JPH10304339A - Vehicle video providing system and virtual vehicle traveling system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a video filled with a sense of presence in outdoor according to the taste or request of a user by image pick-up of a scene viewed from a vehicle, and transmitting it by radio in real time while maintaining relative position data. SOLUTION: Video data, position coordinate data, date data, and vehicle data from each vehicle 3-5 are transmitted through a radio communication network and an internet 1 to a video managing computer 2, and stored in an external storage device while maintaining relative position with each other. For example, when a request is inputted from a user terminal 7 to a video providing computer 6, a requested position coordinate data and the condition of a real time animation video are transmitted to the video managing computer 2. The video managing computer 2 transmits the real time animation video to the video providing computer 6 almost in real time. The video providing computer 6 transmits the transmitted real time animation video to the user terminal 7 almost in real time.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention provides an image that can be viewed from a vehicle (in this specification, an image that can be viewed from a vehicle is referred to as a "vehicle image"). Giving you the impression of doing
The present invention relates to a vehicle image providing system capable of notifying a situation of each point in real time. Also, the present invention
The present invention relates to a virtual vehicle travel system that can give a feeling of traveling on a vehicle by receiving in real time an external view seen from a remote vehicle.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a technique of attaching a camera and a GPS (Global Positioning System) to a vehicle such as an automobile, and a method of capturing an image captured by a camera and a GPS.
Many techniques for linking current position data specified by a receiver have been proposed. For example, according to a study conducted by the present inventor before the present application, the following technology has already been disclosed. In this publication, a video camera and a GPS system are mounted on an automobile, and images of the traveling direction captured by the video camera and read from a map information recording medium (CD-ROM). A system has been proposed which verifies whether the current position measured by the GPS system is correct by comparing the information with the current position information. (2) JP-A-5-240724 and JP-A-5-240724
No. 45171 Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 45171 An image pickup device for picking up surrounding information of a vehicle and a GPS receiver are mounted on the vehicle, and a video from the image pickup device is previously transmitted to the GPS.
The corresponding video information is recorded from the recording unit corresponding to the current position information from the GPS receiver when the vehicle is driven at a later date in correspondence with the current position information from the receiver. A system that can verify whether the current position by the GPS receiver is correct by reading the data is proposed. (3) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-70729.
This is an invention including a PS receiver. In the present invention, an image captured by a camera is recorded together with positioning data of a capturing position from a GPS receiver. Therefore, when searching for a captured image, by inputting a position on the map, positioning data matching the position data is searched, and a captured image corresponding to the searched positioning data (shooting position) is searched. That is. (4) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-354485 Although not related to vehicles such as automobiles, cameras and V
This is an invention in which a video recording device such as a TR is provided with a GPS receiver. That is, a system that searches for a place name from a map database based on position information from a GPS receiver when capturing an image with a camera, and records the place name, year, month, day, and time together with the imaging signal on a magnetic tape or the like in a superimposed manner. It has been disclosed. (5) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-285438 A train or a train is provided with a GPS receiver, and the current position information of the train or the like is transmitted to the center together with the running speed of the train or the like. Then, the center, based on the received data,
The estimated time of arrival of the train or the like is obtained and displayed at the station. Thus, a system has been disclosed in which the operation status of a train or the like can be displayed at a station in real time. (6) Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-296287 A mobile robot moving within a predetermined security area such as a building,
A mobile device including a television camera such as a CCD camera, a video signal transmitting unit that wirelessly transmits a video signal indicating a video image captured by the television camera, and a current position information transmitting unit that transmits current position information of the mobile robot. A security system is disclosed. In the system disclosed in this publication, the current position information is used to specify and select an optimum receiving antenna for receiving the video signal from a plurality of receiving antennas. That is, it is not planned to associate the current position information with the video signal.

[0003]

The systems disclosed in the above publications (1) and (2) record video data in association with position data at which the video is captured. However, all of these systems are designed so that a user of a vehicle can use the vehicle to operate the vehicle (more specifically, to verify whether current position data from a GPS receiver is correct or not). ), Image the landscape around the car,
It is to record it. Further, the systems disclosed in the above publications (3) and (4) have contents in which an image is captured by a camera or the like and the position data at which the image is captured is recorded in association with each other. However, these systems all aim to make it easier for the user to search for the video later, or to record the position and date and time when the video was captured. In addition, the above (5)
The system disclosed in the above publication is to transmit the current position of a train from a train or the like in real time. However, the transmitted current position information is only used for obtaining an estimated time of arrival of a train or the like. Further, the system disclosed in the above publication (6) transmits a video signal from a mobile robot and also transmits current position information of the mobile robot. However, in this system, the current position information is only used to identify an optimal receiving antenna for receiving the video signal.

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the prior art, and provides a vehicle image providing system capable of providing real-time images with a sense of realism in the field according to the user's preference and demand. The purpose is to provide. Further, the present invention provides a BGV (background visual. Environmental video) similar to BGM (background music. Environmental music), that is, when a person is engaged in work such as conversation or work. The purpose is to provide an environmental image that does not hinder the work. Further, the present invention provides a system that can provide a "vehicle image" that can be viewed as an interesting image whose contents change moment by moment, that can be interestingly viewed by humans, and that can be used as an "environment image". It is an object.

