JP2010197311A - Communication device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a communication device having high convenience by utilizing 'position information'. <P>SOLUTION: One form of the communication device includes: a transmission means for transmitting starting spot information and an arrival spot information which are information for determining the optimum route to an external device; and a reception means for receiving route information including link data showing road information constituting the optimum route from the external device. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technology of an apparatus having a function of handling position information, using position information, or processing position information.

  In an apparatus that handles position information based on GPS (Global Positioning System) information or distance information from a base station, map information based on the position information of the apparatus is displayed on the display screen of the apparatus, and the position of the apparatus is confirmed. . Recently, a so-called navigation function for setting a destination and guiding the way from the position of the apparatus to the destination is also being installed, but the function is limited and the usability is not good (Patent Document) 1).

  In particular, in a device or service that provides a navigation function by performing a route search, the mobile phone receives the result of the route search calculated by the server device and the map information stored in the storage device of the server device. We are using.

  However, since map information has an enormous amount of data, there is a problem that it takes time to display a map unless the communication speed is sufficient.

  In the car navigation device, map information is stored in the storage device of the device itself, and the route search is calculated by the device itself.

  However, information used when performing a route search, such as traffic jam information, is information that changes every moment, and a more accurate route search can be performed by always using the latest information. In addition, if the road situation is changed and an unupdated map is used, there is a problem that the actual road does not match the navigation.

  In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a highly convenient communication apparatus using “position information” by paying attention to “position information”.

  In one mode of the disclosed communication device, a transmission unit that transmits departure point information and arrival point information, which are information for determining an optimum route, to an external device, and a road that constitutes the optimum route from the external device Receiving means for receiving route information including link data representing information.

  The disclosed communication device can provide high convenience by using “location information”.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the navigation system to which this invention is applied. It is a block diagram of a cellular phone device with a GPS function to which the present invention is applied. It is a figure for demonstrating the communication processing performed using an internet protocol. 1 is a block diagram of a car navigation device to which the present invention is applied. 1 is a block diagram of an all-IP mobile phone device to which the present invention is applied. FIG. It is a sequence diagram of a communication protocol by a mobile phone device to which the present invention is applied. It is a sequence diagram of a communication protocol by a mobile phone device to which the present invention is applied. It is a figure explaining the structure of the map information to which this invention is applied. It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the position confirmation system to which this invention is applied. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the map data and area | region to which this invention is applied. It is a figure which shows an example of the information management table comprised from the location area information to which this invention is applied, and the file name of the map data corresponding to it. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the map by which mesh division which applied the present invention, and link data. It is a figure explaining the conversion process of the link data to which this invention is applied. It is a display example of status information to which the present invention is applied. It is a display example of status information to which the present invention is applied. It is a figure explaining the method of performing navigation using the intelligent presence function to which the present invention is applied. It is a figure explaining the positional information used with the presence function to which this invention is applied.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a navigation system according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied.

  Each communication terminal that receives the navigation service is connected to the communication network by communicating with each base station using wireless communication means. A route search server device, a map information server device, a traffic information server device, and other server devices that provide navigation services are connected to a communication network. Here, the service providing side may be a plurality of apparatuses as described above, or may be a form in which the service is provided by one apparatus. In addition, it is not necessary for all the servers to be connected by a communication network, and the server may be connected to a device serving as a center for providing the navigation service to provide information.

  The map information server device stores the latest map information to be transmitted to each communication terminal device. The route search server device calculates an optimum route or a plurality of recommended routes based on information received from each communication terminal device, and transmits the result to each communication terminal device. For this calculation, map information of the map information server device, traffic information of the traffic information server device, information of other server devices, and the like are used.

  As will be described later, each communication terminal device receives map information, a route search result, and related information from a device that provides a navigation service, and uses the received information to perform a navigation function on its own device. Execute.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a mobile phone device according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 216 controls the entire apparatus, and an execution program thereof is stored in a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 218. The CPU 216 reads the execution program from the ROM 218, and includes instructions included in the execution program. Are sequentially interpreted to control the entire apparatus. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 220 forms a work area necessary for the control, and stores storage parameters and various parameters and management information necessary for the control. The ROM 218 stores data such as map information (including map data), music information, image information, video information, etc. (an execution program may be stored).

  The execution program includes an OS (Operating System) that is basic in performing control, application software that operates on the OS, and the like. In particular, a web browser (also simply referred to as a browser), which is one of applications, is a server device (web device, information providing device, etc.) connected to the Internet, and the information is stored in HTML (HyperText Markup Language), SGML ( Displays information received from standard generalized markup languages (XHTML (Extensible HTML), DHTML (Dynamic HTML), XML (Extensible Markup Language), etc.), and operation results on the device itself Is transmitted to the server device, and communication is performed using the Internet protocol (WWW (World Wide Web) protocol) represented by the HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) protocol (see FIG. 3).

  If the communication speed in the wireless communication means 228 described later is sufficiently wide (broadband), the execution program and other data are stored on the server device side or the external storage device side, and the execution of the program is also executed on the server device side. (The data is also stored in the external storage device or the storage unit of the server device), and the result may be transmitted to the mobile phone device.

  The display unit 214 displays a standby screen (standby screen), operation guidance, device status, application execution status and execution result on the display device. The operation input unit 214 includes various operation keys. The operator operates the operation keys to input predetermined information or operate the apparatus.

