U.S. patent application number 12/844523 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-18 for identification, storage and display of land data on a website.
This patent application is currently assigned to LANDNET CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Craig Harrison.
Application Number | 20100293620 12/844523 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27538669 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100293620 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harrison; Craig |
November 18, 2010 |
IDENTIFICATION, STORAGE AND DISPLAY OF LAND DATA ON A WEBSITE
Abstract
Disclosed is a land website that provides a personalized
database on which data can be stored, retrieved, customized and
communicated (e.g., by e-mail) relating to a particular piece of
property. The database can be accessible via a password and a
security code over the Internet and may be encrypted for
transmission. Land websites can be established that contain image
data, map libraries, virtual tours, legal descriptions, title
information, e-documents, actual pictures of property and various
other information. Unique 3-D imaging of composite images can be
provided on the land website as well as fly-around composite 3-D
images. The land website provides a unique way of packaging
information relating to a piece of land in a single, accessible
location. A boundary applet tool is provided on the land website
portal that allows a user to simply and easily draw boundaries
around the property of interest and then submit an order for more
detailed information about the property of interest. Various map
data and image data are provided to assist the user in drawing the
boundaries. Acreage amounts are automatically calculated based upon
the size and area drawn by the user. Properties of interest can be
easily accessed by a global coordinate system or by searching on
map data that is provided on a wide range of scales.
Inventors: |
Harrison; Craig; (Fort
Collins, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
COCHRAN FREUND & YOUNG LLC
2026 CARIBOU DR, SUITE 201
FORT COLLINS
CO
80525
US
|
Assignee: |
LANDNET CORPORATION
Loveland
CO
|
Family ID: |
27538669 |
Appl. No.: |
12/844523 |
Filed: |
July 27, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11621515 |
Jan 9, 2007 |
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12844523 |
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10162723 |
Jun 3, 2002 |
7171389 |
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11621515 |
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60295097 |
Jun 1, 2001 |
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60336258 |
Oct 31, 2001 |
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60370083 |
Apr 4, 2002 |
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60356405 |
Feb 11, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
726/27 ;
345/441 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20130101;
G06Q 50/16 20130101; G06Q 50/163 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
726/27 ;
345/441 |
International
Class: |
G06F 21/00 20060101
G06F021/00; G06T 11/20 20060101 G06T011/20 |
Claims
1. A method of generating a personalized land website at a
dedicated Internet accessible location having a dedicated uniform
resource locator address (URL) address on the Internet, said
personalized land website dedicated to providing a variety of
different types of information relating to a selected area of land
at said dedicated URL address that is accessible to users of the
Internet comprising: creating said dedicated Internet accessible
location for said land website that is accessible by users of the
Internet at said dedicated URL address for storage of said variety
of information relating to said selected area of land; providing
map data over the Internet that is stored at said dedicated
Internet accessible location; drawing a boundary at least partially
around said selected area of land using a boundary drawing tool;
providing photographic data relating to said selected area of land;
and storing said map data and said photographic data on said
personalized land website at said dedicated Internet accessible
location which is located at said dedicated URL address.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: protecting said
storage areas by providing separate security codes for said storage
area, and limiting access to said storage areas by controlling
distribution of said security codes.
3. The method of claim 2 further comprising: providing additional
storage areas for storing textual information relating to said
selected area of land.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein said photographic data includes
satellite image data relating to said selected area of land.
5. The method of claim 3 further comprising: providing image
modification tools to allow modification of said map data and said
photographic data.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S.
non-provisional application Ser. No. 11/621,515, filed Jan. 9,
2007, entitled "Identification, Storage and Display of Land Data on
a Website," which application is a continuation of U.S.
non-provisional application Ser. No. 10/162,723, filed Jun. 3,
2002, entitled "Identification, Storage and Display of Land Data on
a Website," which was based upon, and claims priority to, U.S.
provisional application Ser. No. 60/295,097, filed Jun. 1, 2001,
entitled "Identification, Storage and Display of Land Data on a
Website," U.S. provisional application 60/336,258, filed Oct. 31,
2001, entitled "Identification, Storage and Display of Land Data on
a Website," U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/370,083, filed
Apr. 4, 2002, entitled "Web Imaging Serving Technology" and U.S.
provisional application Ser. No. 60/356,405, filed Feb. 11, 2002,
entitled "Internet Delivered and Accessible set of Maps, Images,
and Tools for Locating, Identifying, Measuring, Viewing, and
Communicating Information About Land and Areas of Land." All of
these applications are specifically incorporated herein by
reference for all that they disclose and teach.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] An extensive amount of data has been collected from various
sources such as satellites, land surveys, legal descriptions and
other sources that provide detailed information relating to land.
For example, maps provided by the Bureau of Land Management provide
map data that indicates legal boundaries relating to land
ownership. Satellite data provides imagery indicating land
features, growth and vegetation, water sources and other
geographical features. Infrared imagery has been used to careful
study growth and vegetation features, for example. Topological
information has been accumulated through radar satellites and
topological surveys. Hence, there is a huge body of information
relating to land and associated features such as rivers, roads,
vector data and raster data.
[0003] Various imaging techniques have been used that combine
various sources of data and allow a user to view images of these
combined data sources. For example, 3-D images have been generated
that combine political and physical characteristics with satellite
imagery. Land can be viewed, using this technique, at an elevated
angle such that the image depicts the various features relating to
land. Further, growth and vegetation data can be added to such
images from other data sources to provide a more enhanced view. As
another example, BLM map data can be combined with satellite
imagery data to indicate legal boundaries on the satellite imagery.