Further, according to the present invention, by providing the scenery when looking out from a vehicle currently operating or running to a remote user in real time, as it is, it is possible to provide the remote user with the remote vehicle as if it were on the vehicle. It is an object of the present invention to provide a virtual vehicle travel system that can give a sense of traveling as if riding.

[0006]

The vehicle image providing system according to the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is as follows. 1. An image pickup unit attached to a vehicle such as a car, a bus, a train, or a train, and configured to image a “scenery seen from the vehicle”; a current position specifying unit for specifying a current position of the vehicle; The current video data from and the position data such as the position coordinate data from the current position specifying means, while associating each other, in real time, transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting, the video data and position data sent from the transmitting means A management means for managing the data while associating them with each other, a computer communication network to which the management means is connected, and a request for a current video data related to a certain position from a certain user via the computer communication network. At this time, the current video data at the position or a position near the position is specified from the management means, The current image data, near real-time, vehicle image providing system characterized in that it comprises image providing means for providing to the user, the. In the present invention, the first imaging means includes a driver's seat, a passenger seat,
It is provided in a location suitable for capturing the “view from outside the vehicle”, such as a roof or a place near the windshield. 2. Car, bus, train, attached to vehicles such as trains, imaging means for imaging the `` scenery seen from the vehicle '', current position specifying means for specifying the current position of the vehicle, the vehicle Date and time data generating means for generating date and time data at the time of imaging by the imaging means; video data from the imaging means; position data such as position coordinate data from the current position specifying means; and generation of the date and time data While associating the date and time data from the means, periodically or in real time, the transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting, the video data sent from the transmitting means, the position data, and the date and time data, while associating with each other,
Management means for managing, a computer communication network to which the management means is connected, and, via the computer communication network, when a user requests a video data related to a certain position and date and time, the management means The position corresponding to the request or a position in the vicinity thereof and the date and time corresponding to the request or video data of the date and time close thereto are extracted, and the extracted video data is
A video providing means for providing the user with the date and time data associated therewith. 3. An image pickup unit attached to a vehicle such as a car, a bus, a train, or a train, and configured to image a “scenery seen from the vehicle”; a current position specifying unit for specifying a current position of the vehicle; The current video data from and the position data such as the position coordinate data from the current position specifying means, while associating each other, in real time, transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting, the video data and position data sent from the transmitting means Managing means for managing while associating with each other, a computer communication network to which the managing means is connected, and a position / character string which is connected to the managing means and records position data and a character string such as a keyword or a sentence while associating with each other Recording means, and a user associated with a certain character string via the computer communication network. Upon request of the current video data, from the position and character string storage means, to locate the data corresponding to the requested string, further,
Based on the specified position data, from the management means, specifies relevant current video data, and includes the specified current video data to the user in almost real time. Characteristic vehicle image providing system. 4. Car, bus, train, attached to vehicles such as trains, imaging means for imaging the `` scenery seen from the vehicle '', current position specifying means for specifying the current position of the vehicle, the vehicle Date and time data generating means for generating date and time data at the time of imaging by the imaging means; video data from the imaging means; position data such as position coordinate data from the current position specifying means; and generation of the date and time data While associating the date and time data from the means, periodically or in real time, the transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting, the video data sent from the transmitting means, the position data, and the date and time data, while associating with each other,
Management means for managing, a computer communication network to which the management means is connected, connected to the management means,
The position data and a character string such as a keyword or a sentence
Position / character string recording means to record while relating to each other,
And when a user requests video data related to a certain character string via the computer communication network, retrieves corresponding position data from the position / character string recording means, and further retrieves the retrieved position data. A video providing means for extracting relevant video data from the management means based on the above, and providing the extracted video data to the user together with the relevant date and time data. The virtual vehicle travel system according to the present invention is as follows. 5. An image pickup device attached to a vehicle such as a bus, a train, a train, a passenger airplane, a passenger ship, and the like, for taking an image of “scenery when looking out of the vehicle”, image data from the image pickup device, and the other A transmission stage for wirelessly transmitting the vehicle identification data for identifying the vehicle and the vehicle identification data in real time, and managing the video data and the vehicle identification data transmitted from the transmission means while associating them with each other. Means, a computer communication network to which the management means is connected, connected to the management means, and recording the vehicle identification data and the vehicle-related data relating to the vehicle while associating them with each other, a vehicle identification / vehicle-related means, Via a computer communication network, a user provides a "scenery when looking out of a vehicle". When a virtual travel service is requested, corresponding vehicle identification data is extracted from the vehicle identification / vehicle related recording means based on the vehicle-related data relating to the requested vehicle, and based on the extracted vehicle identification data. A video providing means for extracting video data corresponding to the vehicle identification data from the management means, and providing the extracted video data to the user. In this virtual vehicle travel system, the “vehicle-related data” recorded in the vehicle identification / vehicle-related recording means includes data relating to operation such as the name of the vehicle, the operation route and operation time of the vehicle, It includes map coordinate data indicating the operation route and other position data. 6. 5. The virtual vehicle travel system according to 5, further comprising a tourist information providing unit that provides, in real time, tourist information related to a point where the vehicle is operating, together with an image from the vehicle. In the present invention, the sightseeing information can be provided by various methods such as text, voice, and image. 7. 5. The virtual vehicle travel system according to 5 above, further comprising: map data providing means for providing map data for indicating a route operated by the vehicle together with an image from the vehicle. In particular, it is desirable that the map data be a display that allows the user to identify a vehicle operating at the time when the user requests an image and a vehicle not operating at that time. 8. 7. The virtual machine according to the above item 7, further comprising: vehicle position display means for indicating which position the vehicle is currently operating on the operation route in the map data provided by the map data providing means. Vehicle travel system. Here, the vehicle position display means indicates, for example, the current position of the vehicle in the operation route shown on the map by blinking or the like. In the present invention, as a method of specifying the current position of the vehicle, a method of outputting current position coordinate data by a GPS receiver provided in the vehicle, a method using a regular operation route and an operation time of the vehicle. And a method of calculating the current operation position by calculation.

