JP2002048573A - Map information distribution method and map information distribution system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a map information distribution method and map information distribution system capable of efficiently distributing partial map information. SOLUTION: In a distribution center server, starting point information and designation information are received from an on-vehicle terminal to search a route connecting the starting point corresponding to the starting point information to the designation corresponding to the designation information, and the map information corresponding to the route is determined and distributed to the on-vehicle terminal.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a map information distribution system and a map information distribution method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, map information has been recorded on a medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM. Then, necessary map information is extracted from the recording medium and used for a navigation system or the like posted on a car.

[0003]

However, since the latest map information is constantly revised due to new construction or repair of roads, it is necessary to use the latest map information in order to perform navigation and the like using the latest map information. CD-recorded information
A new ROM or DVD-ROM had to be purchased. Furthermore, the purchase of CD-ROM and DVD-ROM,
This imposes a cost burden on the user.

[0004] In addition, it is conceivable that the user terminal side receives the distribution of map information of a predetermined area required for route search using communication means, but a large-capacity memory is required on the user terminal side. At the same time, a problem that communication time is required occurs. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a map information distribution method and a map information distribution system capable of efficiently distributing map information.

Further, the present invention provides not only map information,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a map information distribution method and a map information distribution system capable of efficiently distributing information about a route.

[0006]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a map information distribution method according to the present invention provides a distribution center server which receives departure place information and destination place information from an in-vehicle terminal and responds to the departure place information. A route connecting the departure place and the destination corresponding to the destination information is searched, map information corresponding to the route is determined, and the map information is distributed to the vehicle-mounted terminal. The distribution center server performs a route search and determines a map to be distributed based on the search result, so that only necessary map information can be distributed.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server distributes route information corresponding to the route to the in-vehicle terminal in addition to the map information. Necessary information can be obtained even if the in-vehicle terminal does not have a map in advance. Further, the map information is preferably a map block through which the route passes. Further, the map information preferably includes map blocks around the route that the route does not pass. Since the map information of the surrounding area as well as the part related to the route is obtained, the map information can be scroll-displayed on the in-vehicle terminal side.

Further, it is preferable that the map information has a plurality of scales. It is also possible to change the scale with the in-vehicle terminal. Furthermore, it is preferable that the map information is divided into a plurality of times and delivered to the vehicle-mounted terminal. Even on long routes, information can be received without requiring a large memory in the in-vehicle terminal.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server first distributes the map information near the departure place. When receiving the distribution of the map information while traveling, first, the map information near the departure place is obtained, so that there is no trouble in traveling. Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server first distributes the map information near the route. When receiving the distribution of the map information while traveling, first, the map information in the vicinity of the route is obtained, so that there is no trouble in traveling.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server changes the degree of detail between the map information near the route and other map information and distributes the information. The degree of detail is a scale, a road level, or a degree of simplification of the road shape. Preferably, there is. Detailed map information is distributed for parts related to traveling, and other parts are supplemented with less detailed map information, so that the amount of information can be reduced efficiently.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server distributes map information corresponding to the current position of the vehicle-mounted terminal. The map information near the current position can always be obtained. Furthermore, it is preferable that the distribution center server distributes the next map block based on the current position of the vehicle-mounted terminal and the map block. When receiving distribution of map information while traveling, a map near the current position is always obtained.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server distributes the map information of the area designated by the on-board terminal. Even when an instruction is given by scrolling to a place where there is no map information on the in-vehicle terminal, it is possible to receive the distribution of the map information of the designated place. Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server changes the distribution price of the map information according to the type of the vehicle-mounted terminal. It is expected that the effect of sales promotion can be expected.

Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server registers and stores departure place information and destination place information. The distribution center server registers and holds various points, and can easily perform a search instruction from the in-vehicle terminal. Further, it is preferable that the distribution center server searches for a route based on the registered departure point information or destination information. This eliminates the need to specify a destination or the like when searching again.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a map information distribution method, comprising: receiving, in a distribution center server, departure point information and destination information from a vehicle-mounted terminal;
Searching for a route connecting the departure place corresponding to the departure place information and the destination corresponding to the destination information, determining first map information corresponding to the route, and distributing the first map information to the vehicle-mounted terminal; Receiving the off-route information and the current position information from the in-vehicle terminal, re-searching for a new route connecting the current position and the destination corresponding to the current position information, determining second map information corresponding to the new route, 2 is characterized in that the map information is distributed to the in-vehicle terminal. Even if you get off the route,
Since the route can be searched again on the distribution center server side, the distribution of the map information to the destination can be received.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a map information distribution method, comprising: receiving a departure point information and a destination point information from an in-vehicle terminal in a distribution center server having traffic information obtaining means; Search for a route connecting the starting point corresponding to the destination and the destination corresponding to the destination information,
A new route that determines the first map information corresponding to the route, distributes the first map information to the in-vehicle terminal, receives the traffic jam information on the route from the traffic information obtaining means, and avoids the traffic jam corresponding to the traffic information. Is searched again, the second map information corresponding to the new route is determined, and the second map information is distributed to the vehicle-mounted terminal. It is possible to search for a detour by using dynamic information.

