit312can further execute the first software326for interaction with the communication path104via the first communication unit316.

The location unit320can generate location information, current heading, current acceleration, and current speed of the first device102, as examples. The location unit320can be implemented in many ways. For example, the location unit320can function as at least a part of the global positioning system, an inertial navigation system, a cellular-tower location system, a pressure location system, or any combination thereof. Also, for example, the location unit620can utilize components such as an accelerometer or GPS receiver.

The location unit320can include a location interface332. The location interface332can be used for communication between the location unit320and other functional units in the first device102. The location interface632can also be used for communication external to the first device102.

The location interface332can include different implementations depending on which functional units or external units are being interfaced with the location unit320. The location interface332can be implemented with technologies and techniques similar to the implementation of the first control unit312.

The second device106can be optimized for implementing an embodiment of the present invention in a multiple device embodiment with the first device102. The second device106can provide the additional or higher performance processing power compared to the first device102. The second device106can include a second control unit334, a second communication unit336, a second user interface338, and a second storage unit346.

The second user interface338allows a user (not shown) to interface and interact with the second device106. The second user interface338can include an input device and an output device. Examples of the input device of the second user interface338can include a keypad, a touchpad, soft-keys, a keyboard, a microphone, or any combination thereof to provide data and communication inputs. Examples of the output device of the second user interface338can include a second display interface340. The second display interface340can include a display, a projector, a video screen, a speaker, or any combination thereof.

The second control unit334can execute a second software342to provide the intelligence of the second device106of the navigation system100. The second software342can operate in conjunction with the first software326. The second control unit334can provide additional performance compared to the first control unit312.

The second control unit334can operate the second user interface338to display information. The second control unit334can also execute the second software342for the other functions of the navigation system100, including operating the second communication unit336to communicate with the first device102over the communication path104.

The second control unit334can be implemented in a number of different manners. For example, the second control unit334can be a processor, an embedded processor, a microprocessor, hardware control logic, a hardware finite state machine (FSM), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination thereof.

The second control unit334can include a second control interface344. The second control interface344can be used for communication between the second control unit334and other functional units in the second device106. The second control interface344can also be used for communication that is external to the second device106.

The second control interface344can be implemented in different ways and can include different implementations depending on which functional units or external units are being interfaced with the second control interface344. For example, the second control interface344can be implemented with a pressure sensor, an inertial sensor, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), optical circuitry, waveguides, wireless circuitry, wireline circuitry, or a combination thereof.

A second storage unit346can store the second software342. The second storage unit346can also store the information such as data representing incoming images, data representing previously presented image, sound files, or a combination thereof. The second storage unit346can be sized to provide the additional storage capacity to supplement the first storage unit314.

For illustrative purposes, the second storage unit346is shown as a single element, although it is understood that the second storage unit346can be a distribution of storage elements. Also for illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is shown with the second storage unit346as a single hierarchy storage system, although it is understood that the navigation system100can have the second storage unit346in a different configuration. For example, the second storage unit346can be formed with different storage technologies forming a memory hierarchal system including different levels of caching, main memory, rotating media, or off-line storage.

The second storage unit346can include a second storage interface348. The second storage interface348can be used for communication between the second storage unit346and other functional units in the second device106. The second storage interface348can also be used for communication that is external to the second device106.

The second storage interface348can include different implementations depending on which functional units or external units are being interfaced with the second storage unit346. The second storage interface348can be implemented with technologies and techniques similar to the implementation of the second control interface344.

The second communication unit336can enable external communication to and from the second device106. For example, the second communication unit336can permit the second device106to communicate with the first device102over the communication path104.

The second communication unit336can also function as a communication hub allowing the second device106to function as part of the communication path104and not limited to be an end point or terminal unit to the communication path104. The second communication unit336can include active and passive components, such as microelectronics or an antenna, for interaction with the communication path104.

The second communication unit336can include a second communication interface350. The second communication interface350can be used for communication between the second communication unit336and other functional units in the second device106. The second communication interface350can receive information from the other functional units or can transmit information to the other functional units.

