JP2006177735A - Navigation device, navigation method, and navigation program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform proper rest guide during driving. <P>SOLUTION: This device is characterized by including a continuous driving information acquisition part 101 for acquiring information on a time and a distance wherein a vehicle is driven continuously (hereafter referred to as 'continuous driving information'); a congestion information acquisition part 102 for acquiring information on the congestion state relative to the present position of the vehicle (hereafter referred to as 'congestion information'); an announcement part 107 for performing announcement on the rest guide, based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition part 101 and the congestion information acquired by the congestion information acquisition part 102. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a navigation device, a navigation method, and a navigation program for guiding breaks. However, the use of the present invention is not limited to the above-described navigation device, navigation method, and navigation program.

  Conventionally, a navigation apparatus that searches for a route to a destination or guides a route is provided with a break guide that prompts the user to take a break every time the driving time elapses or the driving distance exceeds a predetermined distance. The function is installed. Long-term or long-distance continuous operation causes fatigue to the user and causes traffic accidents. For this reason, the navigation apparatus provides break guidance by a break guidance function as part of a safe driving encouragement measure.

  In the break guide function, the function cannot be utilized unless the user takes a break by the break guide. For this reason, it is necessary to provide break guidance at an appropriate timing, place, and content.

  For this reason, the traveling frequency is determined based on the traveling history of the vehicle, and the frequency of the break guidance is changed according to the determined traveling frequency. For example, a technique is disclosed in which the interval for performing break guidance is shortened when the traveling frequency is low, and the interval for performing rest guidance is increased when the traveling frequency is high (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2002-286474 A

  However, in the invention according to Patent Document 1 described above, it has not been possible to provide break guidance in consideration of traffic information on the route. For example, even if there is no place where you can take a break, such as a highway in a traffic jam, the user will not be able to take a break even if a break is provided. One problem is that it cannot be done.

  Further, when the break guidance is performed every time the predetermined time elapses, the break guidance is performed when the predetermined time has elapsed even though the vehicle is hardly traveling due to a traffic jam. Even in such a case, the problem that it is not appropriate break guidance for the user is given as an example.

  In addition, despite having reached the vicinity of the destination, the break guidance was provided according to the required time or distance from the start of driving. Such a break guide cannot be said to be effective information for the user, and there is a problem that the user cannot effectively use the break guide function.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the navigation device according to the invention of claim 1 acquires information on time or distance during which the vehicle is continuously driven (hereinafter referred to as “continuous driving information”). Continuous driving information acquisition means, traffic information acquisition means for acquiring information (hereinafter referred to as “congestion information”) relating to the traffic congestion status at the current position of the vehicle, continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition means, It is characterized by comprising notifying means for notifying about break guidance based on the traffic jam information acquired by the traffic jam information acquiring means.

  The navigation device according to claim 5 is set by route search means for searching for a route to the destination, break point setting means for setting a break point in the middle of the route, and the break point setting means. Notification means for providing information regarding break guidance at a resting point, and route traffic jam information acquiring means for acquiring information on traffic jam status in the route (hereinafter referred to as “route traffic jam information”), wherein the resting point setting unit includes: The rest point is newly set based on the route congestion information acquired by the route congestion information acquisition means.

  In addition, the navigation method according to the invention of claim 8 includes a continuous driving information acquisition step of acquiring information (hereinafter referred to as “continuous driving information”) related to time or distance during which the vehicle is continuously driven, A traffic information acquisition step for acquiring information related to a traffic congestion status (hereinafter referred to as “traffic information”), continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition step, and traffic information acquired by the traffic information acquisition step And a notification step of performing notification regarding break guidance based on the above.

  The navigation method according to the invention of claim 9 is set by a route search step for searching for a route to a destination, a break point setting step for setting a break point in the middle of the route, and the break point setting step. And a route congestion information acquisition step of acquiring information on the traffic congestion status in the route (hereinafter referred to as “route congestion information”), and the break point setting step includes: The rest point is newly set based on the route congestion information acquired by the route congestion information acquisition step.

  A navigation program according to a tenth aspect of the invention causes a computer to execute the navigation method according to the eighth or ninth aspect.

  Exemplary embodiments of a navigation device, a navigation method, and a navigation program according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Embodiment)
(Functional configuration of navigation device 100)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the navigation device according to the embodiment. First, the functional configuration of the navigation device according to the embodiment will be described. The navigation device 100 includes a continuous driving information acquisition unit 101, a traffic jam information acquisition unit 102, a break point information acquisition unit 103, a route search unit 104, a route traffic jam information acquisition unit 105, a break point setting unit 106, and a notification. Unit 107.

  The continuous driving information acquisition unit 101 acquires information (hereinafter referred to as “continuous driving information”) related to time or distance during which the vehicle is continuously driven. The time during which the vehicle is continuously driven is, for example, the elapsed time from the start of driving during driving. In addition, the distance in which the vehicle is continuously driven is, for example, a distance from the driving start point during driving to the current position of the vehicle.

