JP2009168745A - Information providing device, information providing method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce a load of a user, when acquiring information of a plurality of spots where the same kind of enjoyment object in the periphery of a route is enjoyed, in route guidance. <P>SOLUTION: This method includes processes described as follows. (a) Route data are prepared, which include the first kind of information on a position of the route, and the second kind of information on a peripheral domain, a domain near the route, which is a domain including a plurality of spots where a common enjoyment object is enjoyed. (b) Route guidance is performed based on the route data. In this case, (b1) route guidance is performed based on the first kind of information. (b2) A peripheral domain relative to the enjoyment object is introduced based on the second kind of information, and information retrieval on the spot where the enjoyment object is enjoyed is urged (S1204, S1224). (b3) When receiving instruction for performing information retrieval, at least a part of retrieval conditions is determined automatically based on the second kind of information (S1230, S1232). (b4) Information retrieval is performed by using the retrieval conditions (S1234), and a retrieval result is output (S1236). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for guiding a route from a departure place to a destination.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a technique for providing information on a store near a route from a departure point to a destination. For example, in a certain prior art, the control circuit of the navigation device calculates where the guide route is included in the mesh information and sets it as route mesh information. The control circuit transmits the route mesh information to the external station.

  The control unit of the external station confirms the dealer information, and the sale information in which the sale item information is stored from the dealer information linked to the dealer identification information existing in the mesh range corresponding to the route mesh information. Search store information. And a control part transmits store information to a control circuit. The control circuit displays the store information along with the guidance route on the display device (Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-241379 A

  However, in the above-described technology, information on individual dealers selling special sales items is only displayed together with route guidance regardless of the type of products. And in said technique, it is not considered about performing a search and providing the user with the information of several sales shops which sell the same kind of goods in the vicinity collectively. Such problems are not limited to the provision of information related to the sale and purchase of goods, and there are widespread cases where information on multiple points where the same kind of enjoyment in the vicinity of the route can be enjoyed in route guidance is provided. .

  An object of at least a part of the invention according to the present application is to reduce a load on a user when obtaining information on a plurality of points where the same kind of enjoyment in the vicinity of the route can be enjoyed in route guidance.

In order to achieve the above object, in one aspect of the present invention, the following processing is performed when providing information on points around the route in route guidance. The process is
(A) A neighborhood including a first type of information on the position of a route to a destination and a plurality of points where a common enjoyment can be enjoyed, and a region overlapping with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the route Preparing route data including a second type of information about the area;
(B) performing guidance on the route based on the route data,
The step (b)
(B1) guiding the route based on the first type information;
(B2) Based on the second type of information, introducing the neighboring area related to the enjoyment, and prompting information retrieval regarding the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed;
(B3) a step of determining at least a part of a search condition based on the second type information when receiving an instruction to perform the information search;
(B4) performing the information search using the search condition.
It should be noted that at least a part of the search conditions is preferably determined automatically. Moreover, it is preferable that the search result obtained by information search is output with respect to a user.

  In such an aspect, the user does not need to input all the search conditions when obtaining information on a plurality of points where the user can enjoy the same kind of enjoyment in the vicinity of the route. Therefore, according to said aspect, in route guidance, the user's load at the time of acquiring the information of the several point which can enjoy the same kind enjoyment in the vicinity of a route can be reduced.

  Note that “preparation” of route data includes, for example, a mode in which the operating entity generates route data by itself, and a mode in which the operating entity obtains route data generated by other elements. In addition to the aspect that the specific information includes all of the information for performing the processing, “some processing is performed based on specific (first type or second type) information”. Also included is an aspect in which information for performing the processing is obtained using the specific information, and the processing is performed using the obtained information.

The route data can be generated by the following processing, for example.
(C) With reference to an area database that stores information related to the position of a specific area including a plurality of points where a common enjoyment can be enjoyed and information related to the enjoyment, as a nearby area, A specific area overlapping with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the route to be reached is determined.
(D) Route data including first type information including information on the position of the route and second type information regarding the neighboring region is generated.

In addition, it is preferable that the said 2nd type information contains the information regarding the position regarding the said vicinity area | region, and the information regarding the said enjoyment.
When searching for information,
A first search condition relating to a position as the search condition, referring to a spot database storing information relating to the position of the spot where the enjoyment can be enjoyed and information relating to the classification of the enjoyment; The information search can be performed using a second search condition relating to the classification of the enjoyment.
In such an aspect, when determining at least part of the search criteria,
Determining at least part of the first search condition based on the position information regarding the neighboring area included in the second type of information;
It is preferable that at least a part of the second search condition is determined based on the information regarding the enjoyment contained in the second type information.

  With such an aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden of the user specifying the classification based on the enjoyment in the information search.

When searching for information,
Reference is made to a point database that stores information relating to the location of the enjoyable item and information relating to the enjoyed item, and as a search condition, a search condition relating to the location and a keyword relating to the enjoyed item And the information search can be performed using.
In such an aspect, when determining at least part of the search criteria,
Determining at least part of the search condition related to the position based on the position information related to the neighboring area included in the second type information;
It is preferable to determine at least a part of the keywords based on the information related to the enjoyment contained in the second type information.

  With such an embodiment, it is possible to reduce the burden of the user inputting a keyword when searching for information.

The route can be guided according to the movement of the current position.
Then, when the current position is within a predetermined range in the vicinity area or in the vicinity of the vicinity area, the introduction can be performed to prompt the information search.

  If it is set as such an aspect, when the user is actually moving toward the destination, the detour can be examined.

  The “predetermined range in the vicinity of the neighboring region” is a predetermined range and can be a predetermined range including the neighboring region. The “predetermined range in the vicinity of the neighboring region” can be, for example, a range within a predetermined distance from the outer edge of the neighboring region.

In addition, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which guidance for the route is performed according to a designated position.
Then, when a point within a predetermined range in the vicinity region or in the vicinity of the vicinity region is designated, the introduction can be performed to prompt the information search.

  With such an aspect, the user can determine a route by considering a detour when considering a route to the destination.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms, for example, an information providing device and an information providing method, a route data generating device and a route data generating method, a route guiding device and a route guiding method, those methods or The present invention can be realized in the form of a computer program for realizing the functions of the apparatus, a recording medium recording the computer program, a data signal including the computer program and embodied in a carrier wave, and the like.

A. First embodiment:
A1. overall structure:
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a route search system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The route search system of the first embodiment includes a route search server 100, a map server 150, an area information server 180, and a mobile phone 200.

  The mobile phone 200 includes a GPS unit 201, a display panel 202, an audio output unit 203, a vibration mechanism 204, a communication unit 205, a command input unit 206, a clock unit 209, a main control unit 210, and call control. Part 220.

  The GPS unit 201 is a unit including an antenna for receiving radio waves from a satellite of GPS (Global Positioning System / Global Positioning System). Based on the radio wave received by the GPS antenna, the GPS unit 201 can generate current position information indicating the current position of the mobile phone 200.

  The display panel 202 is a liquid crystal display that can display an image. The voice output unit 203 is a device that includes a speaker, and is a device that can output a message to a user such as route guidance, a melody, and the like by voice. The vibration mechanism 204 is a device that can prompt the user's attention with a predetermined pattern of vibration. In the present specification, the devices 202 to 204 that output images, sounds, and vibrations may be collectively referred to as “output unit”.

  The communication unit 205 can communicate with the route search server 100 and the map server 150 via the Internet INT to transmit and receive information. The command input unit 206 includes a numeric keypad 206a and a cursor key 206b. The user inputs information to the mobile phone 200 via the numeric keypad 206a and the cursor key 206b.

  The clock unit 209 outputs current time information indicating the current time in response to a request from the main control unit 210. The call control unit 220 is a circuit that performs an incoming call for a call, a voice / electrical signal conversion, and the like.

  The main control unit 210 is a control unit for controlling each unit of the mobile phone 200. The main control unit 210 includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM used for those controls. For example, the main control unit 210 controls each unit of the mobile phone 200 by executing the application software 212 with the CPU, obtains route data representing a route from the current position to the destination, and displays the route on the display panel 202. Can be displayed. A functional unit of the main control unit 210 that obtains route data is shown as a route preparation unit 231 in FIG. In addition, a functional unit of the main control unit 210 that displays a route on the display panel 202 based on the route data and performs route guidance is shown as a route guidance unit 232 in FIG.

  The route search server 100 includes a communication unit 102, a control unit 104, and a storage unit 106. The communication unit 102 can communicate with the map server 150, the area information server 180, and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT.

  The storage unit 106 stores route network data for route search. The storage unit 106 further stores data received from the map server 150, the area information server 180, and the mobile phone 200, and data generated based on them.

  The route network data includes node information, intersection and station attribute information, and arc information.

