JP2010165023A - Navigator and point data updating program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a highly useful navigator and a point data updating program which can suitably determine an area that is required by a user and automatically updates point data for the area. <P>SOLUTION: The navigator carries out an updating process for the point data expressing attributes for respective points on a map by receiving provision of updating data is provided with an updating processing means for automatically executing the updating process for the point data surrounding a target point when the target point is set, and a trigger detection means for detecting an input of a point search trigger which triggers the start of the search for the point which is a candidate for the target point. In this case, the updating processing means stops the updating process for the point data surrounding the target area when the target is set from the map without ever having the point search trigger inputted after establishing the state where the point search trigger can be accepted. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a navigation device that receives update data and performs update processing of point data that represents the attribute of each point on a map, and a point data update program used for the update processing of the point data.

  In general, the contents of a database such as a point database storing point data representing the attributes of each point on a map used in a navigation device and a map database storing map data are constantly changing facilities and roads. It is desirable to accurately represent the actual state such as. In view of this, a system that provides update data as appropriate via a communication network, a data storage medium, or the like and updates the database of the navigation device using the update data is already known. In order to reduce the time and cost required for the update process, the user selects and obtains only the update data of the area that needs to be updated, such as the navigation device user's home, and updates the navigation device database. May do. For example, in Patent Document 1 below, if there is update data for a region that needs to be updated, the navigation device is notified of this, and if the user determines that update data is necessary, the update data is downloaded to the navigation device. A system for updating facility information and map data in the area by installing is described.

JP 2004-12319 A

In the update system described in Patent Document 1, a user selects and sets a region that needs updating on the navigation device side in advance, and download request information for requesting update data for the region is provided from the navigation device. It is necessary to transmit to the center side in advance. In such a configuration, a place where the user always asks for new information such as around the home is set in the download request information transmitted in advance. Therefore, it is necessary to newly transmit download request information every time the user needs a place where the user does not usually go, so it cannot be said that the system is convenient for the user.
On the other hand, if the update data of all regions is downloaded unconditionally, the amount of update data becomes enormous and the communication cost increases, which is not appropriate.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and its purpose is highly convenient in that it can appropriately determine the area required by the user and automatically update the point data of the area. The object is to provide a navigation device and a point data update program.

  According to the present invention for achieving the above object, the feature configuration of the navigation device that receives update data and performs update processing of point data representing the attribute of each point on the map is as follows. In addition, an update processing means for automatically executing update processing of spot data around the destination, and trigger detection for detecting an input of a spot search trigger that triggers the search for a spot that is a candidate for the destination And when the destination is set on the map without any input of the location search trigger after the location search trigger can be accepted. The update process of the point data around the destination is stopped.

  According to this characteristic configuration, when the destination is set, the update processing of the point data around the destination is automatically executed, so the user of the navigation device simply sets the destination, The point data around the destination is updated. Therefore, it is possible to determine the vicinity of the destination as an area required by the user and automatically update the point data of the area. Thereby, when searching for facilities and the like around the destination, it is possible to perform a search based on the information of the updated point data. On the other hand, if a destination is set on the map without any point search trigger being input after the point search trigger can be accepted, update processing of point data around the destination is performed. Canceled. In other words, if the user of the navigation device sets the destination from the map without searching for the location, the user does not need the location data around the destination and does not want to update the location data. And the navigation device determines that the point data update process is stopped. Therefore, unnecessary update of point data is suppressed.

  On the other hand, when the user searches for a location and sets a destination from the map, the location data update process is not stopped. For this reason, for example, when a destination is searched using point data, but the desired destination cannot be found, and the destination is unavoidably set on the map, the point data around the destination Is automatically updated. The user who has performed such an operation needs the point data and seems to desire to update the point data around the destination. According to this configuration, the point data can be appropriately updated even in such a case.

  Therefore, according to this feature configuration, it is not necessary for the user to make settings related to updating the point data around the destination, and whether the navigation device tries to refer to the point data when setting the destination. Whether or not the user is willing to update the point data around the destination can be appropriately determined based on whether or not the point data is updated, and the point data can be updated only when necessary. Therefore, the update of the point data unnecessary for the user is suppressed, and the time and cost required for the update process can be suppressed.

  Here, it is preferable that the update processing unit is configured to execute update processing of point data within a predetermined distance from the destination as update processing of the point data around the destination.

  According to this structure, it can suppress that the point data of the area away from the destination considered unnecessary for a user are updated.

  Further, the point data is updated in units of sections obtained by dividing the map into a plurality, and the update processing means is at least partially within a predetermined distance from the destination as an update process of the point data around the destination. It is preferable that the update processing of the point data of the section including the is executed.

  Also with this configuration, it is possible to suppress the update of the point data in the area away from the destination which is considered unnecessary for the user. Furthermore, since the update is performed in units of sections, the configuration for selecting the point data to be updated can be simplified.

  The point search trigger includes an operation of a search start switch for starting a point search performed by inputting a search condition, an operation of a voice recognition start switch for starting a point search using a voice recognition function, and communication. It is preferable to adopt a configuration that is at least one operation of an operator call switch for calling an operator via a network and requesting a point search.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to more appropriately determine whether or not the user has attempted to refer to the spot data.

  In addition, the point search trigger can be accepted on the condition that the main power source is turned on, or on the condition that the main power source is turned on and the movement speed of the own position is substantially zero. A configuration is preferable.

