JP2006247343A6 - Method and system for using geographic data in computer game development - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system and method for facilitating the development of a computer game including a display of a real world region such as a road network in the region.
Systems and methods are disclosed for facilitating the development of computer games that depict or display real-world regions as part of a game play scenario. The source database includes data representing geographic features in the region including roads in the region. The data in the source database includes attributes suitable for use to provide navigation related functions. In addition to providing data from the source database for navigation-related functions, data from the source database is also provided for computer game development. Application programming interfaces and other tools for handling geographic data are provided for accessing and processing geographic data.
[Selection] Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a system and method for facilitating the development of a computer game, and more particularly to a system for facilitating the development of a computer game that includes an indication of an actual real world region such as a road network within the region. And related to the method.
The present invention is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, "APPLICATION PROGRAMMING INTERFACE FOR GEOGRAPHIC DATA IN COMPUTER GAMES", agent docket No. 0185US, "GEOGRAPHIC AREA TEMPLATE FOR COMPUTER GAMES", agent docket No. 0186US, and "COMPUTER GAME". Related to the pending patent application entitled "DEVELOPMENT FACTORY SYSTEM AND METHOD", Attorney Docket No. 0190US.

  Elaborate and commercially important computer games have been developed. Improvements in computer hardware and software have made it possible to provide realistic graphics and sound in computer games. With these advances, computer game users have come to expect that games will meet high standards with attention to richness and detail. In computer games intended to represent real-world locations, such as road racing games, the user expects the game to give a convincing description of the real world with attention to accuracy and detail.

  Computer game developers recognize the need to give computer games a realistic depiction of real-world locations. This puts a burden on the computer game developer to obtain the data necessary to delineate the geographical location with realistic details and accuracy. Collecting detailed geographical data such as roads and places in the real world takes time and money. Furthermore, collecting detailed real-world data diverts computer game developer resources from other important aspects of computer game creation, such as characters, concepts and strategies. Accordingly, a need exists to facilitate the collection and use of geographic data by game developers.

  Another issue related to the development of computer games that depict real-world locations relates to providing a variety of different sites. Even if a computer game developer collects all the data necessary to depict a particular real-world scene (like a city) with the richness and detail expected by game players, the gameplay scenario Limited to specific sites. This can limit the appeal of computer games. Therefore, it is effective for computer game developers to provide games that depict a variety of different real-world sites. However, if a computer game developer wishes to give the game different real-world sites, it is required to collect geographic data for each different site, thus incurring even more significant costs.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a method of creating a computer game that displays an actual physical location.
Another object of the present invention is to facilitate the display of actual physical locations in computer games.

  To address these and other objectives, the present invention provides a system for facilitating the development of computer games that depict or display actual real-world (or imaginary) regions as part of the game play scenario. And methods. The source database includes data representing geographic features in the region including roads in the region. The data in the source database includes attributes suitable for use to provide navigation related functions. In addition to providing data from the source database for navigation-related functions, data from the source database is also provided for computer game development. Application programming interfaces and other tools for handling geographic data are provided for accessing and processing geographic data.

I. First, the embodiment shown here relates to a computer game that depicts an actual geographical location as part of a computer game play scenario. For example, a play scenario may include a car chase in Miami, Florida streets, a treasure hunt across Europe, a flight simulator game over Texas, and the like. In the disclosed embodiment, the geographic data used in the computer game is obtained from a map data developer. In these embodiments, the map data developer collects, verifies, updates, processes, and provides geographic data for navigation-related purposes, such as collecting, reviewing, updating, and processing geographic data. To distribute.

II. Source Geographic Database FIG. 1 shows a master or source version of a geographic database 100. The master version of this geographic database is owned and developed by the geographic database developer 101 (also referred to as “map developer”, “map data developer”, etc.). (Although only one source database and geographic database developer is shown, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to a single source database or a single geographic database developer.)

  The master version 100 of the geographic database includes data 102 (also referred to as “geographic data” or “spatial data”) that represents geographic features within the coverage area 104. The coverage area 104 may correspond to the whole country, such as the United States. Alternatively, the coverage area 104 may correspond to a number of countries, such as the United States, Canada and Mexico, or France, Germany and Italy. According to another aspect, the coverage area 104 of the master version 100 of the geographic database may represent only one region in the country, such as the West Coast of the Midwest of the United States. The master version 100 of the geographic database includes data representing geographic features in the entire coverage area 104, but includes geographic features that are not represented by the data in the geographic database, or the display of geographic features is sparse. There may be a portion in the coverage area 104.

  The master version 100 of the geographic database includes data regarding the road network 120 located in the coverage area 104. The data relating to the road network 120 includes various types of information such as geographical coordinates of road locations, street names of roads, address areas along the roads, turning restrictions at road intersections, and the like. The master version 100 of the geographic database also includes data regarding the points in the coverage area 104. Such points include hotels, restaurants, museums, stadiums, offices, car dealers, car repair shops, and the like. The master version 100 of the geographic database may include data regarding the location of these points. The master version 100 of the geographic database may also include data relating to places such as cities, towns, or other communities, and data relating to other geographic features such as rivers, mountain ranges, and the like. The master version 100 of the geographic database may include other types of information.