  For obtaining the time during which the vehicle is continuously driven, for example, the time at the start of driving is stored, and the difference from the current time is calculated. Further, the distance at which the vehicle is continuously driven is acquired, for example, by taking the difference between the value of the total travel distance at the start of driving and the value of the total travel distance at the current position. Alternatively, the difference between the vehicle position at the start of driving and the current vehicle position may be obtained using the vehicle position obtained by receiving radio waves from GPS satellites.

  The traffic jam information acquisition unit 102 acquires information (hereinafter referred to as “traffic jam information”) related to the traffic jam status at the current position of the vehicle. The traffic jam information is, for example, information on whether the vehicle is currently involved in traffic jam or information on whether traffic jam has occurred ahead of the current position in the traveling direction.

  The break point information acquisition unit 103 acquires information related to the break point. The information regarding the break point is, for example, position information of facilities (convenience store, family restaurant, etc.) suitable for a break. Furthermore, the information which shows the congestion condition of a rest point may be included.

  The route search unit 104 searches for a route to the destination. In addition, the route traffic information acquisition unit 105 acquires information related to the traffic status on the route (hereinafter referred to as “route traffic information”). The acquisition of route congestion information is performed by, for example, receiving VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) information and obtaining the congestion information on the route searched by the route search unit 104.

  The break point setting unit 106 sets a break point in the middle of the route. The break point may be a place that has been driven for a predetermined time or a distance or more, and the break point may be set based on the information about the break point acquired by the break point information acquisition unit 103.

  The resting point setting unit 106 newly sets a resting point based on the route traffic jam information acquired by the route traffic jam information acquiring unit 105. For example, if there is a traffic jam on the route and a predetermined time or more elapses before reaching the set break point, the break point is changed to the front of the route and reset. The rest point may be reset only when the remaining distance from the current position to the destination or the remaining required time is equal to or longer than a predetermined value.

  The notification unit 107 performs a notification regarding break guidance based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition unit 101 and the traffic jam information acquired by the traffic jam information acquisition unit 102. The notification unit 107 determines whether the current position is congested based on the traffic jam information based on the continuous driving information and the traffic jam information, for example, when the continuous driving time or distance exceeds a predetermined value. . When the current position is not congested, a break guide is provided, and when the current position is congested, a break guide is not provided.

  In addition, when the information about the break point is acquired by the break point information acquisition unit 103, the notification unit 107 notifies the information about the break point acquired by the break point information acquisition unit 103. When a route to the destination is searched by the route search unit 104, based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition unit 101 and the route traffic information acquired by the route traffic information acquisition unit 105. To provide information about break guidance.

  In addition, when a route to the destination is searched by the route search unit 104, only when the distance from the current position to the destination or the required time is not less than a predetermined time, the notification regarding the break guidance is performed. Good.

In addition, when a break point is set by the break point setting unit 106, the notification unit 107 performs a notification regarding break guidance at the break point set by the break point setting unit 106.
(Break guidance processing procedure of the navigation device 100)

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when performing break guidance during driving of the vehicle. First, continuous operation information is acquired by the continuous operation information acquisition unit 101 (step S201). Next, the traffic jam information or the route traffic jam information is acquired by the traffic jam information acquisition unit 102 or the route traffic jam information acquisition unit 105 (step S202).

  And the alerting | reporting part 107 judges whether rest guidance is performed based on continuous driving information and traffic jam information (or route traffic jam information) (step S203). When performing break guidance (step S203: Yes), the break point information acquisition part 103 acquires the information regarding a break point (step S204). And the information regarding a break point is alert | reported (step S205), and the process by this flowchart is complete | finished. On the other hand, when the break guidance is not performed (step S203: No), the process returns to step S201, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  As described above, according to the navigation device 100, since it is determined whether to perform break guidance based on traffic jam information (or route traffic jam information) in addition to continuous driving information, break guidance is provided at an appropriate timing and place. Can be done. In addition, it is possible to provide the user with location information on facilities suitable for breaks and information indicating the congestion status of break points. Thereby, the break guidance function of the navigation apparatus 100 can be utilized more.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when a break point is set in advance and break guidance is performed. First, the route search unit 104 searches for a route to the destination (step S301). Next, a break point is set by the break point setting unit 106 (step S302). The notification unit 107 determines whether it has arrived at the break point (step S303), and when it has arrived at the break point (step S303: Yes), provides break guidance (step S304), and ends the processing according to this flowchart.

  On the other hand, when it does not arrive at the break point (step S303: No), the route congestion information is acquired by the route congestion information acquisition unit 105 (step S305). Then, the break point setting unit 106 determines whether to newly set a break point (step S306). When the rest point is newly set (step S306: Yes), the rest point is newly set (step S307), the process returns to step S303, and the subsequent processing is repeated. On the other hand, when the break point is not newly set (step S306: No), the process returns to step S303, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  As described above, according to the navigation device 100, even when a break point is set on the route in advance and the break guidance is performed, the break point can be newly set based on the route congestion information. Thereby, break guidance can be performed at an appropriate timing and place, and the break guidance function of the navigation device 100 can be further utilized.

(Hardware configuration of navigation device)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration of the navigation device according to the embodiment. First, the hardware configuration of the navigation apparatus 400 according to the embodiment will be described. In the following first to third embodiments, the hardware configuration of the navigation device 400 is the same.

