5 Unconventional Ways GPS can Add Value to Our Life
We all know that GPS or Global Positioning System had been invented expressly for military use but those early inventors had no idea how the technology is going to penetrate in all areas of life and come out as one of the most impactful inventions in human history. Practically, there is GPS in everywhere. Starting from our handheld devices to smartwatches to retail outlets to transport systems and vehicles to rescue helicopters, GPS is invincible to our life. But can you think of some unconventional and little-known ways GPS can add value to life? Well, here we introduce 5 such unconventional uses of GPS.
- Tracking kids and pets
- Guiding self-driving cars
- Remotely watching people with dementia
- Reaching smartphone users for HIV and birth control
- Tracking patient movements in asylums
A small GPS-enabled watch for your little one can be a nice birthday gift that will allow you track his movements and whereabouts. You can also track your pets by making them wear a nice looking belt with GPS sensors. Well, thanks to GPS those times are over when you become panicked about the whereabouts of your loved little one or your pet dog.
Self-driving cars have taken the GPS technology to a new height. Though the concept is still to be fully materialized in the form of a ready for the mass-market automobile, several auto giants already tested the car successfully and are destined to hit the market anytime within a couple of years. The driverless car works with the collaboration of a number of technologies including GPS, different types of sensors and advanced imaging technology.
A considerable portion of our elder population suffers from the loss of short time or long term memory termed clinically as dementia. To our dismay, this number is continuing to increase. On the other hands, the grown-up people of a family who should look after them are getting busier and more occupied. In this context, GPS-enabled remote monitoring came as a great blessing. Yes, several GPS technologies have been developed in recent times to monitor people back home so that dear ones can respond to their distress when required. GPS SmartSoles which is nothing but a pair of GPS-enabled footwear can send distress calls to caregivers and send an alarm in case the wearer goes beyond the designated area.
Young people often fall prey to unprotected sexual practices at a rampant rate. Public health officials all over the globe knowing this phenomenon is eager to spread sexual awareness among them. The fact is a high majority of these young people use at least one GPS enabled a mobile phone or both unwanted pregnancies and sexually-transmitted diseases to a great extent. A nice example has been set by the English city of Kent where people have been offered a free iPhone app in 2012 named Kent C Card. The app offers user guidance for getting free condoms in nearest local clinics besides advising them on sexual health
Taking control of the mentally retarded patients in asylums remains a big challenge for caregivers. At the same time, those people in their pathetic condition should also be given exposure to outside world and nature. How can you ensure their safety and monitor their whereabouts while allowing them free movements? Well, such a novel idea is made possible by GPS-enabled wearable devices like wristbands, waist belts or a pair of smart shoe.