  There are a variety of methods used by geographic database developers to collect data. These methods include obtaining data from other sources such as municipalities. In addition, the geographic database developer may use on-site individuals to travel along the road across the geographic area with the vehicle to observe features and record information about them. Data collected by the geographic database developer is stored in the master version 100 of the geographic database.

  The geographic database developer 101 continues to collect data representing features in the geographic coverage area 104 on an ongoing basis. One reason that geographic database developers continue to collect data is because features in the coverage area 104 change over time. Thus, the geographic database developer collects data for the same feature to update or confirm previously collected data for the feature. Another reason that geographic database developers continue to collect data is to extend the coverage and / or details of the master version 100 of the geographic database. For example, at some point, the master version 100 of the geographic database may include data that represents only a portion of the entire coverage area 104. Thereafter, the geographic database developer collects data about features in the area that were not previously represented to extend the coverage of the master version 100 of the geographic database.

  The master version 100 of the geographic database is maintained as a copy with up-to-date data regarding the coverage area 104. Accordingly, the master version 100 of the geographic database is updated, expanded and / or otherwise changed on a regular and continuous basis. To facilitate these operations, the master version 100 of the geographic database is stored in a format that facilitates updating, maintenance and development. For example, the master version 100 data may not be compressed. Suitable formats include, for example, the VSAM format and the GDF format, but other types of formats are suitable, with or without ownership. In general, the format of the master database 100 is not suitable for use in a navigation system.

  A copy of the master version 100 of the geographic database is physically located at the first location 114. In one embodiment, the master version 100 of the geographic database is stored on one or more hard drives, tapes or other media and accessed by a suitable computer 116. An appropriate computer such as a mainframe computer or a plurality of networked microcomputers may be used.

III. First Embodiment FIG. 2 shows an overall first embodiment of a system and method that facilitates the development of a computer game that includes the display of actual geographic features such as roads in a region. In FIG. 2, the geographic database master version 100 is used to create a compiled database product 110. Compiled database product 110 is formed using compiler 111. The compiler 111 is a software program that is executed on a suitable computer platform.

  The compiled database product 110 may include only a portion of the total data in the master version 100 of the geographic database. For example, the compiled database product 110 may include data pertaining only to one or more specific subareas within the coverage area 104 of the master version 100 of the geographic database. Furthermore, the compiled database product 110 may include fewer than all data attributes that describe the geographic features represented by the master version 100 of the geographic database.

  The compiled database product 110 is used for various types of computing platforms. For example, the compiled database product 110 is used for a computing platform 112 that is used for navigation. The computing platform 112 used for navigation includes vehicle-mounted navigation systems, handheld portable navigation systems, personal computers (including desktop and notebook computers), and other types of devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs). Includes devices, pagers, phones, etc. The compiled database product 110 is also used in networked computing platforms and environments that include systems connected to the Internet.

  The compiled database product 110 used for the computing platform used for navigation is stored on a suitable medium. For example, the compiled database product may be stored on a CD-ROM disk, hard drive, DVD disk, flash memory, or other type of media that is now available or will be available in the future.

  On the computing platform 112 used for navigation, the compiled database product 110 is used by various software applications. For example, the compiled database product 110 may be used by software applications that provide navigation-related functions such as route calculation, route guidance, vehicle positioning, map display, electronic yellow pages, and other types of functions.

  In addition to forming a compiled database product for use on a computing platform used for navigation, the geographic database developer 101 may use one or more compiled programs used by the computer game developer 130. A database product 118 is also formed. The one or more compiled database products 118 used by the computer game developer may be the same as or similar to the compiled database product 110 for use on the computing platform 112 used for navigation. But you can. The compiled database product 118 used by the computer game developer 130 may be provided on a suitable medium such as one or more CD-ROM discs, DVD discs or hard disks. Alternatively, the compiled database product 118 used by the computer game developer 130 may be provided via a network connection.

  Computer game developer 130 uses the compiled data from geographic database 118 along with other data and components (described below) to create one or more computer games 132. The computer game 132 created by the computer game developer 130 may include some or all of the data from the geographic database 118. Alternatively, computer game 132 may include data derived from or based on data from geographic database 118. The geographic data in computer game 132 may be in a different format than the data contained in geographic database 118.

  A computer game 132 created using data from the geographic database 118 provides an indication of geographic features in a computer game play story. The geographic features displayed by the computer game include features located in the entire coverage area of the geographic database 118 or a portion thereof, which includes all or a portion of the road network represented by the geographic database 118. Computer game 132 is installed on a suitable computer platform 134. The computer platform 134 on which the computer game 132 is installed may include a personal computer, game console, PDA, handheld device, mobile phone, network computer, and the like. The user accesses the computer game 132 on the computer platform 134 and plays the game.

  Referring to FIG. 3, the computer game developer 130 uses a tool set 139. In one embodiment, the toolset includes a geographic data API (application programming interface) 140 and a geographic data tool 144 for accessing and using data contained in the compiled geographic database 118. It has. In one embodiment, the geographic database API 140 and data tool 144 are described in US Pat. Nos. 5,974,419, 5,953,722, 5,968,109, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Similar or identical to the interface layer and related navigation applications disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,047,280. In general, the geographic data API 140 provides a library of functions that facilitate access to data contained in the compiled geographic database 118.

