Next Generation 3D Visual Content for Europe

02 September 2009, 7:48pm

IFA, Berlin – September 2, 2009 – NAVTEQ, the leading global provider of digital map, traffic and location data for in-vehicle, portable, wireless and enterprise solutions has announced that Motorway Junction Objects are now available for 10 countries in Europe. This innovative product enables navigation systems to flexibly generate 3D junction animations and help guide drivers through decision points at complex intersections on roads such as the M1 in the UK.

Initially launched earlier this year in Australia and now available for over 6,000 locations across Europe, Motorway Junction Objects has been designed using technology developed by combining NAVTEQ’s own expertise in navigation with user interface insights and advanced technology. Built from key attributes and geometry of the highly accurate NAVTEQ® map, Motorway Junction Objects enables situation specific 3D context at major decision points in complex junctions, so that intuitive visual guidance from the approach through the entire manœuvre can be created in real-time.

3D animation of each junction can be generated so drivers can instantly recognise visual cues in complicated situations. The data is also designed to work seamlessly with NAVTEQ’s other visual content such as Sign-As-Real, 3D City Models and 3D Landmarks. By more closely matching what is outside the windshield, drivers are better informed and prepared to avoid last minute lane changes.

“Our proprietary research has shown that consumers want visual features which help make driving easier but not more entertaining,” explained Frank Pauli vice president, Map and Content products EMEA. “They value visual cues that enable split second recognition of the situation in order to manœuvre through the junction with confidence. Motorway Junction Objects meets that demand and further expands our growing portfolio of visual content.”

Motorway Junction Objects is available in three levels of detail to accommodate a wide variety of hardware and software configurations. The texturing used in the 3D models can also be customised by system manufacturers to create a unique look and feel in order to differentiate their products from competition and adhere to their own brand guidelines. The product enables different view angles for displaying the situation ahead of the driver e.g. in bird’s eye-view or as seen from a driver’s perspective.

NAVTEQ

Geo: International