  When the apparatus is turned on (powered on) by operating a power key or the like, a standby screen is displayed on the display unit. The state is a standby state (standby state, standby state) of the apparatus, and the state is shifted to a predetermined state by an operation by the operation input unit 214 from the state. For example, when a function button is pressed, a state is displayed in which a function list is displayed, and a predetermined function can be executed by selecting the displayed function. In addition, when there is an input with the numeric keypad on the standby screen, it shifts to a telephone function (calling state). When a dedicated key is operated on the standby screen, a function corresponding to the key is activated. Thus, the standby screen (standby state, standby state) is the basic state of the apparatus (the state of the starting point for transitioning to another state). For example, when the device is in a certain state, it can be said that the device is in an initial state such that, for example, when a power key is pressed, the state returns to the standby state.

  The call unit includes a speaker 226 that outputs sound, a microphone 224 that inputs sound, and a call circuit 222. The call circuit 222 transmits a voice signal input from the microphone 224 or the like to the communication means 228, and outputs a voice signal input from the communication means 228 to the speaker 226 or the like. In general, a circuit for adjusting the sound volume by amplifying or attenuating the sound signal or improving the sound quality by changing the frequency characteristic of the sound signal is also included. Further, so-called side sound control for controlling the sound wrapping from the microphone 224 to the speaker 226 is generally performed in this portion.

  The wireless communication means 228 transmits and receives audio signals and data signals to and from the communication network side (communication line, communication equipment on the communication line side). In the case of a mobile phone, communication is performed using radio between a base station of a communication carrier or a wireless station (access point, wireless communication facility) of a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). May be.

  The imaging means (camera means) 204 converts an object to be imaged into image data, and specifically, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or the like that is an imaging device (in addition, there is a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor). Is used. The CCD receives an optical signal from an object to be photographed, converts it into an analog electrical signal, and outputs it. The image processing circuit 206 receives an analog electric signal output from the CCD and A / D (Analog to Digital) converts it to obtain a digital image signal. Further, image processing (density conversion, filtering, optimization processing, enlargement / reduction, compression / decompression, etc.) is performed on the digital image signal. The processed image data is stored in the memory means 220. The image display unit displays the image data image-processed by the image processing circuit on the image display means 202 such as a liquid crystal screen (plasma display, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), etc.).

  The TV receiving unit 210 includes a TV (Television) antenna, a detection unit, and a tuner unit, receives TV broadcast radio waves, and outputs TV image signals. The TV image signal is input to the image processing unit 206, subjected to predetermined image processing, and then stored in a frame memory (image memory). The image data stored in the frame memory 208 is output to the image display unit 202, A TV image is displayed. The image data stored in the frame memory 208 can be handled in the same manner as the image information acquired by the photographing unit 204 by storing the image data in a storage medium. Further, the TV image recording means stores the received TV image in the memory means.

  The external I / F means transmits and receives data and the like by connecting to an external device such as a PC using a cable or the like. Specifically, there are general-purpose I / Fs such as a device-dedicated I / F (Interface) and USB (Universal Serial Bus).

  The memory card I / F means transmits / receives data by connecting to a device equipped with a storage medium such as an IC (Integrated Circuit) card, a memory card, or a memory unit.

  GPS (Global Positioning System) means generally receives radio waves from artificial satellites, detects a difference in arrival time, and finally calculates position information on the earth such as latitude and longitude where the communication device is located To do.

  The IC tag means transmits / receives data to / from the reader / writer device wirelessly. The IC tag means includes a wireless communication means including an antenna coil, a resonance capacitor, a modulation / demodulation circuit, and a rectifying / smoothing circuit for transmitting and receiving radio signals, and a CPU, ROM, and RAM. A high-frequency power radio signal transmitted from the reader / writer device is received by an antenna and a resonance capacitor, rectified and smoothed by a rectifying and smoothing circuit, an operation power source having a constant voltage is created and supplied to the inside of the IC tag. The signal transmitted from the reader / writer device is superimposed on the power radio signal, and the received signal is demodulated by the modem circuit. The CPU is operated by a program stored in the ROM, and controls the operation of the entire IC tag while forming a work area necessary for the operation on the RAM. There are two types of IC tags: a read-only type that cannot be changed once information is written once, a type that can be rewritten later, and a type that can only be added (write-once type). Further, IC tag reader / writer means may be incorporated.

  The wireless I / F means transmits / receives data using wireless, and includes wireless USB, Bluetooth, infrared communication, wireless LAN communication, and the like. Using this wireless I / F means (including the above-mentioned external I / F means), for example, map data, music data (music data) stored in a PC (personal computer), etc., and other large-capacity Data can be stored by transferring it to storage means of a communication device (communication device).

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a car navigation apparatus according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. In the case of a navigation device, particularly a car navigation device, in addition to the configuration described above, starting and stopping of a car, lateral acceleration on a curve, gyro sensor 416 for measuring the tilt angle of a car, acceleration sensor 414, etc. There are a vehicle speed sensor that measures the speed of the car, a magnetic sensor 418 that detects the direction of the car, and the like. In addition, an input port 420 for inputting a signal indicating the state of the brake of the vehicle and an output signal of a sensor mounted on the vehicle side is provided. And the state of a vehicle is grasped using those signals, and a navigation function is performed. Moreover, it is not necessary to provide all of the above-described configurations, and it is sufficient that at least the configuration necessary for carrying out the present invention is provided.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an all-IP (Internet Protocol) mobile phone as an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. The base station wireless I / F means 502 is an I / F that performs wireless communication between the mobile phone and the base station. The LAN wireless I / F unit 504 is an I / F that performs wireless communication between a mobile phone and a LAN wireless base station (AP (Access Point)). Conventionally, a dedicated protocol is used for the base station wireless I / F unit 502, but there are increasing cases of using an Internet network or an IP network between the base station side and the communication counterpart device. Furthermore, since IP is originally used for the LAN protocol, if the base station wireless I / F means 502 can be converted to IP, cost reduction can be expected due to common use of components. Therefore, as in this embodiment, IP is used for the base station wireless I / F unit 502 and the LAN wireless I / F unit 504. Also, instead of the current wireless LAN standards (IEEE802.11, Wi-Fi, etc.), the next-generation wireless LAN standard WiMAX (WiMAX) or mobile WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, IEEE 802.16) is used. May be.