  The geographic data API 140 and data tool 144 provide various ways to access the data in the geographic database 118. Some of these methods provided by the geographic data API 140 and data tool 144 to access the geographic database 118 include the following.

A. Referring to spatial FIG. 4, among the functions provided by the geographic data API 140 and data tool 144 is a spatial search function 150. This spatial search function 150 supports spatial queries. A spatial query returns a data record in a specified format (eg, data representing a road segment) based on the location criteria included in the query. For example, a spatial query may require all data records representing road segments that are within 5 km of a given latitude and longitude. Another spatial query may require all data records representing restaurants within a rectangular area with specified geographic boundaries. Spatial search function 150 returns all data records that meet these criteria.

B. Extraction (slicing)
Geographic API 140 and data tool 144 provide an extract function 154. This extraction function 154 supports the extraction of slices of data from the geographic database 118. Game developer 130 may wish to form a computer game that only provides a display of a portion of the coverage area of geographic database 118. For example, the geographic database 118 has a Florida coverage area (ie, contains data representing all Florida states), but the game developer 130 can be virtually driven by game players along only the streets of Miami. Hope to form a computer game. Using the extract function 154, the game developer 130 can extract data representing only the city of Miami from the geographic database 118.

C. The data in the filter geographic database 118 can be provided with a high level of detail and / or accuracy. For example, the data in the geographic database 118 can represent the location of local roads with an accuracy level of ± 5 meters. This high level of detail is suitable for navigation-related functions such as vehicle positioning. However, a relatively large amount of data is required to provide a high level of detail. Many computer games do not require a high level of detail. Decreasing the level of detail and / or accuracy reduces the amount of data needed to represent a region. In addition, reducing the level of detail and / or accuracy also facilitates data processing.

  Thus, another function provided by the geographic API 140 and the data tool 144 is a filter function 158. This filter function 158 filters geographic data obtained from the geographic database 118. The filter function 158 selectively excludes portions of geographic data obtained from the geographic database 118 while maintaining a given coverage area. According to one embodiment, the filter function 158 eliminates some of the data (eg, shape point data) used to represent the shape of the road segment. The shape data is thinned out so that all roads are still displayed, although not necessarily at the same level of accuracy. For example, instead of displaying roads with an accuracy level of ± 5 meters, the filter function 158 deletes the shape point data so that the roads are represented with an accuracy level of ± 25 meters. This reduction in accuracy correspondingly reduces the amount of data needed to represent the region. In another embodiment, the filter function 158 can operate to exclude all types of roads, such as all streets.

  Using the filter function 158, the game developer can adapt the region without having more data needed to represent the region at the desired level of detail and / or accuracy for the computer game. Can be obtained from a geographic database. This has a positive effect on the data storage requirements of the computer game and can improve game performance so that the game can realistically simulate movement across the display area at the desired simulation speed.

  The filter function 158 may also be used by the game developer 130 to obtain geographic data at different levels of detail for games on different platforms. For example, the game developer 130 can use the filter function 158 to obtain geographic data at a relatively high level of accuracy for console platform games, and the filter function 158 can be used to create a handheld platform game. Another set of geographic data can be obtained with a relatively low level of accuracy.

D. The 3D conversion geographic API 140 and the data tool 144 also include a 3D conversion function 161. This 3D conversion function 161 supports converting data obtained from the geographic database 118 so that it can be displayed as a 3D (perspective view) image. The 3D image may display the region from the perspective of the game player, or may be displayed from another perspective, for example from the audience. The visual field may be a visual field from above. (This 3D functionality may here be incorporated into the geographic API 140 and data tool 144, or may be incorporated into other game-related components and inputs 190 described below.)

E. Transformation geographic API 140 and data tool 144 also include transformation function 160. This transformation function 160 converts the data obtained from the geographic database 118 into different formats. Different formats may be suitable for use by computer games. For example, the data may be converted to be more suitable for 3D display. As another example, the data may be transformed so that it can be drawn quickly, i.e., to simulate a vehicle moving at high speed. According to another example, the data may be converted to be more suitable for use in an online game, eg, an internet game.

F. The integrated geographic API 140 and data tool 144 have an integrated function 164. This integration function 164 associates data obtained from the geographic database 118 with other new types of data. Among the new types of data associated with geographic data are road models and 3D models. These road model and 3D model are stored in the road model database 170 and the 3D model database 174, respectively.

  The data in the road model database 170 is used for visual appearance and description of road-related items such as road pavements, lane stripes, curbs, sidewalks, signs, lampposts, lane borders, traffic signals, speed barriers, and pedestrian crossings. Display. These road model displays are associated with road network data displays obtained from the geographic database 118. As described above, the data in the geographic database 118 is a representation of (or derived from) a road network used for navigation. Thus, the data in the geographic database 118 may not indicate what roads or road-related objects are visible. For example, in the geographic database 118, a road data display for navigation purposes indicates the location of an intersection (eg, geographic coordinates) and possibly the points along the road segment between the intersections. Location, legal (and illegal) connection between roads, road name, address area along the road, road surface type, etc. may be indicated. However, in the database 118, the road data display for navigation purposes may not include information indicating the actual visible shape, color, dimensions, etc. of these road-related items. For example, in the database 118, the road data display for navigation purposes may not indicate the color of the road, curbs, sidewalks, what signs are visible, and so on. The road model database 170 includes these types of information.