  According to this configuration, when the user of the navigation device sets a destination on the map, it is possible to more appropriately determine whether or not the user wants to update the point data. That is, the time from when the main power of the navigation device is turned on, or when the main power is on and the moving speed of the user's own position is substantially zero, until the user sets the destination. Therefore, if a point search trigger has not been input even in that process, it can be determined that the user does not want to update the point data around the destination.

  In addition, when the destination is set, the update processing means automatically executes update processing of point data around the route from the current location to the destination in addition to the point data around the destination. In the case where the update process of the point data around the destination is stopped, it is preferable that the update process of the point data around the route is also stopped.

  According to this configuration, the user of the navigation device simply sets the destination, and the point data around the destination and around the route to the destination are updated. Therefore, when searching for facilities around the destination and around the route to the destination, it is possible to perform a search based on the information of the updated point data. On the other hand, when the update process of the point data around the destination is stopped, the update processing means also stops the update process of the point data around the route. If the navigation device user does not need the point data around the destination and does not want to update the point data, it is likely that the point data on the route to the destination is also unnecessary and does not want to update. . According to this structure, the unnecessary update of point data is suppressed.

  In addition, when displaying a map, when the function for displaying the information of each point on the map is displayed based on the point data of each point, the update processing means is configured to execute the point search trigger. Even when the destination is set on the map, the point data around the destination is automatically updated even when the point search trigger is not input even after the state is accepted. It is preferable to adopt a configuration to do so.

  In order to execute the function of displaying the information of each point superimposed on the map, the point data of each point is required, and it is determined that the user who is set to execute this function needs the point data. . According to this configuration, the point data can be appropriately updated for the user who needs such point data, and the convenience for the user can be improved.

  The technical features of the navigation device according to the present invention having the above-described configurations can also be applied to a point data update method and a point data update program. Therefore, the present invention also includes such a method and program. Can be targeted.

  In that case, the feature composition of the point data update program that receives the update data and updates the point data that represents the attributes of each point on the map is as follows. An update processing function that automatically executes update processing of point data, a trigger detection function that detects an input of a point search trigger that triggers a search for a point that is a candidate for the destination, and the point search Update that stops the update process of the point data around the destination when the destination is set from the map without inputting the point search trigger even once the trigger can be accepted The processing stop function is realized in a computer.

  Needless to say, this point data update program can also obtain the operational effects of the navigation device described above, and it is possible to incorporate some additional techniques mentioned as examples of suitable configurations.

It is the block diagram which showed typically the functional structure of the navigation apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the determination process of whether to perform the update process of the point data around the set destination in a navigation apparatus. It is the figure which showed an example of transition of the operation screen of the navigation apparatus at the time of setting the destination based on embodiment of this invention. It is the block diagram which showed typically the functional structure of the server apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the production | generation / transmission process of the update data file in a server apparatus.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Here, the case where the navigation apparatus 1 according to the present invention is mounted on a vehicle 3 and used will be described as an example. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of the navigation device 1 according to the present embodiment. The navigation device 1 includes a point database 28 and an index database 29 that are referred to when performing a point search on a map, and receives the update data file 4 from the server device 2 to update the point database 28 and the index database 29. It is the structure which performs a process. Regarding the update of the point database 28 and the like, the navigation device 1 has a configuration that automatically executes update processing of the point data 31 and the like around the destination when the destination is set. However, the navigation device 1 is configured such that when a destination is set on the map without any input of the location search trigger after the location search trigger can be received, the location around the destination is set. It is determined that the update process for the data 31 or the like is not required, and the update process for the point data 31 or the like around the destination is stopped.

1. Navigation device The update processing unit 13, the trigger detection unit 17, and the navigation processing unit 18, which are functional units of the navigation device 1 shown in FIG. 1, have an arithmetic processing device such as a common or independent CPU as a core member. A functional unit for performing various processes on input data is implemented by hardware or software (program) or both. Similarly, for the transmission / reception unit 11, the own position information acquisition unit 12, and the vehicle speed detection unit 27, which are functional units of the navigation device 1, hardware or hardware and software (program) are configured to perform the functions. It is realized by the combination of These functional units are connected so that various types of information and data can be transferred. The point database 28, the index database 29, and the map database 30 are configured by storage devices that are common or independent of each other. This storage device includes, as a hardware configuration, a device having a storage medium for storing data in a rewritable manner, such as a hard disk drive and a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM, and a driving unit thereof. Hereinafter, the configuration of each part of the navigation device 1 will be described in order.

1-1. Point Database The point database 28 is a database that stores point data 31 that is referred to when various application processes such as a point search process and a display process by the navigation processing unit 18 described later are executed. Here, the point data 31 is data representing specific attributes of each point on the map. Accordingly, the point data 31 includes information such as the position (coordinates), name, address, and telephone number of each point. Further, the point data 31 may include various incidental information such as the type of facility, the number of floors of the building, business details, business hours, and the like. The point data 31 is stored in the point database 28 in a state in which the various information representing each point is combined into one data frame. Therefore, the data frame of each point data 31 also stores management information such as the data amount of the frame.

1-2. Index Database The index database 29 is a database in which index data for searching the point data 31 is stored. Here, the index data is search data used when performing a search process for extracting spot data 31 that matches the search condition in accordance with the search condition specified by the user. Therefore, the index data has category data for narrowing down the point data 31 that matches the search condition, and storage location data (corresponding data) that indicates the storage location of the point data 31 that matches the search condition. Here, the category data constituting the index data includes, for example, data for various search categories such as name search (alphabet search), address search, telephone number search, and genre search. Each category data includes, for example, data having a hierarchical structure suitable for hierarchical search.

