Spatial Heuristics in Navigation
People often use simple rules of thumb when choosing routes. Two common heuristics are:
- The southern route preference – Individuals favor paths going south over north, possibly due to mental associations with elevation.
- The initial segment strategy – Starting with a long, straight route segment, which can result in longer overall distances.
While these heuristics can simplify decision-making, they may not always lead to optimal route choices. Research has shown that navigators apply these heuristics even when they result in selecting longer routes1.
Elevation's Impact on Vehicle Range
Elevation changes significantly affect electric vehicle (EV) range. Uphill climbs require more power, reducing the distance an EV can travel on a single charge. PlugShare is a tool that incorporates elevation data to help EV drivers plan routes more efficiently. It allows users to analyze elevation profiles and plan charging stops accordingly, particularly useful for longer trips or routes with significant elevation changes.
For optimal use of PlugShare:
- Start route planning on a desktop browser
- Analyze the elevation profile before finalizing stops
- Consider your vehicle's specific capabilities
Manufacturers may provide additional resources for managing elevation challenges in their specific EV models.
Terrain and Environmental Considerations
Terrain factors such as elevation, slope, and soil type influence vehicle performance and route planning. Steeper grades increase energy consumption, while soil conditions can affect traction and efficiency. Real-time environmental data tools like TerraLens provide 2D and 3D mapping capabilities to assist with terrain analysis.
Effective route planning considers:
- Vehicle specifications in relation to terrain characteristics
- Weather conditions that can alter terrain properties
- Adaptable planning strategies for diverse landscapes
Understanding these factors allows for more informed decision-making when navigating complex environments.
Technological Tools for Elevation Analysis
Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) provide precise 3D representations of terrain. Esri's global elevation service offers tools for creating detailed topographical maps and visualizations in both 2D and 3D formats. TerraLens SDK enables real-time 3D mapping capabilities.
These tools support various applications, including:
- Risk assessment for natural hazards
- Urban planning
- Trail mapping
They allow for detailed analysis of gradients, cross-sections, and other terrain features, enhancing the accuracy of environmental planning and route selection across various landscapes.
Understanding the impact of elevation and terrain on vehicle performance enables more informed route planning decisions, potentially improving travel efficiency and safety. As technology advances, the integration of real-time data and sophisticated mapping tools will continue to enhance our ability to navigate complex environments effectively.
- Brunyé TT, Mahoney CR, Gardony AL, Taylor HA. North is up(hill): Route planning heuristics in real-world environments. Mem Cognit. 2010;38(6):700-712.