Mapping system
OwnerCharles Stefan Randakinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A mapping system is provided comprising a plurality of display panels (8) located at or on a ceiling of a building such as a supermarket. The panels (8) form a network of routes through the supermarket, with each panel illustrating the content of the supermarket aisle (4) adjacent the panel (8). The elevated nature of the panels (8) allows users to identify the content of aisles (4) distant from their current location, and users may thus identify a route leading to the selectred aisle as well as the contents of aisles along which the route passes. A number of alternative embodiments of the invention are described, together with methods of guiding individuals around environments using maps of the invention.
Claims49
A mapping system for use in an environment, the system comprising a plurality of signs for defining a substantially continuous route within the environment, wherein each sign denotes a particular characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of said sign.
The system of any preceding claim wherein the signs are adapted for location within the environment above eye-level of a user.
The system of any preceding claim wherein the signs are illuminated.
The system of any preceding claim further comprising one or more layout displays reproducing the layout and depictions of the signs at a reduced scale.
A mapping system for use in an environment, the system comprising a plurality of signs for defining a substantially continuous route within the environment, wherein the signs are adapted for location above eye-level of a user, and are directed generally downwards.
A mapping system for a store, comprising signs identifying items located in the areas of the signs, the signs being provided above such areas and facing downwards.
A route indicator comprising a plurality of signs defining a substantially continuous route within an environment, wherein each sign denotes a particular characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of said sign.
A signage system for use in a retail environment, the system comprising a plurality of signs, each sign having means for displaying a particular characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of each sign, and means for mounting the signs in an elevated region of the environment to form a substantially continuous route within the environment.
Apparatus for guiding an individual along a route, the apparatus comprising a plurality of signs for location along said route to form a substantially continuous pathway, wherein each respective sign denotes a characteristic of the locality of the respective sign along the route.
A sign for use in a mapping system, the sign comprising means for mounting the sign to a location above eye level, and display means for displaying an image.
A method of guiding an individual around an environment, the method comprising the step of providing a plurality of signs in an elevated portion of the environment to form a substantially continuous route within the environment, wherein each of the signs displays a characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of that sign.
A method of indicating locations within an environment, the method comprising the step of providing a substantially continuous length of signs within the environment, wherein each sign denotes a characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of the respective sign.
A method of generating revenue, the method comprising the steps of:
- providing a plurality of signs in an elevated portion of an environment to form a substantially continuous route within the environment, wherein a plurality of the signs display a respective characteristic of the environment in the vicinity of those signs, and at least one of the signs also displays details of a sponsor;
- and
- charging third parties for sponsor details to be displayed.
A building structure including a plurality of signs defining a substantially continuous route within the building, wherein each sign denotes a particular characteristic of the building in the vicinity of said sign.
A building structure including a plurality of signs forming a substantially continuous route within the environment, wherein the signs are located above eye level within the building, and are directed generally downwards.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.