  The node information is data representing points such as an intersection, a point where the number of lanes changes on the road, a place where an approach road to the toll road branches, a start point and an end point of a curve, and a station on the route.

  The attribute information of the intersection is information to be displayed on the display panel 202 of the user's mobile phone 200 when the user enters the intersection, for example, information indicating where each road intersecting at the intersection is heading.

  The station attribute information includes entry route information indicating how many of the train routes are entering the station. The station attribute information also includes information on the time required to transfer between platforms at the station.

  The arc information is information regarding arcs that are roads or route sections between nodes. Each arc is assigned a unique ID. Each arc information includes latitude and longitude data of a number of points included in each arc. That is, roads and route sections for which a route can be set can be represented as a point sequence of those points. Each arc information includes information on whether or not each arc is a toll road and information on the number of lanes in addition to the ID and point sequence information.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 searches for a route based on the information of the departure point and the destination, the waypoint and other search conditions while referring to the route network data stored in the storage unit 106. Then, the control unit 104 generates route data representing a route from the departure point to the destination, and transmits the route data to the mobile phone 200. The route data includes node information, arc information, intersection and station attribute information, and the like.

  The map server 150 includes a communication unit 152, a control unit 154, and a map database 156. The communication unit 152 can communicate with the route search server 100 and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT.

  The map database 156 stores map image data as image data to be transmitted to the mobile phone 200. The control unit 154 specifies map image data representing a map of a partial area requested by the mobile phone 200 based on the data received from the mobile phone 200 and transmits the map image data to the mobile phone 200 via the communication unit 152.

  The area information server 180 includes a communication unit 182, a control unit 184, and an area database 186. The communication unit 182 can communicate with the route search server 100 via the Internet INT.

  The area database 186 has area information data. The area information includes (i) information indicating the location of a specific area on the geography, and (ii) information indicating characteristics of the specific area.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a route and a specific area. In the data of the area database 186, as shown in FIG. 2, the entire geographical area of Japan is divided into rectangular sections of a predetermined size. Each section can be specified by, for example, the number of sections in any direction of east, west, south, and north from the reference section. Hereinafter, information such as “#th in the north and Δth in the east” is referred to as “address”. The section can be specified by, for example, two latitudes and longitudes extending a rectangular diagonal line.

  The range on the map shown in FIG. 2 does not match the range displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in the route guide. The range displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 is, for example, a partial range SD1 of the range shown in FIG. For reference, an icon indicating the current position displayed during the route guide is indicated as PP. At the time of the route guide, as shown in the range SD1, the specific area is displayed on the display panel 202 under a predetermined condition.

  In the area information data included in the area database 186, the information on the location of the specific area is held as a set of addresses of partitions constituting the specific area. In addition, the area information data included in the area database 186 holds information on the location of a specific area as a set of two latitudes and longitudes that represent sections constituting the specific area. In the example of FIG. 2, areas A1 to A5 that are hatched are specific areas.

  On the other hand, information indicating the characteristics of a specific area includes, for example, information indicating that there are many delicious ramen shops, information indicating that there are many taverns, information indicating that the autumn leaves are beautiful, and areas where cherry blossoms are beautiful. Or the like. In the example of FIG. 2, specific area | region A1-A5 with many delicious ramen shops is shown. The “information indicating the characteristics of the specific area” is information on what the user can enjoy in the specific area (ramen restaurant, tavern, autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, etc.). Hereinafter, what can be enjoyed by the user in the specific area is referred to as “enjoyment”.

  The “enjoyment” is not only a tangible thing that the user can own (for example, a souvenir or a food and drink at a restaurant) but also a tangible thing that the user can own, that is, a user enjoys it. Service that can be enjoyed and scenery that users can enjoy (enjoying autumn leaves, enjoying cherry blossoms, etc.).

  In addition, the specific area | region which can enjoy mutually different enjoyment may be an area | region which mutually overlaps. For example, a specific area with many delicious ramen shops and a specific area with many taverns may partially overlap.

  The area database 186 further includes information regarding individual points included in the specific area. For example, a specific area with many delicious ramen shops has information (latitude and longitude) on the position of each ramen shop and information on the evaluation of the ramen shop. The specific area where beautiful autumn leaves can be seen can include, for example, information on the location (latitude and longitude) of the beautiful maple tree, information on the location of the parking lot (latitude and longitude), information on the parking fee, etc. . Such information can be generated based on address information and evaluation articles collected from a blog.

  Information representing the characteristics of the specific region may include time information. For example, information indicating that the area is beautiful in autumn leaves is stored in the area database 186 as information indicating the characteristics of the specific area, together with information on the time when autumn leaves are beautiful. That is, when the time during which the feature is exhibited is limited, the information indicating the feature of the specific region includes information regarding the time during which the feature is exhibited.

  The control unit 184 determines a specific area in the vicinity of the route based on the position data representing the route received from the route search server 100. Then, data including information on the position of the specific area and information representing the characteristics is created and transmitted to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 182.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 refers to the route network data in the storage unit 106, and based on the data received from the map server 150, the area information server 180, and the mobile phone 200, the departure point to the destination Generate route data representing the route to. The generated route data is transmitted to the mobile phone 200 and is used for route guidance or display in the mobile phone 200.

  The route data includes route information such as node information representing a route and arc information, as well as data used for movement guidance such as indicating a direction to turn at an intersection. Information used for movement guidance for moving the user along these routes may be referred to as “first type information”. In addition, the route data includes data including information on the position of a specific area in the vicinity of the route and information indicating characteristics. Information for introducing the specific area regarding the enjoyment of the specific area may be referred to as “second type information”.

A2. Generate route data:
FIG. 3 is a chart showing exchange of information among the mobile phone 200, the route search server 100, and the area information server 180 when performing route search.

  In step S110, when receiving a route search instruction from the user, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200, the information of the departure point and the destination, the date of the waypoint and the date the user moves along the route, the use of the expressway Information on search conditions such as information specifying the presence / absence of is transmitted to the route search server 100.

  In step S <b> 210, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines a route based on information on a departure place and a destination, information on search conditions, and the like while referring to route network data in the storage unit 106. A functional unit of the control unit 104 that performs the process of step S210 is shown as a route determination unit 111.

  In step S220, the route search server 100 transmits the information (node information and arc information) of the position of each point on the determined route to the region information server 180, and inquires about information on a specific region near the route.

  In step S <b> 310, the area information server 180 refers to the area database 186 and determines a specific area near the route based on the information on the position of the route received from the route search server 100. Information on these specific areas is transmitted to the route search server 100.

  More specifically, a specific area that at least partially overlaps an area having a width of a predetermined distance around the route is selected in principle in step S310. For example, in the example of FIG. 2, the route determined in step S210 of FIG. 3 is R0. In step S310, in addition to the specific areas A1 and A3 through which the route R0 passes, the area R0f having a width of a predetermined distance W1 (for example, 1500 m) on both sides centering on the path R0 is partially or entirely overlapped. Regions A2, A4 and A5 are also selected. A region having a width of a predetermined distance on both sides centering on the route is a range within a predetermined distance from an arbitrary point on the route.

  When the date received from the route search server 100 as the date when moving the route is outside the time when the characteristics of a specific area are exhibited, the area information server 180 determines that the specific area is near the path. Even if it exists, the specific area | region is not selected in step S310.

  A functional unit of the control unit 184 of the region information server 180 that determines a specific region near the route is shown as a region determination unit 188 in FIG. Further, the functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 that performs the process of step S220 to determine a specific region that satisfies a predetermined condition from among the specific regions near the route is shown as a region determination unit 112 in FIG. . These area determination unit 112 and area determination unit 188 determine a specific area near the route in which information is incorporated into the route data.

  When the route search server 100 receives the data of the specific region from the region information server 180, in step S230, the route search server 100 generates route data based on the information on the route determined in step S210 and the information on the specific region near the route. . The generated route data is stored in the storage unit 106 of the route search server 100 together with information such as a departure place, a destination, and a search condition. A functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 that performs the process of step S230 and generates route data is shown as a route data generation unit 113 in FIG.

  The route data includes node information and arc information of points included in the route, and attribute information of intersections and stations. The arc information further includes information of a point sequence of latitude and longitude. The route data includes information for the above-described travel guidance and information on a specific area near the route. Note that node information and arc information may be collectively referred to as “route information”.

  The route data generated by the route search server 100 in step S230 is transmitted from the route search server 100 to the mobile phone 200 in step S240. The mobile phone 200 receives the route data. A functional unit of the main control unit 210 that transmits information such as a departure point, a destination, and search conditions to the route search server 100 and receives route data from the route search server 100 is a route preparation unit 231 (see FIG. 1). . That is, in this embodiment, the route data is prepared by the route preparation unit 231 generating the route search server 100 and obtaining it.

