iSled Features
Overview
The opening screen gives the user a quick synopsis of the recent snow cover conditions in Minnesota. This initial display shows the map of all Minnesota Snowmobile Trails overlayed on top of the snow cover detail. The map is updated weekly when an internet connection is present and we continue to work with snowmobile clubs around Minnesota to update our trail maps.
Minnesota Snowmobile Trails
We worked hard to get all of the trail maps for MN into the mobile application so that they are all available offline as well. This enables iSledMobile to be used whether the user is in cell phone range or not. We wanted to offer riders a trail map that could be used anywhere a paper trail map could be used.
Restaurants
We also give the rider an intuitive list of restaurants in MN based on the user’s GPS location. The rider simply pulls up the list and is able to leverage our compass feature to route to the nearest restaurant. The restaurant list gives the user a quick directional compass on the left that shows a list of restaurants and their general compass direction and distance from the user. The user can then tap on a particular restaurant and see a large compass rose to guide them to the restaurant while riding the trails. Further, if the user is on a cell network they can simply tap on the restaurant’s number to call them from the snowmobile trail. Likewise, the user can tap on the restaurants address to get a detailed Google street map if within a cell network. However, the cell / data connection is not necessary to be able to show and use the compass!
Fuel Finder
iSled gives the user a Fuel page where they can get a listing by relative distance and bearing to the nearest gas station. Again, the user can get the large compass rose, address and phone for the fuel station. However, we added the capability to “log a fuel stop”. This functionality came out of our work in the aviation space where we create aviation applications for pilots. As a pilot, it is important to know when you last fueled your plane so you can determine if you have enough fuel left to make it to your destination. It also helps to know how much you are spending and to note any great fuel stops where you can save money or get special fuel. With iSled, we give you the ability to log a fuel stop so you will know the last time you fueled your sled. It will help you keep track of what you’ve spent on fuel as well as note if the gas station is one that sells “ethanol free” fuel for antique snowmobiles.
We hope to get regular user feedback and integrate the improvements. We believe that as a community, all Minnesota snowmobilers can help us refine the application and make it better for everyone! We've created a forum where people can talk with us and one another and help us all promote our sport.