Further, topological data can be used to provide shading on a
two-dimensional image that provides imagery relating to topological
features, which is commonly referred to as 2.5-D images.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention may therefore comprise a method of
generating a personalized land website at a dedicated Internet
accessible location having a dedicated uniform resource locator
(URL) address on the Internet, said personalized land website
providing an archive of a variety of information relating to a
selected area of land comprising: creating said dedicated Internet
accessible location at said dedicated URL address for storage of
said archive of said variety of information; providing map data
over the Internet that relates to said selected area of land;
providing boundary drawing tools to allow a boundary to be
circumscribed at least partially around said selected area of land
on said map data; drawing a boundary at least partially around said
selected area of land using said boundary drawing tools; storing
said map data at said dedicated Internet accessible location on
said land website at said URL address; and providing additional
storage locations on said personalized land website for storage of
text information relating to said area of land at said dedicated
Internet accessible location.
[0005] The present invention may further comprise a method of
generating a personalized land website at a dedicated Internet
accessible location having a dedicated uniform resource locator
address (URL) address on the Internet, said personalized land
website dedicated to providing a variety of different types of
information relating to a selected area of land at said dedicated
URL address that is accessible to users of the Internet comprising:
creating said dedicated Internet accessible location for said land
website that is accessible by users of the Internet at said
dedicated URL address for storage of said variety of information
relating to said selected area of land; providing map data over the
Internet that is stored at said dedicated Internet accessible
location; drawing a boundary at least partially around said
selected area of land using a boundary drawing tool; providing
additional map data that includes different types of maps and
photographic data relating to said selected area of land; and
storing said map data and photographic data on said personalized
land website at said dedicated Internet accessible location which
is located at said dedicated URL address.
[0006] The present invention may further comprise a land website
that provides a dedicated Internet URL address for archiving
information relating to an area of land comprising: a storage
device that stores map data; boundary drawing tools that
circumscribe a boundary around said area of land to create global
coordinates for said area of land; an Internet accessible storage
area located at said dedicated Internet address that stores said
map data associated with said global coordinates and other data as
a personalized land website; browser compatible imaging tools that
interface with browsers that allow viewing of said map data and
other data on said personalized land website.
[0007] The present invention may further comprise a method of
generating individual and personalized land websites located at a
dedicated uniform resource locator address on the Internet creator
that provides information relating to a selected area of land, said
personalized land website providing an archive of said information
comprising: creating said dedicated uniform resource locator
address on the Internet; providing map data over the Internet;
providing boundary drawing tools that circumscribe a boundary
around said selected area of land on said map data to create
personalized land map data; storing said personalized and map data
at said dedicated uniform resource locator address; and providing
additional storage locations at additional dedicated uniform
resource locator addresses for storage of additional information
relating to said selected area of land.
[0008] The present invention may further comprise a method of
generating a personalized land website on the Internet that
contains information relating to a selected area of land
comprising: providing map data over the Internet; drawing a
boundary around said selected area of land using boundary drawing
tools to create a personalized land map; storing said personalized
land map at said dedicated uniform resource locator address;
storing additional data relating to said selected area of land at
an additional dedicated uniform resource locator address; and
providing said uniform resource locator address and said additional
dedicated uniform resource locator address as said personalized
land website.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] In the drawings,
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of the manner in which an
embodiment provides a central archive of personalized land
websites.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the layout of the land
website portal.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the functions of the
land website portal.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the manner of generating
boundary data to create a land website.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the method of
georeferencing global coordinates.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the generation of
frame windows.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating the manner in which
image data can be modified.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps that may be
used for locating property and visually generating boundary
data.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the steps that may be
used for generating boundary data from GPS way point data.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps for
generating boundary data from metes and bounds descriptions.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps that can be
used to market personalized land websites.
[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates the steps that may be employed in the
marketing of various offers for products and services.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Embodiments disclosed herein provide a system that has a
central archive for storing map data, satellite images,
e-documents, photographs, modified images, important Internet
links, and any other desired data relating to a property. Various
embodiments generate a partitioned storage area on an Internet
server for each property that is either publicly accessible, or
password and security code accessible, so as to provide a
personalized, customizable land website. Because every parcel of
land is unique, the personalized land website provides a digital
"fingerprint" of the property.
[0023] Various embodiments can employ various techniques for
locating and identifying a property of interest. For example, the
system of the present invention may allow a user to visually
identify a property by using various map data or images of land. A
drawing tool can be employed by the user to generate boundaries
that circumscribe the property. The circumscribed property is then
framed within a boundary window so that additional imagery can be
generated that allows the user to view various images of the
circumscribed property within the boundary frame window ("frame
window"). Viewers can then take virtual tours of the property by
simply using an Internet accessible computer having a web browser.
For example, rotating 3-D imagery of the property within the frame
window can be generated such that the property can be viewed at an
elevated angle showing topological features, vegetation and growth,
legal boundaries and other information from 360 degrees. Global
coordinates from one set of map data to another set can be used so
that boundary points identified on one set of images appears on
other sets of image data at corresponding locations to assist the
user in properly identifying the property boundaries of
interest.
[0024] The disclosed embodiments may be used for various purposes
to archive and deliver land information to various people such as
brokers, appraisers, lenders, developers, land owners, consultants,
potential buyers, construction personnel making improvements on the
property, government personnel making planning decisions, land
managers, etc. In each of these cases, other additional data from
the user or third parties can be provided on the land website. For
example, legal documents can be provided relating to the land. In
that regard, terms of the purchase can be provided together with
leases, title abstracts, easements, rights of way and other legal
documentation in a specific area set aside for e-documents.
Additionally, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented in a
simple and easy fashion over the Internet which will allow users to
readily access data for generating circumscribed boundaries and
frame windows for viewing the property.