  In FIG. 4, a navigation device 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, an HDD (hard disk drive) 404, an HD (hard disk) 405, a CD / DVD drive 406, and a CD as an example of a removable recording medium. / DVD 407, input I / F (interface) 408, input key 409, remote controller 410, video I / F (interface) 411, display (or touch panel) 412, audio I / F 413, speaker 414 , A microphone 415, a communication I / F (interface) 416, a GPS receiver 417, a moving speed sensor 418, an angular velocity sensor 419, a travel distance sensor 420, and an inclination sensor 421. Each component 401 to 421 is connected by a bus 430.

  Here, the CPU 401 governs overall control of the navigation device 400. The ROM 402 stores a program such as a control program. The RAM 403 is used as a work area for the CPU 401. The HDD 404 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the HD 405 according to the control of the CPU 401. The HD 405 stores data written under the control of the HDD 404.

  The CD / DVD drive 406 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the CD / DVD 407 according to the control of the CPU 401. The CD / DVD 407 is a detachable recording medium from which data recorded under the control of the CD / DVD drive 406 is read. In addition, a writable recording medium can be used as the CD / DVD 407. In addition to the CD / DVD 407, the removable recording medium may be a CD-ROM (CD-R, CD-RW), MO, memory card, or the like.

  An input I / F 408 inputs data transmitted from an input key 409 for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, and the like, or a remote controller 410 including a part or all of the input keys 409. Although not shown, an output I / F is provided as necessary, and a scanner that optically reads characters and images and a printer that prints characters and images can be connected via the output I / F. . Furthermore, data from each sensor 418 to 421 described later is input.

  The video I / F 411 is connected to a video display (or touch panel) 412. Specifically, the video I / F 411 includes, for example, a graphic controller that controls the entire display (or touch panel) 412 and a buffer memory such as a VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores image information that can be displayed immediately. , And a control IC that controls display of the display (or touch panel) 412 based on image data output from the graphic controller.

  The display (or touch panel) 412 displays icons, cursors, menus, windows, or various data such as characters and images. As this display 412, for example, a CRT, a TFT liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or the like can be adopted. Further, pressing / non-pressing of the touch panel 412 is detected, and data is input to the input I / F 408.

  The audio I / F 413 is connected to a speaker for audio output. Specifically, the audio I / F 413 includes, for example, a D / A converter that performs D / A conversion of audio digital data, an amplifier that amplifies an audio analog signal output from the D / A converter, and audio analog data And an A / D converter that performs A / D conversion. The speaker 414 outputs sound. The microphone 415 inputs sound from the outside.

  The communication I / F 416 is a communication module that performs wireless communication with a communication server (not shown) via a base station (not shown). The communication I / F 416 has a configuration similar to that of a general-purpose mobile phone, for example, and can adopt a PDC (Personal Digital Cellular Communication System) system, a PHS (Personal Handyphone System) system TDMA, TDD, or CDMA configuration. . The communication I / F 416 has a configuration in which a general-purpose mobile phone and an input I / F 408 are wired-connected (interface connection), or a general-purpose mobile phone and an input I / F 408 that have a weak wireless transmission / reception unit. It is good also as adopting.

  In the present embodiment, road traffic information such as traffic congestion and traffic regulation is received via the communication I / F 416. The reception of the road traffic information via the communication I / F 416 may be performed at the timing when the road traffic information is distributed from the VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) center, or the road traffic information is periodically transmitted to the VICS center. You may do it by requesting. The communication I / F 416 can be realized as, for example, an FM tuner, a VICS / beacon receiver, and other communication devices.

  Although detailed description is omitted because it is a well-known technique, “VICS” is a real-time transmission of road traffic information such as traffic jams and traffic regulations edited and processed at the VICS Center. This is an information communication system that displays characters and figures on an in-vehicle device. As a method of transmitting road traffic information (VICS information) edited and processed at the VICS center to the navigation device 400, there is a method of using “beacon” and “FM multiplex broadcasting” installed on each road. “Beacons” include “radio wave beacons” mainly used on expressways and “optical beacons” used on major general roads. When “FM multiplex broadcasting” is used, road traffic information in a wide area can be received. When using a “beacon”, it is possible to receive necessary road traffic information at a location where the vehicle is located, such as detailed information on the most recent road based on the vehicle location.

  The GPS receiver 417 receives radio waves from GPS satellites (not shown) and obtains the current position of the navigation device 400 main body. Specifically, for example, when the navigation apparatus 400 is provided in a vehicle or the like, the current position where the vehicle or the like is located is acquired. For example, when the navigation device 400 is carried by a person, the current position where the person is located is acquired. GPS is an abbreviation for Global Positioning System, and is a system for accurately obtaining a position on the ground by receiving radio waves from four or more satellites. In addition, since it is a well-known technique, detailed description about GPS is abbreviate | omitted. The GPS receiver 417 includes an antenna for receiving radio waves from a satellite, a tuner that demodulates the received radio waves, an arithmetic circuit that calculates a position based on the demodulated data, and the like.

  In the present embodiment, the GPS positioning data obtained by the GPS receiver 417 and the absolute direction data of the traveling direction of the own vehicle are obtained from the moving speed sensor 418, the angular speed sensor 419, the travel distance sensor 420, and the inclination sensor 421. The current position is obtained by correcting with data. This current position includes data regarding speed and acceleration, in addition to the three-dimensional information (longitude, latitude, height) of the navigation device 400 and the traveling direction.