[0007]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiment 1 FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a vehicle image providing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes the Internet which is a global computer communication network, 2 denotes an image management computer connected to the Internet 1, and 3, 4, and 5 denote vehicles (moving bodies). A mobile unit (vehicle) connected via the Internet and a wireless transmission network such as a PHS (registered trademark) (personal handy phone system) or a mobile phone. Among them, 3 is a car (private car) used by ordinary people, 4 is a business truck, and 5 is a bus for passengers. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 6 denotes an image providing computer which is directly connected to the image management computer 2 and also connected to the Internet 1. Reference numerals 7, 8, and 9 denote user computer terminals connected to the Internet 1. Note that the user terminals 7, 8, 9 may be provided on a moving body such as a vehicle.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a device provided in each of the vehicles 2, 3, and 4. In FIG.
Reference numeral 11 denotes a camera such as a video camera provided in the vehicles 2, 3, and 4. The camera 11 may capture a moving image or a still image. Further, the camera 11 captures an image of a scene when the outside is seen from the vehicles 2, 3, and 4. Therefore, the camera 11 is arranged at a position where the outside scene can be imaged from the roofs of the vehicles 2, 3, and 4, the driver's seat, the passenger seat, and the like. Also, 12
Is a GPS (Global Positioning)
System). The GPS receiver 12 receives GPS radio waves from artificial satellites and outputs information on the absolute coordinates and time of the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the reception position, and information on absolute ground speed. Also, 1
Reference numeral 3 denotes a date / time data generator which outputs date / time data indicating the date and time of the image pickup by the camera 11. Reference numeral 14 denotes a vehicle data generating unit which outputs data relating to the vehicle, for example, information such as whether the vehicle is a private car, a commercial truck, or a passenger bus. Reference numeral 15 denotes a wireless transmission unit, which is video data from the camera 11, position coordinate data from the GPS receiver, date and time data from the date and time data generation unit 13, and vehicle data from the vehicle data generation unit 14. For wireless transmission. The wireless transmission unit 14 can use an existing wireless communication device such as a mobile phone or a PHS (Personal Handy Phone System).

In the present embodiment, each of the vehicles 2,
The video data, position coordinate data, date and time data, and vehicle data from 3 and 4 are sent to the video management computer 2 via a wireless communication network and the Internet 1. The video management computer 2 manages the transmitted video data, position coordinate data, and date / time data while associating them with each other. The video management computer 2 transmits these video data,
Each time the position coordinate data, date and time data, and vehicle data are received, they are instantaneously stored in an external recording device in association with each other.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the format of data stored in the video management computer. As shown in FIG. 3, the video management computer 2 converts the video transmitted from each of the vehicles 3, 4, and 5 into position coordinate data and date / time data at which the video was captured, and data of the vehicle at which the video was captured. Data (data indicating whether the vehicles 2, 3, and 4 are a private car, a commercial truck, or a passenger bus), and data indicating the type of the image (whether the image is a still image or only a predetermined time period). Data indicating whether the video is a moving image or a real-time moving image). Accordingly, when a video is requested by designating a predetermined position and date and time, the video management computer 2 can provide video data satisfying the request. Also,
The video management computer 2 provides video data that satisfies the request by designating vehicle data such as a passenger bus, position data, and data of the type of video (such as real-time video) and so on. can do.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a database stored in the video providing computer 6. The image providing computer 6 records latitude and longitude position coordinate data and data for specifying the position coordinate data in association with each other.
Here, as data for specifying the position coordinate data, for example, country name, prefecture name, place name, regional attribute data (name of national road, name of facility such as art museum, park, building, hotel at that position) and so on. According to this database, by inputting all or part of the country name, prefecture name, place name, and area attribute data, the corresponding position coordinate data is searched. For example, when "Japan, Tokyo, Hibiya, Imperial Hotel" is input, the position coordinate data of the corresponding Imperial Hotel or its vicinity is searched.

Next, an example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, a user accesses the video providing computer 6 from the user terminal 7 via the Internet 1 for example, and requests that he / she wants to view a real-time video image of a place in front of the Imperial Hotel in Uchisaiwai-cho, Tokyo, Japan. Is entered. Then, the video providing computer searches the database shown in FIG. 4 for position coordinate data corresponding to “a place in front of the Imperial Hotel in Uchisaiwai-cho, Tokyo, Japan”. Then, the image providing computer 6 transmits the searched position coordinate data and a request for “real-time moving image image” to the image managing computer 2. The video management computer 2 transmits the corresponding real-time moving image to the video providing computer 6 almost in real time based on the transmitted data. The image providing computer 6 transmits the transmitted real-time moving image to the user terminal 7 almost in real time. As a result,
"Real-time video of a location in front of the Imperial Hotel" (preferably, the video is preferably added with real-time audio information in real time, if possible) can be viewed almost in real time.