Further, it is preferable that the second map information does not include the first map information. This is because there is no need to distribute the once distributed map information. Further, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a map information distribution system according to the present invention includes a receiving unit for receiving departure point information and destination point information from an in-vehicle terminal, and a departure point and destination point information corresponding to the departure point information. Searching means for searching for a route connecting the destination, a determining means for determining map information corresponding to the route searched by the searching means, and a distributing means for distributing the map information determined by the determining means to the vehicle-mounted terminal. It is characterized by having.

Further, when the receiving means receives the off-route information and the current position information from the on-board terminal, the searching means re-searches for a new route corresponding to the current position information, and the determining means re-searches the second route corresponding to the new route. Preferably, the map information is determined, and the distribution means distributes the second map information to the vehicle-mounted terminal. Furthermore, when the traffic information obtaining means receives the traffic jam information on the route, the searching means re-searches for a new route to avoid the traffic jam corresponding to the traffic information, and the determining means responds to the new route. Determined second map information,
It is preferable that the distribution means distributes the second map information to the in-vehicle terminal.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an in-vehicle terminal according to the present invention, comprising: a setting unit for setting a destination; a current position measuring unit for measuring a current position; Transmitting means for transmitting the destination and the current position measured by the current position measuring means to the distribution center server; and receiving means for receiving guidance image information, route information and map information corresponding to the destination and the current position from the center server. Display means for displaying guidance image information, route information, and map information; and control means for controlling display of a guidance image corresponding to the current position measured by the current position measurement means. And Necessary map information can be obtained by the in-vehicle terminal without having the map information in advance.

Further, it is preferable that the setting means includes a search means for searching and setting a destination. The user can search for a destination or the like by using a telephone number or an address. Further, it is preferable to have search condition input means for searching for route information. It is possible to perform a search under desired conditions such as giving priority to an expressway or giving priority to a general road.

Further, it is preferable that the traffic information obtaining means has traffic information obtaining means, and when the traffic information obtaining means receives the traffic jam information on the route, the transmitting means transmits the traffic jam information to the distribution center server. The detour can be searched by dynamic information.

[0021]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a configuration relating to the map information distribution method and system of the present invention. 10 is a network such as the Internet, 20
Are distribution center servers connected to the network 10, 3
0 is an in-vehicle terminal, 40 is a broadcasting station that broadcasts traffic information and the like, 5
0 is a provider connected to the network 10, and 60 is a telephone company terminal.

The distribution center server 20 comprises a control unit 21 having various information processing functions, a communication unit 22 for transmitting and receiving information, a receiver, etc., and obtains traffic information from a broadcasting station or the like. Traffic information obtaining means 23, and a storage means 24 for storing various information. Also, the storage means 24
Includes a main program for executing various processes in the distribution center server 20, a route search program 2
5. Charge setting database 26 (hereinafter "charge setting DB")
), A map information database 27 (hereinafter referred to as “map information DB”), and a user information database 28 (hereinafter referred to as “user information DB”). The map information DB stores at least map information that covers at least the whole of Japan and includes a plurality of map blocks that are divided into meshes. A plurality of map blocks having different scales are stored for the same area. Instead of storing the route search program in the storage means 24, a route search means constituted by hardware and software can be provided.

The in-vehicle terminal 30 comprises a control means 31 composed of a CPU and the like and having various information processing functions, a communication means 32 connected to a network via a telephone company 60 such as NTT and a provider 50 to transmit and receive various information. , A receiver, etc., a traffic information obtaining means 33 for obtaining traffic information from a broadcasting station, etc., a memory, etc., and a main program for executing various processes in the in-vehicle terminal 30 and distributed map information. Storage means 34 capable of storing data such as GPS, Global Positionin (GPS).
g System) A position detecting means 35 for detecting the position of the vehicle on which the in-vehicle terminal 30 is installed, including an antenna and the like, a speaker and the like, a sound output means 36 for outputting sound, a key arrangement, a keyboard , An operation means 37 constituted by a mouse or a remote controller, etc., capable of inputting and selecting various information, and a display means 38 constituted by a liquid crystal display or the like. The position detecting means 35 performs triangulation based on signals from a plurality of measurement satellites orbiting the earth orbit, calculates the latitude, lightness, altitude and traveling speed of the vehicle, and outputs the calculation result to the control means 31. It is configured as follows.