  Thereafter, when an instruction to start the route guide is input from the user via the command input unit 206, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 executes the route guide in step S120. The route guide is performed based on route data received from the route search server 100. Further, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 separately displays a map around the current position along with the route on the display panel 202 based on the map image data acquired from the map server 150.

  In addition, the function part of the main control part 210 which acquires map image data from the map server 150 is shown as the map information preparation unit 233 in FIG. Moreover, the function part of the main control part 210 which performs route guidance based on route data is the route guidance unit 232 (refer FIG. 1). In particular, the function of the main control unit 210 for instructing how to bend an individual intersection or instructing the traveling direction at the time of branching based on route data node information, intersection and station attribute information, arc information, etc. 1 is shown as a guidance execution unit 232a in FIG.

  In this specification, the route guide may be referred to as “route guidance”. On the other hand, for example, when there are a plurality of options regarding the direction of travel, i.e., instructing how to turn each intersection or instructing the direction of travel at the time of branching, the user is guided along the route. The process for moving is called “movement guide”. A guidance execution unit 232a as a functional unit of the main control unit 210 executes movement guidance.

A3. Information on specific areas in the route guide:
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the guidance process for a specific area in the route guide. The main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 determines whether or not the current position is in the vicinity of the specific area while performing route guidance (see step S120 in FIG. 3) (step S1202 in FIG. 4). If the current position is not in the vicinity of the specific area, the process waits for a predetermined time as it is and performs the determination in step S1202 again. If the current position is in the vicinity of the specific area, the process proceeds to step S1204.

  When the current position is within a certain distance from an arbitrary point on the outer edge of the specific area, or when the current position is in the specific area, the current position is assumed to be “near the specific area”. Specifically, when the current position is in a predetermined area having an outer edge that is further away from the outer edge of the specific area in a direction toward the outside of the specific area, the current position is in the vicinity of the specific area. Can be determined.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an image ID1 displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in order to introduce a specific area to the user during the route guide. In FIG. 5, elements given the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 are the same elements as in FIG. During the route guide, the route R0 and the current position PP are shown on the display panel 202. The positional relationship between the route R0 and the current location PP is determined based on the current location information obtained from the GPS unit 201, node information of the route data, arc information, and the like.

  On the display panel 202, a map image other than the route R0 is displayed. Map image data around the current position is acquired from the map server 150. In the example of FIG. 5, roads R1 and R2 are displayed. pc2 is an intersection of the road R2 and the road R2. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the intersection of the road R1 and the road R1 is defined as pc1.

  The specific area determined in step S1202 in FIG. 4 that the current position is in the vicinity thereof is introduced to the user using a display such as ID1 in FIG. 5 during the route guide in step S1204. Hereinafter, introduction of a specific area is referred to as “area introduction”. Simultaneously with the area introduction, a specific area determined to have the current position in the vicinity thereof is also displayed on the display panel 202. In the example of FIG. 5, the specific area A1 is displayed. A functional unit of the main control unit 210 performing the functions of steps S1202 and S1204 is shown as an area introduction unit 232b in FIG.

  The image ID1 for introducing the specific area to the user includes the display DM1 regarding the enjoyment of the specific area, the button B01 for allowing the user to enjoy the enjoyment of the specific area, and the current step S1202 A button B02 for searching for a specific area other than the specific area whose position is determined to be in the vicinity thereof.

  The button B01 also has a function of prompting the user to search for information regarding individual places where the enjoyment can be enjoyed. That is, the user who has seen the button B01 (refer to FIG. 5) accompanied by the display of “point search” is prompted to search for information regarding individual places where the user can enjoy the enjoyment, and presses the button B01. In this way, the route search system is instructed to search for information on individual places where the enjoyment can be enjoyed.

  The button B02 has a function of prompting the user to search for a specific area other than the specific area whose current position is in the vicinity thereof. In other words, the user who sees the button B02 (see FIG. 5) accompanied by the display “search for other area” prompts the user to search for a specific area other than the specific area in the vicinity of the current position by displaying “search for other area”. When the button B02 is pressed, the search instruction is given to the route search system. Note that the image ID 1 for introducing the specific area to the user is displayed at a predetermined timing by selecting a time section in which “movement guidance” is not executed for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds).

  In step S1206 of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the button B02 for presenting another specific area has been pressed. If button B02 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S1220. If button B02 is not pressed, processing proceeds to step S1208.

  In step S1208 of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the button B01 for searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed has been pressed. If button B01 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S1230. If button B01 is not pressed, the process proceeds to step S1210.

  In step S1210, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time Tw1 (for example, 15 seconds) has elapsed in a state where the buttons B01 and B02 are not pressed. If the time Tw1 has not elapsed, the process returns to step S1206. If the time Tw1 has elapsed with the buttons B01 and B02 being not pressed, the process proceeds to step S1212.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state after the image ID 1 is no longer displayed on the display panel 202. In step S <b> 1212, the region introduction unit 232 b as a function unit of the main control unit 210 ends the display of the image ID <b> 1. However, the buttons B01 and B02 continue to be displayed at the edge of the screen as shown in FIG. When the display DM1 regarding the enjoyment in the specific area is deleted from the display panel 202 after a predetermined time has elapsed, the display for introducing the area covers the display of the route for the route guide and the map, and the route guide becomes difficult to understand. The situation can be prevented. Further, by leaving the display of the buttons B01 and B02, it is possible to provide information on the specific area when the user requests information on the specific area within a range that does not hinder the display for the route guide.

  In step S1214, it is determined whether or not the specific area determined in step S1202 is determined to be in the vicinity thereof. If the current position does not pass through the specific area, the process returns to step S1206. If the current position passes the specific area, the process proceeds to step S1216. In addition, after returning to step S1206 from step S1214, when reaching to step S1212 again, the state where display DM1 is not displayed is maintained.

  In step S1216, the display of the buttons B01 and B02 is terminated. By adopting such an aspect, it is possible to make the route guide easier to understand by simplifying the display of the screen after leaving the specific area until reaching the vicinity of the next specific area. If the user passes through a specific area without pressing the buttons B01 and B02, it can be assumed that the user has made a decision that he / she does not want information on the specific area. For this reason, after passing the specific area, even if the display of the buttons B01 and B02 is terminated, the user is unlikely to feel inconvenience.

  In step S1218, it is determined whether the route guide has ended. When the route guide ends, the area introduction process of FIG. 4 also ends. If the route guide has not ended, the process returns to step S1202.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1206 that the button B02 for presenting another specific area has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1220.

  7 shows a map range SD1 displayed on the display panel 202 in the route guide (for example, the state of steps S1202 and S1204 in FIG. 4) and a map range displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 in FIG. It is a figure which shows SD2. In step S1220, a map in a range wider than the range displayed so far is displayed on display panel 202. For example, in step S1220, a map in a range that is at least four times (twice the height and two times the width) that has been displayed so far is displayed on the display panel 202. At this time, although not shown in FIG. 7, a display prompting selection of a specific area such as “Please select an area” is also displayed together with the map image in the range SD2.

  Note that the range displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 is a range included in the region R0f having a width of a predetermined distance W1 on both sides around the route R0 used in step S310 of FIG. (See FIG. 2). In this specification, the region R0f may be generalized and referred to as a “first range”. In addition, a region corresponding to the range SD2 may be generalized and referred to as a “second range”. In the map range SD2 displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220, the length of the front portion of the route R0 with respect to the current position PP is longer than the length of the rear portion of the route R0 with respect to the current position PP. To be determined.

  In step S1220, a specific area that is included in the range displayed on display panel 202 and that can receive the same enjoyment as the specific area introduced in step S1204 is shown on display panel 202. In the example of FIGS. 5 and 7, only the specific area A1 included in the range SD1 is displayed in step S1204. However, in step S1220, specific areas A2 to A5 included in the range SD2 are also displayed. By setting it as such an aspect, the user can consider the change of a path | route also considering the other specific area | region of the path | route vicinity which can enjoy the same enjoyment other than the specific area nearest to the present position.

  Note that all the information regarding the specific areas A2 to A5 displayed in step S1220 is stored in the route data. That is, the specific areas A1 to A5 are specific areas that partially or entirely overlap with the area R0f having a predetermined distance width on both sides with respect to the route R0 (see step S310 in FIGS. 2 and 3).

  In step S1220, the specific area having a predetermined number or more (for example, one or more points per 1000 square meters) per geographical unit area that can be enjoyed (a ramen shop in the example of FIG. 7) It is displayed in a darker color than a specific area. In the example of FIG. 7, the specific areas A2 and A5 are displayed in a darker color than the specific areas A1, A3, and A4. Although it cannot be illustrated, the specific area is actually displayed in a similar color. For example, the specific areas A2 and A5 are displayed in dark pink, and the specific areas A1, A3, and A4 are displayed in light pink.