Next, another example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, the user, for example, from the user terminal 8,
A request to access the video providing computer 6 via the Internet 1 and to "view a still image of a place in front of the Otemachi Building in Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan at 3:00 pm on August 25, 1997" Is entered. Then, the image providing computer reads, from the database shown in FIG. 4, "a place in front of the Otemachi Building in Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan."
Search for the position coordinate data corresponding to. Then, the video providing computer 6 transmits the searched position coordinate data and a request “still image at 3:00 pm on August 25, 1997” to the video managing computer 2. The video management computer 2 transmits a still image video at the corresponding date and time to the video providing computer 6 based on the transmitted data. The image providing computer 6 transmits the transmitted still image image to the user terminal 8. From the above, the user can read “August 1997 at the location in front of the Otemachi Building in Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan.
A still image at 3:00 pm on the 25th of the month ”(preferably, a still image with voice information of the date and time of the site added if possible) can be viewed.

Next, still another example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, if the user, for example,
Then, a map is displayed on the display device of the terminal 9 on a screen, and a point is designated on the map screen with a mouse or the like, thereby inputting position coordinate data corresponding to the point, and real-time video of the point is input. Suppose you request Then
The image providing computer sends the input position coordinate data to the image management computer 2. The video management computer 2 selects the corresponding video data from the database of FIG. 3 based on the sent position coordinate data, and transfers the selected video data (real-time moving image data) to the video providing computer. 6,
Send almost in real time. Image providing computer 6
Sends the transmitted video data to the user terminal 9 almost in real time. Accordingly, the user can specify an arbitrary point on the map on the screen of the display device and input the position coordinate data of the point, and the image of the corresponding point (for example, the current real-time moving image, or (For example, a still image at a certain point in the past).

In this embodiment, information captured by a camera, microphone, or the like provided in a vehicle is wirelessly transmitted in real time to a worldwide communication network such as the Internet. The remote user can be provided with this wirelessly transmitted information via a communication network, and can enjoy the information in real time. The remote user can provide the above information by a broadcast from a communication satellite or by a browser (browsing) software which fetches information posted on an Internet homepage (pull).
l-type Internet service), a method of sending such information to the user's terminal via the Internet (broadcasting (p.
There are various methods such as a method using an internet service of the usch type). It should be noted that what has been described above is common not only to this embodiment but also to all embodiments described in this specification.

Embodiment 2 Next, an embodiment of a virtual vehicle travel system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a system having an overall configuration according to the present embodiment. FIG.
In the figure, the same reference numerals are given to the same parts as those in FIG. 1 and the description is omitted. In FIG. 5, 23, 24, and 25 are vehicles, 23 is a passenger rail train that operates regularly, 24 is an airplane that operates regularly, and 25 is a passenger ship that operates regularly. The vehicles 23, 24, and 25 are provided with devices having substantially the same configuration as that shown in FIG. That is, a camera for capturing a “scenery when looking out from a vehicle” (preferably, a scenery when looking out from a driver's seat or a passenger seat) and position coordinates for specifying the current position of each vehicle A GPS receiver for outputting data, a wireless transmission unit, and the like are provided. The wireless transmission unit transmits a real-time video (moving image) captured by the camera,
The vehicle is wirelessly transmitted in real time to the video management computer 2 in association with vehicle identification data for identifying the vehicle from other vehicles.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the video management computer 2 associates the real-time video data from each vehicle, the vehicle identification data of each vehicle, and the position coordinate data indicating the current position of each vehicle with each other. Is managed. In the present embodiment, when the image management computer 2 receives real-time image data from each vehicle, vehicle identification data of each vehicle, and position coordinate data indicating the current position of each vehicle, the image management computer 2 instantly executes Then, they are stored in an external recording device in association with each other.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a database held by the image providing computer 6 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, this database includes vehicle identification data for identifying each vehicle, data indicating the type of each vehicle (for example, railway, airplane, ship, etc.), and the name of each vehicle (for example, Hikari × ×, Nichirin XX, SL Lady, Siberian Railway, etc.), the name of the country in which each vehicle operates, attribute data of each vehicle (eg, Shinkansen, steam locomotive, etc.), the operation route of each vehicle, and the An operation time, a code for specifying a symbol on a dedicated map indicating an operation route of each vehicle, and the like are recorded in association with each other. Therefore, according to this database, when a user inputs any vehicle type, vehicle name, vehicle operating country name, vehicle attribute, vehicle operation route and operation time, etc., The vehicle identification data of the corresponding vehicle can be searched.

FIG. 7 shows one of the items of the database shown in FIG. 6 described above, which corresponds to "a code for specifying a symbol on a dedicated map indicating an operation route of each vehicle". It is a figure which shows the exclusive map which shows the operation route of a vehicle, and the symbol on the map (The operation route of each vehicle is symbolically displayed). In FIG. 7, the operation routes of a plurality of vehicles are symbolized by lines on a Japan map (excluding Hokkaido). The symbols denoted by reference numerals 101 to 116 in FIG. 7 are the symbols. Reference numerals 101 to 113 in FIG. 7 indicate operation routes of a railway on the ground. Also, reference numeral 114 in FIG.
Reference numerals 116 denote operation routes of ships on the sea. For example, FIG.
In FIG. 6, reference numeral 103 denotes “Hikari XX” (vehicle identification data: JR12) that runs between “Tokyo and Osaka” in FIG.
3) is shown. Therefore, when the user displays the map shown in FIG. 7 on the screens of the terminals 7, 8, and 9 and designates the symbol 103 with a mouse or the like to request a real-time moving image, the image providing computer 6 "Hikari XX" which runs between "Tokyo and Osaka" in Fig. 6
(Vehicle identification data: JR123) can be provided with a real-time moving image.