The second communication interface350can include different implementations depending on which functional units are being interfaced with the second communication unit336. The second communication interface350can be implemented with technologies and techniques similar to the implementation of the second control interface344.

The first communication unit316can couple with the communication path104to send information to the second device106in the first device transmission308. The second device106can receive information in the second communication unit336from the first device transmission308of the communication path104.

The second communication unit336can couple with the communication path104to send information to the first device102in the second device transmission310. The first device102can receive information in the first communication unit316from the second device transmission310of the communication path104. The navigation system100can be executed by the first control unit312, the second control unit334, or a combination thereof. For illustrative purposes, the second device106is shown with the partition having the second user interface338, the second storage unit346, the second control unit334, and the second communication unit336, although it is understood that the second device106can have a different partition. For example, the second software342can be partitioned differently such that some or all of its function can be in the second control unit334and the second communication unit336. Also, the second device106can include other functional units not shown inFIG. 3for clarity.

The functional units in the first device102can work individually and independently of the other functional units. The first device102can work individually and independently from the second device106and the communication path104.

The functional units in the second device106can work individually and independently of the other functional units. The second device106can work individually and independently from the first device102and the communication path104.

For illustrative purposes, the navigation system100is described by operation of the first device102and the second device106. It is understood that the first device102and the second device106can operate any of the modules and functions of the navigation system100.

Referring now toFIG. 4, therein is shown a control flow of the navigation system100. The navigation system100can include a geocaching initiation module402, an association module404, a progress module406, and a verification module408.

The geocaching initiation module402can be coupled to the association module404, the verification module408, or a combination thereof using wired or wireless connections, by having an output of one module as an input of the other module, by having operations of one module influence operation of the other module, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the association module404can be coupled the progress module406, and the progress module406can be further coupled to the verification module408.

The geocaching initiation module402is for organizing the geocaching activity. The geocaching initiation module402can organize the geocaching activity by identifying one or more users, identifying a reservation associated with the activity, determining settings for facilitating the activity, identifying the geocache206ofFIG. 2associated with the activity, or a combination thereof.

The geocaching initiation module402can generate the geocache session410based on data received or acquired with the first user interface318ofFIG. 3, the second user interface338ofFIG. 3, the first communication unit316ofFIG. 3, the second communication unit336ofFIG. 3, or a combination thereof. For example, the geocaching initiation module402can use inputs from a user, the entity214ofFIG. 2, organizers of the event216ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof for starting an instance of the geocaching activity, selecting or accessing the geocache206, reserving an instance of the geocaching activity or the geocache206, or a combination thereof. Details regarding the reservation will be discussed below.

The geocaching initiation module402can include a user identification module412, a reservation module414, a cache identification module416, or a combination thereof for organizing the geocaching activity. The user identification module412is for identifying one or more users, participants, or a combination thereof for the geocaching activity. The user identification module412can identify the user, the activity group242ofFIG. 2, the activity team244ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof.

For example, the user identification module412can use the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof to identify a user or a participant through inputs from the user, the navigation system100, the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the user identification module412can use the first control unit312ofFIG. 3, the second control unit334ofFIG. 3, the location unit320ofFIG. 3, or a combination thereof to identify the user or the participant using navigation information and relevant data based on the geocache-location204ofFIG. 2.

For further example, the user identification module412can identify multiple users or participants in the activity group242based on predetermined settings, such as the geocache reservation252ofFIG. 2, user inputs and selections, or a combination thereof. The individual identifications can be based on the navigation information of the location unit320, the communication information, such as telephone number or device identification information, other stored identification information, such as login information or membership information, or a combination thereof for the first device102ofFIG. 1associated with each individual users.

The user identification module412can include the user identification, the activity group242, the activity team244, or a combination thereof in the geocache session410. The user identification module412can further store the geocache session410in the first storage unit314ofFIG. 3, the second storage unit346ofFIG. 3, or a combination thereof.

The reservation module414is for generating and identifying the reservation associated with the geocaching activity. The reservation module414can generate the geocache reservation252. The reservation module414can generate the geocache reservation252based on inputs from the user, the navigation system100, the entity214, organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof.