1-3. Map Database The map database 30 is a database that stores map data that is referred to when various application processes such as a route search process, a route guidance process, and a map display process are performed by the navigation processing unit 18 described later. Here, the map data is configured to have map data in a reference format for each process suitable for each of the various application processes. This map data is map data for each of a plurality of sections obtained by dividing the target area into a plurality of sections. Further, each map data includes road network data composed of a plurality of nodes corresponding to each of a plurality of intersections existing in each section and a plurality of links corresponding to roads connecting the nodes. Yes. In addition to road network data, the map data includes drawing information necessary for map display processing by the navigation processing unit 18 and various types of guidance information necessary for route guidance processing. Here, the drawing information includes background information necessary for displaying road shapes, buildings, rivers, and the like, character information necessary for displaying city names, road names, and the like. Further, the guidance information includes intersection information including detailed information on the intersection.

1-4. Transmission / Reception Unit The transmission / reception unit 11 is a functional unit that transmits the update request data file 5 to the server device 2 described later, and receives and acquires the update data file 4 from the server device 2. The transmission / reception unit 11 transmits / receives data to / from the server apparatus 2 via a wireless base station or the like, and transmits the update request data file 5 to the server apparatus 2 by this wireless communication, The update data file 4 can be received and acquired from the device 2. As such a wireless communication method, for example, a known communication network such as a mobile phone network or a wireless local area network (LAN) can be used. Further, the navigation device 1 is configured to be capable of two-way communication with devices other than the server device 2 such as a customer center communication device that an operator, which will be described later, waits, via the transmission / reception unit 11. Yes.

  In the present embodiment, the update request data file 5 transmitted here is the position (coordinates) of the user's home of the user of the navigation device 1, the position (coordinates) of the destination set by the user, or both. It is a file that contains information on position (coordinates).

  In addition, the update data file 4 received and acquired here is a file in which update data for updating the point database 28 and the index database 29 is collected in this embodiment. It is a file in which various update data representing contents to be updated with changes are collected. Therefore, the update data file 4 is a differential data file that represents the change contents of the facility or the like that has actually changed as a difference with reference to the contents of these databases to be updated. Then, using this update data file 4, the update processing unit 13 described later performs a difference update process for the point database 28 and the index database 29. The update data file 4 is a file for updating the point data 31 around the position included in the update request data file 5 and the corresponding index data. The update data file 4 is generated by the server device 2 described later, and is generated based on the point data 55 around the position and the corresponding index data extracted from the point database 53 and the index database 54 of the server device 2. Is.

  The difference update processing for each database includes processing for adding, changing, and deleting data stored in each database. Therefore, the update data file 4 includes data representing the specific contents of addition, change, and deletion of the point data 31 and addition, change, and deletion of the index data. The update data file 4 is divided into update modes of addition, change, and deletion for each data.

1-5. Self-Location Information Acquisition Unit The self-location information acquisition unit 12 is a functional unit that acquires the current position (current self-position) of the navigation device 1. The self-location information acquisition unit 12 is configured to include, for example, a GPS receiver, an orientation sensor, a distance sensor, and the like, although not illustrated. And based on the output of these components, the calculation which specifies the present own position by a well-known method is performed. In addition, the navigation processing unit 18 to be described later performs a known map matching process to correct the own position specified by the above calculation on the road of the map. The correction result of the own position information is sent to the own position information acquisition unit 12 and is reflected in the own position information acquired by the own position information acquisition unit 12. In this way, the own position information acquisition unit 12 acquires the current position information including the current own position represented by coordinates (latitude and longitude) and information on the traveling direction thereof.

1-6. Trigger Detection Unit The trigger detection unit 17 is a functional unit that detects an input of a point search trigger that triggers a point search. The trigger detection unit 17 corresponds to the trigger detection means in the present invention. In the present embodiment, the point search trigger can be received on condition that the main power source of the navigation device 1 is on and the moving speed of the own position is substantially zero. The state in which the moving speed is substantially zero can be set to a state in which the moving speed is 5 km / h or less, for example, and can be set as appropriate. Further, as means for inputting a point search trigger, a point search key 24 for starting a point search performed by inputting a search condition, a voice recognition key 25 for starting a point search using a voice recognition function, The navigation device 1 is provided with an operator call key 26 for calling an operator via the communication network and requesting a point search. Note that the point search key 24, the voice recognition key 25, and the operator call key 26 correspond to the search start switch, the voice recognition start switch, and the operator call switch in the present invention, respectively.

  In the present embodiment, the point search trigger input using the point search key 24, the voice recognition key 25, and the operator call key 26 is performed via the display input unit 23 shown in FIG. Here, the display input unit 23 includes a combination of a touch panel and a display device, other operation switches, and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, these keys are displayed on the display input unit 23, and a point search trigger is input when any key is operated (pressed) by the user of the navigation device 1. The point search trigger is detected by the trigger detection unit 17.

  The point search key 24 is used to start the search process when the user of the navigation device 1 inputs a search condition via the display input unit 23 and searches for the point data 31 in the point database 28. Key. When the point search key 24 is operated (pressed) by the user, an operation screen for point search appears on the display input unit 23, and the user designates the search condition by sequentially inputting the search condition on the operation screen. can do. The search conditions specified here include, for example, the location address, name, telephone number, postal code, genre, and combinations thereof. The search condition input by the user is sent to the navigation processing unit 18, and the search processing unit 19 described later executes a search process for the point data 31 based on the search condition. In such a search process, index data in the index database 29 is used. Then, the search processing of the search processing unit 19 is completed, and a list of single or a plurality of point data 31 corresponding to the search condition is displayed on the display input unit 23. In addition, when there is no point data 31 corresponding to the search condition, that effect is displayed on the display input unit 23. If there is spot data 31 desired by the user in the list of spot data 31 displayed on the display input unit 23, the spot data 31 can be selected and set as a destination or a registered spot, for example.