It is preferable that the operation means 37 include means for scrolling the map information displayed on the display means 38 and displaying a desired place. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, first, information requesting distribution of map information from the in-vehicle terminal 30 is transmitted from the communication means 32 to the distribution center server 20 via the telephone company 60, the provider 50, and the network 10. Next, the map information is distributed from the distribution center server 20 to the in-vehicle terminal 30, and is reproduced by the display means 38 by predetermined software. (First Embodiment) A first embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in distribution center server 20. 2 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24 of the distribution center server 20. In the in-vehicle terminal 30, the storage unit 3 of the in-vehicle terminal 30
4 is executed by the control unit 31 in accordance with the main program stored in the storage unit 4.

First, the in-vehicle terminal 30 accesses the distribution center server and transmits a connection request signal together with the start of driving of the car, and the distribution center server 20 receives the signal (step 201). The connection with 30 is maintained (step 202). At the time of connection, the contents of the user information DB 28 stored in the storage unit 24 in advance and the in-vehicle terminal 30
It is preferable that the predetermined information received from is compared with the registered in-vehicle terminal and the subsequent procedure is performed only with the registered in-vehicle terminal.

After that, the distribution center server 20 continues to wait for a request from the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 (step 20).
3). When the user turns on the navigation system, inputs the departure place and the destination by the operation means 37 of the in-vehicle terminal 30, and enters the search condition, the process proceeds from step 203 to step 204, where the departure place and the destination are set. . next,
Proceeding to step 205, search conditions are set. Here, the input of the departure place and the destination is an address, XX park and XX.
The location may be the name of a station, or the location may be specified using rough map information stored in advance in the storage unit 34 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. In any case, the information of the departure place and the destination inputted by the operation means 37 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 is transmitted to the distribution center server 20. The search conditions are the search conditions required to determine the route from the departure point to the destination, such as "preferential use of expressways" and "priority use of general roads". Say Note that it is not always necessary to set search conditions.

Next, the distribution center server 20 searches for a route from the set departure point to the destination, and specifies map information necessary for displaying the route from the map information DB 27 of the recording means 24. (Step 206). FIG. 8 shows an example of map information selected as a result of the search. In addition,
The map information DB 27 stores map information for all over Japan, but in FIG. 8, for convenience, a total of 35
The map information including the map blocks is shown. Here, the departure point 801 and the destination 8
02 is set. Then, the route 803 is determined in accordance with the route search program stored in the storage means 24 of the distribution center server 20, and A-4, A-5, A-6, and B- necessary for displaying the route are determined.
4, B-5, C-2, C-3, C-4, D-2 and E-
2, a total of 10 map blocks are selected.

Next, the distribution center server 20
Storing means for storing a fee for distributing one map block
It is determined based on the information of the fee setting DB 27 of the above and transmitted to the in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 207). In the in-vehicle terminal 30, the transmitted fee is displayed and confirmed on the display means 38,
The purchase information indicating that there is a will of distribution or that there is no intention of distribution is transmitted to the distribution center server 20. It is preferable that the price setting service can change the price and service to be distributed according to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. For example, if the distribution price is discounted for the in-vehicle terminal 30 which receives a large amount of distribution, an effect of promoting sales promotion can be expected.

In the distribution center server 20, step 20
It is determined in step 8 whether there is a purchase request. If there is a purchase request, the process proceeds to step 209, where the total of 1
The map information composed of zero map blocks is delivered to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. At the time of distribution, it is preferable to distribute not only map information but also route information corresponding to the searched route, guidance information that expresses a part of the route three-dimensionally, and the like. FIG. 9 shows an example of the guidance information. When approaching the intersection 804 on the route 803 in FIG. 8, it is preferable to control such that guidance information as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display means 38 of the in-vehicle terminal. Arrow 901 in FIG.
Indicates the route of the route 803.

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not operation end information has been received from the in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 210), and the process returns to step 203 until the in-vehicle terminal 30 receives the connection end information. Keep waiting. In the case of stopping the traveling, for example, and wishing to terminate the connection with the distribution center server 20, the in-vehicle terminal 30
Transmits the connection end information to the distribution center server 20 using the operation means 38. Upon receiving the connection end information, the distribution center server 20 turns off the connection (step 21).
1) End a series of procedures.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the connection between the distribution center server 20 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 is constantly maintained during traveling, and necessary map information can be distributed when necessary. I have. Hereinafter, a method of distributing other map information will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 10 is an example of distributing a total of 40 map blocks (enlarged and more detailed map blocks) of a further increased scale from the ten map blocks shown in FIG. Further, instead of distributing the map information only for the portion including the searched route 803, the portion including the searched route 803 is distributed on a reduced scale, and the other portion (a predetermined predetermined range) is distributed. For (in), it is also possible to distribute a map block with a reduced scale (a reduced and wider map block).