(Functional configuration of navigation device 400)
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the navigation device. Next, a functional configuration of the navigation device 400 will be described. In the following first to third embodiments, the functional configuration of the navigation device 400 is the same.

  The navigation device 400 includes a travel time acquisition unit 501, a map information storage unit 502, a break point extraction unit 503, a current position acquisition unit 504, a point input unit 505, a route search unit 506, and a route guidance unit 507. , A VICS information acquisition unit 508, a past traffic jam information extraction unit 509, a traffic jam judgment unit 510, a break spot setting unit 511, a break guidance notification unit 512, a display unit 513, and a voice output unit 514. The

  The travel time acquisition unit 501 acquires an elapsed time (continuous travel time) from the start of travel. The travel time acquisition unit 501 stores, for example, the time when the vehicle starts to move, and acquires the continuous travel time by calculating the difference from the current time. The continuous running time is calculated by resetting each time a break is taken. Here, the determination of whether or not a break has occurred can be arbitrarily set, for example, when a vehicle is stopped for 30 minutes or more is regarded as a break. Specifically, the travel time acquisition unit 501 realizes its function by causing the CPU 401 to execute a program recorded in the ROM 402, the RAM 403, the HD 405, the CD / DVD 407, and the like shown in FIG.

  The map information storage unit 502 stores map information. The map information includes background data representing features (features) such as buildings, rivers, and the ground surface, and road shape data representing the shape of the road. The map information is displayed two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally by a display unit 513 described later. Drawn. The background data includes background shape data representing the shape of the background and background type data representing the type of the background. The background shape data includes, for example, feature representative points, polylines, polygons, feature coordinates, and the like. The background type data includes, for example, text data representing the name, address, and telephone number of a feature, and type data of a feature such as a building, river, or ground surface. Among the features, facilities provided for a predetermined purpose, such as “gas station” and “convenience store”, are classified according to their types. Then, the representative point and coordinate data of the feature and the genre data are associated with each other.

  The road shape data is a road network having a plurality of nodes and links connecting the nodes. The node indicates an intersection where a plurality of roads such as a three-way road such as a T-shaped road, a cross road, and a five-way road intersect. The link indicates a road. Some links have shape interpolation points, and curved roads can be expressed by these shape interpolation points. The road shape data further includes traffic condition data. The traffic condition data includes, for example, the presence or absence of signals and pedestrian crossings, the presence or absence of highway doorways and junctions, the length (distance) of each link, vehicle width, direction of travel, road type (highway) , Toll roads, general roads, etc.).

  The traffic condition data stores past traffic information obtained by statistically processing past traffic information based on seasons, days of the week, large holidays, and time. This makes it possible to predict traffic jams that will occur in the future as well as traffic jams that actually occur. Specifically, the map information storage unit 502 realizes its function by, for example, the RAM 403 or the HDD 405 shown in FIG. Note that the map information storage unit 502 may be provided outside the navigation device 400. In that case, the navigation apparatus 400 acquires map information via a network, for example by communication I / F416 shown in FIG.

  The rest point extraction unit 503 extracts a facility or a place (stop zone or the like) that becomes a rest point around the current position or an arbitrary point from the information stored in the map information storage unit 502. For example, facilities that can be used as resting points, such as convenience stores, family restaurants, and service areas (SA) on highways, where vehicles can be stopped, places where you can shop, and toilets are assumed. . In addition, the facility that the break point extraction unit 503 extracts as a break point may be designated as a facility of a specific genre. In the following description, it is assumed that a convenience store is designated as a facility to be extracted as a break point. Specifically, the break point extraction unit 503 realizes its function by the CPU 401 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402, RAM 403, HD 405, CD / DVD 407 and the like shown in FIG.

  The current position acquisition unit 504 acquires current position information of the navigation device 400. Specifically, for example, the GPS positioning data obtained by the GPS receiver 417 shown in FIG. 4 and the absolute direction data of the traveling direction of the own vehicle are used as a moving speed sensor 418, an angular speed sensor 419, a travel distance sensor 420, and an inclination sensor 421. The current position information is obtained by correcting with each data obtained from (1). This current position information includes three-dimensional information (longitude, latitude, height) of the navigation device 400 and the traveling direction, as well as data related to speed and acceleration. Specifically, the current position acquisition unit 504 realizes its function by, for example, the GPS receiver 417 and the input I / F 408 shown in FIG.

  The point input unit 505 receives an input of an arbitrary point. The user can set a starting point, a destination, a resting point, a transit point, and the like of a route set by the route searching unit 506, which will be described later, by inputting an arbitrary point to the point input unit 505. The point is input, for example, by designating an arbitrary point of map information displayed on the display unit 513 described later. Further, it may be performed by inputting information specifying any one point of map information such as address, latitude / longitude. Specifically, the point input unit 505 realizes its function by, for example, the input I / F 408 shown in FIG.