  With such an aspect, the user can determine the specific area to detour in consideration of how dense the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed are as well as the distance from the route. In addition, the function part of the main control part 210 which plays the function of step S1220 is shown as the other area | region presentation part 232e in FIG.

  By operating the cursor key 206b of the mobile phone 200, the specific area displayed on the display panel 202 is sequentially selected. In step S1222, the user operates cursor key 206b of mobile phone 200 to select a specific area for which detailed information is to be obtained from the displayed specific areas. Then, in step S1224, region introduction of the selected specific region is performed. The area introduction mode is the same as that in step S1204.

  That is, in step S1224, the display DM1 related to the enjoyment in the specific area (for example, “This is an area where there are many delicious ramen shops”), the button B01 for presenting the place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed, and other specific areas And an image ID1 including the button B02 for presenting (see FIG. 5). Thereafter, the process returns to step S1206. Note that the region introduction unit 232b as a functional unit of the main control unit 210 performs the function of step S1224 (see FIG. 1).

  If it is determined in step S1208 that the button B01 for presenting a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed is pressed, the process proceeds to step S1230. In step S1230, a geographical condition for searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed is determined. Specifically, the search target is limited to a specific area introduced immediately before the user presses the button B01.

  In step S1232, conditions relating to characteristics when searching for places where the enjoyment can be enjoyed are determined. Specifically, the conditions related to the classification of the enjoyment of the specific area introduced immediately before the user presses the button B01 are limited.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of display on the display panel 202 when searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed in step S1234. Here, since a specific area including delicious ramen shops is designated, “Gourmet” from the “Convenience Store”, “Gourmet”, “Bank”, “Gas Station”, which are the major options DC1 shown on the left side. Is selected. In FIG. 8, the selected option is surrounded by a thick frame.

  In addition, “ramen” is selected from among “Japanese food”, “Western food”, “Chinese food”, “Ramen”, and “Izakaya”, which are the options DC2 of the small classification in the large classification “Gourmet”. In step S1232, conditions relating to the classification of such enjoyment items are determined.

  For example, when the enjoyment is an Italian dish, an option (not shown) under the classification “Western cuisine”, “French cuisine”, “Italian cuisine”, “Spanish cuisine”, “German cuisine” among “Italian cuisine” "Is specified. That is, the depth of the condition classification hierarchy determined in step S1232 differs depending on the enjoyment. The functional unit of the main control unit 210 that performs the functions of steps S1230 and S1232 in FIG. 4 is shown as a condition determination unit 232c in FIG.

  In step S1234, when the user presses the center key of the cursor keys 206b, information search is executed. At that time, the search condition follows the search condition related to the geography determined in step S1230 and the search condition related to the classification of the enjoyment determined in step S1232. For example, information on stores that exist in the specific area A1 among the stores that are registered in advance as included in the large classification “gourmet” and the small classification “ramen” is retrieved.

  FIG. 9 is an image showing the result of the search in step S1234. In step S1236, a list of places where the present location can be enjoyed is presented in the specific area where the current position is in the vicinity (see step S1204) or the specific area specified by the user (see step S1222). Here, a list of ramen shops in the specific area A1 is presented. In addition, the function part of the main control part 210 which plays the function of step S1234, S1236 is shown as the information search part 232d in FIG.

  Note that the mobile phone 200 may perform the information search as described above based on the route data stored in the RAM of the main control unit 210 or may search the route search server 100 or the area information server 180 for information. Such search results may be presented based on the data obtained by instructing. That is, the search target database may be the RAM of the main control unit 210 that stores the route data, or the area database 186 of the area information server 180. Note that the information regarding the category of the enjoyment is included in advance in the information on the specific area in the area database 186. In the aspect in which the above-described information search is performed based on the route data, the information on the category of the received item is also included in the information on the specific area in the route data.

  The user then selects an individual element from the list to obtain more detailed information on that element. Specifically, when the cursor key 206b of the mobile phone 200 is operated to select and click one of the lists in FIG. 8, introductions of individual ramen shops are displayed on the display panel 202. At this time, a “re-search” button and a “return” button are also displayed on the display panel 202 (both not shown).

  In step S1238 of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the re-search button has been pressed. If the re-search button is not pressed, the process waits for a predetermined time as it is and performs the determination in step S1238 again. When the “return” button is pressed on the introduction screen of each ramen shop, the display returns to the display of FIG. 9 again.

  When the “re-search” button is pressed in step S1238, in step S1240, an instruction to search for a route to the destination via the point (ramen store) is input to the mobile phone 200.

  Thereafter, an instruction to search for a route to the destination via the point designated by the user (ramen store) is transmitted from the mobile phone 200 to the route search server 100. Subsequent route data generation processing is as described with reference to FIG.

  By setting it as such a mode, the user can change a path | route easily and can take a detour in the path | route which goes to a destination. In addition, since the detour is first guided as a region (see FIG. 5), it is unlikely to pass near the detour candidate, and there is a possibility that the detour can be detoured to a point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed without returning the region that has passed. Is expensive.

B. Second embodiment:
In the first embodiment, a search based on classification (so-called directory type search) is performed in step S1234 of FIG. However, in the second embodiment, a search based on the keyword is performed in step S1234 of FIG. That is, the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the processes of steps S1232 and S1234. The other points of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  In step S1232 of FIG. 4, the condition regarding the feature at the time of searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed is determined. In the second example, more specifically, a keyword for searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed is determined. For example, when the user selects a specific area with many ramen shops (steps S1204, S1208, S1222, and S1224 in FIG. 4), “delicious” and “ramen” are determined as keywords. When the user selects a specific area with beautiful autumn leaves, keywords such as “beautiful” and “autumn leaves” are determined. The keywords related to these items are included in advance in the information on the specific area in the area database 186 and the information on the specific area in the route data.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of display on the display panel 202 when searching for a place where the enjoyment can be received in step S1234 in the second embodiment. In step S1234, the search window SW01 into which the keyword determined in step S1232 is input in advance is displayed on the display panel 202. The search window SW01 includes an input box IB01 and a search button B03.

  In step S1234, the user can add or delete keywords in the search window SW01 via the command input unit 206. Thereafter, when the search button IB03 is pressed, information search is executed. Specifically, the mobile phone 200 transmits a search condition regarding the geography (selected specific area) and a keyword (for example, “delicious”, “ramen”) to the area information server 180. The control unit 184 of the area information server 180 searches the store evaluation data stored in the area database 186 and executes information search. At that time, the search condition is in accordance with the search condition related to the geography determined in step S1230 and the search condition related to the classification of the enjoyment determined in step S1232 and modified by the user in step S1234. Then, the mobile phone 200 obtains a search result answer from the area information server 180.

  The information search unit 232d as a functional unit of the main control unit 210 obtains the search result by performing the above-described processing and causing the area information server 180 to search for a place where the enjoyment can be received. is there.

  Even in such a mode, the user can easily change the route and take a detour on the way to the destination. Moreover, in said aspect, a user can add a keyword freely. For this reason, the user can search not only for keywords included in advance as specific area information but also keywords for reflecting his / her preferences and further narrowing down the search conditions to search for detour points. Can do.

C. Third embodiment:
In the first embodiment, the range SD2 displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 in FIG. 4 is a range included in the region R0f used for determining the specific region in step S310 in FIG. 3 (FIG. 2). reference). In step S1220, all specific areas included in the range displayed on display panel 202 are displayed (see SD2 in FIG. 7). However, in the third example, not all the specific areas included in the range displayed on the screen are displayed in step S1220. That is, the third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the process of step S1220. The other points of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 of FIG. 4 in the third embodiment. In FIG. 11, the elements denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 2 and 7 are the same elements as those in FIGS. 2 and 7.

  In the third embodiment, in step S1220, a specific area that partially or entirely overlaps with the range R0g and that can receive the same enjoyment as the specific area introduced in step S1204 is displayed on the display panel 202. .

  The range R0g is centered on (i) a first circle having a radius of a predetermined distance W2 (for example, 500 m) smaller than the distance W1 around the current position PP, and (ii) a point PF where the route intersects the display range SD2. A region having a radius of the distance W2 and a region having a width of the distance W2 on both sides around the route R0, and a region between the first circle and the second circle It is. This region R0g is a range within 500 m in the vicinity of the path, and includes the current position PP and a part of the path R0 on the downstream side of the current position PP. In the present specification, the “downstream side” in a route means that it is on the side of the traveling direction in the route with respect to a predetermined reference point on the route. In this specification, the region R0g may be generalized and referred to as a “second range”.

  As a result, in the third example, the specific areas displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 are the specific areas A1 to A3. The specific areas A4 and A5 are not displayed. In FIG. 11, specific areas A4 and A5 are indicated by broken lines for reference. With such an aspect, the user can select a specific range from a specific range that can be detoured without greatly deviating from the route.