[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the
present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a central archive land
website 101 is connected to the Internet that provides interactive
connection to the central archive land website 101. The central
archive land website 101 is connected to a land website portal 102
that functions as a portal for the land website 102. The land
website portal 102 may have a number of personalized land websites
104, 106 that are provided to users via the Internet 100 by a
connection through the land website portal 102. The personalized
land websites 104, 106 may be generated and paid for by users such
as user 108 who is also connected to the Internet 100. The user 108
may select a particular piece of land for which the user would like
to establish a personalized land website. As disclosed below, the
user 108 generates boundary data to identify the particular piece
of property of interest. The land website portal 102 may include a
server having a storage device 112 connected thereto having a large
amount of storage space. Each personalized land website, such as
personalized land websites 104, 106, are stored on the storage
device 112 and may then be password and security code protected to
restrict access by other users. Further, portions of the
personalized land websites may also be protected by additional
passwords. User 108 may allow other users such as user 110 to
directly access a personalized land website. Alternatively, user
108 may wish to e-mail portions of the data stored on a
personalized land website to a user such as user 110. In that
regard, the Internet address of the personalized land website may
be e-mailed to a user, together with the security code for
accessing the personalized land website. The personalized land
websites, such as personalized land website 104, 106, may contain
various data including various map data illustrating the boundaries
of the property, satellite image data, photographic data,
e-documents (text material) relating to the property such as
grazing leases, title and deed information, public land leases,
easements and rights-of-way and other similar e-document
information. Photographic data can be scanned as well as e-document
data and uploaded by the user onto the personalized land website,
as disclosed more fully below. Third party maps can be stored by
the user on the personalized land website, as well as image data
that has been modified by the user. In short, any type of
information relating to the land can be stored by the user on the
personalized land website. Further, the personalized land website
can be directed to any property of interest and does not have to be
owned by the user that establishes the personalized land website.
The personalized land website can be used for studying property,
offering property for sale, marketing and other various purposes.
In this fashion, the present invention provides a central archive
of all of the digital information relating to a selected piece of
property on a personalized land website that can be archived and
retrievable on a site specific basis. In this fashion, a digital
fingerprint of the property can be generated.
[0026] Map image data and other image data is stored on a storage
device 112 coupled to the central archive land website portal 102.
The browser compatible imaging tools 118 allow a user such as users
108, 110 to access and view the map and other image data using a
standard web browser tool. The users can then utilize the boundary
drawing tool 114 to draw a boundary around an area of land of
interest. The boundary drawing tool identifies the global
coordinates on the map and other image data. These global
coordinates are then used by the frame window generator 116 to
generate a frame window described below. The map image data and
other image data identified in the frame window is then stored in
the personalized land website.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates the layout 200 of the land website which
is operated by a server that is capable of performing the functions
disclosed herein. The layout 200 illustrates the manner in which a
user of the website can access the functionality provided by the
present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the user can log onto a land
website portal 202 that provides the ability to access various
functions. For example, the user can access the free map function
204 and subsequently generate a land website or print a free map at
step 206, as disclosed above. The user may access the members'
entrance 208, login a password at 210, and then access a land
website at 212. The user may wish to view land for sale by
accessing the land-for-sale button 214. A search engine is then
provided at 216. The user can then view various land websites at
step 218.
[0028] At 220 of FIG. 2, a viewer may wish to view the
functionality provided by the land website by viewing free tour
demonstrations for sample properties. At step 222, the viewer
accesses a demonstration of a land website that may provide a high
degree of functionality including 3-D, composite images that
contain satellite, vegetation and USGS detail, a fly-around movie
that has been generated from composite images, pictures of the
property that have been downloaded onto the website, legal and
other documentation that has been stored at the website and other
functionality that has been described above. A user may also select
the products button 226 on the land website portal 202 which allows
the user to directly order a land website, rather than entering
through the free map entrance 204. The product entrance 226 may be
used, for example, as a direct link from another website which has
generated interest via a link from a user who would actually like
to purchase a website rather than obtain a free map of the land.
The land website portal may also include a link library 230 that
allows a user of the land website to access educational materials
regarding real estate at step 232. The link library 230 provides an
additional reason to access the land website portal and draws
additional viewers to the land website portal 202.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the functions of the
land website that is used in accordance with the present invention.
At step 300 the user logs onto the land website. The land website
provides an offer for a free map at step 302. The free map allows
the user to draw boundaries and obtain a USGS type of map that can
be enhanced by shadowing or colors to indicate terrain variations.
The free map can be provided as a 1:24 K USGS map, or a 1:100 K
USGS map if the property is very large.
[0030] Alternatively, the user can link from another website into
the land website, as illustrated at step 304, rather than entering
through the splash page of the land website. For example, links may
be provided from organizations that study and evaluate property
such as environmentalist organizations, the Nature Conservatory,
national laboratories, etc. Further, links may be provided from
sales organizations such as real estate brokers, online sales
organizations, providers of map data, providers of satellite
imaging data, etc.
[0031] At step 306 of FIG. 3, the user employs a drawing tool to
generate boundary data. This step is more fully disclosed with
regard to the description of FIG. 5. At step 308, the user is given
the choice of printing the map or saving the boundary data. If the
user decides to print the map at step 310, an enhanced USGS map
having shading to indicate elevation changes (2.5-D map) is
provided to the user for printing. More specifically, the land
website generates an image of the map data that is downloaded to
the user's computer which allows the user to print that image. The
image and boundary data that has been generated is then erased from
the land website server. The user, in this fashion, receives the
free print of the property and the process is ended.
[0032] If the user, at step 308, decides to save the boundary data,
the user is given the option of saving the boundary data at step
312 for a shorter period, such as 30 days, or a longer period such
as 1 year. If the user decides to choose the shorter period, a
first introductory price is charged at step 316. The process then
proceeds to step 318 where a password protected database that is
Internet accessible (personalized land website) is generated. If
the user, at step 312, decides to save the data for a longer
period, a second introductory price is charged at step 314. The
process then proceeds to step 318.