  There are two types of IP means 506: VoIP means used for voice and data IP means used for data communication. The VoIP means converts an analog audio signal sent from the call circuit into digital data, and further encodes and compresses it if necessary. Next, the audio signal data is embedded in the IP packet for transmission, and sequentially sent to the base station wireless I / F unit 502 or the LAN wireless I / F unit 504. Also, the audio signal data is extracted from the receiving IP packet input from the base station wireless I / F unit 502 or the LAN wireless I / F unit 504, and is decoded and expanded if necessary. Is converted into an analog voice signal and sent to the call circuit.

  In the case of the data IP means, instead of the call circuit of the VoIP means, for example, input / output may be performed with the memory means 522, or a dedicated data processing means may be provided. Also, the IP unit 506 assembles a control IP packet for performing call control, and sequentially sends it out to the base station wireless I / F unit 502 or the LAN wireless I / F unit 504. Further, the control IP packet received from the base station wireless I / F unit 502 or the LAN wireless I / F unit 504 is disassembled for analysis. Such sending and receiving of the control IP packet may be constituted by another means independent of the IP means 506. The operation control of the IP unit 506 may be performed by the CPU 518 or a dedicated LSI may be used.

  6 and 7 show an example of a communication protocol used in a mobile phone. First, the outgoing connection and disconnection sequence will be described with reference to FIG. The terminal on the transmission side transmits a call setup signal (SETUP) and a transmission radio state report signal to the base station after off-hook and dialing, and receives a call setup acceptance signal (CALL PROC) from the base station side. After performing the authentication procedure, the base station transmits a radio channel designation signal. The originating terminal captures the designated channel and sets up the radio line. Next, a call signal (ALERT) is received from the base station, and a ring tone (RBT) is transmitted to the handset. When there is a response from the communication terminal device on the called side, a response signal (CONN) is transmitted from the base station to the communication terminal device on the calling side, and charging starts from here and a call starts.

  Next, a disconnection signal (DISC) is transmitted from the communication terminal device on the transmission side to the base station. The base station transmits a release signal (REL) to the communication terminal device on the transmission side, and charging ends here. The communication terminal device on the transmission side transmits a release completion signal (REL COMP) to the base station, and receives a radio channel disconnection signal from the base station. Finally, the communication terminal device on the transmission side releases the wireless channel used for communication and disconnects the wireless line.

  Next, the incoming connection sequence will be described with reference to FIG. When receiving the call signal from the base station, the communication terminal device on the receiving side transmits an incoming radio state report signal and automatically transmits a response signal to the base station. In addition, the base station transmits a radio channel designation signal to the communication terminal device on the receiving side to set up a radio line. After the wireless line is set up, a call setup signal (SETUP) is transmitted from the base station to the communication terminal device on the receiving side. The communication terminal device on the receiving side generates a ring tone (RGT), and then the call signal ( ALERT). A response signal (CONN) is transmitted to the base station by the off-hook of the communication terminal device on the called side, communication (call) is started, and charging starts. Since the disconnection sequence is almost the same as the above-mentioned disconnection from the transmission side, it is omitted.

  In addition, in the above-described protocol, terminal identification information (telephone number, terminal number, ID number, machine number, mobile station number, mail address, IP address, MAC (Media Access Control) address, URL ( Uniform Resource Locator (URI), URI (Uniform Resource Identifier), IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity, a unique number all over the world), TMSI (Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity, a number temporarily assigned from the home memory station), etc.) and service identification Information (phone number, e-mail address, URL, phone call, e-mail, Internet access, data download, information search, presence function, location information acquisition function, location information related service, navigation, various registrations, various inquiries, content usage, etc.) Can be included. Furthermore, a plurality of terminal identification information and service identification information of each communication device or partner device are stored (stored in the storage means of the communication device), and a specific service is identified by selecting and using them. It is possible to enjoy various services such as using the information and charging the selected terminal identification information.

  The GPS (global positioning system) shown in FIG. 2 generally receives radio waves from a plurality of artificial satellites, and position information such as latitude and longitude indicating the position of the earth on which it is located from the difference in arrival time. Is a system for calculating Information representing the position is referred to as position information or position information data. A method of receiving radio waves from an artificial satellite, performing all position calculations based on the radio waves, and calculating position information only by its own device, and causing position calculations to be performed by an external device (device that performs position calculation), and the result There is a method of receiving position information and acquiring position information.

<Acquisition of location information>
The GPS (Global Positioning System) generally receives radio waves including various information from a plurality of artificial satellites (GPS satellites), and the latitude and longitude on the earth where you are based on the difference in arrival time. It is a system that calculates position information such as. The GPS satellite is equipped with a very accurate atomic clock of rubidium or cesium, and the position of the GPS receiver is obtained by using the time when a signal generated based on the atomic clock reaches the GPS receiver.