Similarly, in FIG.
FIG. 6 shows "Nichinrin XX" (vehicle identification data: JR124) operating between "Oita and Fukuoka". In FIG. 7, a symbol denoted by reference numeral 110 indicates a “SL lady” (vehicle identification data: JR125) that operates the local line “Yamaguchi Line”. Also, in FIG. 7, each of the symbols 101 to 116
Is designed so that a user can operate the vehicle while the map is open, and distinguish the vehicle that is not operating by, for example, blinking or not. Therefore, the user can easily know "which vehicle is currently operating" while looking at the map. Further, in FIG. 7, each symbol 101 to 116 informs the user which point each vehicle is currently operating, for example, by blinking only that point or other methods. Therefore, the user looks at the map,
"Which point is this vehicle currently operating?" In addition, this map can be displayed on a part of the same screen as the moving image while capturing the real-time moving image. In this way, the user can recognize the current position of the vehicle on the map (the current position of the vehicle) while viewing the real-time moving image (and real-time voice and sound) from the vehicle. ) Can be watched. In the present embodiment, as a method of specifying the current position of the vehicle, a method of outputting current position coordinate data by a GPS receiver provided in the vehicle, a regular operation route and an operation time of the vehicle are used. Therefore, there is a method of calculating the current operation position by calculation.

Next, an example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, the user accesses the video providing computer 6 from the user terminal 7 via the Internet 1 via the Internet 1, for example, and says, "I want to see a real-time video of the scenery seen from the currently operating Tokyo-Osaka Shinkansen." Is entered. Then, the video providing computer reads from the database shown in FIG. 6 the vehicle identification data corresponding to the “currently operating scenery seen from the Shinkansen between Tokyo and Osaka” (in the example of FIG.
3) Search. And a computer 6 for providing images.
Transmits the retrieved vehicle identification data and the request of “real-time moving image” to the image managing computer 2.
Send to The video management computer 2 transmits the corresponding real-time moving image to the video providing computer 6 almost in real time based on the transmitted data. The image providing computer 6 transmits the transmitted real-time moving image to the user terminal 7 almost in real time. From the above, the user can read “the scenery that is currently in operation and can be seen from the Tokyo-Osaka Shinkansen bullet train” (preferably, this video image should be obtained by adding real-time audio information to the video image in real time).
You can watch it almost in real time.

Next, another example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, the user, for example, from the user terminal 8,
Access the video providing computer 6 via the Internet 1 and "I want to see in real time the scenery seen from the SL Lady on the local Yamaguchi Line."
Is entered. Then, the video providing computer searches the database shown in FIG. 6 for vehicle identification data (JR125 in the example of FIG. 6) corresponding to “SL lady running on the local Yamaguchi line”. Then, the video providing computer 6 transmits the searched vehicle identification data and the request of “real-time moving image” to the video managing computer 2.
The video management computer 2 transmits a corresponding real-time moving image to the video providing computer 6 based on the transmitted data. The video providing computer 6 transmits the transmitted real-time moving image to the user terminal 8 in real time. From the above,
The user says, "SL operating the local Yamaguchi line
It is possible to watch in real time the scenery seen from the lady's issue (preferably, a still image with voice information of the date and time of the site added thereto, if possible).

Next, still another example of the operation of the present embodiment will be described. Now, the user accesses the video providing computer 6 to display, for example, the map shown in FIG. 7 on the display device of the user terminal 9 on the screen, and indicates, for example, reference numeral 113 on the map screen. It is assumed that a symbol is designated by a mouse or the like, and a real-time moving image of a view seen from the vehicle indicated by the symbol is requested. Then, the video providing computer 6 searches the database shown in FIG. 6 for vehicle identification data (JR124 in the examples of FIGS. 7 and 6) corresponding to the specified symbol. Then, the video providing computer 6 sends the retrieved vehicle identification data to the video managing computer 2. The video management computer 2 selects the corresponding video data from the database of FIG. 3 based on the transmitted vehicle identification data, and transfers the selected video data (real-time moving image data) to the video providing computer. 6. Send almost in real time. The image providing computer 6 sends the sent image data to the user terminal 9 almost in real time. This allows the user to specify an arbitrary symbol on the map on the screen of the display device and request an image of the scenery seen from the vehicle indicated by the symbol, and receive the image seen from the corresponding vehicle in real time. Can be.