The map information is displayed on the display means 3 of the vehicle-mounted terminal.
The range displayed on the long side of 8 is 25m, 50m, 10m
It is preferable to prepare ones having different scale ratios such as 0 m, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, and 2000 m. Further, it is also possible to distribute the map information by changing the road level, that is, distinguishing between the map information for displaying only the main trunk road and the map information for displaying as detailed a road as possible. Further, by changing the degree of simplification of the road shape, that is, by distinguishing between map information in which the shape of the road is displayed only as a straight line and map information in which the shape is displayed as three-dimensionally and as similar to the real thing as possible. It is also possible to distribute. Such a scale,
The road level, the degree of simplification of the road shape, and the like are referred to as the degree of detail of the map information.

FIG. 11 shows a distribution method that does not distribute all map information including a search route from the beginning. FIG.
Then, A-4, A-5, A-6, B-4, B-5, C-
Seven map blocks 3 and C-4 have already been delivered, reference numeral 805 indicates the current position, and reference numeral 806 is a boundary predetermined for each one of the map blocks. In this case, the procedure is such that when the current position exceeds the boundary 806, the map information of the next map block C-2 is distributed.

FIG. 12 shows another distribution method that does not distribute all map information including a search route from the beginning. In FIG. 12, distribution is not performed for each map block, but is performed for each predetermined group. In FIG. 12, four groups A to D are assigned to the search route 803, and the distribution of the groups A to C has already been completed. A boundary 807 is also set in each group as in FIG. 11, and when the current position 805 exceeds the boundary 807, map information of the next group, in the case of FIG. 12, group D is distributed.

FIG. 13 shows the operation means 37 on the in-vehicle terminal 30 side.
This shows a case where scrolling is performed beyond the map displayed on the display means 38 and map information for displaying the point is distributed. In FIG. 13, the surroundings 807 of the current position 805 are displayed on the display unit 38 of the in-vehicle terminal 30.
It is assumed to be displayed in. At this time, it is assumed that the screen has been scrolled by the operation unit 37 and moved to a portion 808. Here, the ten map blocks shown in FIG. 8 have already been distributed. Since the map information indicating the portion of 808 has not been distributed yet, D-5 and D
-6 map blocks will be distributed.

A search condition input means is provided in the operation means 37 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30, and a route search method that preferentially considers an expressway, a route search method that preferentially considers a general road, and the like can be selected. It is preferable to do so. (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in distribution center server 20. The procedure of FIG. 3 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24, and in the in-vehicle terminal 30 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 34 of the in-vehicle terminal 30. The control means 31 will execute.

In the second embodiment, the distribution center server 2
0 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 do not always maintain a connection. Only when necessary, the in-vehicle terminal 30 connects to the distribution center server 20 and receives the map information every time. I have. First, the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 accesses the distribution center server, transmits a connection request signal, and the distribution center server 20 receives the signal (step 301), and maintains the connection with the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 (step 302).

Next, the departure place and the destination are inputted by the operation means 37 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30, and when the search condition is inputted, the departure place and the destination are set in step 303, and then the search is carried out in step 304. The conditions are set. Next, the distribution center server 20 searches for a route from the set departure point to the destination, and specifies map information necessary for displaying the route from the map information DB 27 of the recording unit 24 (step 305). ). The specified map information is the same as in the first embodiment described above.

Next, the distribution center server 20 determines a fee for distributing the specified map information based on the information in the fee setting DB 27 of the storage means 24, and transmits it to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 (step 306). The in-vehicle terminal 30 confirms the transmitted fee by displaying it on the display means 38 or the like, and transmits to the distribution center server 20 purchase information indicating that there is a will to distribute or that there is no will to distribute. If the information indicating that the purchase is unnecessary is received, the process proceeds to step 309, the connection is turned off (step 309), and a series of operations is ended.

In the distribution center server 20, step 30
It is determined in step 7 whether there is a distribution request. If there is a distribution request, the process proceeds to step 308 to distribute the specified map information to the in-vehicle terminal 30. Next, distribution center server 20 turns off the connection with in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 309), and ends a series of operations. (Third Embodiment) A third embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in the distribution center server 20 and the like. 4 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24,
In this case, the control unit 31 executes according to the main program stored in the storage unit 34 of the in-vehicle terminal 30.