[0033] At step 320 of FIG. 3, the user is offered upgraded packages
having stage prices and progressively more features. For example,
the user may be offered bronze, silver, gold and platinum packages
which each contain additional features and have progressively
higher prices. For example, the bronze package may include a set of
maps that includes BLM data indicating legal boundaries for leased
property and acreage calculations. The highest package, the
platinum package, may provide 3-D satellite images, a 3-D satellite
fly-around movie, storage areas on the personal land website that
allow the storage of photographs of the property, a storage area
for legal documents relating to the property such as titles,
leases, title abstract information, easements, right-of-way
information and other features described herein. At step 322, the
user is given the choice of purchasing an upgraded package. If the
user chooses to not buy an upgraded package, the process ends. If
the buyer wishes to buy an upgraded package, at step 324 the buyer
selects the desired package and a personalized land website is
provided having the features corresponding to the particular
package purchased by the user. The user then selects a password and
security code that the user can provide to other parties to access
the user's land website.
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates the steps 400 that are used to generate
boundary data and a land website. At step 402, various map and
satellite image data are provided to the user so that the user can
identify boundary location points to generate the boundary data.
For example, a series of maps such as 1:24 K USGS, 1:100 K USGS,
BLM and other types of maps may be provided so that the user can
identify location boundary points. Further, satellite image data
that includes vegetation and topological features are provided to
assist the user in identifying boundary location points. For
example, the user may employ a cursor to click on a boundary
location point on a particular map or satellite image.
Alternatively, the user may actually hold the cursor down and draw
a line indicating a boundary location. At step 404, the boundary
location points and other boundary data are entered on the maps and
the image data, as indicated above. At step 406, the boundary
location points are georeferenced to a global coordinate system.
For example, a system of global coordinates can be used to identify
the specific location of the boundary location points. Once the
global coordinates of each of the boundary location points are
determined, the boundary location points are then generated on the
other map and image data, as indicated more specifically in FIG.
5.
[0035] At step 408 of FIG. 4, once the boundary data has been
entered and a complete boundary has been provided, a frame window
is generated. The frame window is generated to encompass the entire
circumscribed property as well as a certain amount of additional
land around the circumscribed property to allow the viewer to view
the circumscribed property together with a certain amount of
surrounding property. The manner of generating a frame window is
more fully disclosed with respect to FIG. 6. At step 410, the
system then calculates the acreage of the circumscribed property
and provides that information to the user. At step 412, USGS map
images, such as the 1:24 K USGS map image or the 1:100 K USGS map
image, are generated. These images may be generated, for example,
as a jpeg image that can be easily stored and viewed by most
personal computers. At step 414, the map image is stored together
with any other associated data on the land web server in a
partitioned storage that is only accessible by a password and
security code. In this fashion, a personalized land website is
provided by the land web server for the user so that the user can
access the land data. Alternatively, as set forth in FIG. 3, the
map image data may not be stored but only used to generate a free
map. In that case, the process would stop at step 412.
[0036] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 illustrating the method of
georeferencing global coordinates. At step 502, the user selects a
boundary location point on a first map based upon the map data. As
indicated above, the map data that is provided may be a 1:24 K or
1:100 K USGS map depending on the size of the property.
Additionally, other map and image data, as indicated above, may be
provided to locate boundary points for the purpose of drawing the
boundary locations. At step 504, a selected boundary location point
is located on a first map. The boundary location point is then
georeferenced to global coordinates. For example, a global
coordinate system can be used to georeference the boundary location
points that have been selected by the user on the first map. At
step 506, the global coordinates are then identified on the
additional map and image data, such as satellite image data. The
actual location points are displayed on each of the maps and image
data in accordance with their georeferenced global coordinates at
step 508. At step 510, the user is then provided with links to
toggle between the first map and additional maps to insure that the
boundary location points have been properly placed on the maps.
Changes can be made on any of the maps. If a boundary location
point is changed on a particular map, the corresponding location
will appear on all of the other maps.
[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates the steps 600 for generating frame
windows. At step 602, the boundary data that circumscribes the
property of interest is obtained by the frame window software. At
step 604, the frame window software generates a buffer zone around
the boundary data that normally has a predetermined shape such as a
rectangle. The buffer zone has a size that is a certain percentage
larger than the size of the circumscribed property so that a
certain amount of surrounding land will be displayed in the images
that are generated of the property of interest. The decisions
regarding how to draw the frame window can operate in accordance
with any desired algorithm. For example, if the width of the
property of interest has a predetermined distance X, the distance
from the outer most part of the property boundary to the frame
window on either side may be selected as X/5, for example. The same
process can be used in the vertical direction, i.e. the north and
south direction, also. Again, any desired manner of selecting the
size of a frame window can be used so that the frame window is
automatically generated in a way that shows a certain percentage of
surrounding property. At step 606, the buffer zone information is
used to generate the frame window.
[0038] FIG. 7 illustrates the steps 700 that may be used in
modifying image data. At step 502, any standard graphic software
package can be launched by the user. Such graphic software packages
may comprise Microsoft's PhotoShop, FotoAlbum available from
FotoTime, or any other type of graphics package that is capable of
displaying and modifying image data, such as jpeg image data. At
step 704, the user accesses the desired image data using the
graphic software package. For example, the user may wish to access
and modify satellite image data or a USGS map to add or take out
features. At step 706, the user employs a graphic software package
to make modifications to the image data as desired. The graphic
software package provides the ability to add or subtract features
from the jpeg image. The image can then be stored as indicated at
step 708 as a modified image on the land website or as a brand new
image.