The reservation module414can store the geocache reservation252in the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof. The reservation module414can also generate the geocache session410including the geocache reservation252, and store the geocache session410including the geocache reservation252in the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof.

The reservation module414can further identify the reservation associated with the geocaching activity. The reservation module414can identify the reservation by identifying the geocache reservation252. The reservation module414can identify the geocache reservation252for accommodating the geocache206for the activity group242. The reservation module414can identify the geocache reservation252based on searching reservations having the one or more user identification stored in the geocache session410, reservation identification supplied by the user, the navigation system100, the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can generate the cache status222ofFIG. 2based on the geocache reservation252. Details regarding the cache status222will be discussed below.

The reservation module414can further update the geocache session410to include the relationship to the geocache reservation252. The reservation module414can use the first control unit312, the second control unit334, or a combination thereof to search, identify, and update for the geocache reservation252. The reservation module414can update the geocache session410stored in the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof based on identifying the geocache reservation252.

The cache identification module416is for identifying the geocache206associated with the activity. The cache identification module416can identify the geocache206, the geocache-location204, or a combination thereof corresponding to the geocaching activity. For example, the cache identification module416can identify the geocache206, the geocache-location204, or a combination thereof based on selection information, the geocache reservation252, or a combination thereof as described above.

As a more specific example, the user, the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof can select the geocache-location204, the geocache206, or a combination thereof for reservation or for the geocaching activity. The cache identification module416can identify the geocache206by determining the identification information of the geocache206, the geocache-location204associated with the geocache206, or a combination thereof.

The cache identification module416can further identify the geocache206based on the geocache-location204by determining the identification information of the geocache206associated with the geocache-location204. The cache identification module416can further identify the geocache206based on the geocache reservation252, the geocache mode246ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof.

For example, the cache identification module416can determine the identification information for one or more instances of the geocache206previously reserved, grouped, associated with the geocache session410, or a combination thereof by the user, the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the cache identification module416can determine the identification information for one or more instances of the geocache206appropriate for the race mode248ofFIG. 2, the elimination mode250ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof.

The cache identification module416can update the geocache session410to include the identification information for the appropriate instance of the geocache206, the associated instance of the geocache-location204, or a combination thereof. The cache identification module416can store the geocache session410using the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof.

After organizing the geocaching activity, the control flow can pass from the geocaching initiation module402to the association module404. The control flow can pass by having the geocache session410, the geocache206, the geocache-location204, user information, or a combination thereof as an output from the geocaching initiation module402to an input of the association module, storing the geocache session410, the geocache206, the geocache-location204, user information, or a combination thereof at a location known and accessible to the association module404, by notifying the association module404, such as by using a flag, an interrupt, a status signal, or a combination thereof, or a combination of processes thereof.

The association module404is for determining a relationship between the geocaching activity and any instance of the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof. The association module404can determine the relationship by determining the external association220ofFIG. 2for representing the geocache206associated with the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100can include a connection set418. The connection set418is a record of all associations between instances of the geocache206and corresponding instances of the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof. The connection set418can include all instances of the external association220for the navigation system100. For example, the connection set418can include the predetermined list of sponsors, advertisers, participating groups, or a combination thereof corresponding to instances of the geocache206.

The association module404can generate and maintain the connection set418based on based on contractual relationship, sponsorship or promotional opportunity, or a combination thereof. Further, the association module404can determine the external association220by searching the connection set418based on the geocache206and determining the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof associated with the geocache206in the connection set418.

The association module404can have the connection set418in the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof. The association module404can update the connection set418using the first control interface322ofFIG. 3, the second control interface344ofFIG. 3, the first storage interface324ofFIG. 3, the second storage interface348ofFIG. 3, or a combination thereof. The association module404can determine the external association220from the connection set418using the first control unit312, the second control unit334, or a combination thereof.

The association module404can include a schedule module420, an activity details module422, or a combination thereof. The schedule module420is for determining the cache schedule224ofFIG. 2for temporally controlling the cache status222ofFIG. 2.

The schedule module420can determine the cache schedule224based on the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof. For example, the schedule module420can determine the cache schedule224based on or coinciding with an operation time of the entity214, a duration of the event216, such as daily hours or dates for the event216, or a combination thereof.