D. Variations:
The present invention is not limited to the above-described examples and embodiments, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

D1. Modification 1:
Map image data as image data stored in the map database 156 of the map server 150 may be stored as raster data or may be stored as vector data. The map image data transmitted to the mobile phone 200 as a terminal device carried by the user may be raster data or vector data. Further, one of the map image data in the map database 156 and the map image data transmitted to the terminal device can be vector data and the other can be raster data.

D2. Modification 2:
In the above embodiment, the entire geographical area of Japan is divided into rectangular (square) sections of a predetermined size, and a specific area is defined by a combination of the sections. However, the specific region may be a region in which a part of the region is specified in an arbitrary shape.

D3. Modification 3:
In the said Example, specific area | region A1-A5 with many delicious ramen shops was demonstrated to the example. In the above embodiment, the shape of the specific region is constant regardless of the scale. However, a plurality of types of specific regions can be prepared according to the scale, for example.

  For example, the region database 186 can hold a plurality of types of information on specific regions according to the scale of the map when displaying a route on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200. In other words, the specific area corresponding to the first scale showing a narrow range on the display panel 202 and the specific area corresponding to the second scale showing a wide range on the display panel 202 can be different. For example, as a specific area corresponding to the first scale, a plurality of specific areas are held, and as a specific area corresponding to the second scale, a specific area including the plurality of specific areas is held. You can also

  With such an aspect, it is possible to prevent the display from becoming complicated when the specific area is displayed on the map. The route search server 100 preferably includes the information on the plurality of types of specific areas in the route data transmitted to the mobile phone 200. And as for the mobile phone 200 as an output terminal, it is preferable to change the specific area | region displayed according to the reduced scale of a map.

  In addition, the area database 186 can hold information on the specific area according to the route moving means. The area database 186 can hold, for example, specific area information for walking, specific area information for bicycles, and specific area information for cars.

  And in the section which should be moved with the 1st movement means (for example, a walk and a bicycle) which is not suitable for long-distance movement, a neighborhood area is chosen from a plurality of specific areas where each specific area was set small (finely). In the section to be selected and moved by the second moving means (for example, an automobile) suitable for moving over a longer distance than the first moving means, the specific areas are set larger (roughly). A neighboring region can be selected from the list.

  At this time, it is preferable to change the distance as a reference for determining whether or not the vehicle is “near” the route according to the moving means. That is, in the section to be moved by the first moving means that is not suitable for long-distance movement, the distance used as a reference for determination of the neighborhood is shortened and moved by the second moving means suitable for long-distance movement. In the power section, it is preferable that the distance used as a reference for determination of the neighborhood be longer than that in the case of the first moving means.

  When the route includes a section to be moved by different moving means (see step S210 in FIG. 3), the route search server 100 responds to the route data in step S230 in FIG. Information on specific areas. According to such an aspect, it is possible to introduce a specific area in the route guide within a range that is easy to detour according to the moving means.

D4. Modification 4:
In the above-described embodiment, when a specific range near the route is selected in step S310 in FIG. 3, the “predetermined range near the route” is a region having a width of a predetermined distance W1 on both sides around the route. Is employed (see FIG. 2). However, the “predetermined range near the route” is not limited to this mode. For example, when a river is included in an area having a width of a predetermined distance W1 on both sides centering on the route, the side opposite to the route across the river is the “predetermined neighborhood of the route” except for the vicinity of the bridge. It is also possible not to include it in the “range”. That is, the “predetermined range in the vicinity of the route” is a range provided in accordance with a predetermined standard and can be a predetermined range including the route.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when determining whether or not the current position is in the vicinity of the specific area in step S1202 in FIG. 4, the “specific range in the vicinity of the specific area (neighboring area)” A “predetermined region having an outer edge that is further away from the outer edge of the region in a direction toward the outside of the specific region by a certain distance” is adopted. However, the “predetermined range in the vicinity of the specific region (neighboring region)” is not limited to this mode. That is, the “predetermined range in the vicinity of the specific region (neighboring region)” is a range provided in accordance with a predetermined standard and can be a predetermined range including the specific region (neighboring region).

D5. Modification 5:
When the route includes a section to be moved using a highway or a transportation facility such as a train that stops at a predetermined station, it is preferable to perform the following processing. Hereinafter, the contents of the process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 2, i1 and i2 are highway interchanges. The interchange i1 is an interchange to be on the highway in the route. Interchange i2 is an interchange to get off the expressway. In FIG. 2, the interchanges i1 and i2 that use the expressway are indicated by thicker lines than the other parts of the route.

  In step S <b> 220 of FIG. 3, the route search server 100 selects a specific area that satisfies a predetermined condition from the specific areas received from the area information server 180. For example, the specific area A2 that overlaps the predetermined range Ri1 in the vicinity of the interchange i1 to be on the highway or the predetermined range Ri2 in the vicinity of the interchange i2 to get off the highway is selected. Here, the range in the vicinity of the interchange is a circle having a radius with a predetermined size centered on the interchange.

  On the other hand, even in the specific region near the route, the specific region A3 that does not overlap with the ranges Ri1 and Ri2 is not selected. As a result, in the route guide, the area introduction is performed for the specific area A2 in the vicinity of the interchange i1 that should get on the highway and the interchange i2 that should get off the highway, and for the specific area A3 in the vicinity of the middle section, There is no introduction.

  Similarly, a specific area that overlaps with a predetermined range near the boarding station and alighting station of the route is selected, and a specific area that does not overlap with a predetermined range near the boarding station or alighting station is selected even if the specific area is near the route It can be set as the aspect which is not selected. As a result, in the route guide, the area introduction is performed for the specific area near the boarding station and the getting-off station, and the area introduction is not performed for the specific area near the middle section.

  By adopting such a mode, it is possible to avoid introducing a specific area that cannot be detoured or a specific area that is less likely to detour when the route guide is provided. For this reason, the user is not bothered by the introduction of unnecessary specific areas during the route guide.

  It should be noted that a specific region that overlaps with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the interchange on the way between the interchange on the expressway and the interchange that exits the expressway may be selected in step S220. In such an aspect, in the route guide, in addition to the interchange on the expressway and the interchange getting off the expressway, the area introduction is also performed for a specific area near the interchange on the way. If it is set as such an aspect, the user can get off at the interchange in the middle of a highway, and can take a detour.

Similarly, a specific region that overlaps with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the stop station between the boarding station and the getting-off station may be selected in step S220. In such a mode, in the route guide, in addition to the boarding station and the getting-off station, the area introduction is also performed for a specific area near the stop station on the way. If it is set as such an aspect, the user can drop off on the way and can take a detour.
Here, a station registered in advance by the user may be adopted as the stop station. For example, area introduction is performed for a specific area near a boarding station or alighting station of a commuter pass owned by the user.

D6. Modification 6:
In the above-described embodiment, when the date when moving the route is outside the time when the characteristics of a specific area are exhibited, the area information server 180 has the specific area in the vicinity of the path. Even if it exists, the specific area is not selected (see step S310 in FIG. 3). However, the route search server 100 can also select the specific area based on the date.

  In addition, the specific area introduced to the user can be selected by the user selecting a gift. That is, among the enjoyments in a specific area for which the area database 186 holds data, the enjoyment that the user does not want to be introduced is input in advance to the route search system via the command input unit 206 of the mobile phone 200. (See FIG. 1). Then, the route search server 100 receives, from the mobile phone 200, information on the enjoyment that the user does not want to be introduced. In addition, the information of the enjoyment that the user does not want to be introduced is not displayed from the mobile phone 200 unless the user releases it.

  When the route search server 100 inquires the region information server 180 about information on a specific region in the vicinity of the route (step S220 in FIG. 3), the route search server 100 sends information on the items that the user does not want to be introduced to the region information server 180. Send. In step S <b> 310, the area information server 180 determines a specific area in the vicinity of the route except for a specific area corresponding to an enjoyment that the user does not want to be introduced. If it is set as such an aspect, a user will not be provided with the information of the specific area | region about the unwanted enjoyment. Note that the route search server 100 or the mobile phone 200 may perform selection of a specific area based on a gift that the user does not want to be introduced instead of the area information server 180.

D7. Modification 7:
In the above-described embodiment, the enjoyment of the specific area is preferable for the user such as delicious ramen and beautiful autumn leaves. However, the enjoyment of a specific area can also include what appears to be undesirable for the user. For example, it may be possible to introduce “a specific area with many points where traffic accidents have occurred a predetermined number of times” or “a specific area with many points where traffic congestion occurs”. With such an embodiment, the user can drive the car more carefully, park on the road, stop turning to the side road, and pass through the specific area safely and in a short time.