In the present embodiment, the image providing computer 6 associates the point at which each vehicle operates, the time, and the sightseeing information on the point (information on sightseeing of the point or an area including the point) with each other. And record it. Then, when a video that can be viewed from a certain vehicle is provided in real time in response to a request from the user, sightseeing information is provided to the user for each point in accordance with the operation process of the vehicle. The provision of the sightseeing information may be performed based on a request from the user, or may be automatically transmitted without being based on the request from the user. In this method of providing tourist information, characters may be displayed on a part of the screen on which a real-time image is displayed, or may be output as audio. Also,
In the present embodiment, the user is also provided with information on the description of the vehicle to which the camera for complementing the above-mentioned image is attached (for example, the description on whether the vehicle is “SL Lady” in FIG. 6). Further, in the present embodiment, the image providing computer 6 provides map data (for example, a map as shown in FIG. 7) for indicating a route on which the vehicle is operating, together with a real-time image from the vehicle. Like that. The map data provided together with the real-time video is, for example, map data as shown in FIG. This map data is map data that allows a user to easily understand the operation route of a vehicle equipped with a camera that captures the displayed real-time moving image and the current position of the vehicle.

Embodiment 3 FIG. Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 shows a Japanese patent application to which the present application claims priority (1997 Patent Application No. 58442).
issue. (Application date: February 25, 1997). Hereinafter, FIG. 8 of the present application will be described. In FIG. 6, reference numeral 61 denotes a global communication network, for example, the Internet, and 62, 63, 64
1 is a server (computer terminal) connected to the server 1.
Reference numerals 62a, 62b, and 62c denote moving image etc. collection devices connected to the server 62 via a wireless communication network, respectively. Also, in FIG.
Reference numerals a, 63b, and 63c denote moving image etc. collection devices connected to the server 62. These moving image collection devices 6
2a, 62b, 62c or 63a, 63b, 63c
Each of the configurations described in the first and second embodiments (the camera and the microphone are attached to the vehicle,
Video and sound information supplemented by them is wirelessly transmitted). And these moving image etc. collection devices 62a, 62b, 62c or 63a, 63b,
63c transmits "video having substantially the same contents as the scenery seen from the vehicle to which the vehicle is attached" to the server 62 or 63 in real time via wireless. Conventional wireless communication technology can be used as this transmission method, but in the future Motorola in the United States and DDI in Japan will be used.
(Daini Denden) and others are planning to start operations in September 1998. The satellite mobile phone network based on the "Iridium Project" (a radio wave between a small communication terminal and multiple orbiting satellites surrounding the earth) Transmission / reception and communication / data communication anywhere on the earth) can be realized at lower cost. Also, 64
Is a server connected to the Internet 61, and the moving image etc. collecting device 62a, 62b, 62c or 6
3a, 63b, 63c, "videos and the like" (here, "videos and the like" include not only video but also sound such as sound and sound) are subjected to predetermined processing, and the terminal 65,
66 and 67. In this case, as a method of “providing” the “videos and the like” to the user, the “videos and the like” are posted on the homepage of the server 64 and each user can use his / her browser (browsing) software or other How to import using software, or how the server automatically distributes these "videos, etc." to each user's terminal ("Pointcast", "Marimba", "Castanet" There are various methods such as a method of using software for realizing “broadcast type Internet”. Further, as software for automatically distributing the above-mentioned "video etc.", for example, it can be constructed as software similar to the automatic distribution service for news currently performed in the United States under the name of "pointcast" ( For example, by adding a browser (browsing software) function to a "screen saver" to prevent burning of the computer screen and keeping the computer running, one or more homepages selected by the user in advance will be displayed. Connect to the news or "video etc."
Software that displays on the screen. For reference, 19
(Refer to the article "Automatically receive news on the Internet SECK INTER is soft" on the first page of the Nikkei Sangyo Shimbun on February 21, 1997).

Embodiment 4 FIG. Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The contents of the fourth embodiment of the present invention described below are described in Japanese Patent Application No. 58442/1997, for which the present application claims priority.
5)), which is almost the same as the content described as “Embodiment 7”. In the fourth embodiment, a small camera, a small transmitting unit for wirelessly transmitting image information from the small camera in real time, and the small camera and the transmitting unit include a bus, a car, a train, Mounting means for mounting on a vehicle such as a train, airplane, ship, submarine, etc .; sound information collecting means such as a microphone mounted on the vehicle for collecting surrounding sound information; and A vehicle image providing system including a sound information transmitting unit for transmitting sound information from an information collecting unit. In the fourth embodiment, the small camera, the sound information collecting unit, the video and sound information transmitting unit, and the like are the same as the cameras, microphones, wireless transmission units, and the like in the first to third embodiments. In the fourth embodiment, these small cameras, transceivers, microphones, and the like are used for automobiles such as sightseeing buses and cabs, trains and other trains, trains, airplanes, pleasure boats, luxury passenger boats that travel around the world, and submarines. It is characterized in that it is attached to a vehicle such as a location where the outside scenery can be seen from the vehicle. The “attaching means for a small camera or a microphone” in the fourth embodiment is attached not only to an adhesive or a string, but also to a side surface of a vehicle body of a vehicle (preferably, a side wall surface near a window of the vehicle body). Screws or bolts and nuts may be used. In the fourth embodiment, FIG.
The recording device of the server connected to the Internet as shown in (1) is provided with a database, and this database can be accessed by the user via the Internet,
Images and the like can be transmitted (broadcast) to the user. In other words, this database contains identification data of each vehicle, video and sound information from small cameras and microphones attached to it, images showing the vehicle and sounds emitted by the vehicle (such as whistles and engine sounds), and the vehicle. And the like, which explains the attribute of the document. Also,
In the fourth embodiment, the timetable data of the vehicle is recorded, and information from a camera, a microphone, or the like attached to the vehicle is provided only when the vehicle is currently actually operating on business. You may make it. Alternatively, the timetable data may be browsed by the user, and the user may be able to browse only information from a camera or the like attached to the vehicle currently operating. Also, a movement sensor is attached to the vehicle so that it is possible to detect whether the vehicle is actually operating,
Information from a camera or the like attached to the vehicle may be provided to the user via a network only when the vehicle is actually operating at present. In this way, the user can obtain information from a camera or the like attached to a stationary vehicle (information from such a camera or the like attached to a stationary vehicle does not interest the user. ) Is no longer provided, which is convenient for users. As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the user can access the database or the like to view the outside view seen from any vehicle (preferably, the outside view seen from the window of the passenger seat of the vehicle). And the sounds around it can be viewed in real time. Therefore, even people who have difficulty going out, such as the elderly and sick, can feel the same feeling as traveling around the world by vehicle by using this system casually. In particular, the system provides real-time video and sound to the user, so that the user can, for example, "travel on the Russian Siberian Railway now" or " It is possible to have the sensation of "I am feeling like I am flying" or "I am currently flying over the Pacific Ocean, seeing the Hawaiian Islands under my eyes."