The schedule module420can further determine the cache schedule224based on other schedules associated with the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof. For example, the schedule module420can determine the cache schedule224based on or coinciding with a shipment schedule, such as for supplies or ingredients, for the entity214or the event216, projected completion dates for intermediate requirements for the entity214or the event216, or a combination thereof.

The schedule module420can determine the cache schedule224using the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof. For example, the schedule module420can use the first user interface318, the second user interface338, or a combination thereof to receive scheduling information from the entity214, the organizers of the event216, the navigation system100, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the schedule module420can use the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof to search operations hours, event duration, other associated schedules, or a combination thereof.

The activity details module422is for determining settings for facilitating the activity. The activity details module422can identify the cache clue210ofFIG. 2, identify the geocache mode246, identify the challenge task226ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof.

The activity details module422can identify the cache clue210based on predetermined information associated with the geocache206. The cache clue210can be predetermined and specifically associated with the geocache206by the navigation system100, the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof. The activity details module422can further use the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof to receive the cache clue210from the entity214, the organizer of the event216, or a combination thereof.

The activity details module422can identify the geocache mode246in a variety of ways. For example, the activity details module422identify the geocache mode246based on selection information using the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof as described above.

Also for example, the activity details module422can identify the geocache mode246based on the geocache reservation252. The activity details module422can update the geocache session410stored in the first storage unit314, the second storage unit346, or a combination thereof based on determining the geocache mode246.

The activity details module422can identify the geocache mode246for accommodating the geocache206for the activity group242. The activity details module422can accommodate the geocache206for the activity group242by configuring the navigation system100, the geocache206, the first device102ofFIG. 1, or a combination thereof according to the geocache mode246. For example, the activity details module422can configure the first control unit312, the second control unit334, or a combination thereof for accommodating the race mode248ofFIG. 2or the elimination mode250ofFIG. 2.

Also for example, the activity details module422can control the information displayed on the first display interface330ofFIG. 3, the second display interface340ofFIG. 3, or a combination thereof. The activity details module422can display different information based on the geocache mode246for accommodating the activity group242.

As a specific example, the activity details module422can display and update the cache status222, the item status208ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof for the elimination mode250. As a further example, the activity details module422can display instances of the current location240ofFIG. 2for all instances of the activity team244for the race mode248.

The activity details module422can further identify the challenge task226associated with the geocache206. The connection set418can further include various actions or circumstances required for achieving or completing the goals in addition to finding or accessing the geocache206. The connection set418can have the various actions or circumstances, or multiple instances of the challenge task226, each associated with one or more instances of the geocache206. The connection set418or the challenge task226therein can be supplied or predetermined by the entity214, the organizer of the event216, the navigation system100, or a combination thereof.

For example, the connection set418can have the challenge task226as removing a flag from the first geocache and placing the flag in the last geocache for the race mode248. Also for example, the connection set418can have the challenge task226of taking a digital image of a specific instance of the geocache206and uploading the image after finding the specific instance of the geocache206.

The activity details module422can identify the challenge task226associated with the geocache206by identifying one or more instances of the geocache206related to the geocache session410. The activity details module422can use the first control interface322, the second control interface344, the first storage interface348, the second storage interface324, or a combination thereof to access the connection set418and identify the action, the condition, the requirement or restriction, or a combination thereof associated with the geocache206. The activity details module422can identify the challenge task226as the action, the condition, the requirement or restriction, or a combination thereof associated with the geocache206.

The activity details module422can further identify the challenge task226associated with the geocache206by receiving the action, the condition, the requirement or restriction, or a combination thereof associated with the geocache206from the entity214, the organizer of the event216or a combination thereof. The activity details module422can receive the action, the condition, the requirement or restriction, or a combination thereof using the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof.

After determining the relationships and other related information, the control flow can pass from the association module404to the progress module406. The control flow can pass similarly as described above between the geocaching initiation module402and the association module404.

The progress module406is for controlling the navigation system100or the devices therein during the geocaching activity for accommodating the geocaching activity. For example, the progress module406can display coordinates for the geocache-location204, communicate any notices associated with the geocaching activity, information related to the progress or the completion reward212ofFIG. 2, any related external information, or a combination thereof. The progress module406can include a remote status module424, a notice module426, or a combination thereof for controlling the navigation system100or the devices therein.