  The integration function 164 associates the data in the road model database 170 with the data from the geographic database 118 representing the road network. The integration function 164 may associate the road model data with a particular location along the road segment (represented by data from the geographic database 118) or a length along the road segment. For example, the integration function 164 can show curbs along all side streets (represented by data from the geographic database 118) (using a model of what curb looks from the road model database 170). do it). In another example, the integration function 164 can show barriers along all sides of the highway represented by data from the geographic database 118 (using the barrier model from the road model database 170). do it). The integration function 164 can also associate a data model for the traffic signal at the intersection.

  The data display of road related data in the road model database is also used to provide other characteristics of what is displayed, such as physical and acoustic characteristics. For example, if a simulated vehicle is moved over a simulated curb, the simulated vehicle will “bump” on it. Similarly, a simulated collision sound occurs when a simulated vehicle “hits” a simulated streetlight pole. Data display from the road model database can also be used to provide feedback to the player via the user interface if supported.

  The road model database 170 may include a variety of different data models for several types of road related items. For example, many different types of traffic signal configurations may exist. These different types of traffic signal configurations are used to provide diversity and make the road network display more realistic, i.e. not all traffic signal configurations look the same.

  The game developer uses the integration function 164 to combine the data from the road model database 170 with the data from the geographic database 118 to provide a realistic look and action road network. The road model database 170 is not intended to display actual road-related objects, such as the exact location of the sign or the lexical on the sign, or the exact configuration of the traffic signal. Neither the geographic database 118 nor the road model database contains information representing the actual location of the signs or the exact composition of the traffic signal. However, the road model database 170 provides data for visually displaying these road-related items in a manner typical for the area. Thus, for residential districts, the road model database will include models such as sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, stop signs, etc. that are associated with appropriate locations along the road network defined by the geographic database 118. The integration function 164 and the road model database 170 can determine the density of these road related items (how many signs per mile or how many lampposts per block) and style (shape, height, sign lexical). Give both).

  As described above, the integration function 164 associates data from the 3D model database 174 with the road network represented by the geographic database 118. The 3D model data in the 3D model database 174 includes displays used for visual appearance and description of cityscapes and landscape related objects such as buildings, fences, trees, shrubs, lawns, fences, clouds, backgrounds, and the like. Similar to the road model, these 3D model representations are associated with locations along the road network data represented by data from the geographic database 118.

  Data displays of cityscapes and landscape related objects in the 3D model database are also used to provide other characteristics of what is displayed (eg, physical and acoustic). For example, when a simulated vehicle hits a simulated building, the simulated vehicle stops and generates a collision sound. As another example, a simulated vehicle can ride over a simulated shrub, but cannot run over a simulated tree.

  The geographic database developer 130 uses the API 140 and the geographic data tool 144 to extract data from the database 118, transform it, filter it, and apply it to the data from the road model database 170 and 3D model database 174 as appropriate. After being integrated, a data product 184 representing the region and suitable for use in computer games is formed.

  Referring back to FIG. 3, the game developer 130 uses this data product 184 to create a computer game 134. Game developer 130 combines data product 184 formed using API 140 and geographic tool 144 with other game-related components and inputs 190. Among other game-related components and inputs 190 are data and programs that provide and / or represent characters, game logic, vehicles (both the first individual game player and others), and game rules. . Other game-related components and inputs 190 also include programs for rendering and graphics. Also, other game-related components and inputs 190 are components that make specific use of geographic data (eg, applications, programs, etc.), such as a route calculation application that determines routes that can be used as part of the game play scenario. May be included. Some computer game developments may include additional components and / or inputs, while other computer games may require fewer. The creation and development of these game-related components and inputs are known to those skilled in the art. Game developer 130 combines data product 184 generated using API 140 and geographic tool 144 with other game-related components and inputs 190 using an appropriate linker and / or compiler 194. In this data product, the geographic data may be integrated into the code base or may exist separately. Computer games 134 created by computer game developer 130 are distributed (and / or sold or licensed) to end users using appropriate distribution channels.

IV. Second Embodiment FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a system and method for facilitating the development of computer games that include the display of actual geographic features, such as roads within a region. In FIG. 5, the same components are denoted by the same numbers as in the previous embodiment. The system and method of FIG. 5 is similar to the system and method of FIG. 2 except that the game developer 130 is not from one of the compiled geographic databases 110, 118 formed from the master geographic database 100. Geographic data is received from the master geographic database 100. In order to access data from the master geographic database 100, the game developer 130 uses the interface 200. This interface 200 differs from API 140 (FIG. 4) because it accesses geographic data in an uncompressed format stored in the master geographic database 100. This may affect the performance of the interface 200. However, it is not a significant factor in the development environment. In other respects, the embodiment of FIG. 5 is similar to the embodiment of FIGS.

