Trail
I'd like to propose an idea.
Imagine a trail of connected locations of interest. Perhaps a nature trail; maybe a set of architectural sites; exercise locations. Traditionally we might link the locations on a map with numbered signposts on the ground. But there are limitations to this approach. Not everyone has the map and posts can't always be installed and they don't last forever.
I propose a new approach: List the locations and their coordinates online along with whatever information we might like to share. The sites could thus be shared with educators, hobbyists, and friends. The content could be downloaded to smart phones and could take advantage of the GPS function to guide users through a trail.
Some specific suggestions:
- Each trail would need to have at least 2 sites with no particular maximum.
- Each site would at a minimum need to have coordinates.
- Additional features per site could include:
- Title
- Informative description
- Photograph
- Compass direction for photograph
An application of the compass direction would be augmented reality. Once users reached the grid referenced location, they could scan around with their smart phone camera. When they get close to the correct direction the image would pop up and overlay the image visible in the camera. It could for example be a leafed out tree overlaying the same tree seen in winter, or a trail camera image of a nocturnal mammal rarely seen by a typical hiker.
Suggestions welcome!