  The voice recognition key 25 is a key used to start the search process when a search condition is designated by a voice uttered by a user via a voice input unit (not shown) provided in the navigation device 1. The voice input unit is connected so that a voice signal based on the input voice can be transmitted to the navigation processing unit 18 and the transmission / reception unit 11. Examples of the voice input unit include a microphone. When the voice recognition key 25 is operated (pressed) by the user, the navigation processing unit 18 enters a standby state for voice input, and the voice uttered by the user is converted into a voice signal in the voice input unit and is sent to the navigation processing unit 18. Sent. Here, the search conditions designated by the user by voice include, for example, the location address, name, telephone number, postal code, genre, and combinations thereof. The navigation processor 18 analyzes the input voice signal, and designates a search condition based on the analysis result. And the search process part 19 performs the search process of the point data 31 based on the said search conditions. In such a search process, index data in the index database 29 is used. When the search processing of the search processing unit 19 is completed, a list of single or a plurality of point data 31 corresponding to the search condition is displayed on the display input unit 23. In addition, when there is no point data 31 corresponding to the search condition, that effect is displayed on the display input unit 23. If there is spot data 31 desired by the user in the list displayed on the display input unit 23, the spot data 31 can be selected and set as a destination or a registered spot, for example.

  The operator call key 26 is a key used to start a search request when a user of the navigation device 1 calls an operator via the transmission / reception unit 11 and requests a search for point data. Although illustration is omitted, the operator stands by at a place (for example, a customer center) provided with a communication device or the like capable of two-way communication with the navigation device 1. At this time, the user's voice is input as a voice signal to the navigation device 1 via the voice input unit, and the voice signal is sent to the operator side via the transmission / reception unit 11. In addition, the navigation device 1 includes an audio output unit (not shown). The voice output unit is connected so that the voice signal received by the transmission / reception unit 11 can be output as voice, and the voice of the operator is output by the voice output unit. The audio output unit is connected to be able to output the audio signal from the navigation processing unit 18 as audio, and various information related to navigation processing such as route guidance is output by audio. An example of the audio output unit is a speaker. When the operator call key 26 is operated (pressed) by the user, the operator is called through the transmission / reception unit 11. After the operator's response, the user informs the operator of information on the point required by the user via the voice input unit. Here, the information transmitted to the operator by the user includes all information related to the point to be searched, unlike the above-described operation screen input and voice input. Based on the information obtained from the user, the operator searches for point data using a database owned by the operator. When the point data search process by the operator is completed and single or plural point data required by the user are found, a search result file including these point data is transmitted to the navigation device 1. The navigation device 1 obtains the search result file via the transmission / reception unit 11 and displays the point data included in the search result file on the display input unit 23. If there is point data desired by the user in the list displayed on the display input unit 23, the point data can be selected and set as a destination or a registered point, for example.

1-7. Vehicle Speed Detection Unit The vehicle speed detection unit 27 is a functional unit that detects vehicle speed information indicating the speed of the host vehicle. The vehicle speed detection unit 27 includes, for example, a vehicle speed pulse sensor that outputs a pulse signal each time a vehicle drive shaft, a wheel, or the like rotates a certain amount, a circuit that calculates a vehicle speed from the output of the vehicle speed pulse sensor, or the like.

1-8. Update Processing Unit The update processing unit 13 is a functional unit that performs update processing of the point database 28 and the index database 29 in response to provision of the update data file 4. The update processing unit 13 corresponds to the update processing means in the present invention. In the present embodiment, the update processing unit 13 is configured to automatically execute update processing of the spot data 31 and index data around the home position of the user of the navigation device 1. On the other hand, for the vicinity of the destination set by the user, basically, the update process of the point data 31 and the index data is executed, but if it is determined that the user does not want the update process, the update process Is configured to abort. In order to realize such a configuration, in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the update processing unit 13 includes a difference update unit 14, an update determination unit 15, and an update request generation unit 16. . Below, the function of each function part which the update process part 13 contains is demonstrated.

  The differential update unit 14 is a functional unit that performs differential update processing of the point database 28 and the index database 29 using the update data file 4 acquired via the transmission / reception unit 11. That is, the difference update unit 14 applies the contents of addition, change, or deletion of each of the point data 31 and the index data included in the update data file 4 that is the difference data to each of the point database 28 and the index database 29. By doing so, the difference update process of each of these databases is performed.

  The update determination unit 15 is a functional unit that determines whether or not to update the point data 31 and index data around the destination when the destination is set. As described above, in this embodiment, when it is determined that the user needs the update process, the point data 31 and the index data around the destination are updated, and the update is performed. The determination unit 15 performs this determination. In other words, the update determination unit 15 does not receive a point search trigger once it has entered a state where it can accept the point search trigger, and when the destination is set on the map, the user of the navigation device 1 Determines that it does not desire to update the point data 31 and index data around the destination, and determines not to execute the update process. On the other hand, when the destination is not set as described above, the update determination unit 15 determines that the user wants to update the point data 31 and the index data around the destination, and executes the update process. Make a decision. By providing such an update determination unit 15, the update processing unit 13 can set the destination from the map without inputting the location search trigger even after the location search trigger can be received. In such a case, the update processing of the point data and index data around the destination is stopped. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the point search trigger can be received on condition that the main power source is on and the vehicle speed is substantially zero. The processing by the update determination unit 15 will be described later in detail based on the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The update request generation unit 16 is a functional unit that generates the update request data file 5 for requesting the server device 2 to transmit the point data 31 and the update data file 4 of the index data. That is, the update request generation unit 16 generates the update request data file 5, and the update processing unit 13 transmits the update request data file 5 to the server device 2 via the transmission / reception unit 11. It is configured to request transmission of the point data 31 and the update data file 4 of the index data.