  A general position confirmation system using GPS as described above will be described. In general, it is normal to use four GPS satellites to determine the position of the GPS receiver. However, if a GPS receiver is equipped with a high-accuracy watch and is used in combination, three GPS satellites are used. The position can be measured with. Further, radio waves from the base station may be used in combination. The radio wave transmitted by the GPS satellite is spread spectrum, and a signal is transmitted using a different spreading code for each GPS satellite. The GPS receiver receives a signal transmitted by a GPS satellite and captures the satellite using a different spreading code for each GPS satellite. The GPS receiver calculates (calculates) position information based on the arrival time of the signal received from the GPS satellite.

  Then, the position information is transmitted to the center station via the base station. On the center station side, area information (address data, place name, area name, peripheral information, map data, location information where map data is stored, URL indicating the location where map data is stored, etc. based on the location information ) From the database. The position information transmitted to the center station by the GPS receiver includes position information (raw position information) that hardly processes information received from GPS satellites, and position information (final position information) calculated to some extent on the GPS receiver side. ) And position information in the middle (intermediate position information).

  It is not burdened to not process location information on the GPS receiver side, but with recent advances in CPUs and peripheral LSIs, position calculation processing can be performed on the receiver side like car navigation devices and PND devices. Yes. Further, if the position calculation is performed entirely on the receiver side and the function corresponding to the database on the center station side described above is provided on the receiver side, the position confirmation system can be configured only on the receiver side.

  In this case, since it is not necessary to download the map data from the center station every time, the communication fee can be reduced. In addition, it goes without saying that the function sharing of what functions the receiver side has can be changed as appropriate.

“Position information” used in the present embodiment is “information representing a position”, and the object of the “position” is an object, an object, a device (own device, a partner device, another device, etc.), a building , Facilities, stores, destinations, arbitrary locations, predetermined locations, etc. In particular,
1. Information expressed in longitude and latitude (latitude and longitude information)
2. 2. Information that is the basis for calculating latitude and longitude information 3. Information including latitude and longitude information 4. Information based on latitude and longitude information 5. Information expressed in a format representing a storage location of information such as a URL (or URI) format including latitude and longitude information. 6. Information expressed by address, postal code, and telephone number Information expressed in coordinates on map information (or map data) (coordinate information)
8). Area information including the position indicated by the position information (area information, area information)
9. There are information (identification information for identifying each base station) corresponding to a base station (one or more base stations in charge of a call area) that can communicate, position information of the base station, and the like.

  Needless to say, any position information handled by the functions described in this embodiment can be used or reused by other functions. For example, position information handled in “information search” can be used as position information for “navigation”. In addition, the position can be measured with the base station as a GPS satellite so that the position can be confirmed even indoors where the GPS satellite cannot be captured.

The position information is acquired not only by the GPS means but also based on radio waves from a plurality of base stations (for example, position information registered in the home memory station, and “position information acquisition means by the base station”). So-called A-GPS type GPS means that uses distance information from a plurality of base stations in addition to GPS means, or self-propelled means (equipped with an electronic compass and a speed sensor, and the electronic compass The direction is acquired, the speed of the own device is acquired by the speed sensor, and the position is acquired based on the result, and the position of the own device is acquired based on the output and the output of the GPS means. May be. In addition, as other location information acquisition methods,
1. Input position information directly from operation input.
2. The position information displayed on the display means is selected by the operation input means.
3. Using LAN I / F, wireless I / F, infrared I / F, Bluetooth, other I / F, etc., it is received from another device or the network side and acquired.
Etc. The above-described configuration for acquiring or receiving the position is referred to as position information acquisition means or position information reception means.

<Map>
(Map information structure)
The structure of the map information will be described using FIG. The map displayed on the display unit of the device is displayed based on the digitized map information. Map information includes actual map data (the map data itself may be referred to as map information) and metadata or meta information ((map related information, for example, a map data file). Information related to the file such as name, creation date and time, information related to the contents of the map, such as location information, address information, telephone number information, name information, category (higher-level concept (generic name) with common functions), keywords, Detailed facility information, regional information, spot information, other information, etc., which are stored in a text format).

  The map data has a layer structure, and is divided into a fixed layer (which may be rewritten by updating the map data) and a non-fixed layer where data can be rewritten in normal use. The fixed layer includes a road layer that displays roads, a building layer that displays buildings other than roads, for example, an auxiliary layer that displays other data, and the like. A non-fixed layer is a position layer that displays a mark indicating a position based on position information, a metadata layer that displays data based on metadata, and a user layer that a user creates, updates, edits, and registers (For road registration and spot registration).

  Data is transferred to the buffer memory corresponding to each layer (prepared by the number of layers actually used), and the data in the memory is overlaid (taken logically) and displayed on the display unit. Specifically, the contents of the buffer memory are overwritten (stored so as to be ORed) in the display memory, and the contents of the display memory are displayed on the display unit.

  The map information can be composed of a single file, for example, as a nationwide map of Japan. However, considering the display of map information and the transmission / reception of map information, the file is divided into a certain area (along latitude and longitude). It can be used more easily if it can be handled as a small rectangle called a mesh.

  In this way, map data is filed (mesh division, primary mesh (approximately 80 km on each side), secondary mesh (64 equal parts of the primary mesh)) or layer structure, so map data can be easily edited and updated. .

(Memory of map information)
The storage of map information will be described with reference to FIG. First, when using a map (map information) or before using it, it is determined whether or not the map to be used is stored in its own device. For example, in the case of a car navigation device, the time of use is when a car engine is started, that is, when the power of the car navigation device is turned on. Prior to using the navigation function, a device equipped with a GPS receiver (hereinafter simply referred to as a communication device, but may be referred to as its own device when necessary to be distinguished from other devices) is received from a GPS satellite. In addition to calculating the position information based on the signal, the map data including the position indicated by the position information or the map data including a predetermined area including the position (in this case, there may be a plurality of map data). ) Is stored (investigated and searched) in the communication device. Alternatively, the inspection is performed when the destination is set or when the position information is set by the peripheral search.