V. Third Embodiment FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of a system and method for facilitating the development of computer games that include the display of actual geographic features, such as roads within a region. In FIG. 7, the same components are indicated by the same numbers as in the previous embodiment. The system and method of FIG. 7 is similar to the system and method of FIG. 2, but map developer 101 provides a compiled geographic database product 220 suitable for use with the computer platform of game 134. These compiled geographic database products 220 are then distributed to end users who use the compiled geographic database products 220 as a computing platform for games 134. The compiled geographic database product 220 may be distributed directly from the map developer 101 to the end user, or the compiled geographic database product 220 may be the computer game developer 130 or another third party. It may be distributed via.

  In this embodiment, the computer game developer 130 develops a computer game 234 that uses a separately provided geographic database product 220. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating the components of this embodiment. The components shown in FIG. 7 are similar to FIG. 4 except that the computer game developer 130 does not include geographic data from the game map developer 101. Rather, computer game developer 130 provides data from road model database 170 and 3D model database 174 along with other game-related components and inputs 190 in game 234. The game 234 is configured to access a compiled geographic database 220 on the end user's computer platform 134. End user game platform 134 includes a suitable API (which may be similar to API 140 described with reference to FIG. 3). The effect of this embodiment is that the end user can obtain different compiled databases representing different regions from the map developer 101.

VI. Other Embodiments The embodiments disclosed herein describe the use of geographic data in computer games. Embodiments disclosed herein can be adapted to use geographic data for other non-navigation related purposes. Among these other non-navigation purposes are simulation and film production. For example, the embodiments disclosed herein can be adapted to use geographic data in a simulation system. Simulation systems that can use geographic data include systems that simulate emergency operations (eg, evacuation procedures or emergency vehicle deployment and routing), driver education systems, and the like.

  The embodiments disclosed herein can also be used for movie production. Many movies use computer-generated video at true (or imaginary) locations, rather than actual video. Embodiments disclosed herein can be adapted to create realistic looking geographical locations that include features such as road networks for use in movie production. When using any of the disclosed embodiments for movie production, relatively high visual accuracy is required, and therefore attributes that provide relatively high visual accuracy are required. However, only a small number of certain types of attributes are required.

  The embodiments disclosed herein can be used on a variety of different types of computer platforms including client-server platforms and peer-to-peer platforms. The embodiments disclosed herein can be used with streaming or other technologies.

  The embodiments disclosed herein may also be used in games that use geographic data obtained from multiple sources, such as, for example, two or more source geographic databases. In these embodiments, data from multiple source geographic databases may be synthesized by the game developer or another party.

VII. Examples Below are examples of different types of computer games and / or applications that can be developed using the embodiments disclosed herein. (Note that some games are new, and some are updates and / or improvements to traditional games.)

A. Urban Development Simulation Game Geographic data representing actual real-world scenes can be used in a form of computer game where a player simulates the growth of an urban (or other regional) environment. In this type of game, a player can design a city or other location (town, rural, countryside) by designing roads for the area, utilities (eg, electricity, sewer, waterworks) and other infrastructure elements. The construction of the zone). The computer game then allows a virtual city to be developed based on this design. Virtual cities are detailed including individual zoning requirements (eg, residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), criminal layer (ie, can be changed by police station implementation), traffic, unemployment, and other realistic features. Can be.

  Geographic data representing actual real-world scenes can be used in this type of game to provide a high degree of realism, allowing game players to build cities based on real-world city models. . In this type of game, the player can select a particular city model (eg, Paris) and attempt to improve or duplicate it. Inclusion of real-time traffic, weather, intersections (updated periodically or in real time) and other real world content increases the realism of such virtual cities. This improvement can add reality, player fidelity, awareness, and other goals to this popular form of game.

B. Virtual Human Development Simulation Game Geographic data representing actual real-world sites can be used in a form of computer game in which a game player simulates the development of a virtual human (eg, a “sim”). In this type of computer game, a player builds a virtual person by managing the virtual person's habits, propensity, home, family, work, and interactions with other virtual persons. In the game, the site where the virtual humans live was indeterminate, and in this type of conventional simulation game, the site was modeled taking into account the player's virtual home, and some characteristics specific to the game manufacturer were presented. Included.

  Using data from a source of geographic data representing actual real-world scenes in this form of game, players in real-world models with real-world intersections, streets, landscapes and neighboring models A high level of reality can be given to allow to build virtual characters. When starting this type of game, enhanced by the addition of geographic data representing actual real world sites, the player selects a real world city. Once a city is selected, a player can select a neighborhood from that city (eg, Chicago's Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Rogers Park, River North, or a particular suburb). When a player selects a neighborhood, the player's virtual person can simulate a visit to a virtual fascination based on real world fascinating things, such as a popular restaurant or bar. You can reflect how you live, work in a local company, and live in that particular area, almost as if you lived there.

C. “Bot-fighter” games Geographic data representing actual real-world scenes can be used as the backbone of “bot-fighter” type games. This improves bot-fighter games by incorporating detailed spatial data representing real-world sites. A “bot-fighter” type game can be played on a mobile phone. In this game, a player builds a “warrior robot” on his mobile phone using credits (eg, virtual money) from winning a battle against other players. All firings between warriors are done by SMS messages via mobile phones. With mobile phone technology, a player may be given approximate coordinates for his player enemy army, or with mobile phone positioning technology, an alert is given when a player enemy army enters his area or territory. Also good.