In the third embodiment, when a route deviates during traveling, the route is searched again, and the map information corresponding to the searched route is distributed. In the third embodiment, based on the previously described first embodiment, FIG.
Are transmitted from the distribution center server 20 to the in-vehicle terminal 30 and stored in the storage means 34 of the in-vehicle terminal 20. Based on the stored map information, the navigation system It is assumed that it is operating.

First, the in-vehicle terminal 30 accesses the distribution center server and transmits a connection request signal together with the start of driving of the vehicle (step 401), and the distribution center server 20 receives this (step 451). ), The connection with the in-vehicle terminal 30 is maintained (step 452). Thereafter, the distribution center server 20 continues to wait for a request from the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 (step 453).

The in-vehicle terminal 30 constantly monitors whether there is any deviation from the route (step 402). Here, when the navigation is operating based on the map information and the route information received from the distribution center server 20 while confirming the current position by the position detecting means 35 of the in-vehicle terminal 30, it is assumed that a route deviation has occurred. I do. FIG.
FIG. 1 shows an example of a case where the route deviates. In FIG. 14, a departure place 801, a destination 802, a route 803, and ten distributed map blocks are the same as those in the first embodiment. Here, the current position of the car is shown as 805. As shown in FIG. 14, when the off-route of the current position 805 is detected by the in-vehicle terminal 30, step 40
Proceeding from 2 to 403, the off-route information and the current position information are transmitted to the distribution center server 20.

Upon receiving the out-of-route information, the distribution center server 20 proceeds from step 453 to step 454, and performs a re-search for a route based on the received current position information and destination information or the route 803 so far. For example, it is assumed that a new route like 809 indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 14 has been searched. Five map blocks B-6, C-5, C-6, D-3, and D-4 that are newly required corresponding to the new route are specified.

Next, the distribution center server 20 calculates the fee required for distributing the specified five map blocks based on the fee setting DB 26, and
(Step 455). In the vehicle-mounted terminal 30, the transmitted fee is displayed on the display means 38 (step 40).
4) The purchase information indicating that there is a will of distribution or that there is no intention of distribution is transmitted to the distribution center server 20 (step 405).

In the distribution center server 20, step 45
It is determined in step 6 whether or not there is a purchase request.
The map information and the new route information are distributed to the in-vehicle terminal 30. The in-vehicle terminal 30 newly receives five pieces of map information and new route information (step 406), and continues navigation based on the received information. Further, in the present embodiment, the connection between the distribution center server 20 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 is always maintained while the vehicle is traveling. Therefore, each time the route deviates, the above-described steps are repeated, and new map information and new route information are obtained. It is possible to receive information distribution. That is, in step 407, it is determined whether or not the navigation operation on the in-vehicle terminal 30 has been completed. If the operation has not been completed, the process returns to step 402 and the departure of the route is monitored again.

When the navigation operation has been completed, the process proceeds from step 407 to step 408, where operation completion information is transmitted to the distribution center server 20. The distribution center server 20 determines whether or not the operation end information has been received from the in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 458), and returns to step 453 until the operation end information is received. Maintain the state of waiting for a request.

In step 458, when the operation end information is received, the connection is turned off (step 459), and a series of procedures is ended. (Fourth Embodiment) A fourth embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in distribution center server 20. The procedure in FIG. 5 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24, and in the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 34 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. The control means 31 will execute.

In the fourth embodiment, the distribution center server 2
0 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 do not always maintain a connection. The in-vehicle terminal 30 connects to the distribution center server 20 only when necessary, and receives distribution of map information each time. I have. In the fourth embodiment, when a route deviates during traveling, a route is searched again, and map information corresponding to the searched route is delivered. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the ten map blocks and the route information shown in FIG. 10 are transmitted from the distribution center server 20 to the on-board It is assumed that the navigation system is operating based on the stored map information.

First, the in-vehicle terminal 30 constantly monitors whether there is any deviation from the route (step 501). Here, it is assumed that when the navigation is being performed based on the map information and the route received from the distribution center server 20 while confirming the current position by the position detecting means 35 of the in-vehicle terminal 30, a route deviation has occurred. . FIG.
As shown in the figure, when the off-route of the current position 805 is detected by the in-vehicle terminal 30, the process proceeds from step 501 to step 502, where the connection request, the off-route information, the current position information, and the destination information are transmitted to the distribution center server. 20.

Upon receiving the connection request and the off-route information (step 552), the distribution center server 20 maintains the connection with the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 (step 552), and based on the received current position information and destination information, receives the route. (Step 553). For example, assuming that a new route such as 809 indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 14 has been searched, B-6, C-5, and C-6 newly required corresponding to the new route are searched.
Five map blocks -6, D-3 and D-4 are specified.