  At this time, the storage device normally set as the storage device in which the map data is stored (default setting) is checked first, and if there is no corresponding map data, it is connected to the communication device. The other storage device is inspected. That is, the inspection is performed based on the priority order. Examples of the storage device include a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a CD, and a DVD built in the communication device, and an IC card memory, a hard disk, a CD, and a DVD that are connected to the outside of the communication device.

  If the map data is stored in the storage device connected to the communication device, the map data is displayed on the display unit of the communication device. On the other hand, if it is not stored in the connected storage device in the communication device, the identification information indicating the location information or necessary map data (file name, file number, mesh number, identification information indicating the area) in the center station Etc.), the map data in the database of the center station is downloaded to the communication device, and the map data is displayed on the display unit. If there is no map data in the database, another database is searched. If there is still no map data, the communication device is notified of the fact, and when the communication device receives the notification, the communication device notifies the message to that effect. Is. Downloaded map data may be deleted after use, or stored in the communication device and reused next time. Even when map data is stored in the communication device, if the map data is old, new map data may be downloaded from the database of the center station.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the map data inspection means for inspecting whether or not the map data including the position indicated by the position information is stored in the storage means (semiconductor memory, IC card, hard disk, etc.) in the communication device. explain. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between map data and position information. Here, a form in which the position information is composed of latitude information and longitude information will be described. It is assumed that the acquired position information is latitude 5 and longitude 5 (in Shinjuku 1-chome) (different from actual position information for the sake of simplicity).

  As shown in FIG. 10, the map data of Tokyo consists of 10 × 10 = 100 map data (100 mesh divisions), and Shinjuku, which is one of the map data, further has 10 × 10 = 100 maps. Consists of map data. (0, 1000) (region information) means that latitude information is 0 and longitude information is 1000. A region can be represented by a plurality of pieces of position information.

  For example, when the area is a rectangle, the area can be represented by position information of four vertices. When the area is a square, it can be represented by position information of two vertices. Further, when the distance information of one side is determined in advance, the area can be represented by the position information of one vertex. The example in the upper figure shows the map data of Tokyo and its area. If the area at the bottom left (0, 0, 100, 100) is Shinjuku, for example, the map data of Shinjuku and its area are shown below. The map data can be enlarged and displayed. The black (filled) portion in FIG. 10 indicates that there is no map data. Therefore, after acquiring location information, if you want to display a wide area, display the map data for the entire Tokyo area (level 1), and if you want to display an area larger than that, map data for the entire Shinjuku area (level When displaying 2) and displaying an area further enlarged, map data obtained by dividing Shinjuku (for example, Shinjuku 1-chome) (level 3) may be displayed.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an information management table including position area information and map data file names corresponding thereto. Thus, map data can be handled as one file.

  With respect to position information calculated by calculation processing based on radio waves received from GPS satellites, it is checked whether position area information including the position information is in the information management table. If the corresponding location area information is in the information management table, the map data file name corresponding to the location area information is output.

  File name: Shinjuku 20050620 area information (0, 0, 100, 100), where 0 and 0 are the latitude and longitude information of the lower left vertex of the square, and 100 and 100 are the latitude and longitude of the upper right vertex, respectively. Information. Considering that the acquired location information is latitude 5 and longitude 5 and the map data is displayed in the level 1 area, the management table of the entire file name: Japan 20050620 (level 1 map data (Tokyo In 47 prefectures such as Tokyo, Kanagawa, Hokkaido, etc.)), it is inspected whether there is a thing corresponding to latitude 5 and longitude 5. Since latitude 5 and longitude 5 correspond to position information in Tokyo, if there is map data for Tokyo, the map data file name (Tokyo 20050620) is output. The same applies when levels 2 and 3 are specified. Similarly, in the case of enlargement or reduction display in which level 2 or level 3 is instructed after level 1 is displayed, the map data is searched by searching the file.

  Further, when the map data is vector data, it can be dealt with by enlarging or reducing the map data itself. The number in the number column represents link information between files. The date in the management table and the file name indicate the date and time when the map data was last updated. The old and new column is information indicating whether the map data is latest or old. The information in the memory area column indicates the location (memory address or the like) where map data corresponding to the file name is stored. In addition, the name of the medium in which the map data is stored (built-in memory, built-in HDD, built-in CD, external memory, etc.) may be stored.

  The map data conversion means reads out map data (stored in a format such as compressed data such as JPEG and JBIG, vector data, etc.) corresponding to the output file name from the storage means, and a data format suitable for the display device ( For example, it is converted into bitmap data) and output. Also, resolution conversion is performed in accordance with the resolution of the display device or the display resolution of the map display application. The map data display means expands the bitmap data in the video memory for display, reads out the map data stored in the video memory on the display device, and displays it on the display device.

  On the other hand, if the position area information is not in the information management table, a signal indicating that it is not stored is output. When the position information transmitting means receives a signal indicating that map data is not stored, the position information transmitting means transmits the position information to the center station via the base station. At this time, before sending to the center station, in order to notify the user whether or not the map data can be downloaded from the network, the information to that effect is displayed on the display device. You may make it continue the operation to download from.