  The route search unit 506 searches for a route to the destination guided by the route guide unit 507. The route search unit 506 searches for a route to the destination input from the point input unit 505 using the map information stored in the map information storage unit 502. When a plurality of routes are searched, the route may be the most efficient / economic route or a route that guides the route selected by the user. Further, in consideration of traffic jam information acquired by a VICS information acquisition unit 508 described later, a route with a shorter time to reach the destination may be searched. Specifically, the route search unit 506 realizes its function by causing the CPU 401 to execute a program recorded in the ROM 402, the RAM 403, the HD 405, the CD / DVD 407, and the like shown in FIG.

  The route guidance unit 507 guides the traveling direction of the vehicle along the route set by the route search unit 506 based on the current position of the navigation device 400 acquired by the current position acquisition unit 504. Specifically, a route set by the route search unit 506 is displayed on the display unit 513, which will be described later, together with map information, and traveling direction guidance and traffic information along the route are displayed based on the current position of the navigation device 400. Let In addition, the voice output unit 514, which will be described later, outputs guidance such as traveling direction guidance and traffic information by voice. Specifically, the route guiding unit 507 realizes its function by causing the CPU 401 to execute a program recorded in the ROM 402, the RAM 403, the HD 405, the CD / DVD 407, etc. shown in FIG.

  The VICS information acquisition unit 508 receives in real time road traffic information (VICS information) such as traffic jams and traffic regulations edited and processed in a VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) center. VICS information provides information on traffic congestion, construction, etc. for most highways and urban roads, as well as a function for displaying the parking area congestion in the service area. Congestion information is divided into roads for each predetermined section, and the congestion information is distributed for each section. VICS information is acquired by receiving beacon signals transmitted from FM multiplex broadcasting or a transmitter on the road. Alternatively, the VICS information may be acquired by connecting to a server. Specifically, the VICS information acquisition unit 508 realizes its function by, for example, the communication I / F 416 shown in FIG.

  The past traffic information extraction unit 509 extracts traffic information at an arbitrary point from the past traffic information stored in the map information storage unit 502. The traffic information at an arbitrary point is statistically processed based on the season, day of the week, large holiday, time, etc., and the past traffic information extraction unit 509 acquires the traffic information that best matches the condition to be acquired. Specifically, the past traffic information extraction unit 509 realizes its function by causing the CPU 401 to execute a program recorded in the ROM 402, RAM 403, HD 405, CD / DVD 407, etc. shown in FIG.

  The traffic jam determination unit 510 determines whether there is traffic jam on the current position of the vehicle and the route along which the vehicle travels. The determination as to whether or not there is a traffic jam at the current position of the vehicle is made based on, for example, the transition of the traveling speed of the vehicle or the number of brakes. In addition, among the VICS information acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508, the traffic jam information of a location corresponding to the current position acquired by the current position acquisition unit 504 may be used.

  The determination as to whether or not there is a traffic jam on the route on which the vehicle is traveling is made based on the traffic jam information on the route guided by the route guidance unit 507 among the VICS information acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508, for example. Specifically, the traffic jam judgment unit 510 realizes its function by causing the CPU 401 to execute a program recorded in the ROM 402, RAM 403, HD 405, CD / DVD 407, etc. shown in FIG.

  The break point setting unit 511 sets a break point on the route searched by the route search unit 506. When the route search unit 506 searches for a route, the break point setting unit 511 uses the VICS information acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508 and the past traffic information extracted by the past traffic information extraction unit 509 to detect the vehicle. The time required to travel the route is calculated. Then, the break point setting unit 511 sets a point where the required time from the start of traveling is a predetermined time as a break point. The predetermined time is an interval for taking a break (break interval), and can be arbitrarily designated by the user.

  The break point setting unit 511 sets the facility extracted by the break point extraction unit 503 as a break point. When a plurality of facilities are extracted by the route extraction unit 503, a list may be displayed to allow the user to select. Furthermore, the break point may be set by the user specifying a facility around the route using the point input unit 505 or the like. In the present embodiment, the break point is set based on the continuous running time, but may be set based on the continuous driving distance (continuous running distance).

  In addition, the break point setting unit 511 sequentially estimates the time required to reach the break point from the traffic jam information acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508 even during traveling, and resets the break point as appropriate. . For example, when the break interval is specified as 2 hours, the convenience store around the point where the required time to reach 2 hours is extracted by the break point extraction unit 503 based on the VICS information and the past traffic information at the time of departure. To do. Then, the extracted convenience store is set as a break point.

  If the time required to reach the convenience store set as a break point after the start of driving is expected to be 3 hours from the start of driving, the time required from the start of driving on the route is 2 hours. The convenience store around the point is extracted by the break point extraction unit 503, and the extracted convenience store is reset to the break point. In addition, if the time required to reach the convenience store set as a resting point is expected to be one and a half hours from the start of travel, the time required from the start of travel on the route is 2 hours. The convenience store around the point is extracted by the break point extraction unit 503, and the extracted convenience store is reset to the break point.

  Specifically, for example, the break point setting unit 511 realizes its function by the CPU 401 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402, the RAM 403, the HD 405, the CD / DVD 407, etc. shown in FIG.