The remote status module424is for determining the external status232ofFIG. 2. The remote status module424can determine the external status for identifying a status of the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof related to the geocaching activity. The remote status module424can use the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof for determining the external status232based on receiving information from the entity214, the organizers of the event216, or a combination thereof.

For example, the remote status module424can be coupled to the inventory device, point of sale device, scheduling application, messaging application, or a combination thereof at the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof. As a more specific example, the remote status module424can receive or determine operating hours or scheduling information for the entity214or the event216, inventory information or shipping schedule for the completion reward212, or a combination thereof from the entity214, the event216, or a combination thereof.

The remote status module424can determine the external status232as the received or determined information. The remote status module424can further determine the external status232based on the received or determined information. For example, the remote status module424can determine the external status232as being unavailable based on comparing the operational hours and the current time238ofFIG. 2. Also for example, the remote status module424can determine the external status232as being available based on a projected time for finishing the geocaching activity, and the inventory information or the shipping schedule.

The navigation system100can generate the cache status222based on the external status232. Details regarding the cache status222will be discussed below.

The notice module426is for communicating information relevant to the geocaching activity to the user, the activity group242, or a combination thereof. The notice module426can communicate the relevant information by generating the cache announcement254ofFIG. 2. The notice module426can communicate by using the first user interface318, the second user interface338, or a combination thereof to display images, generate sounds, or a combination thereof.

The notice module426can communicate various types of communications to the user, the activity team244, the activity group242, or a combination thereof. For example, the notice module* can communicate messages or statuses regarding availability of the completion reward212, changes in the item status208or the external status232, other progress related information, beginning or ending of the geocaching session, feedback regarding the task completion proof230ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof.

As a more specific example, the notice module426can generate the cache announcement254based on the cache status222. The notice module426can generate the cache announcement254when the cache status222changes based on accessing the geocache206and the geocache mode246, based on accessing the geocache206with or without the geocache reservation252during the duration of the reserved time period, based on accessing the geocache206along with the external status232or the cache schedule224, or a combination thereof.

The notice module426can further generate the cache announcement254for notifying only the activity group242or only the activity team244. The notice module426can generate the cache announcement254based on the geocache session410, the geocache mode246, or a combination thereof. For example, the notice module426can generate the cache announcement254regarding progress of the game for all members in the activity group242for the race mode248. Also for example, the notice module426can generate the cache announcement254regarding progress of the game for members within the activity team244for the elimination mode250.

After or while controlling the navigation system100for accommodating the geocaching activity the control flow can pass from the progress module406to the verification module408. The control flow can pass similarly as described above between the geocaching initiation module402and the association module404. The control flow can pass based on detected events, such as accessing the geocache206, the current location240overlapping a predetermined coordinate, receiving the task completion proof230, or a combination thereof.

The verification module408is for assessing the progress of the geocaching activity. The verification module408can assess the progress by determining satisfaction of the game objective. For example, the verification module408can determine accessing or finding of the geocache206, completion of the challenge task226, arrival of one or more user at a designated finish location, or a combination thereof.

The verification module408can identify the task completion proof230by receiving information corresponding to the challenge detail228ofFIG. 2from the user. For example, the verification module408can use the first user interface318, the second user interface338, the first communication unit316, the second communication unit336, or a combination thereof to receive data, such as images, navigation information, sound files, text, or a combination thereof. The verification module408can further identify the task completion proof230as the received data when the received data is within accepted ranges as defined by the challenge detail228.

The verification module408can include a cache update module428, a prize module430, or a combination thereof for further processing based on determining satisfaction of the game objective. The cache update module428is for generating the cache status222. The cache update module428can generate the cache status222according to a determination of whether the geocache206is available based on the context of the inquiry or the user.

The cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the external status232, the cache schedule224, the geocache mode246, the geocache reservation252, the item status208, the navigation information, the current location240, the current time238, or a combination thereof. The cache update module428can generate the cache status222by using the first control unit312, the second control unit334, or a combination thereof to evaluate the availability of the geocache206, communicating the cache status222, or a combination thereof based on such factors.