[0027]

According to the vehicle image providing system according to the first and third aspects, it is possible to deliver, in real time, an image of the scenery seen from vehicles scattered in various places to a remote user. . Therefore, the user can know the current situation of a certain place in real time while staying at a remote place. In addition, according to the present invention, real-time images from various places are captured by a camera provided for a vehicle moving in each place. Therefore, if a user such as an automobile is equipped with a camera on his / her automobile and further equipped with a GPS receiver and a wireless transmitter, the user himself / herself can provide real-time images for many other users. In other words, without installing a fixed camera at a specific point on the ground, the user attaches a camera etc. to a private car at his own discretion,
An all-citizen participation system that provides real-time images of each point for many other users, and a system in which users who drive in various places by themselves can become an "information providing system" can be realized.

According to the vehicle image providing system of the second and fourth aspects, the image of the scenery when the outside is seen from vehicles scattered in various places is periodically or in real time. Along with the data, it can be delivered to remote users. Therefore, the user can easily know the situation of a certain place at a certain date and time while staying in a remote place. In addition, according to the present invention, a video and a date and time data from various places are output by a camera and a date and time data generation unit provided for a vehicle moving in each place. Therefore, if a user such as an automobile has a camera, a date / time data generation unit, a GPS receiver, and a wireless transmitter in the automobile, the user himself / herself can obtain images and images of various places for many other users. The imaging date / time data can be provided. In other words, users do not need to install many fixed cameras at specific points on the ground, but users can attach cameras etc. to their private cars at their own discretion, and real-time A system that provides images and provides participation by all citizens, and a system in which users traveling in various places by vehicle themselves become "information providing systems" can be realized.

Further, in the virtual vehicle travel system of the present invention, the camera, the radio transmission unit, the microphone, etc., travel around the world, such as cars such as sightseeing buses, cabs, trains, trains, airplanes, pleasure boats, etc. It is installed on vehicles such as luxury passenger ships, submarines, carriages, rickshaws, and other vehicles so that the outside view can be seen from the vehicle.
Then, by providing the video or the like from the camera or the like in real time, it is possible to give the user the feeling of “virtual vehicle travel” as if the user were riding on a remote vehicle and looking at the outside scenery. I can do it. That is,
The user is provided with real-time video and sound from the camera or microphone, so that the outside scenery seen from any vehicle (preferably, the outside scenery seen from the driver's seat or the passenger window) can be obtained. It becomes possible to watch the video and its surrounding sounds in real time. Therefore, even people who have difficulty going out, such as the elderly and the sick, can enjoy the same "feeling" and "realism" as traveling by vehicle around the world by using this system casually. In particular, the system provides users with real-time video and sound, so users can, for example, travel on the luxury islands of the Hawaiian Islands on a luxury cruise ship, such as `` now feeling like riding on the Russian Siberian Railway ''. `` I feel like I'm crossing the Pacific Ocean by air now and looking at the Hawaiian Islands below '' or `` I am traveling with a gypsy on a camel-drawn carriage in the Sahara Desert now It will be possible to have real-time feelings such as “sense of doing” and “sense of riding a rickshaw in Kyoto now”.

Further, in the virtual vehicle travel system according to the present invention, since the user can receive the outside scenery seen from the remote vehicle in real time, the user can receive the same scenery as BGM (background music, environmental music). BGV (background visual; environmental video), that is, an environmental video that does not hinder the work when a person is performing work such as conversation or work, can be continuously provided to the user. . In other words, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a user with a real-time “vehicle image” that can be viewed with interest as the content changes moment by moment. Therefore, the user can use this "vehicle image" (an image showing the scenery when looking out from a remote vehicle) provided in real time at home, a restaurant, a coffee shop, or a work place in the same manner as "environmental music". It can also be used as "environmental video".