  In the present embodiment, the location data 31 and the index data are always updated for the vicinity of the home position of the user of the navigation device 1, and the request for the update data file 4 around the home position is as follows: For example, it is performed at a predetermined time such as when the main power supply is turned on. The predetermined time can be set for the update processing unit 13 via the display input unit 23 by the user. The update request data file 5 for requesting the update data file 4 around the home position includes information on the home position (coordinates) set by the user.

  On the other hand, for the vicinity of the destination set by the user, the update request data file 5 is generated only when the update determination unit 15 determines to update the point data 31 and index data around the destination. The The update request data file 5 includes information regarding the set position (coordinates) of the destination.

  In addition, when the point data 31 around the user's home position and around the destination set by the user and the index data update request data file 5 are generated at the same time, they may be used as separate files or used. A single update data request file 5 including information on both the position (coordinates) of the user's home and the position (coordinates) of the destination set by the user may be used.

  The update request data file 5 further includes information on an identification code for specifying the transmission source navigation device 1. The server measure 2 is configured to provide the update data file 4 to the plurality of navigation devices 1. Therefore, it is necessary to be able to identify which navigation device 1 the update request data file 5 is from, and the server device 2 is configured to include information on the identification code of the navigation device 1 in the update request data file 5. .

1-9. Navigation Processing Unit The navigation processing unit 18 is a processing unit that executes various types of navigation processing as a function of the navigation device 1. The navigation processing unit 18 appropriately refers to the point database 28, the index database 29, and the map database 30 when executing various navigation processes. Further, the navigation processing unit 18 can exchange various information and data with the display input unit 23 described above. The navigation processing unit 18 causes the display input unit 23 to display images of various screens necessary for navigation processing such as a map screen, a route guidance screen, a menu screen for search and setting, and the like from the display input unit 23. Various navigation processes such as route search and point search are executed in accordance with the input instructions from the user. The display input unit 23 displays operation keys necessary for each screen. These operation keys are operated by a user in conjunction with a touch panel arranged on the front surface of the display device of the display input unit 23. FIG. 1 shows an example in which a point search key 24, a voice recognition key 25, and an operator call key 26 are displayed on one screen as the keys necessary for the description of the present application. Such various command (instruction) keys are usually classified and displayed on one of a plurality of screens to be switched and displayed.

  The navigation processing unit 18 includes a search processing unit 19 that executes various processes related to point search on the map. The search processing unit 19 performs a spot search process with reference to the spot database 28 and the index database 29. The spot search process is a search process for extracting spot data 31 that matches the search condition in accordance with the search condition specified by the user. With regard to this point search process, the search processing unit 19 uses the index data in the index database 29 to extract the point data 31 that matches the search conditions. The search conditions used for such point search processing include, for example, search conditions based on various categories such as name search (alphabet search), address search, telephone number search, and genre search, or a combination of these multiple categories. Search conditions etc. are included.

  In addition to the search processing unit 19, the navigation processing unit 18 includes a display processing unit 20, a route search processing unit 21, and a route guidance processing unit 22. Here, the display processing unit 20 uses the display input unit 23 to perform processing for displaying various types of information related to navigation processing, such as map display, self-location display on the map, and guidance route display. The route search processing unit 21 performs a process of searching for a guide route or the like from a departure place such as its own position to the destination input by the display input unit 23, for example. The route guidance processing unit 22 uses the guidance display by the display input unit 23 or the voice guidance by the voice output unit in accordance with the route to the destination searched by the route search processing unit 21, and makes an appropriate route for the user. Perform guidance processing. In addition, since the specific content of the various navigation processes performed by these each process part is well-known, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

1-10. Point Data Update Program When each functional unit of the navigation device 1 described above is configured by software (program), the arithmetic processing device included in the navigation device 1 functions as a computer. Each functional unit of the navigation device 1 constitutes a point data update program that receives the update data file 4 and updates the point database 28 and the index database 29. At this time, the update processing unit 13 implements an update processing function and an update processing stop function of the spot data update program, and the trigger detection unit 17 implements a trigger detection function of the spot data update program.

1-11. Procedure of Determination Process in Update Determination Unit Here, the procedure of the determination process in the update determination unit 15 will be described in detail. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a determination process in the update determination unit 15 as to whether or not to update the point data 31 around the set destination. In addition, this embodiment has the structure which performs the update process of corresponding index data with the point data 31. FIG. Therefore, “point data” in step # 05 and step # 07 in FIG. 2 means “point data and index data” in the present embodiment. As shown in this figure, the update determination unit 15 first determines whether or not the main power supply of the navigation device 1 is in an on state (step # 01). If the main power supply is not on (step # 01: No), it waits until the main power supply is turned on. On the other hand, when the main power source is in the on state (step # 01: Yes), it is determined whether or not the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detector 27 is substantially zero (step # 02). When the vehicle speed is not substantially zero (step # 02: No), the process proceeds to step # 09 and it is determined whether or not the power is off (step # 09). If the power is off (step # 09: Yes), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the vehicle speed is not substantially zero (step # 02: No) and the power supply is not turned off (step # 09: No), it is again determined whether the vehicle speed is substantially zero ( Step # 02). And when it determines with the vehicle speed being substantially zero in step # 02 (step # 02: Yes), it will be in the state which can accept a point search trigger, and step # 03 which determines whether the point search trigger was input. Proceed to There is a period from when the main power of the navigation device 1 is turned on with the vehicle speed being substantially zero, or until the user sets the destination after the main power is on and the vehicle speed is substantially zero. This corresponds to the process of setting the destination, and it is determined whether or not a point search trigger has been input even once in the process by performing the determinations of Step # 01, Step # 02, and Step # 03. be able to.