Next, the distribution center server 20 calculates the fee required for distributing the specified five map blocks based on the fee setting DB 26, and
(Step 554). The in-vehicle terminal 30 displays the transmitted fee on the display means 38 (step 50).
3) Transmit purchase information to the effect that there is an intention to distribute or not to distribute to the distribution center server 20 (step 5).
04).

In the distribution center server 20, step 55
It is determined whether or not there is a purchase request at step 5, and if there is a purchase request, the process proceeds to step 556, where
The map information and the new route information are distributed to the in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 556). Thereafter, the connection is turned off, and a series of operations is terminated. Also, when information indicating that distribution is unnecessary is received, the process proceeds to step 557 and the connection is turned off.
Then, a series of operations ends.

The in-vehicle terminal 30 receives five new map blocks and new route information (step 505), and continues navigation based on the received information. Further, in the present embodiment, when the route deviates again during traveling, the vehicle is connected to the distribution center server 20 again to receive a new route search and new map information distribution. (Fifth Embodiment) A fifth embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in distribution center server 20. The procedure of FIG. 6 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24, and in the in-vehicle terminal 30 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 34 of the in-vehicle terminal 30. The control means 31 will execute.

In the fifth embodiment, when traffic congestion information on a route is found during traveling, the route is searched again, and map information corresponding to the searched route is distributed. In the fifth embodiment, the ten map blocks and the route information shown in FIG. 10 are transmitted from the distribution center server 20 to the in-vehicle terminal 30 based on the first embodiment described above in advance. It is assumed that the navigation system is operating based on the map information stored in the storage unit 34 of the terminal 20.

First, the in-vehicle terminal 30 accesses the distribution center server and transmits a connection request signal (step 601) together with the start of driving of the car, and the distribution center server 20 receives this (step 651). ), The connection with the in-vehicle terminal 30 is maintained (step 652). Distribution center server 2
No. 0 continuously monitors whether or not a traffic jam occurs on the route initially set for the in-vehicle terminal 30 while receiving the information on the traffic jam from the traffic information obtaining means 23 thereafter (step 653). If a traffic jam is found in step 653, the process proceeds to step 654, and a route that avoids the traffic jam is searched again (step 654).

FIG. 15 shows an example when traffic congestion occurs. In FIG. 15, a departure place 801, a destination 802, a route 803, and the ten distributed map blocks are:
This is the same as in the first embodiment. Here, the current position of the car is shown as 805. As shown in FIG.
3 that traffic congestion has occurred in the section indicated by arrow 810,
It is assumed that the traffic information has been detected by the traffic information obtaining means 23. The distribution center server 20, based on the congestion information of 810,
Re-search the route. For example, 8 shown by a dotted line in FIG.
Suppose that a new route like 11 is searched. B-2 and B-3, which are newly required in response to the new route
The map blocks are identified.

Next, the distribution center server 20 calculates the fee required for distributing the two specified map blocks based on the fee setting DB 26, and
(Step 655). In the vehicle-mounted terminal 30, the transmitted fee is displayed on the display means 38 (step 60).
2) Transmit purchase information to the effect that there is a will of distribution or no intention to distribute to the distribution center server 20 (step 6).
03).

In the distribution center server 20, step 65
It is determined in step 6 whether there is a purchase request. If there is a purchase request, the process proceeds to step 657, and a total of 2
The information of the map blocks and the new route 811 is distributed to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. Note that the map blocks that have already been distributed are not distributed again. In the in-vehicle terminal 30, a new 2
The map block and the new route information are received (step 606), and the navigation is continued based on the received information. Further, in this embodiment, since the connection between the distribution center server 20 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 is always maintained during traveling, the above-described steps are repeated each time traffic congestion information is discovered and the route deviates. As a result, it becomes possible to receive distribution of new map information. That is, in step 605, it is determined whether or not the navigation operation on the in-vehicle terminal 30 has been completed. If not, the process returns to step 602 and waits for information on the new route to be transmitted. It will be.

If the navigation operation has been completed in step 605, the operation proceeds to step 606, where operation completion information is transmitted to the distribution center server 20. The distribution center server 20 determines whether operation end information has been received from the in-vehicle terminal 30 (step 658), and returns to step 653 until the operation end information is received, waiting for a request from the in-vehicle terminal 30. To maintain the state.

In step 658, when the operation end information is received, the connection is turned off (step 659), and a series of procedures is ended. In the present embodiment, an example in which traffic center information is found on the distribution center server 20 side has been described. However, traffic information is obtained by the traffic information obtaining means 33 of the in-vehicle terminal 30, and it is determined that a new route is necessary. Current location information,
Procedure for transmitting destination information and congestion information from the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 to the distribution center server 20, searching for a new route in the distribution center server 20, and distributing the new route and necessary map information to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 It is also possible to use (Sixth Embodiment) A sixth embodiment using the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of map information distribution in distribution center server 20. The procedure in FIG. 7 is executed by the control unit 21 in the distribution center server 20 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 24, and in the vehicle-mounted terminal 30 according to the main program stored in the storage unit 34 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. The control means 31 will execute.