D8. Modification 8:
In the above-described embodiment, data representing the position of the guidance point, such as image data and audio data used for moving guidance, is included in the route data when the route data is generated. However, not all of the data is included in the route data in advance, and at least a part of the data is acquired from the route search server 100 or another server as the current position advances on the route. It can also be set as an aspect.

D9. Modification 9:
In the second embodiment, the specific area displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220 of FIG. 4 is a specific area that overlaps the range Rg connecting the circles along the route R0. However, the specific area presented in step S1220 of FIG. 4 can be selected based on other criteria. For example, a circular range that overlaps with a circular range having a current position as one end of the diameter of the circle, a diameter of a predetermined size, and having the other end of the diameter on a path downstream from the current position. A specific area can also be selected. That is, the specific area presented in step S1220 as the specific area from which the same enjoyment as the specific area introduced in step S1204 is obtained includes the current position and a part of the route on the downstream side of the current position. It can be set as the specific area which overlaps with the range of a predetermined shape.

D10. Modification 10:
In the above embodiment, in step S1220 of FIG. 4, a specific area having one or more spots per 1000 square meters is displayed in dark pink, and a specific area that is not so is displayed in light pink. (See FIGS. 7 and 11). However, the specific area can be displayed in other ways.

  For example, it is possible to provide three or more sections in the specific area according to the density of points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed, and display the specific area in different colors according to the section. In that case, it is preferable that the specific area | region where the density of the point which can enjoy enjoyment is high is displayed with a darker color than the specific area where density is low. Here, “a color darker than a specific color” does not indicate only “a color having the same hue, saturation and low brightness as a specific color”. That is, “a color darker than a specific color” includes (i) a condition that the hue is the same as the specific color and low brightness, and (ii) a condition that the hue is the same as the specific color and hue is high. The color satisfies at least one of the following.

  In addition, when a plurality of specific regions having different densities at points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed are displayed using three or more colors according to the density, the relationship between the first color and the second color, The relationship between the second color and the third color may be different. For example, the second color may be a color having the same hue and low brightness as the first color, and the third color may be a color having the same hue and high saturation as the second color. Also, the hue at that time can be various hues such as blue and green other than red (pink).

  Then, the specific area initially presented to the user (see the specific area A1 in FIGS. 5, 7, and 11), and then the specific area shown as an alternative candidate (see the specific areas A2 to A5 in FIGS. 7 and 11). ) Can be displayed in different hue colors. However, the specific area initially presented to the user and the specific area shown as an alternative candidate may be displayed in the same hue color.

D11. Modification 11:
In the first embodiment, when searching for information, options selected from among the options of classification are displayed surrounded by a thick frame. However, another method may be used as a method of displaying the selected option among the options of classification. For example, there may be a check box in front of each option, indicating that the check box of the selected option is checked. That is, in step S1234 of FIG. 4, as for the options related to the classification, the option selected as a result of the process of step S1232 may be displayed differently from the option not selected.

  In the above embodiment, the classification search conditions and keywords automatically determined in step S1232 are displayed on the display panel 202 (see FIGS. 8 and 10), and information search is performed. However, the information search may be performed without displaying the automatically determined search condition.

D12. Modification 12:
In the first embodiment, in step S1234 in FIG. 4, information search is performed using the conditions determined in steps S1230 and S1232. However, in step S1234, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which the user can further assign search conditions. For example, in addition to the geographical condition determined in step S1230 and the condition related to the enjoyment classification determined in step S1232, a mode in which a keyword can be input may be used (see FIG. 10). Further, it is possible to add a geographical condition to the geographical condition determined in step S1230, or to delete a part of the geographical condition.

  With such an aspect, the user can perform an information search that incorporates his / her wishes in the search conditions. That is, the route search system may be an aspect that automatically determines at least some of the search conditions.

D13. Modification 13:
In the above embodiment, the automatic determination of the search condition is performed by the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200. However, the automatic determination of the search condition may be performed by the control unit 184 of the area information server 180 or the control unit 104 of the route search server 100.

  For example, the mobile phone 200 transmits a combination of addresses specifying a specific area or a combination of latitude and longitude to the area information server 180, and the area information server 180 determines a search condition corresponding to the specific area. It can also be set as an aspect. Note that an address or a combination of latitude and longitude specifying a specific area can be transmitted to the area information server 180 via the route search server 100.

  Furthermore, the address or the combination of latitude and longitude specifying a specific area may be transmitted to the route search server 100, and the route search server 100 may determine a search condition corresponding to the specific area. In other words, the automatic determination of the search condition can be executed by any element of the route search system including the mobile phone 200.

D14. Modification 14:
In the above embodiment, the information search in step S1234 in FIG. 4 is performed on the route data or the area database 186. However, the information search in step S1234 may be performed on a database stored in the storage unit 106 of the route search server 100 or a database stored on another server. In other words, the information search related to the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed stores information about the location of the enjoyment and the information regarding the category and keywords of the enjoyment, and any element of the route search system accesses it. It can be done on any database that can.

D15. Modification 15:
In the said Example, if button B01 is clicked (refer FIG. 6), the list | wrist of the place where a user can enjoy the enjoyment of a specific area | region will be shown (refer FIG. 9). A plurality of lists are displayed when the current position is in or near a region where a plurality of types of specific regions overlap. In such a case, for example, the indication regarding the enjoyment (see display DM1 in FIG. 5) is “a region where there are many delicious ramen shops. This region is a region where autumn leaves are beautiful.” It can be a display that provides the type of information. Then, when the button B01 is pressed, a list of ramen shops and a list of points with beautiful maple trees are presented. If it is set as such an aspect, a user's convenience can be improved more.

  In addition, when the display regarding enjoyment is the display which provides the information regarding multiple enjoyment, the mode for displaying the individual place where the user can enjoy enjoyment is displayed for every enjoyment You can also In such an aspect, when each button is pressed, a corresponding list of received items is displayed.

D16. Modification 16:
In the said Example, if button B01 (refer FIG. 5) is clicked, the list | wrist of the place where a user can enjoy the enjoyment of a specific area | region is shown. However, the information on the place where the user can enjoy the enjoyment can be provided by other methods. For example, by displaying on the display panel 202 an image in which a place where the user can enjoy the enjoyment is plotted on a map, information on the place where the user can enjoy the enjoyment can be provided.

  In such an aspect, it is preferable that the user can select a point where the enjoyment displayed on the map can be enjoyed by operating the command input unit 206. In step S1236 of FIG. 4, the user can select each point displayed on the map and obtain detailed information. In addition, when there is a current position in an area where a plurality of types of specific areas overlap or in the vicinity thereof, it is preferable that each point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed is plotted on a map with a mark of a different color or shape.

D17. Modification 17:
In the above embodiment, route guidance (including route guidance and area introduction) is mainly performed via the display on the display panel 202. However, guidance regarding the route can be performed at least partially using another output unit such as the audio output unit 203 or the vibration mechanism 204.

  For example, in the embodiment, the voice output unit 203 uses the display DM1 (see FIG. 5) regarding the enjoyment displayed on the display panel 202 when introducing a specific area to the user and the search result (see FIG. 9). Thus, the voice can be read aloud. In addition, when introducing a specific area to the user (see step S1204 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5), the vibration mechanism 204 may be configured to urge the user's attention with a predetermined pattern of vibration.

  Further, when prompting the user to search for information on individual places where the enjoyment can be enjoyed (see button B01 in FIG. 5), message data is created based on the information of the enjoyment, You can also give voice guidance according to your enjoyment. Similarly, when prompting the user to search for a specific area other than the specific area in the vicinity of the current position (see button B02 in FIG. 5), create message data based on the information of the enjoyment, Voice guidance according to the enjoyment such as “Would you like to search for another area where there are many ramen shops?” That is, output patterns such as voice patterns and vibration patterns can be prepared and output independently from the screen display.

  The output using these sounds and vibrations can be performed independently or together with the output using images. That is, various output units capable of performing predetermined output for the user can be used alone or in combination with other output units to perform output for the user.

D18. Modification 18:
In the above embodiment, based on the current position information obtained from the GPS unit 201, it is detected that the current position is actually located in the vicinity of the specific area, and the area introduction is performed. However, the region introduction can also be executed while performing a simulation of moving a designated position corresponding to the current position along the route regardless of the actual current position. Even in such a mode, the region introduction can be performed when the designated position designated as the current position by the control unit in the simulation is located in the vicinity of the specific region. If it is set as such an aspect, when examining the route to the destination, the user can consider the route while considering a detour on the way.

  In addition to a mode in which a simulation is performed in which a designated position corresponding to the current position is moved along a route, for example, the user operates the command input unit 206 to operate on the route displayed on the display panel 202 or the route. When a predetermined position in the vicinity of is designated, it is possible to introduce a specific area in the vicinity. If it is set as such an aspect, the user can obtain the information of the surrounding specific area in a short time paying attention to the arbitrary points of a path | route. In other words, it is not necessary to wait for the designated position in the simulation to reach the point where the user is paying attention.