[0039] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 800 for
locating property and visually generating boundary data. As shown
in step 802, a user can choose the option of locating a property
using a geographical name, a township or range, or visually
locating the property using map data. If a geographical name is
used, the process proceeds to step 804 where the user enters the
geographical term. The geographical term can be a term such as the
name of a state such as Colorado, a region such as Mountain West, a
more specific geographical region such as Cameron Pass or Rawah
Mountains, etc. There are approximately 1.6 million geographical
names that are included in the GENIS (Geographical Name Information
System) database that correspond to the USGS quad maps. By entering
one of the geographical names from the GENIS database, a USGS quad
map can be quickly accessed. At step 806, a search engine is
employed that searches a database of geographical terms. The
geographical terms are tied to a series of maps such as USGS maps
so that the property USGS map can be located. Of course, any type
of maps, such as BLM maps or other maps can be tied to the
geographical term database. At step 808, the search engine
generates an address for the USGS map or other map for the
associated geographical term. At step 810, the USGS map or other
map is displayed to the user that corresponds to the geographical
term that has been used. At step 812, the user is given the option
to pan and zoom the USGS maps or other maps to adjacent locations
in various scales to choose the best size to draw boundary data.
For example, the user may wish to use a 12 K map that shows more
detail for smaller pieces of property rather than a 24 K USGS map
since the 12 K maps show more detail. Additionally, since the
points on each of the maps are georeferenced, smaller scale maps
may be more desirable for carefully identifying boundary location
points. The USGS maps or other maps can be joined together in a
mosaic so that the user can pan from one location to another to
locate the desired locations for drawing the boundary data. At step
814, the user visually enters the boundary data on the USGS maps
using a drawing tool as described herein.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 8, the user may choose to enter a township
and range to locate the property of interest at step 802. In this
case, the process proceeds to step 816 where the user enters the
township and range information. At step 818, a search engine
searches for the township and range data in a township and range
database. The township and range database is similar to the
geographical term database in that it includes a large listing of
township and range information which is tied to a series of maps
such as USGS maps. Each township and range encompasses an area
approximately 6 miles by 6 miles. Hence, a USGS map can be
displayed that encompasses an area of approximately that size.
Again, any type of map can be used. USGS maps are mentioned only
for illustrative purposes. At step 820, the search engine generates
an address for the USGS map. The process then proceeds to step 810
where the USGS map is displayed and proceeds through steps 812 and
814 as described above.
[0041] As further shown in FIG. 8, the user, at step 802, may
choose to visually locate the property of interest. In this case,
the process proceeds from step 802 directly to step 810 where a
large-scale map is used to visually search. For example, a 1
million or 2 million scale map may be displayed which may show a
large portion of a particular state. The user can then proceed
through steps 812 and 814 to locate the property of interest. The
zooming feature of the present invention simply switch scales of
available maps and use processes for identifying the central
portion of the particular map that is being displayed and aligning
the central portion with a location on a map of a different scale
with the central portions aligned. Alternatively, points can be
located and clicked. Whenever the zoom-in or zoom-out button has
been activated, the maps will change scale and locate the
identified point in the central portion of the display.
[0042] The various ways of locating property, as illustrated in
FIG. 8, can be very useful, especially when performing research on
a particular area. For example, studying watersheds can be of
particular interest since the watershed can be easily located using
the methods described in FIG. 8, and a boundary area can be
circumscribed around the area of interest. Further, the Forest
Service or others may wish to locate an area and circumscribe that
area for the purposes of studying and performing a controlled burn.
Further, forestation and cutting of particular areas can be studied
with a high degree of accuracy, especially in combination with
actual satellite and vegetation images of the area of interest.
[0043] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 900 for
generating boundary data from GPS way point data. In accordance
with FIG. 9, a user may record GPS way point data by actually
visiting the property. For example, a user may be a landowner who
is visiting the property and has a portable handheld GPS device
capable of recording way points. The user can record the way point
data in accordance with a physical tour of the property to insure
that the boundary locations are properly located. Similarly, Forest
Service personnel may use a handheld GPS device to record way
points for an area of interest for a particular study. Similarly,
research personnel may wish to review a watershed area to make
studies. In each of these cases, the individuals can record way
points according to the actual physical locations of the user on
the property. At step 904, the user can then download the way point
data to a GPS tool. For example, handheld GPS devices can be
interconnected to computer systems to allow the GPS way point data
to be downloaded into the computer system. At step 906, the GPS
tool then reads the way point data and generates map coordinate
data. A translator program can be used to translate the GPS
coordinate data to the USGS global coordinate system to locate the
GPS way points on the USGS maps, for example. The map coordinate
data can then be used by a drawing tool at step 908 to generate the
boundary data that is used in accordance with the present
invention.
[0044] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1000 for
generating boundary data from metes and bounds descriptions. At
step 1002, a starting location point is determined for the metes
and bounds descriptions. This starting location point may be
visually generated by a user on a USGS map or generated using a GPS
way point, for example. Any desired method of generating a starting
point can be used at step 1002. At step 1004, a metes and bounds
tool reads the first step of metes and bounds description. The
metes and bounds descriptions are generally given as vectors such
as "proceed North Northwest for 475 feet." Each of these metes and
bounds descriptions can be entered into the system as separate
vectors. Alternatively, this information can be read by the metes
and bounds tool using character recognition techniques and
separated using an indicator such as a semicolon for each vector
description.
[0045] At step 1006, the metes and bounds tool generates a first
set of boundary location data from the metes and bounds
description. This is done by mathematically plotting each of the
vectors onto the map data such as USGS maps to determine boundary
location points. At step 1008, the next set of metes and bounds
descriptions, i.e. the next metes and bounds vector, is read by the
metes and bounds tool. At step 1010, a comparison is made to
determine if the most recently read vector corresponds to the first
vector. If it does, that indicates that all of the metes and bounds
descriptions have been entered, and the process is ended. If it
does not, the next set of boundary location data is generated at
step 1014. The process then proceeds back to step 1008 until all of
the metes and bounds descriptions have been read by the metes and
bounds tool.