  The center station searches the map data database for map data including the area indicated by the received position information, and transmits the corresponding map data to the communication device. At this time, the center station transmits map data in a data format (data format, compression method) that can be handled by the communication device. The center station obtains information in a data format that can be handled by the communication device by the initial negotiation of communication. The map data conversion means of the communication device converts the received map data into bitmap data and outputs it. The map data display means expands the bitmap data in the video memory for display, reads out the map data stored in the video memory on the display device, and displays it on the display device. The downloaded map data may be deleted after being used, or may be used next time by storing it in the storage means. At this time, the information management table is updated by adding a new map data file. In addition, when a region including the acquired position information extends over a plurality of map data files, a plurality of map data is downloaded.

  Up to this point, the case where the map information to be used is stored in the storage means of the own device has been described. However, it is difficult to store the map information in advance with a communication device having a small storage capacity, and the map is used. Sometimes there are devices configured to receive and display map information from a server device. There is also a device configured such that the received map information is cached to some extent in the buffer memory, and the map information used immediately before (map information remaining in the caching memory) is not newly received. In this case, the map information downloading function described above can be applied.

(Update of map data)
Next, even if the corresponding position area information is in the information management table, if the map data corresponding to the position area information is old, a signal indicating that is output. After that, the same operation as when no map data is stored is performed. When the downloaded new map data is stored in the storage means, the old map data is deleted. Also, the information management table is updated with old and new information and changed information.

  There are several methods for determining whether the map data (map information) stored in the communication device is old or not. As a first method, determination is made based on the latest update date / time information and time stamp information (information indicating the latest date / time when the file was updated) added to each map data file. Specifically, the map data is compared with the date and time information to be used and the time stamp information, and if there is a predetermined time difference, it is determined that the data is old.

  As a second method, the last update date / time information of the map data stored in the server device is compared with the last update date / time information of the map data stored in the own device, and the update date / time information of the own device is updated. If so, download the map data. As a third method, there is a method for adding information (new / old information, version information, etc.) indicating new / old for each map data file.

  Here, the file number of the widest map is set to 0 (entire map), and each file number of the mesh map obtained by dividing the map into 64 is set to 1 to 64. Each time the mesh map file is updated, the version number (overall map version number) of file number 0 is increased (starting from 1). The version number of each mesh map is changed to the updated version number of file number 0 when it is updated. The version number of the map that is not updated remains unchanged.

  Initially, all files (0-64) are version 1. Here, for example, version 1 of file number 0 is expressed as F0-1. Next, if the first file update is in file numbers 1 and 2, the version of each file is F0-1, F1-1, F2-1, F3-64-0. Next, when the file numbers 2 and 3 are updated, they become F0-2, F1-1, F2-2, F3-2, and F4 to 64-0.

  At this time, if the version of the map stored in the device is F0-1, it is stored in the device from the version number of each mesh map registered (included) in the latest version F0-2. By subtracting 1 which is the overall map version number of the map and downloading a mesh map whose result is 1 or more, it is possible to download only the map information that has changed.

  This new / old information is used when the communication device makes inquiries to the center station regularly or irregularly, or when a predetermined event occurs, such as when the map data is updated regularly or from the center station. Thus, it is conceivable to receive a data change notification. The communication device updates the new and old information of the map data file based on this notification. When the latest or new map data is downloaded, the downloaded map data may be replaced with old map data. Further, the server device may have a map management table, and the server device may determine whether the map information is new or old.

  In addition, an update button for updating map data is prepared in the apparatus, and when the button is operated, information (location information, region information) indicating an area (region) to be updated or identification information indicating necessary map data ( File name, file number, mesh number, identification information indicating a region, etc.) are transmitted to the server device. The server device transmits map data corresponding to the area, position information or identification information to the terminal device. Or you may make it transmit only the map data which is map data applicable to the area | region, and has been changed. In addition, for example, when the device is turned on or when a destination is set, a peripheral search function (location information and category information (for example, identification information of a bank, convenience store, etc.) is transmitted to the server device, The category stored in the device and its position is a category included in a predetermined area centered on the position indicated by the transmitted position information, and the function receives the information related to the category from the server device). The map information may always be updated when information is input.

  Next, a number of map data files are gathered into one area (for example, a relatively large area such as Tokyo or Kanagawa, a medium area such as a city or ward, or a town). In some cases). For example, when only the map data of Tokyo is stored in the storage means of the communication device, and when the communication device is used in Kanagawa Prefecture and the map data of the position of the communication device is displayed, Since map data of Kanagawa Prefecture is stored in the storage means, it is necessary to download the map data from the network. In this case, the map data of all areas of Kanagawa Prefecture, the map data of the area of the city, or only the map data of the town can be downloaded, so let the user choose which data to download. In addition, a message to that effect may be displayed on the display device. Alternatively, selection may be made in units of files, not in units of regions.

  Also, whether to use only the data stored in the storage means in the communication device as the location confirmation map data (memory mode), or to use only the center station map data (download mode), or as described above Thus, it may be possible to set the mode by the mode setting means of the communication device as to whether both of them are used together (hybrid mode).

  Further, the use history using the map data may be stored in the storage means, and the map data history means may be provided so that the history can be displayed. The history includes history information such as displayed date and time, file name, position information, information in the communication device or information indicating downloaded data. Furthermore, each map data may be displayed as a thumbnail together with history information or independently. When a history or thumbnail image is selected, map data corresponding to the history is read from the storage means and the map data is displayed.

  In addition, the software for controlling the operation for handling the position information described above may be firmware created in a dedicated language, but if versatility is important, it is better to create it in Java language (GPS application) . The GPS application can be downloaded from the network and installed. Further, when the version of the GPS application becomes old, it can be updated by downloading a data file used by the GPS application main body or the GPS application from the network.