  If it is determined in step # 03 that no point search trigger has been input (step # 03: No), it is next determined whether or not a destination has been set on the map (step # 04). Here, the setting of the destination from the map will be described based on the transition of the operation screen displayed on the display input unit 23 at that time. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display input unit 23, and illustrates an example of transition of the operation screen when the user of the navigation device 1 sets a destination. FIG. 3A shows a state in which the vehicle position mark 80 is displayed over the road on the map and the menu key 81 is displayed in the lower left corner. In this state, when the user of the navigation device 1 presses a certain point P1 on the map with the finger 82 as shown in FIG. 3B, the point P1 is displayed at the center on the map as shown in FIG. The map is scrolled so as to be displayed on the screen, and a pop-up menu 83 is displayed. In the pop-up menu 83, when the user selects a portion displayed as “set as destination” by pressing it with the finger 82, the point P1 is set as the destination. A series of operations such as the example shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C is the setting of the destination on the map as referred to in the present application.

  If it is determined in step # 04 that the destination is set on the map (step # 04: Yes), the update processing of the point data and index data around the set destination is stopped (step # 05), that is, Then, it is determined not to execute the update process, and the process proceeds to the next step (step # 09). On the other hand, when the destination is not set on the map (step # 04: No), the process proceeds to step # 09. If the power of the navigation device 1 is not in the off state (step # 09: No), the process proceeds to the determination of whether or not the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detector 27 is substantially zero (step # 02). If it is in an off state (step # 09: Yes), the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 03 that a point search trigger has been input (step # 03: Yes), it is determined whether or not a destination related to the input of the point search trigger has been set (step #). 06). Here, the setting of the destination related to the input of the point search trigger will be described based on the transition of the operation screen displayed on the display input unit 23 at that time. 3A, which is an example of an operation screen displayed on the display input unit 23 of the navigation device 1, is displayed, the user of the navigation device 1 is in the lower left corner as shown in FIG. When the menu key 81 is pressed with the finger 82, a menu screen as shown in FIG. On this menu screen, the above-described point search key 24 and voice recognition key 25 for starting the point search, and the above-mentioned operator call key 26 for requesting the operator to search for the point are displayed. In addition, a return key 84 for displaying the operation screen displayed previously is also displayed on the menu screen. In this menu screen, for example, when the user operates (presses) the point search key 24 with the finger 82, a point search trigger is input, and an operation screen (FIG. 3 (f)) necessary for performing the point search appears. In this screen, the user can select the point search method and input the search conditions to search the point data 31. If a desired destination is found, the point data 31 is set as the destination. can do. This series of operations is the destination setting related to the input of the point search trigger referred to in the present application. If the user operates (presses) the voice recognition key 25 or the operator call key 26 on the menu screen of FIG. 3E, if the destination is set based on the function called by those keys, the present application This is the destination setting related to the point search trigger input.

  If it is determined in step # 06 that the destination related to the input of the point search trigger has been set (step # 06: Yes), update processing of the point data 31 and index data around the set destination is performed. It is determined to execute (step # 07), and the process proceeds to step # 09.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 06 that the destination related to the point search trigger input has not been set (step # 06: No), is the destination set from the map next? It is determined whether or not (step # 08). When the destination is set from the map (step # 08: Yes), it is determined that the update processing of the point data 31 and the index data around the set destination is executed (step # 07). The process proceeds to step # 09. In step # 08, Yes is determined because the user operates (presses) at least one of the point search key 24, the voice recognition key 25, and the operator call key 26 in FIG. This is a case where the destination is finally set on the map because the point search is started or the operator is requested to search for the point but the desired destination is not found. On the other hand, when the destination is not set on the map (step # 08: No), the process proceeds to the next step (step # 09). As described above, the update determination unit 15 determines whether update processing is necessary.

2. Server Device FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of the server device 2 according to the present embodiment. The server device 2 includes a point database 53 and an index database 54 that are referred to when the update data file 4 is generated. The point database 53 stores the latest version of the point data 55 at the present time. Currently stores the latest version of the index data. Then, the server device 2 generates an update data file 4 according to the contents of the update request data file 5 received from the navigation device 1 and supplies the update data file 4 to the navigation device 1.

  The point data extraction unit 51 and the update data generation unit 52, which are functional units of the server device 2 shown in FIG. 4, operate on input data using an arithmetic processing device such as a CPU that is common or independent of each other as a core member The functional unit for performing various processes is implemented by hardware and / or software (program) or both. In addition, for the transmission / reception unit 11 that is also a functional unit of the server device, a configuration for fulfilling the function is realized by hardware or a combination of hardware and software (program). These functional units are connected so that various types of information and data can be transferred. The point database 53 and the index database 54 are configured by storage devices that are common to each other or independent of each other. This storage device includes, as a hardware configuration, a device having a storage medium for storing data in a rewritable manner, such as a hard disk drive and a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM, and a driving unit thereof. Hereinafter, the structure of each part of this server apparatus 2 is demonstrated in order.