[0046] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1100 that
may be used in marketing personalized land websites. At step 1102,
an affiliate is identified that has a high traffic website related
to land. An agreement is entered into with the affiliate to attach
a link from the affiliate's website offering a free map of land in
accordance with step 1102. At step 1104, a link to an area of the
central archive land website 102 (FIG. 1) is made that hides the
identity of the central archive website. Since the identity of the
central archive website of the present invention is kept hidden,
the affiliate land website appears to be offering a free valuable
service, i.e. a free map of land. In other words, the link button
that appears on the affiliate's site that links to an area in the
central archive land website that does not identify the central
archive land website. In this fashion, it appears that the
affiliate is offering the free map of the land. At step 1106, the
user is then offered the option of obtaining the free map of the
land or purchasing a land website including upgrades as disclosed
elsewhere herein. If the user chooses a free map, the process
proceeds to a step 1108 where a print of the free map is provided.
At step 1110, the user is then linked back to the affiliate's site
so that the affiliate has not lost this traffic. If the affiliate
chooses to purchase a land website at step 1106, the process
proceeds to a step 1112 where the user purchases the land website.
At step 1114, the system reads the link data to determine the
address of the linking affiliate. In other words, the central
archive land website server 102 (FIG. 1) determines the address of
the website from where the user has been linked. At step 1116, the
central land website server automatically generates the land
website for the user which includes a number of menu items. One of
the menu items is a link button that links back to the affiliate's
site. For example, if the affiliate's site is a lender that
specializes in lending money for purchase of ranches, a link button
will be provided directly back to that lender. At step 1118, the
link button is maintained on the personalized land website that
links back to the affiliate for as long as the website remains
active. After the land website is generated, the user may be linked
directly back to the affiliate's site as shown at step 1110.
[0047] The process disclosed in FIG. 11, in this manner, allows the
affiliate to offer a valuable free service to the users of the
affiliate's site by offering the free map while still having these
users linked back to the affiliate's site. In addition, if a user
purchases a land website, the affiliate obtains a portion of the
revenue of the land website by an agreement between the affiliate
and the central land website owner. Further, a link is maintained,
that cannot be removed by the user, on the personalized land
website back to the affiliate for the entire time that the website
is active. By using such a marketing scheme, agreements with
affiliates can be easily established.
[0048] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1200 in
marketing offers of land websites and land website services. FIG.
12 graphically illustrates the manner in which various upgraded
services and products can be provided to users at progressively
higher prices. Each of the prices illustrated in FIG. 12 is for
illustrative purposes only and are provided to indicate the types
and services of products that may be available at various
illustrative prices. At step 1202, a user is initially offered a
free map of the land. If the user chooses the free map, the map is
printed for free at step 1204 and the process ends. At step 1206,
the user is offered a print of the land together with an acreage
calculation for an exemplary price of $11.95. If the user chooses
this option, the acreage of the circumscribed property is
calculated at step 1208, and a map is printed with the acreage
calculation at step 1210. The process is then ended. At step 1212,
the user may be offered a land website with two USGS maps and an
acreage calculation for a period of 30 days, for example, for an
exemplary price of $24.95. If the user selects this option, a land
website is generated at step 1214. At step 1216, a password and
security code are generated for the user which allows the user to
access the land website. At step 1218, maps and data are
automatically generated and stored. The process is then ended. At
step 1220, the user may be offered a land website with a
customization package for a period of one year for a price of
$49.95, for example. The system then generates a land website at
step 1222, and a password and security code are generated at step
1224. At step 1226, maps and data are automatically generated and
stored. At step 1228, a customization package is automatically
generated, and the process ends. The customization package can then
be used by the user for generating various features of the land
website that are described herein. At step 1230, the user may be
offered an upgraded land website such as a bronze, silver, gold or
platinum level website for exemplary prices of $150.00, $250.00,
$650.00 or $1250.00, for example. At step 1232, the selected type
of land website is generated. At step 1234, a password and security
code are generated. At step 1236, maps and data are automatically
generated and stored. At step 1238, a customization package is
automatically generated, as described herein. At step 1240, custom
features may be hand built into the system such as fly-around
movies, 3-D satellite imagery and other custom features.
[0049] Various embodiments therefore provide a unique system for
providing individualized land websites that allow data and images
regarding a particular piece of property to be collected in a
single, easily accessible location. By gathering information in a
single location, the time required to purchase or sell property can
be accelerated since the information is easily and readily
available to everyone involved in the process of a sales
transaction including brokers, lenders, appraisers and owners. The
land website can also be used to store this important information
after the sale and provide an ongoing historical record of the
property that includes actual images and condition of the property.
The land website can be used for planning and development purposes,
such as deciding the best way to subdivide a property, meet
environmental regulations, provide crop and/or livestock
management, plan development of the property such as introduction
of canals or ponds, forestation and cutting of forests, as well as
various other purposes. The land website can be accessed by anyone
having the password and security code, such as government officials
making decisions relating to the property. Further, the land
website allows users to e-mail images of the property if the user
does not wish a particular individual to have full access to the
personalized land website. Further, since the map data and image
data is presented in an image format, standard graphics packages
can be used to modify the images and easily indicate any desired
features for planning purposes, or any other informational
purposes.
[0050] Various embodiments utilize simple web browsers that are
available on most personal computers to access and view the images
of the property and also uses standard graphics packages to make
modifications. Hence, the land website is intuitive and easy to
use. Easily accessible image format data can be provided in a
secure manner to users. The land website of the present invention
provides a useful and unique tool for utilizing both satellite
image data and map image data, as well as other associated data
relating to a piece of property, in a simple and easy fashion.
