altimetrics

The main functionality is the visualization of a chart with the altimetry relative to a whatever route, set up by the user by means of the Google Maps interface.

We can interact with the map in a very intuitive way, thanks to the touchscreen of a smartphone or tablet. "Scroll" and "zoom" commands are enabled, and a button centering the map on the actual user position is also available.

The visualization can be choosen among a "classic", a "satellite" and a "hybrid" one, which combines the benefits of the other two.

Origin and destination can be selected by directly inserting their address in the apposite text boxes, or by means of the two green "markers" showing their position on the map. To move a "marker", we simply "drag & drop" it: we need to keep it pressed until it unlocks then, still keeping it pressed, to move it to the desired position and release it.

A few seconds after pressing "Calculate" button, a chart with the route altimetry is shown.

"Zoom" and "scroll" are available, allowing to enlarge and highlight the areas of interest.

The route is automatically subdivided into three portions. The middle one is coloured in blue, and can be modified by means of the commands above the chart: the red arrows allow to move its start or end positions forward or backward, while the seekbar can be used to adjust the resolution at which they are moved.

The slope associated to these three portions is shown in the chart legend, on the top right.

A red spot represents the last point selected by the user, through a simple touch on the screen, either on the chart or on the map. The relative details (altitude in m and distance from origin in km) are displayed at the bottom of the chart legend.

The address corresponding to the selected point is visualized in an apposite message.

The blue portion and the red spot are drawn not only on the altimetry, but also on the calculated route, making very easy to visually associate a particular elevation or slope to a location on the map.

At the chart top, the whole route length in km is reported, as well as the total drop in m.

To modify the route, or to set up a different one, "Return" button must be used, bringing back the user to the start page.

It is always calculated the fastest route, avoiding highways, ferries and tolls.

In case the route doesn't satisfy our needs, we should add one or more intermediate destinations (up to eight). It is sufficient to keep a point on map pressed for long, until a red "marker" appears. The new route will be forced to pass through this point.

The app also allows to save current origin, destination and intermediate points.

A similar online service is available at http://paooolino.altervista.org/elevation-chart/.