  In addition, the aspect demonstrated by this modification can be set as the structure which is not provided with a GPS unit.

D19. Modification 19
In the above embodiment, the route search system includes the route search server 100, the map server 150, the area information server 180, and the mobile phone 200 as its components. However, a mobile terminal that is carried by the user and that includes a GPS unit and a display may be provided with the functions of the route search server 100 and the map server 150. Furthermore, the function of the area | region information server 180 can also be provided in a portable terminal. Further, the route search server 100 and the map server 150 may be the same server. The area information server 180 may be the same server as the route search server 100. Note that the portable terminal may be a PDA (Personal Data Assistant), a notebook computer, or the like as a device that does not have a telephone function. That is, the mobile terminal may be any device that can be carried by the user and can perform a predetermined output to the user based on the data.

  That is, the route search system as a guide device may be one device in which each component is accommodated in one housing. In addition, the route search system can be configured as two or more devices whose constituent elements are connected to each other by a data communication line. For each function such as a function for generating route data and a function for selecting a specific area, one or more arbitrary functions can be assigned to each device. Each function may be realized by one device, or two or more devices may be realized in cooperation. In an aspect in which two or more components are connected by a communication line, the output unit that outputs information to the user is preferably carried by the user.

D20. Modification 20:
In the above embodiment, a part of the configuration realized by hardware may be replaced with software, and conversely, a part of the configuration realized by software may be replaced by hardware. For example, a part of the function of the application software 212 (FIG. 1) can be executed by the control circuit.

  A computer program for realizing such a function is provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a floppy disk or a CD-ROM. The host computer reads the computer program from the recording medium and transfers it to the internal storage device or the external storage device. Alternatively, the computer program may be supplied from the program supply device to the host computer via a communication path. When realizing the function of the computer program, the computer program stored in the internal storage device is executed by the microprocessor of the host computer. Further, the host computer may directly execute the computer program recorded on the recording medium.

  In this specification, the host computer is a concept including a hardware device and an operation system, and means a hardware device that operates under the control of the operation system. The computer program causes such a host computer to realize the functions of the above-described units. Note that some of the functions described above may be realized by an operation system instead of an application program.

  In the present invention, the “computer-readable recording medium” is not limited to a portable recording medium such as a flexible disk or a CD-ROM, but an internal storage device in a computer such as various RAMs and ROMs, An external storage device fixed to a computer such as a hard disk is also included.

E. Other aspects:
Note that the following processing can also be performed when providing information on points around the route in route guidance. The process is
(A) A region that includes a first type of information related to a route to the destination and a plurality of points where a common enjoyment can be enjoyed, and overlaps with a first range that is a range in the vicinity of the route. Preparing route data including a second type of information on a neighboring region;
(B) performing guidance on the route based on the route data,
The step (b)
(B1) guiding the route based on the first type information;
(B2) When the current position is within the vicinity area or within a predetermined range near the vicinity area, the vicinity area related to the enjoyment is introduced based on the second type information, and the vicinity Prompting the user to request information about other areas that can enjoy the same enjoyment as the enjoyment in the area;
(B3) When a request for information on the other area is received from the user, the area includes a plurality of points where the same enjoyment as the enjoyment in the neighboring area can be enjoyed, and in the vicinity of the current position Presenting an alternative area overlapping with a second range as the other area;
(B4) receiving a designation of an area selected from the neighboring area and the alternative area, and providing information on a point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed in the selected area.

  In such an aspect, the user selects an area from a nearby area close to the current position and another area (alternative area) near the current position, and stores information on points where the target enjoyment can be enjoyed. You can receive the offer. As a result, it is possible to detour by selecting a preferred point from a larger number of options than in a mode in which no alternative area is presented. That is, according to said aspect, the convenience of the user at the time of acquiring the information of the point which can enjoy enjoyment in the vicinity of a path | route improves.

  Note that “preparation” of route data includes, for example, a mode in which the operating entity generates route data by itself, and a mode in which the operating entity obtains route data generated by other elements. In addition, in order to perform some processing “based on specific (first type or second type) information”, in addition to a mode in which specific information includes all information for the processing, A mode in which information for performing the processing is obtained using the specific information and the processing is performed is also included. In addition, the presentation of the “substitution area” may be performed in a mode in which the substitution area is shown on the map, or in a mode in which the substitution area is shown in a list.

  In addition, when presenting the alternative area as another area, it is preferable to prompt the selection of the area from the neighboring area and the alternative area at the same time.

The second type information may include a plurality of pieces of information related to the neighboring area.
The second range when the current position moves on the route may be included in the first range.
The step (b3)
Preferably, the method includes a step of presenting a region included in the plurality of neighboring regions as the alternative region based on the second type information.

  With such an aspect, it is possible to present an alternative area based on existing information. For this reason, it is possible to present information relating to another region in a short time after receiving a request for information relating to another region, as compared with a mode in which information not included in the second type information is newly prepared.

In addition, the step (b3)
An aspect including a step of preparing information on the alternative area based on the information on the current position may be employed.

  With such an embodiment, when there is a request for information regarding another area, it is possible to present an area other than the neighboring area included as information in the route data. Information regarding the alternative area can be obtained from, for example, another device connected via a network.

  Note that the second range is a predetermined range in the vicinity of the route, and may be a range including the current position and a part of the route on the downstream side of the current position.

  According to such an aspect, the user can determine a point in the area to be detoured by comparing a nearby area close to the current position with an alternative area scheduled to pass nearby. . The second range near the current position when the current position moves on the route is preferably included in the first range near the route.

In addition, the step (b3)
Displaying the neighborhood area and the alternative area together with the route on an image display section capable of displaying an image,
In the vicinity area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographical unit area is less than a predetermined number, the vicinity area is displayed using the first color,
In the vicinity area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographic unit area is larger than the predetermined number, the vicinity area is a second color that is darker than the first color. Displayed using color,
In the alternative area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographical unit area is less than the predetermined number, the alternative area is displayed using a third color,
In the alternative area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographic unit area is larger than the predetermined number, the alternative area is a fourth color darker than the third color. It is preferable to include the process of displaying using a color.

  If it is set as such an aspect, the user can select an area | region in consideration of the density of the point which can enjoy enjoyment. Note that the first color and the third color may be the same color or different colors. Also, the second color and the fourth color can be the same color or different colors. However, the series of the first color and the second color, and the series of the third color and the fourth color are preferably series of colors having different hues.

In addition, the step (b1)
(B5) It is preferable to include a step of guiding the route by displaying a part of the route and the current position on an image display unit capable of displaying an image.
The step (b3)
(B6) It is preferable to include a step of displaying the neighboring region and the alternative region on the image display unit together with the route in a wider range than the step (b5).
The second range is preferably a range including a geographical range displayed on the image display unit in the step (b6).

  With such an aspect, the user can select an arbitrary region from the range displayed on the image display unit and determine a point to detour.

In addition, the step (b6)
In the vicinity area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographical unit area is less than a predetermined number, the vicinity area is displayed using the first color,
In the vicinity area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographic unit area is larger than the predetermined number, the vicinity area is a second color that is darker than the first color. Displayed using color,
In the alternative area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographical unit area is less than the predetermined number, the alternative area is displayed using a third color,
In the alternative area, when the number of the points where the enjoyment can be enjoyed per geographic unit area is larger than the predetermined number, the alternative area is a fourth color darker than the third color. It is preferable to include the process of displaying using a color.

In addition, the step (b4)
(B7) determining at least part of the search condition based on the second type information;
(B8) A step of referring to a point database storing information relating to a point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed, performing an information search regarding the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed using the search condition, and outputting a search result And preferably.
It should be noted that at least a part of the search conditions is preferably determined automatically.

  In such an aspect, the user does not need to input all the search conditions when obtaining information on a point where the user can enjoy the enjoyment. Therefore, according to said aspect, the user's load at the time of acquiring the information of the point which can enjoy a thing to enjoy can be reduced.

In addition, it is preferable that the said 2nd type information contains the information regarding the said enjoyment.
The step (b8)
It is preferable that the search condition includes a step of performing the information search using a condition related to the classification of the enjoyment.
The step (b7)
It is preferable to include a step of determining at least a part of the conditions relating to the classification of the enjoyment based on the information related to the enjoyment included in the second type information.

  With such an aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden of the user specifying the classification based on the enjoyment in the information search.

  It is preferable that the location database stores information relating to the location of the location where the enjoyment can be enjoyed and information relating to the category of the enjoyment in association with each other. And it is preferable that a search result contains the information of the position of the point which can enjoy enjoyment.

