He mainly talked about two projects. I really like the first project -- trying to generate maps that are easier to use for driving purposes. Usually the online maps systems generate maps truthfully to the real ratio, but when we hand draw a map to show people directions, we usually exaggerate the turning points, put on more useful context road names, etc.
And he showed us a demo online!!
Say, if I want to go to the Greek Consulate in SF from Stanford.
Here's a common map I get from maps.msn.com.
If I choose "LineDrive" as the map style, I get this:
It's more like a hand-drawn style, and all the "design principles" were first designed by following what's best for driver's perception, and the scoring function is then minimized with simulated annealing to find the best layout. He also showed us a video
of the search process (first search in the space of road layout, then label layout, etc).
I think it's pretty cool! I might use it for future driving directions. :)
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