Further, boundary information can be easily generated by either
selecting a global coordinate location such as a township and
range, or by simply accessing a location on a map and enlarging the
view to an appropriate size so that boundaries can be drawn using a
simple and easy-to-use boundary applet tool. Further, the present
invention is also capable of providing unique 3-D images and 3-D
fly-around movies of the property so that a virtual tour can be
taken of the property. The virtual tour images can be created using
composites of various satellite image data as well as map image
data to provide a very complete and authentic view of the property.
For example, infrared vegetation imaging can be combined with
regular visual image data from satellites to provide a very
realistic view of the property. Further, USGS map data or BLM map
data may be included in the image to show legal boundaries and
various features of the property. In this way, individuals, such as
lenders and appraisers, can view the property in a very realistic
fashion without actually taking the time to visit the property. In
this manner, valuable time and effort can be saved by using the
land website of the present invention.
[0051] Some advantages of various embodiments are that digital
images including map data can be provided in a simple and easy
fashion over the Internet that allows users to circumscribe the
boundaries of a piece of property of interest. A unique
personalized, customizable website for the property of interest
(land website) can then be established that allows viewers having a
password to view the property and related information relating to
the property. Various image data can be viewed in various desired
combinations that allows a viewer to take virtual tours of property
over the Internet by accessing land websites of ranches, farms,
land areas of interest and other large properties in an affordable
manner. Updates can be easily made to the land website. Purchase of
new information that has become available such as flood plain data,
new maps, etc. can be made by a user in response to e-mail
notifications.
[0052] When using various embodiments for land marketing purposes,
the time between listing and closing on the sale of the property
can be reduced by having a land specific web site that allows users
to take virtual tours. For example, research time is reduced
because paper maps that cover the appropriate area do not have to
be located and purchased. The land website and virtual tours that
are established in accordance with the present invention do not
require technical skills of the user to establish a land website.
For example, a landowner who wishes to use this service can easily
do so by circumscribing that property using a simple boundary
generation software drawing tool that may be provided over the
Internet with the map image data. The system disclosed in various
embodiments is intuitive and easy to use. One of the features of
the present invention that aids the user in establishing a boundary
is the establishment of georeferenced points on a plurality of
different types of maps that cross-link information from one map to
another to aid the user in identifying boundary points. The land
website can be made publicly available for marketing purposes.
[0053] Further, various embodiments do not require the user to
obtain special software. Commonly available web browser software
such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, etc. can be used to access the
land specific websites. Graphics packages such as Microsoft Paint,
Adobe Photoshop and other commonly used image modifying software
are also readily available which allow a user to generate modified
image data. The disclosed embodiments have the convenience of being
available to any computer having Internet access, at any time, from
any location.
[0054] A further advantage of various disclosed embodiments is that
information relating to the property can be located in one
convenient place, i.e. the land website. Customization modules
allow users to add scanned and text documents, appraisals, reports,
loan documents, photographs, third party maps and other information
relating to the property. For example, using a customization
module, which may part of an upgrade package, a user can change the
web page style. If the user is attempting to sell a cattle ranch,
the web page may display cattle and cowboys. If the property is
somewhat mountainous with streams, the user may wish to have a web
page that shows fly fishing. Further, a customization module may
allow the user to upload photos to a photo gallery that is part of
the web page. Also, the customization module may have a location
for storing e-documents. For example, PDF documents relating to
legal descriptions, easements, watershed studies, forestation, etc.
may be scanned and stored in the e-document section. The e-document
section may have multiple passwords for limited access. The
documents can be stored in any desired format such as PDF format,
Word, WordPerfect, jpeg images, etc. The customization module may
also allow the user to add links to other locations. For example,
if a question arises regarding a particular easement or right of
way, a link to a particular treatise on easements and rights of way
may be established by the user through the land library. Further,
the customization module may allow the user to modify standard
images such as jpeg images using available graphics software
packages such as Microsoft Paint, and reload those modified images
onto the website. Further, the customization model may allow the
user to load third party maps onto the land website. Other
information such as ideas, directions to the property, etc. can
also be stored on the land website.
[0055] A further advantage of at least one embodiment is the
ability to provide a comprehensive system of storing map data and
other data in a simple and easy fashion. For example, a specific
implementation of the present invention will allow up to 35
different maps of the property to be stored in a single accessible
location including 3-D satellite photography, general vicinity
maps, regional and statewide maps and photography, 1:24 K USGS
maps, quad maps, 1:100 K quad maps, 1:250 K USGS maps, BLM maps,
2.50 D maps (e.g. color variations to show elevation differences),
3D maps, and/or any other types of maps, in a single accessible
location. The user can easily customize any of these maps that are
presented as image data using standard graphic software. In
addition, modified satellite imagery provided in accordance with
the disclosed embodiments allows an elevated 360 degree fly-around
view of the subject property showing topological features and
boundaries of the property.
[0056] Another advantage of the various disclosed embodiments is
that the boundary information can be cross-linked to satellite
imagery in the same manner that various types of maps such as USGS,
BLM and other types of maps are crossed linked. In this fashion, a
particular location or land mass can be positively identified on
any desired type of map such as a BLM map, USGS map or other type
of map and the corresponding satellite imagery can be displayed
with the boundary information by georeferencing the boundary
information to global coordinates on the satellite image data.
Typically, it is difficult to identify particular locations on
satellite imagery because of the lack of political boundaries,
legends and other features that are normally shown on typical maps.
The georeferencing of global coordinates allows the user to clearly
identify specific locations on satellite imagery with an assurance
of correctness that has not previously been available, especially
for neophyte viewers of satellite data. In this fashion, satellite
imagery can now be easily provided through Internet connections
that allow the user to view specific areas of interest.