2-1. Point Database The point database 53 is a database in which point data 55 that is referred to when executing processing by a point data extraction unit 51 and an update data generation unit 52 described later is stored. Since the specific content of the point data 55 is the same as the point data 31 stored in the point database 28 in the navigation device 1 described above, the description is omitted here, but the point database 53 provided in the server device 2 Is different from the point database 28 in the navigation device 1 in that the latest version of the point data 55 is stored.

2-2. Index Database The index database 54 is a database in which index data for searching the point data 55 is stored. Since the specific contents of the index data are the same as the index data stored in the index database 29 in the navigation device 1 described above, the description is omitted here, but the index database 54 provided in the server device 2 is the latest at the present time. This is different from the index database 29 in the navigation device 1 in that the index data of the version is stored.

2-3. Transmission / Reception Unit The transmission / reception unit 50 is a functional unit that receives and acquires the update request data file 5 from the navigation device 1 and transmits the update data file 4 to the navigation device 1. The transmission / reception unit 50 transmits / receives data to / from the navigation device 1 via a wireless base station or the like by wireless communication, and receives and acquires the update request data file 5 from the navigation device 1 by this wireless communication. Alternatively, the update data file 4 can be transmitted to the navigation device 1. As such a wireless communication method, for example, a known communication network such as a mobile phone network or a wireless local area network (LAN) can be used.

2-4. Point Data Extraction Unit The point data extraction unit 51 is a functional unit that extracts the point data 55 necessary for the update process from the point database 53 based on the content of the update request data file 5 received via the transmission / reception unit 50. That is, the point data extraction unit 51 reads the position (coordinates) of the user of the navigation device 1 from the update request data file 5, the position (coordinates) of the destination set by the user, or both of these positions. (Coordinates) is acquired, and all point data 55 within a predetermined distance from the position is extracted from the point database 53, and at the same time, index data corresponding to the point data 55 is extracted from the index database 54. In the present embodiment, the numerical value of the predetermined distance is set in advance on the server device 2 side, and is a value such as 5 km, 10 km, 20 km, and the like.

2-5. Update Data Generation Unit The update data generation unit 52 generates the update data file 4 based on the spot data 55 and the index data extracted by the spot data extraction unit 51, and the update data file 4 is transmitted to the navigation device via the transmission / reception unit 50. 1 is a functional unit that transmits to 1. That is, the update data generation unit 52 can reflect the latest version of the point data 55 and the index data information extracted by the point data extraction unit 51 to the point database 28 and the index database 29 of the navigation device 1. An update data file 4 having an appropriate file format is generated and provided to the navigation apparatus 1.

  As described above, the update data file 4 is a file in which update data for updating the point database 28 and the index database 29 is collected in the present embodiment, and changes are made to each of these databases. In this file, various update data representing the contents to be updated are combined into one file. Therefore, the update data file 4 is a differential data file that represents the change contents of the facility or the like that has actually changed as a difference with reference to the contents of these databases to be updated.

  Hereinafter, generation / transmission processing of the update data file 4 in the server device 2 will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the generation / transmission process of the update data file 4 in the server apparatus 2 when the update process of the point data 31 around the destination set by the user of the navigation apparatus is performed. In addition, this embodiment has the structure which performs the update process of corresponding index data with the point data 31. FIG. Therefore, “point data” in step # 22 in FIG. 5 means “point data and index data” in the present embodiment. First, it is determined whether or not the update request data file 5 has been received from the navigation device 1 (step # 21). If the update request data file 5 has not been received (step # 21: No), the process waits until it is received. On the other hand, when the update request data file 5 is received (step # 21: Yes), the spot data extraction unit 51 extracts spot data 55 and index data (step # 22). Here, the point data extraction unit 51 extracts all point data 55 within a predetermined distance from the destination based on the position (coordinates) of the destination included in the update request data file 5, and at the same time, the point data Index data corresponding to 55 is extracted from the index database 54. Next, the update data generation unit 52 generates the update data file 4 based on the spot data 55 and the index data extracted by the spot data extraction unit 51 (step # 23), and sends the update data file 4 to the transmission / reception unit 50. To the navigation device 1 (step # 24), and the process ends. Note that the update data file 4 can be generated and transmitted in the same manner as described above with respect to the update processing of the point data 31 and the index data around the home position of the user.

[Other Embodiments]
(1) In the above embodiment, the point data extraction unit 51 of the server device 2 has been described as an example in which all the point data 55 and corresponding index data within a predetermined distance from the home position and the destination are extracted. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, in the point database 53, the point data 55 is managed in units of sections obtained by dividing the map into a plurality of parts, and the point data extraction unit 51 is at least partially included within a predetermined distance from the home position or the destination. A configuration in which the point data 55 of all sections is extracted is also one preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the numerical value of the predetermined distance required when the point data extraction unit 51 extracts the point data 55 has been described as an example in the case where the server device 2 side is set in advance. It is also preferable for the user to set the numerical value. In this case, the user sets the numerical value for the update processing unit 13 via the display input unit 23 of the navigation device 1 and includes the numerical value in the update request data file 5 generated by the update request generation unit 16. The point data extraction unit 51 can acquire the numerical value of the predetermined distance set by the user, and can extract the point data 55 based on the predetermined distance. Furthermore, it is preferable that the area to be updated is widened by setting a large value for the predetermined distance around the home position, and the area to be updated is narrowed by setting the numerical value for the predetermined distance to be small around the destination. is there. In this case, by setting the area to be updated to the minimum necessary range, the data amount of the update data file is reduced, and the communication cost associated with the update process can be suppressed.

