BBB Geek-toid
I know what you've been wondering ... Sure, everyone talks about GPS (Global Positioning System) and, of course, a non-military GPS can pinpoint itself within eight feet or so, but really, what good are they? What are the practical applications (other than being lost and calling for help stating exactly where you are)? From your questioning mind to this BBB Geek-toid entry here's a partial list ...Vehicles can be fitted with GPS devices to track the number of minutes driven, as well as where, when, and speed. Driver's insurance premiums are based on the actual driving behavior rather than using the traditional flat rate.
The annual Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, the nation's largest hot-air and gas balloon meet includes a coast-to-coast balloon race. Balloons are equipped with GPS units. The GPS coordinates of all the balloons are fed back to the website and maps display a marker pointing out the last known coordinates of the balloons.
GeoCaching was launched May 3, 2000 as a way of celebrating the lifting of Selective Availability. This game, played worldwide, sends eager GPSers on the hunt for hidden treasure with a pair of coordinates as the only clue.
A "Digital Angel" can be worn on a watch or taped to the skin. By monitoring vital signs, Digital Angel is used to help summon medical help when needed. Similar devices can be implanted in the family pet (as well as endangered animals) to track an animal's whereabouts and monitor its heart rate and temperature.
OnStar uses GPS to track vehicles' whereabouts and allows motorists to summon emergency help or to ask directions.
GPS can be used to map out archaeological sites of importance where old buildings once stood. A complete map of the surrounding area can be created from GPS data.
GPS provides accurate maps so taxi riders can watch as their cab weaves through the city streets. And what advertisers provide, using GPS, is location-sensitive advertising: As the cabs cruise past participating businesses, promotions for their services pop up on the computer screen. Advertisers can purchase any block in the city, and some have even gone so far as to buy up competitors' blocks as well as their own.
Not to mention ...
- Tracking the flights of pigeons
- Physical training systems that measure performance against biometric sensor data (as in running or kayaking)
- Modeling ski slopes and skiers performance
- Advanced driver assistance systems for lane-keeping, automatic speed control
(A tip of the BBB hat to Rosemary for the idea for this Geek-toid!)