  The break guidance notifying unit 512 outputs information related to the break guidance to the display unit 513 and the audio output unit 514 described later at a predetermined timing. Hereinafter, when the information about the break guidance output by the break guidance notifying unit 512 is output as an image and voice by the display unit 513 and the voice output unit 514 is referred to as “performing break guidance”. The predetermined timing is, for example, when the continuous travel time acquired by the travel time acquisition unit 501 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined time. In addition, when a break point is set by the break point setting unit 511, the current position acquired by the current position acquisition unit 504 is when the break point is reached. When it is necessary to change the lane for entering the break point, the break guide may be provided when a certain distance is reached from the break point.

  Moreover, the break guidance alerting | reporting part 512 does not perform break guidance, when the required time to the destination is below predetermined. This is because it may be preferable to continue driving rather than taking a break when reaching the vicinity of the destination. Further, when the break point is congested, the break guidance may not be performed. For example, the VICS information acquisition unit 508 acquires a congestion state of a parking lot such as a service area. With this information, when the rest point is congested, the rest guidance may not be performed, and the rest guide may be performed at another uncongested point.

  The break guidance notifying unit 512 holds break guidance data that has been patterned in advance as information related to the break guidance. Then, break guidance is performed according to information on the surrounding break points extracted by the break point extraction unit 503, the current position of the vehicle determined by the congestion determination unit 510, or traffic congestion information on the route on which the vehicle travels, and the like. Change timing and content.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of break guidance data. The break guidance notification unit 512 switches the break guidance pattern according to traffic jam information during driving. In addition, in words (D) to (J) of each pattern, a simple word / phrase corresponding to the setting of traffic jam information or a break point is set. For example, the pattern A is a comment for a break guidance that is performed when driving continuously for a predetermined time. In (D), the distance to the break point is set, and in (E), the facility name extracted as the break point is set.

  The pattern B is a comment that prompts a break before the traffic jam when the traffic jam occurs on the route. In (F), a distance to a traffic jam occurrence point on the route is set. Pattern C is a comment when changing a break point when the break point is congested. (G) is the distance to the resting point (H) before the change, (H) is the facility name of the resting point before the change, (I) is the distance to the resting point (J) after the change, In (J), the facility name of the rest point after the change is set.

  Specifically, the break guidance notification unit 512 realizes its function by the CPU 401 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402, the RAM 403, the HD 405, the CD / DVD 407, etc. shown in FIG.

  The display unit 513 displays and outputs the map information, the searched route, the current position, the traveling direction, and the like under the control of the route guiding unit 507. In addition, a notification about break guidance notified by the break guide notification unit 512 is displayed and output. Specifically, the display unit 513 realizes its function with, for example, the video I / F 411 and the display 412 illustrated in FIG. 4.

  The voice output unit 514 outputs the map information, the searched route, the current position, the traveling direction, and the like under the control of the route guiding unit 507. In addition, a notification related to the break guide notified by the break guide notification unit 512 is output by voice. Specifically, the audio output unit 514 realizes its function by, for example, the audio I / F 413 and the speaker 414 shown in FIG.

  In the configuration of the navigation device 100 according to the embodiment, the continuous operation information acquisition unit 101 is performed by the travel time acquisition unit 501, the traffic jam information acquisition unit 102 is acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508, the past traffic jam information extraction unit 509, and the traffic jam determination. Unit 510, break point information acquisition unit 103 by break point extraction unit 503, route search unit 104 by route search unit 506, route traffic jam information acquisition unit 105 by VICS information acquisition unit 508, past traffic jam information extraction unit 509, By the traffic jam judgment unit 510, the break point setting unit 106 is realized by the break point setting unit 511, and the notification unit 107 is realized by the break guide notification unit 512, the display unit 513, and the voice output unit 514.

(Break Guidance Processing Procedure by the Break Guidance Notification Unit 512)
Next, a processing procedure when the break guidance notification unit 512 provides break guidance during route guidance will be described. The break guidance notifying unit 512 provides break guidance when driving is performed continuously for a predetermined time or when a preset break point is reached. Below, the process procedure in the case of performing break guidance for every predetermined time is each demonstrated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when a break guide is provided every predetermined time. First, the break guidance notification unit 512 determines whether the vehicle has been continuously operated for a predetermined time or longer based on the continuous travel time acquired by the travel time acquisition unit 501 (step S701).

  If the vehicle has been continuously operated for a predetermined time or more (step S701: Yes), it is determined whether the vehicle is involved in a traffic jam based on the judgment by the traffic jam judgment unit 510 (step S702). Further, when the vehicle has not been continuously operated for a predetermined time or longer (step S701: No), the system waits until the vehicle is continuously operated for a predetermined time or longer.

  If it is not involved in a traffic jam (step S702: No), it is determined whether the required time to the destination is a predetermined time or more (step S703). If the required time to the destination is greater than or equal to the predetermined time (step S703: Yes), the rest point extraction unit 503 searches for a rest point around (step S704). Then, the position or name of the searched break point is displayed and output by the display unit 513 or the audio output unit 514 to provide break guidance (step S705), and the processing according to this flowchart ends.