  The addition of geographic data that represents actual real-world sites can make this type of game quite appealing. Instead of a simple approach alert, specific route data and details or scattered locations can be provided. With the addition of geographic data representing actual real-world sites, this type of game can support more accurate boundaries. Furthermore, with the addition of geographic data representing actual real-world sites, game player weapons can be given more accurate distance limits rather than the approximate limits available in existing games.

  Furthermore, game credits (e.g., virtual money) can be spent on the route, while intercepting enemy forces (based on known movement or historical patterns), or at the location of enemy forces.

D. Traffic Management Game / Application In this computer game / application, data representing a real world road network is used in combination with traffic feeds and models to simulate a real city with existing traffic patterns. Once a model of an actual city with a road network and traffic pattern is formed, the user can fine-tune, remodel or redesign the traffic structure, in anticipation modeling and comparison with other cities. It is permissible to improve the road network or make most improvements to existing systems for the purpose of creating a dynamic traffic system.

  The computer game / application may include vehicle management features. According to this feature, the game player is given a virtual vehicle corps (eg starting with two trucks) in the initially selected city and an overlay of existing traffic conditions. The goal of games with team management features is to provide a customer-based service (ie, based on real-world business represented by real-world geographic databases and some zone data). The delivery date, team routing, fuel costs, pick-up points, schedule, etc. are all managed by the game player.

  Traffic flow, accidents, bottlenecks and other traffic data are displayed. Wired or live devices also have the ability to add raw or updated data. Traffic may consist of individual vehicles that follow a typical vehicle movement pattern (eg, wild horses, driving down a shoulder, etc.) or may be formed from scratches.

E. Emergency Service and Law Enforcement Games Geographic data representing actual real-world scenes can be used in an emergency service scenario type game or a law enforcement scenario type game. These games include themes related to fire fighting, medical emergency services (eg, first aid, search and rescue), police tracking, and the like. Game developers who make this type of game may use the embodiments disclosed herein, possibly with the addition of location-based content (eg, actual buildings, companies, etc.), traffic, weather, intersections, etc. Realistically visible sites can be given as part of these game play scenarios.

F. Location Quiz Game Geographic data representing actual real-world sites can be used in a location quiz type computer game. In this type of game, the game player is given a clue about the secret location of the game character and attempts to determine its secret geographic location. Using geographic data that represents actual real-world sites adds a measure of reality to this type of game, increasing its educational value.

  One feature of this game is that it can be personalized to the player site. The player can search for a secret location in his city or area. For example, parents can use this game to teach their children how to go around their area. According to this embodiment, the parent can set the game to include a route for the child to travel to school. Also, when a family moves to a new area, the parent can get an up-to-date digital map representing the new area and teach the child about the new area.

  Adding digital map data to the game also gives the ability to play it where the player is located. For example, a child in Paris on vacation from Chicago can search for a game character in Paris and learn about the city.

G. Children's Map Book Another computer game / application that can use geographic data representing actual real-world sites is the children's map book game / application. This computer game / application can be used by families on long-distance trips in the car. In one embodiment, the game / application can be used to answer a child's question, such as “Did you get there yet?” Or “Where are you now?” With distance and time to the destination.

  One version of this game includes communication features that allow a child to communicate with other children who have the same feature game. Another version of this game / application allows game players to create virtual travel stories that describe and record trips in real time.

  In one embodiment, the children's map book game / application is developed as a travel companion game that obtains location information from a vehicle-mounted navigation system or a remote server. When a car in which a child is a passenger is driven through a particular site (eg, a town or attraction) or a more general area (eg, a state), the child's map book application displays video and audio Use narration to give facts about the area. The children's map book game / application also gives a well-known story or legend about the area (eg, Johnny Appleseed when the child travels through the Appalachian region).

  In another embodiment, the children's map book includes travel companion features. This feature allows a child traveling through an area to connect online with other children in that area. In one version of this feature, the child can communicate with other children on the trip, or can communicate with other children in the area the child is passing by using instant messaging. it can. A buddy list is created and used for this purpose. Children can access this service while traveling or at home. For example, children can exchange information about travel or play games. A child who passes a certain location can exchange instant messages with the children living in that area and ask questions about the area, for example, where is the best place to eat and what is the best radio station You can ask questions about where.

  According to another embodiment, the children's map book application includes a virtual travel story feature. This virtual travel story feature allows a child to collect, store and transmit information about their trip as they travel. The child takes the information provided by the map book game / application, annotates it with personal experience and observation, and sends it to friends and stakeholders, or sends it to the home website, which eventually It becomes a scrapbook of the entire trip (or possibly a school tour trip report), complete with maps, photos, postcards from the area, voice narration, and other data collected along the itinerary.

  The virtual travel story feature can also be stored automatically by creating an inventory of each place the child has traveled. The child can then display or print out a map showing all the places he has gone and how he went there.

H. Simulated Tour Another application that can use geographic data representing actual real-world sites is a simulated tour application. This simulated tour application uses geographic data, POI data, 3D modeling and other data, such as weather, traffic, crime statistics, and restaurant guides, to create city or other site realities for virtual tours. A general overview. Simulated tour applications can be used by people who are moving to a new area, hosted by a realtor, used by travelers, or simply more about different locations It can also be used by individuals to learn.