  The above-described embodiment to which the present invention is applied can be generally expressed as “if data related to acquired information exists in the communication device (or if it exists and is new), the data is used while related data is used. If it does not exist (if it exists, it is old), it receives relevant data from the server device on the network.

  Further, the map data downloaded based on the position information is stored in a caching memory or a dedicated memory for map data, and the distance between the position indicated by the next input position information and the position indicated by the previous position information is If the distance is less than the predetermined distance, that is, if it can be used next, the map data stored before may be displayed without downloading the new map data.

  In short, the technique described above downloads only map data that needs to be updated (including a case where there is no data and it is newly stored). Then, in order to minimize the update (reduce the amount of data to be downloaded), it is only necessary to download the map data that needs to be updated out of the map data necessary for displaying the map. In other words, when the map data in the area based on the position information of the own device or the set position information, or the map data of the area necessary for navigation route setting (route search) or when executing the actual navigation Of the necessary map data, only the map data that needs to be updated is received from the server device.

  The reception of link data as a result of the optimum route search will be described later. When link data is received from a route search server device, a map including the link indicated by the link data is not stored in the storage device. Or, if it is stored but old, the map related to the link (mesh divided map) is downloaded from the map information server device, and the map unrelated to the link is not downloaded (see FIG. 12).

  However, even if the map does not include the link, the map may be downloaded together with the information displayed on the display device of the apparatus or when the predetermined information related to the map is old.

  In the mesh-divided map of FIG. 12, a map in which (4.0) (4.1) (4.2) (5.0) (5.1) (5.2) is not stored, (1.0) (1.1) (2.0) (3.2) is an old map , (2.2) receive the link data consisting of link 10 and link 11 from the server device when the map is the latest but the information related to the map is old, the other map is the latest map and the information related to the map is also the latest If you do, download the map of (4.1) (4.2) (1.1) (2.0) (3.2) (2.2), and do not download other maps. However, if you scroll the map, it is also possible to display a map outside the displayed area, so download the map (1.0) (4.0) (5.0) (5.1) (5.2) outside the display area. good.

  Map data update includes building data and metadata update in addition to road data update. In the case of updating the road data, the map data of the area up to the place where the changed road is connected to another road (the road not changed) is updated. If the building data is located at the boundary of the map area, the building data of both areas is updated.

  In short, the map data is updated only for the changed area among the predetermined areas based on the position information (that is, updated in units of files or meshes). In addition, in the map data to be updated, when the update is road data, only the road data (road layer) may be updated (other layers can be updated in the same manner) (that is, updated in units of layers). To do).

  As described above, the map data can be easily edited or updated by using a file or a layer unit. Further, the update can be limited to the minimum necessary update.

  Even if the map information is stored, the map data may not have the road information of the current location of the device. At this time, new map data is received from the server device and updated. That is, when the position information of the current position of the device is acquired, the map data including the position information is stored in the storage unit, but the road data is located at the position on the map data corresponding to the position information. Determine if there is. As a result, if there is actually road, but there is no road data (not road), the server device is notified so and new map data or road data (or old map and new map The road data of the difference from the road data) is downloaded. Or you may make it produce the road data for users based on the positional information acquired when actually passing the road.

  Further, every time the map information stored in the server device is updated, the server device may notify the terminal device that the map information is updated.

(Map data and metadata)
Next, an embodiment will be described in which map data is stored in the storage unit of the device itself and metadata is received from a server device storing the metadata. If the metadata is updated frequently, using the metadata of the server device is more convenient because it saves the trouble of updating the metadata. When communicating with the metadata server device, for example, “position information” (for example, latitude and longitude information) is used as the interface. When a predetermined place or object on the map displayed on the display unit of the own apparatus is selected, position information corresponding to the place or object is transmitted to the server apparatus. The server device reads the related meta information from the storage device based on the received position information and transmits it to the own device. Based on the received meta information, the device itself edits and processes the information, if necessary, and displays it on the display unit or the map.

  Further, meta information and the like can be searched using a dedicated search engine. When search information (keyword information, category information, position information, etc.) is transmitted from the own device to the server device corresponding to the search engine, the server device or the search engine performs a search based on the received search information, and the search result is Then, the meta information, the position information, the map information, the information indicating the location where the map information is stored, etc. corresponding to the search information are transmitted to the own apparatus. The device itself displays a map based on the received position information, displays a target mark on the map, and displays meta information if necessary.

  Of course, the map data and metadata may be stored in the communication device (own device), or both may be stored in the server device and received (downloaded) and used as necessary. . Even in this case, the technique described above can be applied.

<Navigation function>
The navigation function uses the position information of the own device, the speed of advance, the output of each sensor such as a gyro, etc., and the map and the current position are displayed on the display screen of the device to the driver during the operation of a mobile device such as an automobile. Is displayed, and the route guidance from the current position to the destination is performed. Then, the navigation function is executed using the position information and map information described above. Further, there are various functions to be described later as functions for assisting the navigation function, which will be described together.

(Map display)
Based on the map information described above, the map information is specified by specifying the map information including the specific area specified by the user and the position based on the position information, and the map information stored in the storage means is read out, displayed on the screen and drawn. Is displayed. Elements to be drawn and displayed include roads, facilities, mountains and rivers, lines and lines, names and place names, landmarks, and marks indicating the position of the device. In addition, the following functions are provided.
1. Zoom function that displays a map corresponding to several scales from a wide area map to a narrow area map.
2. A scroll function that moves the map up, down, left and right.
3. 3. A rotation function for rotating the map so that the traveling direction of the own device is a predetermined direction (directly above, directly below, right, left) A function that draws your location and other devices (moving devices) on a map in real time.