  On the other hand, when it is involved in a traffic jam (step S702: Yes), it waits until the traffic jam judging unit 510 judges that the traffic jam has been cleared. Note that an upper limit of the waiting time is set in advance, and if the traffic jam is not resolved even after a certain time has elapsed, a break guide may be provided even during the traffic jam. If the required time to the destination is not greater than or equal to the predetermined time (step S703: No), the process according to this flowchart is terminated without searching for a break point and performing break guidance.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen when performing break guidance in step S705. In the figure, a triangular mark 801 indicating the current position of the vehicle and a mark 802 indicating a convenience store are displayed as a resting point around the display unit 513. A flag 803 indicating a break point is displayed on the mark 802. Then, a comment 810 prompting for a break is displayed, "There is a convenience store on the left one kilometer. Would you like to take a break?" A comment 810 is obtained by changing the comment of the pattern A shown in FIG. 6 according to the situation. At the same time, the voice output unit 514 outputs a voice having the same content as the comment 810. Thereby, the user can know the timing and place where a break should be taken.

  As described above, in the navigation device 400 according to the first embodiment, when the vehicle is involved in a traffic jam, the break guidance is not performed even if the continuous operation is performed for a predetermined time or more. If you are involved in a traffic jam, traffic on the road is stagnant. . According to the first embodiment, the frequency of the user performing a break due to the break guidance can be improved by performing the break guidance while avoiding being involved in the traffic jam.

  In the first embodiment, when the break guidance is performed every predetermined time, the break guidance is performed in consideration of the traffic jam information at the current position of the vehicle. In the second embodiment, when a route to a destination is set in advance, a break guidance is performed based on traffic jam information on the route. As described above, if you are involved in a traffic jam, you may not be able to take a break even if you want to take a break. For this reason, when there is a traffic jam at a predetermined break interval, a break guidance is provided before the traffic jam section or after exiting the traffic jam section.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the case of performing break guidance in consideration of traffic jam information on the route. First, the route search unit 506 searches for a route to the destination (step S901) and starts traveling (step S902). The traffic jam determination unit 510 determines whether there is a traffic jam location on the travel route (step S903).

  When there is a traffic jam location on the route (step S903: Yes), the break point setting unit 511 determines whether a predetermined time or more has elapsed before the traffic jam is cleared (step S904). The time required for exiting the traffic jam is determined from the length of the traffic jam included in the VICS information, past traffic jam information, and the like. Further, the predetermined time or more is, for example, a time that is equal to or more than the upper limit of the interval for performing break guidance determined by the user.

  When a predetermined time or more elapses before exiting the traffic jam (step S904: Yes), the break guidance notification unit 512 provides a break guidance before the traffic jam (step S905), and the processing according to this flowchart is terminated. On the other hand, if a predetermined time or more does not elapse before the traffic jam is cleared (step S904: No), the break guidance is provided after the traffic jam is cleared (step S906), and the processing according to this flowchart ends. In addition, you may perform the break guidance performed at this time using the break point extracted by the break point extraction part 503. FIG.

  If there is no traffic jam on the route (step S903: No), a break guidance is provided after traveling for a predetermined time (step S907), and the processing according to this flowchart ends.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen when the break guidance is performed before the traffic jam in step S905. When a predetermined time or more elapses before exiting the traffic jam as in step S905, a break guide is provided before the traffic jam. A triangular mark 1001 indicates the current position of the vehicle. A thick line 1002 on the route indicates a traffic jam location. A flag is displayed in the service area (SA) 1003 as a resting point in front of the congested part. Then, “There is a 10-kilometer traffic jam. Please take a break.” Since there is a traffic jam ahead, a comment 1010 that prompts you to take a break early is displayed.

  As described above, in the navigation device 400 according to the second embodiment, when it is determined that there is a traffic jam on the route, depending on the time to exit the traffic jam, a break guide is given before entering the traffic jam or the traffic jam is reduced. Determine if you want to take a break after leaving. As mentioned above, it is often impossible to take a break while being involved in a traffic jam. According to the second embodiment, the break guidance is performed at a more appropriate timing and place by using the time to exit the traffic jam section on the route.

  In the first and second embodiments, a point where break guidance is performed is determined based on traffic jam information during driving. In the third embodiment, a configuration in which a break point is set in advance will be described. When the navigation device 400 searches for a route to the destination, the required time to each point in the route can be calculated based on traffic jam information acquired by the VICS information acquisition unit 508. Thereby, the facility around the point that becomes the break interval is set in advance as a break point.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for providing break guidance at a preset break point. First, the route search unit 506 searches for a route to the destination (step S1101). Next, the break point setting unit 511 acquires route congestion information of the searched route (step S1102), and calculates a point where the continuous running time becomes a predetermined time (step S1103).

  In addition, the break point extraction unit 503 acquires information on the break points around the point where the continuous running time is a predetermined time (step S1104). Specifically, the location information of facilities suitable for a break around is extracted. Then, the break point setting unit 511 sets a facility around the position where the continuous running time is a predetermined time as a break point (step S1105). This is the process before the vehicle starts to travel.

  When traveling is started (step S1106), the break guidance notifying unit 512 determines whether it has arrived at the break point (step S1107). If it has arrived at the break point (step S1107: Yes), the break guide notifying unit In 512, a break guidance is provided (step S1108), and the processing according to this flowchart ends.