For example, the cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the external status232. The cache update module428can evaluate the availability or the validity of the geocache206, the completion reward212, or a combination thereof according to the external status232. As a more specific example, the cache update module428can evaluate the geocache206as being valid or the completion reward212as being available when the supply status236ofFIG. 2, the temporal status234ofFIG. 2, or a combination thereof indicates sufficient supplies for the completion reward212or valid time period for offering the completion reward212.

Also for example, the cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the cache schedule224. The cache update module428can evaluate the availability or the validity of the geocache206, the completion reward212, or a combination thereof according to the cache schedule224. The cache update module428can evaluate the availability or the validity by comparing the current time238or the time corresponding to a proposed reservation time to the cache schedule224.

For further example, the cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the geocache mode246. The cache update module428can generate the cache status222for accommodating the geocache mode246by generating messages or contents specific to the activity group242or the activity team244. The cache update module428can further generate the cache status222by communicating the cache status222specifically for designated users according to the geocache mode246, which will be discussed in further detail below.

For further example, the cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the geocache mode246, the item status208, the task completion proof230, navigational information of the user, or a combination thereof. The cache update module428can determine that an objective associated with the geocache206has been completed, and thus the geocache206becoming unavailable for the corresponding instance of the geocaching activity, based on geocache mode246, the item status208, the task completion proof230, navigational information of the user, or a combination thereof.

For further example, the cache update module428can generate the cache status222based on the geocache reservation252. The cache update module428can generate the cache status222for displaying the cache status222separately for the activity group242.

As a more specific example, the reservation module414can evaluate the cache status222as being available only to the user associated with the geocache reservation252during the time associated with therewith. Also as a more specific example, the reservation module414can evaluate the cache status222as being available to any user outside of the time period associated with the geocache reservation252.

The cache update module428can further generate the cache status222by communicating the cache status222to one or more user. For example the cache update module428can display the cache status222, update the cache status222, create sounds according to the cache status222, or a combination thereof. The cache update module428can communicate the cache status222using the first user interface318, the second user interface338, or a combination thereof.

The cache update module428can generate the cache status222for the activity group242, the activity team244, one user, or a combination thereof. The cache update module428can generate the cache status222for a limited user by communicating the cache status222based on the geocache session410, the geocache mode246, or a combination thereof.

For example, the cache update module428can communicate the cache status222to only the devices belonging to the users as identified by the geocache session410. Also for example, the cache update module428can include settings predetermined by the navigation system100for communicating the cache status222to only the activity team244or a single user. As a more specific example, the cache status222can be updated for the activity team244when a member of the activity team244accesses the corresponding instance of the geocache206.

The reservation module414can generate the cache status222for notifying the user, other participants, separate users, or a combination thereof regarding the geocache reservation252. For example, the cache status222can indicate that the geocache206as unavailable, reserved, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the reservation module414can notify the people accessing the geocache206that the accessed instance of the geocache206has been reserved by the activity group242. The reservation module414can notify based on changing display format, such as outline or color, using visual or audible messages, or a combination thereof.

It has been discovered that the cache status222based on the external status232provides real-time interactions and updates between the entity214, the organizer of the event216, the navigation system100, and the user. The external status232can be used to link the various parties and provide updates for information relevant to the user, such as the availability or the validity of the completion reward212.

It has also been discovered that the cache status222based on the geocache reservation252provides organizational structure and other gaming possibilities. The cache status222based on the geocache reservation252allows parties to know the contextual usage of the geocache206before and during the geocaching activity, which can be used to convey reservation information to others. The reservation of the geocache206can further be used to develop other gaming ideas and gaming applications for groups as described above, without interference from other users.

It has further been discovered that the cache status222based on the geocache mode246, the geocache session410, and the cache announcement254provides additional and new gaming opportunities including the race mode248and the elimination mode250. The cache status222can be used to communicate different information for conducting different types of gaming activities for the activity group242.