(2) In the above embodiment, the update processing unit 13 has been described as an example in which the update processing of the point data 31 around the home position and the destination of the user of the navigation device 1 is executed. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, it is also a preferred embodiment of the present invention that the update processing of the point data 31 in the vicinity of the current position and the route to the destination is performed in addition to the vicinity of the home position and the destination. . In this case, it is preferable that the update process is automatically executed around the current location, for example, every time the own position moves a predetermined distance. Regarding the route periphery to the destination, if the update determination unit 15 determines that the update process around the destination is executed, the route periphery update process is also executed, and the update determination unit 15 performs the update process around the destination. When it is determined not to execute, it is preferable that the update processing around the route is not executed. It is considered that a user who needs the point data 31 around the destination often needs the point data 31 around the route as well, and the user convenience is improved by adopting such a configuration. Can do. In this case, the point data extraction unit 51 of the server device 2 extracts the point data 55 within a predetermined distance from the route. The numerical value of the predetermined distance is used as the predetermined distance when the point data 51 around the destination is extracted. It is also suitable as a configuration that is smaller than the numerical value. Furthermore, when a waypoint is set between the current location and the destination, it is preferable to perform an update process for the waypoint as well as the destination.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the update determination unit 15 determines that the update process is unnecessary is described as an example in which the update process is not executed without exception. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, when the navigation device 1 is set to execute a function for displaying the information of each point on the map based on the point data of each point with respect to the map display, the update determination unit 15 It is one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention that the configuration is such that the update process around the destination is executed regardless of the determination result in (1). In this case, as the information of each point displayed on the map, there are character information indicating the name of each point, and a symbol image associated with the name and attribute of the facility or store existing at each point.

(4) In the above embodiment, the navigation apparatus 1 has the index database 29 in addition to the point database 28, and the update data file 4 is provided to update the point database 28 and the index database 29 as an example. explained. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, it is also one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention that the navigation apparatus 1 does not include the index database 29. In this case, when the search processing unit 19 of the navigation device 1 searches for the point data 31, by directly searching the contents of each point data 31 stored in the point database 28, the point data 31 that matches the search condition. Perform extraction.

(5) In the above embodiment, when the update data file 4 is a difference data file that represents the change contents of the facility or the like that has actually changed as a difference on the basis of the contents of the database to be updated. Was described as an example. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, the update data file 4 is a file including all information of all the point data 55 in the region to be updated, and the update processing unit 13 uses the update data file 4 to update in the point database 28. It is also a preferred embodiment of the present invention that all data in the target area is rewritten and updated. Even in such a configuration, the point data 31 is updated only in a limited area around the home position and the destination, so the data amount of the update data file is not so large, and the communication cost associated with the update process is small. The increase can be suppressed.

(6) In the above embodiment, the case where the point search trigger can be received on condition that the main power source is on and the vehicle speed (moving speed of the own position) is substantially zero is taken as an example. As explained. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, a configuration in which the point search trigger can be received on condition that the main power source is turned on is also a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Such a configuration is suitable for a portable navigation device or the like, and the present invention can also be suitably used for such a navigation device other than the vehicle-mounted one.

  The present invention can be suitably used for various navigation devices such as in-vehicle and portable devices.

1: Navigation device 4: Update data file (update data)
13: Update processing unit (update processing means)
17: Trigger detection unit (trigger detection means)
24: Point search key (search start switch)
25: Voice recognition key (voice recognition start switch)
26: Operator call key (operator call switch)
31: Point data

Claims (8)

A navigation device that receives update data and performs update processing of point data representing attributes of each point on the map,
Update processing means for automatically executing update processing of point data around the destination when the destination is set;
Trigger detection means for detecting an input of a point search trigger that triggers a search for a point that is a candidate for the destination, and
When the destination is set from the map without inputting the point search trigger even after the point search trigger can be accepted, the update processing means A navigation device that cancels update processing of point data.   The navigation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the update processing unit executes update processing of spot data within a predetermined distance from the destination as update processing of spot data around the destination. The point data is updated in units of sections obtained by dividing the map into a plurality of parts,
The navigation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the update processing unit executes update processing of spot data of a section including at least a part within a predetermined distance from the destination as update processing of spot data around the destination. .   The point search trigger includes an operation of a search start switch for starting a point search performed by inputting a search condition, an operation of a voice recognition start switch for starting a point search using a voice recognition function, and a communication network. The navigation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the navigation device is at least one of operations of an operator call switch for calling an operator via a request for a point search.   The point search trigger can be accepted on the condition that the main power supply is turned on, or on the condition that the main power supply is turned on and the moving speed of the own position is substantially zero. 5. The navigation device according to any one of 1 to 4.   The update processing means is configured to automatically execute update processing of point data around the route from the current location to the destination in addition to the point data around the destination when the destination is set. The navigation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when the update process of the point data around the destination is stopped, the update process of the point data around the route is also stopped.   When displaying a map, when the function for displaying the information of each point on the map is displayed based on the point data of each point, the update processing means accepts the point search trigger. A request to automatically update the point data around the destination even when the destination is set from the map without inputting the point search trigger even once it becomes possible Item 7. The navigation device according to any one of Items 1 to 6. A point data update program that receives update data and updates the point data representing the attributes of each point on the map.
An update processing function that automatically executes update processing of point data around the destination when the destination is set;
A trigger detection function that detects an input of a point search trigger that triggers a search for a point that is a candidate for the destination; and
When the destination is set from the map without inputting the location search trigger even once the location search trigger can be accepted, update processing of the location data around the destination is performed. Update processing stop function to cancel,
Point data update program that makes a computer realize.

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