In the sixth embodiment, each time traffic congestion information on a route is found during traveling, the distribution center server 20 is accessed, a route is searched again, and map information corresponding to the searched route is distributed. Is performed. In the sixth embodiment, based on the previously described second embodiment, FIG.
Are transmitted from the distribution center server 20 to the in-vehicle terminal 30, and the in-vehicle terminal 20
It is assumed that the navigation system is operating based on the stored map information.

First, the in-vehicle terminal 30 monitors whether there is any congestion on the currently set route while receiving the information on the congestion from the traffic information obtaining means 33 (step 701). If a traffic congestion is found in step 701, the process proceeds to step 702, where a connection request, traffic congestion information, current location information, and destination information are transmitted from the in-vehicle terminal 30 to the distribution center server 20.

The distribution center server 20 performs a route re-search based on the received traffic congestion information (step 75).
3). For example, it is assumed that a new route such as 811 indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 15 has been searched. Two map blocks B-2 and B-3 newly required corresponding to the new route are specified. Next, the distribution center server 20 calculates a fee required for distributing the two specified map blocks based on the fee setting DB 26, and
0 (step 754).

In the in-vehicle terminal 30, the transmitted fee is displayed on the display means 38 (step 703), and purchase information to the effect that there is a will to distribute or not to distribute is transmitted to the distribution center server 20 (step 703). 704). The distribution center server 20 determines in step 755 whether or not there is a purchase request.
The process proceeds to step S6, and the information of the above-described two map blocks and the new route 811 is distributed to the vehicle-mounted terminal 30. After sending,
The connection with the in-vehicle terminal 30 is turned off (step 75).
7) End a series of procedures.

The in-vehicle terminal 30 receives two new map blocks and new route information (step 705), and continues navigation based on the received information. Further, in the present embodiment, since the connection between the distribution center server 20 and the in-vehicle terminal 30 is established only when necessary,
Each time traffic information is found, a connection is made from the in-vehicle terminal 30 to the distribution center server 20, and it becomes possible to receive distribution of new map information that avoids traffic congestion.

In this embodiment, an example in which traffic information is found on the in-vehicle terminal 30 has been described. However, if traffic information is obtained by the traffic information obtaining means 23 of the distribution center server 20, a new route is required. If it is determined, the connection may be made from the distribution center server 20 to the in-vehicle terminal 30 to offer a new route that avoids congestion and offer new map information necessary for the new route.

In the above description, the re-route search based on the departure from the route and the re-route search based on the traffic congestion information are described separately. However, the re-route search may be performed in parallel.

[0069]

According to the present invention, the in-vehicle terminal can efficiently receive the distribution of the map information or the information on the route. Even if the in-vehicle terminal does not have the latest map information, it is possible to perform navigation based on the latest map information by receiving the latest map information.

Further, even if the in-vehicle terminal does not have a route search function connecting the departure place and the destination, it is possible to receive the distribution of the route information, so that the navigation based on the received route information can be performed. .

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a configuration for implementing a map information distribution method and system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure in a map information distribution method and system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of map information to be distributed.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of guidance information.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of map information to be distributed.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of map information to be distributed.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of map information to be distributed.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of map information distributed by scrolling.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of map information distributed due to a deviation from a route.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of map information distributed by traffic congestion information.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Network 20 ... Distribution center server 30 ... In-vehicle terminal 40 ... Broadcasting station 50 ... Provider 60 ... Telephone company

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Osamu Mino 1-2-28 Goshodori, Hyogo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture Inside Fujitsu Ten Limited (72) Inventor Yasuhiko Tanimoto 1-chome, Goshodori, Hyogo-ku, Hyogo No. 28 No. 28 F-term in Fujitsu Ten Limited (reference) 2C032 HB05 HB22 HB25 HC08 HC25 HC27 HD07 HD13 HD16 2F029 AA02 AB07 AB13 AC02 AC08 AC09 AC14 AC18 AD07 5B049 BB00 CC36 EE31 FF04 5H180 AA01 BB05 CC12 EE02 FF12 FF10 FF25 FF27 FF33 FF36

Claims (28)