  On the other hand, when it does not arrive at the break point (step S1107: No), route congestion information is acquired from the VICS information acquisition unit 508 or the like (step S1109), and the break point setting unit 511 changes the required time to the break point. Is determined (step S1110). If the required time has changed (step S1110: Yes), it is further determined whether the required time to the destination is a predetermined time or more (step S1111).

  If the required time to the destination is greater than or equal to the predetermined time (step S1111: Yes), the break point setting unit 511 resets the break point (step S1112), returns to step S1107, and repeats the subsequent processing. At this time, you may alert | report that the rest point was reset. If the change in the required time is less than or equal to a certain value, the break point may not be reset and the break guidance may be performed at the break point set in step S1105.

  On the other hand, when the required time to the break point does not change (step S1110: No) and when the required time to the destination is less than or equal to a predetermined value (step S1111: No), the break point setting unit 511 selects the break point. Without resetting, the process returns to step S1107, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  As described above, in the third embodiment, a resting point is set in advance, and when the required time to the resting point changes due to traffic jam information on the route, the resting point is reset. If the required time to the destination is less than or equal to the predetermined time, priority is given to arrival at the destination without resetting the break point. By setting the break point in advance, the user can grasp the drive plan in advance. In addition, it is possible to provide break guidance at an appropriate timing and place by resetting the break point according to the traffic jam information.

  As described above, according to the navigation devices according to the first to third embodiments, the break guidance can be performed at an appropriate timing by performing the break guidance based on the traffic jam information. For this reason, the frequency with which a user takes a break due to the break guidance can be improved, and the break guidance function of the navigation device can be utilized.

  In addition, it is possible to obtain information on the surrounding break points and provide break guidance. For this reason, the information of the point suitable for a break can be alert | reported and the break guidance of an appropriate content can be performed. In addition, by obtaining information on the congestion status of the break point included in the traffic jam information, it is possible to provide break guidance at an appropriate break point.

  The navigation method described in this embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the navigation apparatus concerning embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of performing a rest guidance during driving | operation of a vehicle. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of setting a break point beforehand and performing break guidance. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the navigation apparatus concerning an Example. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a navigation apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of break guidance data. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of performing break guidance for every predetermined time. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen at the time of performing break guidance in step S705. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence in the case of performing break guidance in consideration of the traffic jam information on a route. It is a figure which shows an example of a display screen in the case of performing break guidance in front of traffic jam in step S905. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of performing break guidance in the preset break point.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Navigation apparatus 101 Continuous driving information acquisition part 102 Traffic jam information acquisition part 103 Rest spot information acquisition part 104 Route search part 105 Route traffic jam information acquisition part 106 Rest spot setting part 107 Notification part

Claims (10)

Continuous driving information acquisition means for acquiring information (hereinafter referred to as “continuous driving information”) about time or distance during which the vehicle is continuously driven;
Traffic information acquisition means for acquiring information (hereinafter referred to as “traffic information”) related to the current traffic status of the vehicle;
Based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition means and the traffic congestion information acquired by the traffic jam information acquisition means, a notification means for performing a notification regarding break guidance;
A navigation device characterized by comprising: It has a break point information acquisition means to acquire information about a break point,
The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit reports information on a break point acquired by the break point information acquisition unit. A route search means for searching for a route to the destination;
Route traffic information acquisition means for acquiring information on the traffic status on the route (hereinafter referred to as “route traffic information”);
With
The notification means performs a notification regarding break guidance based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition means and the route congestion information acquired by the route congestion information acquisition means. The navigation device according to claim 1 or 2. A route search means for searching for a route to the destination is provided.
The navigation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the notification unit performs notification related to break guidance only when the distance to the destination or the required time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. A route search means for searching for a route to the destination;
A break point setting means for setting a break point in the middle of the route;
Informing means for informing about break guidance at the break point set by the break point setting means;
Route traffic information acquisition means for acquiring information on the traffic status on the route (hereinafter referred to as “route traffic information”);
With
The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the rest point setting unit newly sets the rest point based on the route traffic information acquired by the route traffic information acquisition unit. It has a break point information acquisition means to acquire information about a break point,
6. The navigation device according to claim 5, wherein the break point setting unit sets a break point based on information on the break point acquired by the break point information acquisition unit.   The navigation device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the break point setting means newly sets a break point only when the distance to the destination or the required time is a predetermined time or more. A continuous driving information acquisition step for acquiring information on time or distance during which the vehicle is continuously driven (hereinafter referred to as “continuous driving information”);
A traffic jam information acquisition step for acquiring information on the traffic jam status at the current position of the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as “traffic jam information”);
Based on the continuous driving information acquired by the continuous driving information acquisition step and the traffic jam information acquired by the traffic jam information acquisition step, a notification step of performing a notification regarding break guidance,
A navigation method comprising: A route search process for searching for a route to the destination;
A break point setting step for setting a break point in the middle of the route;
An informing step for informing about break guidance at the break point set by the break point setting step;
A route traffic information acquisition step for acquiring information on the traffic status on the route (hereinafter referred to as “route traffic information”);
Including
The navigation method according to claim 1, wherein the break point setting step newly sets the break point based on the route congestion information acquired by the route congestion information acquisition step. A navigation program for causing a computer to execute the navigation method according to claim 8 or 9.

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