  With this application, you can learn, understand, reconnaissance, or market research specific areas. This application portrays the area visually, verbatim and possibly audibly. Appropriate techniques can be used to provide incense (eg, thick fog, nearby chocolate factory-penetration) or can be described verbatim.

  One use of this application is to give individuals a way to drive in an unfamiliar city cheaply. Some cities have driving habits that are unfamiliar to some people. For example, California and Hawaii have speed limits painted on the road, while Illinois places them on small signs. According to another example, traffic is particularly violent in Rome, and lanes appear to be just a guide, not rules.

I. Car Rally Challenge Game Another computer game that can be refined using geographic data representing real-world locations is a car rally challenge game. This game can be played in a single player or multiplayer version. In this type of game, a team of game players travels on the actual route sent from the central server. The server stores a number of car rally routes and attribute scenarios (eg, intersections as checkpoints) for a particular area (eg, state, city, neighborhood, etc.), and virtual rally instructions are sent to participating drivers and navigators. Sent to.

  It is also possible to offer organizer kits that cater to the needs of amateur car rally organizations or clubs. This kit allows an individual or organization to create a customized car rally specific to a city or area. The rally information can be created in the program on the personal computer of the rally organizer or by downloading from a website. This is then printed out and handed to a racer or downloaded to a device such as a PDA.

  The difference between the game and the kit is that the game sends out a predetermined route and rally feature. Although routes and features change regularly, players do not plan or create rally scenarios. The kit provides the basic tools and content to create a rally, which allows the user to add a local taste, a degree of difficulty, or recreate a well-known rally course It is also allowed.

J. et al. Location-based virtual monopoly game Geographic data representing real-world locations can be used for computer games based on Monopoly board games. In one version of this game scenario, the position and movement of the game player in the real world is tracked using a positioning device such as GPS, cell phone triangulation, and the like. These moves are used to define the game route for that player. The route can then be used to provide characteristics (eg, actual or novel) along the route that a game player can virtually purchase, rent, etc., like a classic board game. Identified. Real-world conditions such as traffic restrictions, road construction, and tolls are included in the gameplay scenario.

K. Geographic data representing promotional game and contest real world locations can be used for promotional concepts (eg, contests, sales events, etc.). Businesses such as retail and restaurant franchises often use promotions and contests to make their business attractive. Adding location-based data and services to these promotions allows these businesses to better target, reach and track potential customers, and add extra dimensions. Various solutions can be used to develop promotional combinations for location-based data.

L. Spatial Simulator for Exercise Data representing actual real world locations can be used in sports or exercise related events or devices. For example, geographic data can be used to enhance a simulator (eg, a monitor) used in or with an exercise device. Geographic data representing the actual location can be used with a treadmill or exercise bike to simulate running or biking movement along the route. The route is projected onto a monitor or screen in front of the individual in an exercise machine such as a treadmill or exercise bike.

  The use of data representing actual real-world locations is as if you are running on a big city street, for example, along a marathon or 10K route, or cycling on the Tour de France route Can be given to the user. The simulator can also be used to track long training targets that run virtually across the United States.

  The basic simulation consists of displaying a basic global map based on the route. For example, when a user asks for a route within a city, a basic map showing the city's streets is displayed with a mark on the map showing the virtual location of the runner or cyclist. The runner's progress along the route is based on the runner's pace. The degree or classification of simulation provided can vary based on the desired level of reality. For example, details such as road relief can be added to the simulation. This allows the exerciser to experience the sensation of running or cycling on the Rocky Mountains and the Nebraska plains.

  Detailed simulations use 3D data to give the monitor a complete image of buildings and landmarks along the route. This gives the runner or biker a realistic feeling of running or biking along the route.

M.M. Classic computer games Geographic data representing actual real-world scenes can be effectively used to create new versions of classic computer games such as Snake and Pac-Man. In these new versions of these games, the game player assumes game character recognition. The player uses a positioning device that determines the player's actual physical position in the real world. The player also has a device that communicates wirelessly with a central database. This player becomes a virtual player in a classic game like Pacman or Snake. These games are played in either an online competitive mode or a single player (player vs. machine) mode. In either case, the player works as a game character. The distance and speed that the player moves is converted into movement and speed in the virtual world, where the player can achieve in-game goals or defeat other players. The system is set up with a converted “virtual board” and the game is composed of areas restricted by the speed of transportation (the “board” for the vehicle can be significantly larger than for pedestrians).

N. Location Based Cannonball Run Auto Racing Game Another computer game that can use the disclosed system and method embodiments to provide geographic data is a “cannonball run” auto racing game. This game can be played in a multiplayer mode or a single player mode. The multiplayer mode game can be played online. In the gameplay scenario, players compete with each other and race vehicles (eg, cars, motorcycles, etc.) across the region. Data representing actual real world locations is used to add realities to the game, such as actual legal and physical regulations, for example. Another feature includes adding real-time traffic and weather conditions.

