A context-aware system for navigation and information dissemination on android devices

Navigation aids have come a very long way from following the North Star in the ancient times to relying on the satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS). Advances in technology and sensors allow effective integration of GPS into everyday mobile devices. Consequently, instantaneous knowledge about geological coordinates is readily available. Dissemination of information about the current location, however, is generally limited by lack of adequate feature-complete databases. Systems tailored for navigation primarily show features required for navigation (e.g. roads and bridges), or general points of interest (e.g. airports or gas stations). On the other hand, local organizations such as visitor bureaus usually provide attractive custom maps with a wealth of information about local points of interest (POIs). Often these are traditional, non-interactive, paper maps. Combining advantages of both navigation systems and custom maps we propose a multi-purpose self-guided system that is able to disseminate highly specific local information using a context-aware android-based application. In addition to tracking location and heading, our system provides information on surrounding POIs within a specified distance. The user interface is enhanced by displaying an overlay GPS-enabled map and a live view employing augmented reality techniques. The application utilizes a general database of knowledge about POIs and provides a content editor. POIs as well as new maps can be created, edited, or removed through an easy-to-use interface.