[Claims] 1. A distribution center server receives departure point information and destination information from an in-vehicle terminal, and searches for a route connecting a departure point corresponding to the departure point information and a destination corresponding to the destination information. A map information distribution method comprising: determining map information corresponding to the route; and distributing the map information to the vehicle-mounted terminal. 2. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the distribution center server distributes route information corresponding to the route to the vehicle-mounted terminal in addition to the map information. 3. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the map information is a map block through which the route passes. 4. The map information distribution method according to claim 3, wherein the map information further includes a map block around a route through which the route does not pass. 5. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the map information has a plurality of scales. 6. The map information is divided into a plurality of times,
The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the map information is distributed to the in-vehicle terminal. 7. The map information distribution method according to claim 6, wherein the distribution center server first distributes the map information near the departure place. 8. The map information distribution method according to claim 6, wherein the distribution center server first distributes the map information near the route. 9. The map information distribution method according to claim 6, wherein the distribution center server changes the degree of detail between the map information near the route and other map information and distributes the map information. 10. The map information distribution method according to claim 9, wherein the degree of detail is a scale. 11. The map information distribution method according to claim 9, wherein the level of detail is a road level. 12. The map information distribution method according to claim 9, wherein the degree of detail is a degree of simplification of a road shape. 13. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the distribution center server distributes the map information in accordance with a current position of the on-board terminal. 14. The map information distribution method according to claim 4, wherein the distribution center server distributes a next map block based on a current position of the vehicle-mounted terminal and a boundary of the map block. 15. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the distribution center server distributes map information of an area specified by the on-board terminal. 16. The map information distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the distribution center server changes a distribution price of the map information according to a type of the vehicle-mounted terminal. 17. The distribution center server according to claim 1, wherein said departure point information and said destination information are registered and stored.
The map information distribution method according to any one of the above. 18. The map information distribution method according to claim 17, wherein the distribution center server searches for a route based on the registered departure point information or destination information. 19. A distribution center server receives departure point information and destination information from a vehicle-mounted terminal, and searches for a route connecting a departure point corresponding to the departure point information and a destination corresponding to the destination information. Determining first map information corresponding to the route, distributing the first map information to the in-vehicle terminal, receiving off-route information and current position information from the in-vehicle terminal, and responding to the current position information Re-searching for a new route connecting the current position and the destination, determining second map information corresponding to the new route, and distributing the second map information to the on-vehicle terminal. Map information distribution method. 20. A distribution center server having traffic information obtaining means, wherein departure point information and destination information are received from an in-vehicle terminal, and a departure point corresponding to the departure point information and a destination corresponding to the destination information are determined. Searching for a route connecting the route, determining first map information corresponding to the route, distributing the first map information to the vehicle-mounted terminal, receiving traffic jam information on the route from the traffic information obtaining means, Re-searching for a new route that avoids traffic congestion corresponding to the traffic congestion information, determining second map information corresponding to the new route, and distributing the second map information to the on-vehicle terminal. Map information distribution method to be used. 21. The map information distribution method according to claim 19, wherein the second map information does not include the first map information. 22. Receiving means for receiving departure point information and destination information from an in-vehicle terminal, and searching means for searching a route connecting a departure point corresponding to the departure point information and a destination corresponding to the destination information. A map, comprising: a determination unit that determines map information corresponding to the route searched by the search unit; and a distribution unit that distributes the map information determined by the determination unit to the in-vehicle terminal. Information distribution system. 23. When the receiving means receives the off-route information and the current position information from the in-vehicle terminal, the search means re-searches for a new route corresponding to the current position information. 23. The map information distribution system according to claim 22, wherein the second map information corresponding to the new route is determined, and the distribution unit distributes the second map information to the in-vehicle terminal. 24. The apparatus further comprising traffic information obtaining means, wherein when the traffic information obtaining means receives traffic jam information on the route, the search means re-creates a new route for avoiding traffic jam corresponding to the traffic information. 23. The map information distribution system according to claim 22, wherein the determination unit determines second map information corresponding to the new route, and the distribution unit distributes the second map information to the in-vehicle terminal. . 25. A setting means for setting a destination, a current position measuring means for measuring a current position, a destination set by the setting means and a current position measured by the current position measuring means. Transmitting means for transmitting the guide image information, route information, and map information corresponding to the destination and the current position from the distribution center server; and Display means for displaying map information; and control means for controlling the guide image to be displayed on the display means in accordance with the current position measured by the current position measurement means. Terminal. 26. The in-vehicle terminal according to claim 25, wherein the setting unit includes a search unit for searching and setting a destination. 27. The in-vehicle terminal according to claim 25, further comprising search condition input means for searching for the route information. 28. A traffic information obtaining means, wherein when the traffic information obtaining means receives the traffic jam information on the route, the transmitting means transmits the traffic jam information to the distribution center server. Item 29. An in-vehicle terminal according to item 25.