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a vehicle image providing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a device provided in a vehicle in the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a database recorded in the video management computer according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a database recorded on the video providing computer of the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a virtual vehicle travel system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a database recorded in a video providing computer according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining map data provided to a user by a video providing computer according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Internet 2 Computer for image management 3,4,5,23,24,25 Vehicle 6 Computer for image provision 7,8,9 Computer terminal for user 11 Camera 12 GPS receiver 13 Date and time data generator 14 Vehicle data generator 15 Wireless transmission unit 61 Internet 62, 63, 64 Server (computer) connected to the Internet 62a, 62b, 62c, 63a, 63b, 63c Video etc. collection device 65, 66, 67 User terminal (personal computer)

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup means attached to a vehicle such as an automobile, a bus, a train, a train, and the like, for taking an image of "scenery seen from the vehicle", a current position specifying device for specifying a current position of the vehicle Means, transmitting means for transmitting, in real time, wirelessly, while associating position data such as current image data from the image pickup means and position coordinate data from the current position specifying means with each other, images transmitted from the transmitting means Management means for managing the data and the position data while associating them with each other, a computer communication network to which the management means is connected, and connected to the computer communication network,
When there is a request from a user for current video data related to a location via the computer communication network, the current video data at the location or a location near the location is selected, and the selected current video data is selected. A vehicle video providing system, comprising: video providing means for providing video data to a user in almost real time. 2. An image pickup means attached to a vehicle such as a car, a bus, a train, a train, and the like, for picking up an image of "scenery seen from the vehicle", and a current position specifying device for specifying a current position of the vehicle. Means, provided in the vehicle, date and time data generating means for generating data of the date and time when the image is taken by the imaging means, video data from the imaging means, position data such as position coordinate data from the current position identification means, Transmitting means for periodically or in real time wirelessly transmitting the date and time data from the date and time data generating means, and associating the image data, position data, and date and time data transmitted from the transmitting means with each other. A computer communication network to which the management unit is connected; and a computer communication network to which the management unit is connected. Network,
Via the computer communication network, when a user requests video data related to a certain position and date and time, a position corresponding to the request or a position in the vicinity thereof and a date and time corresponding to the request or a date and time close thereto A video providing means for selecting video data and providing the selected video data to the user together with the date and time data associated therewith. 3. An image pickup means attached to a vehicle such as a car, a bus, a train, a train, and the like, for picking up an image of “scenery seen from the vehicle”, a current position specifying device for specifying a current position of the vehicle Means, transmitting means for transmitting, in real time, wirelessly, while associating position data such as current image data from the image pickup means and position coordinate data from the current position specifying means with each other, images transmitted from the transmitting means Management means for managing data and position data while associating them with each other; a computer communication network to which said management means is connected; connected to said management means, and recording while associating position data with character strings such as keywords or texts Position / character string recording means, and connected to the computer communication network,
Via the computer communication network, when there is a request from the user to provide the current video data related to a certain character string, the position / character string recording means sends a position corresponding to the requested character string. Select the data,
And video providing means for selecting relevant current video data from the management means based on the selected position data, and providing the selected current video data to the user almost in real time. A vehicle image providing system, characterized in that: 4. An image pickup means attached to a vehicle such as a car, a bus, a train, a train, and the like, for taking an image of "scenery seen from the vehicle", a current position specifying device for specifying a current position of the vehicle Means, provided in the vehicle, date and time data generating means for generating data of the date and time when the image is taken by the imaging means, video data from the imaging means, position data such as position coordinate data from the current position identification means, Transmitting means for periodically or in real time wirelessly transmitting the date and time data from the date and time data generating means, and associating the image data, position data, and date and time data transmitted from the transmitting means with each other. A managing means for managing a computer communication network to which the managing means is connected; Data and a character string such as a keyword or a sentence, a position / character string recording means for recording in association with each other, and connected to the computer communication network,
Via the computer communication network, when a user requests to provide video data related to a certain character string, selects corresponding position data from the position / character string recording means; A video providing means for selecting relevant video data from the managing means based on the data, and providing the selected video data to the user together with the relevant date and time data. system. 5. An image pickup means attached to a vehicle such as a bus, a train, a train, a passenger airplane, a passenger ship, and the like, for picking up an image of “scenery when looking out of the vehicle”. Transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting the vehicle identification data for identifying the vehicle from other vehicles in real time while associating them with each other, and associating the video data and the vehicle identification data transmitted from the transmitting means with each other. A computer communication network to which the management unit is connected; connected to the management unit, and recording the vehicle identification data and the vehicle-related data relating to the vehicle while associating them with each other; A vehicle-related recording means, and from a certain user via the computer communication network, When there is a request to provide a real-time image of the scenery, a corresponding vehicle identification data is selected from the vehicle identification / vehicle-related recording means on the basis of the vehicle-related data relating to the requested vehicle. Video providing means for selecting video data corresponding to the vehicle identification data from the management means based on the obtained vehicle identification data, and providing the selected video data to the user in almost real time. Characterized virtual vehicle travel system. 6. The virtual vehicle according to claim 5, further comprising: tourist information providing means for providing, along with an image from the vehicle, tourist information relating to a point where the vehicle is operating. Travel system. 7. The virtual machine according to claim 5, further comprising: map data providing means for providing map data for indicating a route operated by the vehicle together with an image from the vehicle. Vehicle travel system. 8. The vehicle position display device according to claim 7, further comprising: a vehicle position display device that indicates a current position of the vehicle in an operation route in the map data provided by the map data providing device. A virtual vehicle travel system, comprising: [0001]