Moreover, it is preferable that the said 2nd type information includes the information regarding the said enjoyment.
The point database preferably stores information relating to the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed and information relating to the enjoyment in association with each other.
The step (b8)
It is preferable to include a step of performing the information search using a keyword as the search condition.
The step (b7)
Preferably including at least a part of a keyword based on the information related to the enjoyment included in the second type information.

  With such an embodiment, it is possible to reduce the burden of the user inputting a keyword when searching for information. As a search using keywords, there is a mode in which keywords are associated with a set of information in advance, and the associated keywords are searched. Moreover, it is also possible to use a mode in which all the contents of a set of information itself are searched using keywords.

The figure which shows the hardware constitutions of the route search system which is 1st Example of this invention. The figure showing the relationship between a path | route and a specific area. The chart which shows the exchange of the information of the mobile telephone 200, the route search server 100, and the area | region information server 180 at the time of performing a route search. The flowchart which shows the process of guidance of the specific area in a route guide. The figure which shows image ID1 displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile telephone 200 in order to introduce a specific area | region to a user during a route guide. The figure which shows the state after image ID1 is no longer displayed on the display panel 202. FIG. The figure which shows range SD1 displayed on the display panel 202 in a route guide, and map range SD2 displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1220. The figure which shows the example of the display on the display panel 202 at the time of searching the place which can enjoy enjoyment in step S1234. The image which shows the search result of step S1234. The figure which shows the example of the display on the display panel 202 at the time of searching the place which can enjoy enjoyment in step S1234 in 2nd Example. The figure which shows an example of the screen displayed on the display panel 202 by FIG.4 S1220 in 3rd Example.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Route search server 102 ... Communication part 104 ... Control part 106 ... Memory | storage part 111 ... Path | route determination part 112 ... Area | region determination part 113 ... Path | route data generation part 150 ... Map server 152 ... Communication part 154 ... Control part 156 ... Map database 180 ... area information server 182 ... communication section 184 ... control section 186 ... area database 188 ... area determination section 200 ... mobile phone 2005 ... JP 201 ... GPS unit 202 ... display panel 203 ... audio output section 204 ... vibration mechanism 205 ... communication section DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 206 ... Command input part 206a ... Numeric keypad 206b ... Cursor key 209 ... Clock part 210 ... Main control part 212 ... Application software 220 ... Call control part 231 ... Route preparation unit 232 ... Route guidance unit 232a ... Guidance execution part 232b ... Area introduction part 232 c ... Condition determination unit 232d ... Information search unit 233 ... Map information preparation unit A1 to A5 ... Specific area A1 ... Area B01 ... Button for searching for a place where enjoyment can be enjoyed B02 ... Determination that the current position is in the vicinity Button for searching for a specific area other than the specified specific area B03 ... Button for searching for a place where the enjoyment can be enjoyed DC1 ... Options for large classification DC2 ... Options for small classification DM1 ... Display IB01 ... Input box IB03 ... Search Button ID1 ... Display about enjoyment of specific area in area introduction INT ... Internet PP ... Current position R0 ... Path R0f ... Area in the vicinity of path R0 R1, R2 ... Road Ri1 ... Range in the vicinity of the interchange to be on the expressway Ri2 ... Near the interchange to get off the highway on the route Range SD1 ... Range displayed on the display panel 202 in the route guide SD2 ... Range displayed on the display panel 202 in step S1222 SW01 ... Search window W1 ... Distance that defines the range R0f in the vicinity of the route i1 ... Get on the highway in the route Interchange i2 ... Interchange to exit the expressway on the route pc1 ... Intersection pc2 ... Intersection

Claims (11)

An information providing device for providing information on points around a route in route guidance,
The first type of information related to the route to the destination and the second type related to the neighboring region, which is a region including a plurality of points where the common enjoyment can be enjoyed and overlaps with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the route A route data preparation unit that prepares route data including:
A route guidance unit that provides guidance related to the route based on the route data,
The route guidance unit
A guidance execution unit for guiding the route based on the first type of information;
Based on the information of the second type, an area introduction unit that introduces the neighborhood area related to the enjoyment, and prompts information search regarding the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed,
A condition determining unit that determines at least part of a search condition for the information search based on the second type information when receiving an instruction to perform the information search;
And an information search unit that performs the information search using the search condition. The information providing device according to claim 1,
The information of the second type includes information on a position related to the neighboring area and information related to the enjoyment,
The information search unit refers to a point database that stores information related to the location of the enjoyable item and information related to the classification of the received item, and stores the information about the position as the search condition. Performing the information search using a search condition of 1 and a second search condition relating to the classification of the enjoyment,
The condition determining unit
Determining at least part of the first search condition based on the position information regarding the neighboring area included in the second type of information;
The information provision apparatus which determines at least one part of a said 2nd search condition based on the said information regarding the said enjoyment contained in the said 2nd type information. The information providing device according to claim 1,
The information of the second type includes information on a position related to the neighboring area and information related to the enjoyment,
The information search unit refers to a location database that stores information relating to the location of the location where the enjoyment can be enjoyed and information related to the enjoyment, and stores the search criteria relating to location as the search criteria, , Performing the information search using keywords related to the enjoyment,
The condition determining unit
Determining at least part of the search condition related to the position based on the position information related to the neighboring area included in the second type information;
The information provision apparatus which determines at least one part of the said keyword based on the said information regarding the said enjoyment contained in the said 2nd type information. The information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The route guidance unit guides the route according to the movement of the current position,
The area introduction unit is configured to provide the introduction and prompt the information search when the current position is within a predetermined range in the vicinity area or in the vicinity of the vicinity area. The information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The route guidance unit guides the route according to a designated position,
The area introducing unit is an information providing apparatus that, when a point within a predetermined range in the vicinity area or in the vicinity of the vicinity area is designated, performs the introduction and prompts the information search. An information providing method used in an information providing device for providing information on points around a route in route guidance,
(A) The first type information relating to the route to the destination, and a region including a plurality of points where a common enjoyment can be enjoyed, and a region that overlaps with a predetermined range near the route Preparing route data including the second type of information;
(B) based on the route data, the information providing device performs a guidance on the route, and
The step (b)
(B1) the information providing device guiding the route based on the first type information;
(B2) The information providing device, based on the second type information, introduces the neighborhood area related to the enjoyment, and prompts information search regarding the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed;
(B3) when receiving an instruction to perform the information search, the information providing apparatus determines at least a part of the search condition for the information search based on the second type information; ,
(B4) The information providing method includes the step of performing the information search using the search condition. The information providing method according to claim 6, comprising:
The information of the second type includes information on a position related to the neighboring area and information related to the enjoyment,
The step (b4)
A first search condition relating to a position as the search condition, referring to a spot database storing information relating to the position of the spot where the enjoyment can be enjoyed and information relating to the classification of the enjoyment; And performing the information search using a second search condition relating to the classification of the enjoyment,
The step (b3)
Determining at least a part of the first search condition based on the position information regarding the neighboring area included in the second type information;
Determining at least a part of the second search condition based on the information on the enjoyment contained in the second type of information. The information providing method according to claim 6, comprising:
The information of the second type includes information on a position related to the neighboring area and information related to the enjoyment,
The step (b4)
Reference is made to a point database that stores information relating to the location of the enjoyable item and information relating to the enjoyed item, and as a search condition, a search condition relating to the location and a keyword relating to the enjoyed item And performing the information search using
The step (b3)
Determining at least part of a search condition related to the position based on the position information related to the neighboring area included in the second type information; and the information related to the enjoyment included in the second type information. Determining at least part of the keywords based on the information. An information providing method according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
The step (b) is a step of guiding the route according to the movement of the current position,
The step (b2) is a method of providing information, which is a step of prompting the information search by performing the introduction when the current position is in the vicinity area or a predetermined range in the vicinity of the vicinity area. An information providing method according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
The step (b) is a step of guiding the route according to a designated position.
The step (b2) is an information providing method in which the introduction is performed and the information search is promoted when a point within a predetermined range in the vicinity region or in the vicinity of the vicinity region is designated. A computer program that is executed in a computer and causes the computer to provide information about points around the route in route guidance,
The first type of information related to the route to the destination and the second type related to the neighboring region, which is a region including a plurality of points where the common enjoyment can be enjoyed and overlaps with a predetermined range in the vicinity of the route A first function for preparing route data including:
A computer program for causing the computer to implement a second function for guiding the route based on the route data;
The second function is:
A third function for guiding the route based on the first type of information;
A fourth function that, based on the second type of information, introduces the neighborhood area related to the enjoyment, and promotes information retrieval related to the point where the enjoyment can be enjoyed;
A fifth function for determining at least part of a search condition for the information search based on the second type information when receiving an instruction to perform the information search;
And a sixth function for performing the information search using the search condition.

Images