  One scenario for the multiplayer online version of this game features a community where players start in a specific transport mode. This version of the game gives you an online culture and goal of driving the best vehicle in the best group. The player starts with a certain amount of virtual cash and a basic vehicle. Some races are predefined events, while other races are random urban races where the user defines starting and ending points. The route selection for the race is based on true map data. The game is based on winning virtual cash by winning a race, but winning a race may be costly to the player due to traffic tickets, illegal traffic operations, or other costs. All fines are based on legal regulatory data and statistical information on the percentage of drivers caught. The suggested route is given to every race, and the amount of virtual cash used to buy the route changes the quality or speed of the route.

  The game player has the option of racing through his town or through the roads of his favorite city or country around the world. These will appeal to many populations and also attract whimsical game players.

O. Virtual travel planners and simulations Data representing real world locations can be used in computer simulation applications that allow users to preview trips or specific routes by virtual driving on their personal computer or game console. it can. The simulation is based on a display of a geographic database including 3D rendering of buildings, signs, terrain features and other related attributes. The simulation software can be provided on a medium, can be provided through an online seller, or can be lent to a user as needed. A user can enter a route request via their personal computer or console and drive the route using the game steering wheel, joystick, voice command or keyboard. The fast forward function can be used to skip obvious or common areas of travel.

  In order to make the simulation more realistic, traffic features such as vehicles traveling on the route can be included. These can probably be based on actual traffic patterns or real-time traffic at a selected date and time.

  A feature of this simulation application is the form of a travel planner. This planner gives information about the area you are traveling with, for example, local stories, mediocre games specific to that area, and intersection descriptions and recommendations. The user can use this information in advance while driving this area (eg, using the simulation application described above) and print it out in advance with reference to the planner, or load it into the device during an actual trip You have the option of accessing it (for example, go on a long trip and use the planner interactively to entertain and teach your child). For example, if a family is traveling from Chicago to Miami on vacation, parents can search and preview attractions, hotels and restaurants that the family wants to stop along the road. You can also preview the route and create your own travel ticket form to plan the best route. The parent can then set up a travel guide that includes a game that fills the child's head, information, quizzes, etc. throughout the trip.

  It should be understood that the foregoing detailed description is illustrative of the invention and is not intended to be limiting, and that the scope of the invention is limited by the claims.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a master version of a geographic database and a coverage area. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a system that facilitates developing computer games using geographic data. FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating components of the system used by the computer game developer of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating components of the geographic API and geographic data tool program of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a system that facilitates developing computer games using geographic data. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of a system that facilitates developing computer games using geographic data. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating components of the system used by the computer game developer of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

100: Master geographic database 101: Map developer 104: Coverage area 102: Geographic data 114: First location 110: Compiled database product 116: Mainframe computer 118: Compiled geographic database 120: Road 112 134: Computing platform 130: Game developer 139: Tool set 140: Geographic API
144: Geographic tools 170: Road model database 174: 3D model database 184: Integrated data product

Claims (15)

A method of forming a derivative product using a source database, wherein the source database includes data representing geographic features in an area including roads in the area;
Providing a first data set from the source database, wherein the first data set represents at least some geographical features within the region, and the first data set provides navigation-related functions; A step that contains attributes suitable for use in,
Providing a first database product including the first data set, wherein the first database product is used in a navigation system;
Providing a second data set and a geographic data toolset from the source database, wherein the second data set represents at least some geographic features within the region, and the toolset comprises: Developing a computer game for use with the second data set to display at least some geographic features in the region as part of a computer game play scenario;
With a method.   The method of claim 1, wherein the second data set is combined with road model data to provide a realistic visual appearance of roads in the region.   The second data set is combined with road model data to give a realistic visual appearance of roads in the region, the road model data comprising road pavement colors, lane stripe markings, curbs, sidewalks, signs, lampposts. The method of claim 1, comprising: lane boundaries, traffic signals, speed barriers, and crosswalks.   The method of claim 1, wherein the second data set is combined with 3D model data to provide a realistic visual representation of polygonal features in the region.   The method of claim 1, wherein the second data set is combined with 3D model data to provide a realistic visual representation of a cityscape and landscape within the region.   The second data set is combined with 3D model data to provide a realistic visual representation of one group of buildings, fences, trees, shrubs, lawns, fences, and clouds in the region. the method of.   The method of claim 1, further comprising accessing the second data set using an application programming interface.   The method of claim 1, further comprising accessing the second data set using a spatial query.   The method of claim 1, further comprising extracting data from the second data set using a spatial criterion.   The method of claim 1, further comprising filtering data from the second data set to provide a desired level of accuracy.   The method of claim 1, wherein the second data set is provided directly from the source database to develop a computer program. Forming a compiled database of geographic data from the source database;
Providing the second data set from the compiled database to develop the computer game;
The method of claim 1 further comprising:   The second data set is provided to a plurality of end user computing platforms, where the second set is used by a computer game installed on the end user computing platform to provide at least some in the region. The method of claim 1, wherein the geographic features of the computer are displayed as part of a play story of the computer game.   The method of claim 1, wherein the second data set is combined with other game-related components to form a computer game.   The second data set is combined with other game-related components to form a computer game, the other game-related components from characters, game logic, vehicles, game rules, and programs for rendering and graphics The method of claim 1, comprising at least one of the group consisting of:

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