It has been further discovered that the cache status222based on the challenge detail228and the task completion proof230provides additional complexities for the geocaching activity. The cache status222and the challenge detail228can be used to add additional requirements. The additional requirements can be contextual or personal to provide thematic and relevant experiences for the partaking group. Further, the additional requirements can be used to adjust difficulties of the geocaching activity or specifically for the activity team244.

The prize module430is for generating the completion reward212. The prize module430can generate the completion reward212when the verification module408, the cache update module428, or a combination thereof determines that the objectives of the geocaching activity, such as accessing the geocache206, meeting the challenge task226with the task completion proof230, or a combination thereof has been fulfilled.

For example, the prize module430can generate the completion reward212based on the external status232, the cache schedule224, the geocache mode246, the geocache reservation252, the item status208, the navigation information, the current location240, the current time238, or a combination thereof as described above. Also for example the prize module430can generate the completion reward212based on values assigned to the cache status222.

The prize module430can further generate the completion reward212by issuing, distributing, enabling, or a combination thereof for the completion reward212. For example, the prize module430can issue or distribute by sending an electronic coupon, a voucher, a link, a code, or a combination thereof through a text or multi-media message to the first device102, through an email, or a combination thereof. Also for example, the prize module430can enable by changing status or adding digital items to the user's profile or account, or by validating or availing a code, a coupon, a voucher, a link, or a combination thereof.

The prize module430can generate the completion reward212for a limited group. For example, the prize module430can issue or distribute the completion reward212for only the activity group242or for only the activity team244that completed the geocaching objective. The prize module430can withhold the completion reward212for users not included in the activity group242or specific instances of the activity team244as specified by the geocache session410.

It has been discovered that the completion reward212based on the external status232provides real-time interactions between the entity214, the organizer of the event216, the navigation system100, and the user. The external status232can be used to link the various parties and instantaneously provide benefits relevant to the user, such as a certificate or a coupon.

It has been further discovered that the completion reward212based on the geocache reservation252provides targeted and controlled benefits. The completion reward212and the geocache reservation252can be used to award benefits to only specific or qualifying users, which can lower costs for the navigation system100, the entity214, the organizers of the event216, or a combination thereof.

The navigation system100has been described with module functions or order as an example. The navigation system100can partition the modules differently or order the modules differently. For example, the geocaching initiation module402and the association module404can be a single module. Also for example, the evaluation and the communication functions of the cache update module428can each be separated into individual modules.

The modules described in this application can be hardware implementation or hardware accelerators in the first control unit316ofFIG. 3or in the second control unit338ofFIG. 3. The modules can also be hardware implementation or hardware accelerators within the first device102or the second device106ofFIG. 1but outside of the first control unit316or the second control unit338, respectively.

For illustrative purposes, the modules have been described as being implemented with the first device102, the second device106, or a combination thereof. However, it is understood that the modules can be implemented differently. For example, the cache update module428can be on the first device102or the second device106. Also for example, the evaluation functions of the cache update module428can be performed on the first device102and the communication functions to other devices can be performed through the second device106.

The physical transformation from the cache status222and the external status232results in the movement in the physical world, such as a user looking for the geocache206or moving to a different instance of the geocache-location204. Movement in the physical world results in changes to the current location240or the data corresponding to the task completion proof230, which can be fed back into the system for generating the completion reward212or the cache announcement254.

Referring now toFIG. 5, therein is shown a flow chart of a method500of operation of a navigation system100in an embodiment of the present invention. The method500includes: identifying a geocache at a geocache-location in a block502; determining an external association for representing the geocache associated with an entity, an event, or a combination thereof in a block504; determining an external status for identifying the external status of the entity, the event, or a combination thereof in a block506; and generating a cache status based on the external status for displaying on a device for displaying on a device in a block508.

The resulting method, process, apparatus, device, product, and/or system is straightforward, cost-effective, uncomplicated, highly versatile, accurate, sensitive, and effective, and can be implemented by adapting known components for ready, efficient, and economical manufacturing, application, and utilization. Another important aspect of an embodiment of the present invention is that it valuably supports and services the historical trend of reducing costs, simplifying systems, and increasing performance.

These and other valuable aspects of an embodiment of the present invention consequently further the state of the technology to at least the next level.