Techniques for augmenting GPS-based navigation via light-based communication

摘要

Techniques are disclosed for augmenting global positioning system (GPS)-based navigation via light-based communication (LCom). In accordance with some embodiments, a light-sensing device, such as a camera or an ambient light sensor configured as described herein, may be used to detect an LCom signal transmitted by a local LCom-enabled solid-state luminaire. The LCom signal may include data about the location of the transmitting luminaire, and in some cases that location data may be used, for example, in computing the amount of time that it would take to navigate indoors to the luminaire's location. In some instances, GPS data also may be considered to calculate the total trip duration for an entire trip, including time spent indoors and outdoors. In some other cases, the location data and, if available, GPS data may be used, for example, in computing an automotive navigation route.