[0057] The disclosed embodiments may also assist brokers in
marketing their services. For example, brokers that can offer
property for sale using the land websites of the present invention
are more likely to obtain sales. Brokers can purchase lower cost
implementations to demonstrate the properties and features of the
land website to a potential seller to obtain a listing. For
example, at least one embodiment may be implemented in a fashion
that allows a broker to establish a land website for a particular
piece of property that includes only several inexpensive maps. The
land website can then be upgraded to provide land virtual tour
components such as 3-D maps, fly-around views and other more
expensive features after the listing has been obtained. In
addition, any particular virtual tour or other image data can be
directly e-mailed to potential buyers, brokers, lenders, appraisers
and/or engineers and others utilizing the system of the present
invention. Also, since the map information is generated as image
data, the image data can be used to generate hard copy images such
as sales brochures, wall maps and other materials.
[0058] Various embodiments also have the advantage of saving time
and minimizing effort in sales activities. For example, buyers can
take a virtual tour of the property which may speed the buyer's
interest or quickly eliminate uninterested buyers. This may save a
considerable amount of time by eliminating physical tours by the
broker with uninterested buyers. Instantaneous access and the
ability to e-mail image data and virtual tours also saves broker
time. Brokers who have individual websites can provide links to the
land websites for each of the properties listed by that broker
which provides a simple way to concentrate sales of property listed
by that broker.
[0059] Various embodiments may also speed the due diligence process
of a land buyer. For example, appraisals and loan commitments can
be obtained in a much quicker fashion utilizing the present
invention. E-mail links can be provided to various information
located within the land website which provides all of the base
information needed for appraisers and lenders including legal
documentation, legal descriptions, printable maps and images, land
boundaries, improvements and other information.
[0060] Various embodiments may also be used for purposes other than
the sale of real estate, such as management, research, conservation
easement creation and maintenance of real estate. Further, the land
websites of various embodiments can be used for studying property
and as a decision making tool. For example, a landowner, manager
and consultant of the property can all log onto the land website
and make decisions regarding items such as grazing management,
fencing and other improvements such as road construction, placement
of ponds and lakes, etc. Further, subdivision decisions and other
planning decisions can be made using the easily accessible land
websites of the present invention. More specifically, map and
satellite information is provided as image data, such as jpeg image
data, that can be modified by a user and restored on the land
website for discussion purposes with land managers, county and
state officials, etc. Watershed management, forestation, selective
cutting, crop maintenance and other similar uses can be made of the
land website of the present invention. Various embodiments utilize
simple web browser technology and graphic image display software
that is commonly available and allows users to modify and enhance
images and upload them for functionality and convenient access and
retrieval of the land website.
[0061] Various embodiments may also employ a unique marketing
approach. In accordance with the marketing approach of the present
invention, third party websites relating to land that may have a
large amount of traffic are provided with a link button that offers
a free map that links directly to the land website of various
embodiments. The point at which the user is linked to the land
website may be an internal point within the land website of various
embodiments that does not provide overt identification of the land
website. The viewer of the third party website can then print a
free detailed map of the land or land area of interest that
displays the boundaries drawn by the user. As the user proceeds to
print a free map, a purchase option is presented to the user to
purchase a land website. If a land website is actually purchased by
the user, a referral fee can then be paid to the referring website.
Traffic can then be driven back to the referring website for other
purposes. In this fashion, the link to the land website does not
cause traffic to be permanently diverted or lost by the referring
website. For example, if a land website is purchased, the traffic
may be redirected to the referring website to obtain a loan for the
property or place an order to buy future products and services from
the referring website. The land website portal may also be accessed
by a large tree of domain names that have geographically
descriptive terms in combination with generic terms relating to
land such as disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 60/288,815 filed May 4, 2001 entitled "A System for Selling
Real Estate Products and Services Through the Internet" by Craig
Harrison, which is specifically incorporated herein by reference
for all that it discloses and teaches.
[0062] Various embodiments also provide various ways of locating a
desired piece of property. In one embodiment, geographic names can
be used from the USGS quad maps to narrow in on a desired piece of
property. In another embodiment, a search can be performed using
township and range identifiers to locate a piece of property within
a 6 mile by 6 mile boundary. In a further embodiment, the property
can actually be visually located on maps using various maps having
different scales to zoom in on the property location.
[0063] Further, various techniques can be used for plotting
boundaries. For example, points can be visually located on maps and
image data to locate boundary points. Further, metes and bounds
descriptions can be entered into the system which automatically
plot the boundaries using mathematical calculators. As long as the
initial point can be located properly, such as through a visual
location or other global coordinate system, the metes and bounds
description can be plotted using a metes and bounds drawing tool. A
third way of plotting boundaries is to use GPS way points that have
physically been recorded during a visit to the property. These GPS
way points are then loaded into a GPS boundary mapping tool that
plots the boundaries on a map that aligns the GPS locations with
the proper locations on the map. Boundaries are then formed
according to those locations. Alternatively, if the drawing tool is
used to generate the boundary data, latitude and longitude
coordinates can be recorded as the cursor is moved along the
boundary. In this manner, the boundary that is drawn by the user
can be recorded using latitudinal and longitudinal data points
(boundary data) for comparison with actual property descriptions.
In addition, the drawing tool can also provide bearing, distance
and direction information as the cursor is moved along the boundary
line. In this fashion, the user can plot boundaries by hand using
the drawing tool and provide accurate boundaries using metes and
bounds descriptions. If a particular metes and bounds description
includes a latitude and longitudinal location for any of the corner
points, that point can be used as a starting point and located
exactly on the map since the map includes the global positioning
data. Further, if GPS way points are used, the GPS boundary mapping
tool may automatically select the correct size map and satellite
resolution to display the property.
[0064] The foregoing description of the invention has been
presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise
form disclosed, and other modifications and variations may be
possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment was chosen
and described in order to best explain the principles of the
invention and its practical application to thereby enable others
skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various
embodiments and various modifications as are suited to the
particular use contemplated. It is intended that the appended
claims be construed to include other alternative embodiments of the
invention except insofar as limited by the prior art.
* * * * *