(Map matching)
Based on the position information of the own device that is acquired every moment, the position of the own device is converted into a position on the map, and a mark indicating the position of the own device is displayed on the map, and in which direction or direction the own device is directed. The result is displayed on the map.

  For example, when the device is a car navigation device, the vehicle does not travel on an arbitrary position on the map, but travels on a road. In the case of a mobile phone or a mobile terminal device that is carried by a person, this device advances on a walking path or in a facility. In addition, when riding a train or the like with this device, proceed on the track. In the case of a ship, it is a river, a lake, or the sea. In this way, it is estimated that the device is traveling on any one of the routes (roads, tracks, sidewalks, bicycle paths, automobile roads, mountain trails, hiking courses, sea routes, etc.). Or if it is set in advance in the device, there is a method such as automatic determination based on information input to the device) and information obtained from the device position information and other sensors (these information The position of the own device is calculated based on That is, the position of the own apparatus is calculated based on the position information, sensor information, and road information, and displayed on the map. That is, the map matching is a technique for matching the position of the own device with the road information or the like of the map data, or correcting so as to match.

(Route search (route search))
Next, arbitrarily set the destination (the location where the target is located) or the arrival location (or search by surrounding search or current location search (specify data that matches certain conditions from multiple data) (Location information or location information sent by the partner device may be set as the destination.) Recommended by searching for the route from the current location or arbitrarily set point to the destination based on given conditions Route (recommended route, optimal route) is calculated.

  First, the destination is set, the current location is acquired (or vice versa), and the departure point and the arrival point are set. Next, a condition for searching for a route (also called a route from the current location to the destination, a route, or a route) is set. Although details of the conditions will be described later, there are means for moving such as walking, cars, buses, trains, cars, and the like. When the route search is started, an optimum route (for example, a route that can be reached in the shortest time) that meets the condition is searched and a plurality of routes are displayed.

  For example, for walking, based on the map information (metadata associated with the map information), the route with the shortest walking distance, the route with the least number of turns, the route using the road with the sidewalk, etc. A route corresponding to the user's preference information (selected by menu display) such as the combination is obtained. In the case of a car, traffic information acquired from a server device or the like based on date / time information or time information (current or past traffic information, time required to pass a predetermined section based on position information by GPS means of other vehicles) And the traffic information is created based on the measurement information), and the route is searched based on the construction information, the disaster information, and the road closure information. Further, based on the map information (map data and meta information), a route is determined so as to pass through as large a road as possible or a road with good scenery. Also, find a route with few turns to the right or left. Alternatively, a route using the cheapest toll road is obtained based on toll road information.

  The route search is calculated based on the result information of the user selecting the menu, the departure place, and the arrival place information. The recommended routes are node data (corresponding to intersections, etc.), link data (corresponding to roads, etc.), traffic regulation information, road traffic jam information, disaster information, traffic signal information, information attached to link data (road length and width) It is calculated based on route calculation information such as link cost information of the number of lanes, legal speed, coefficient for correcting the link cost (such as a coefficient that is a function of time, facility facing the road, etc.). The recommended route is calculated by solving the shortest route problem in network theory (determining the route that minimizes the route cost based on the passage cost (a numerical value of the degree of passage when passing through each road or intersection)). There is Dijkstra method. A parameter based on the time of the green light (can proceed) or the red light (cannot proceed) at the intersection may be added to the conventional parameter of the passing cost.

  The search for the optimum route may be performed periodically (at a predetermined time interval) after the optimum route is set or after the navigation is started. This is to cope with a change in the optimum route due to a change in search conditions (information used for route search) with time. At this time, if the optimum route changes, the user is notified of the fact and the route is reset by an operation instructing the user to reset.

  As the search conditions for route search, the above-mentioned moving means, optimum route conditions (shortest time, shortest distance, route with the least fuel consumption, etc.), preference conditions (road width, highway priority), search (search) to be described later Provides levels (detailed search, simple search), etc. in a menu format.

  Also, in route search, detailed search (the amount of data used for calculation is large and more accurate search can be done but it takes time) or simple search (the amount of data used is reduced and the search time can be shortened) The amount of information used for calculation in the route search may be changed by setting a search mode such that the accuracy is inferior to the search) and the user selecting it. For example, in the case of a detailed search, calculation is performed using route calculation information such as traffic information and link cost in a wider range (region) than in the case of a simple search. Then, it is possible to set continuously (steplessly) from the most detailed search to the simplest search.

  In a car navigation system, the recommended route search is generally calculated by the device itself (referred to as a local method). However, the recommended route search is calculated by a calculation dedicated server device and the result information (from the start point to the goal) It is conceivable to receive route information up to a point, for example, route information composed of link data) (may also receive node data in some cases) and display it on a map (calling a server method). . In addition, a hybrid system that uses both of them depending on the application and state is also conceivable.

  The route search of the server method is performed by a user ID (may be terminal identification information) transmitted from the terminal device, result information that the user has selected a menu, departure point information, arrival point information, date information (scheduled departure date, Arrival date and time) and the route search start date and time.

  In the route search server device that performs route search exclusively, each of the route calculation information used to calculate the recommended route or the information accompanying the result of the route search is a dedicated server device (map server, position Information server, route calculation server, traffic information server, metadata server, peripheral search data server, weather information server, disaster information server, traffic signal information server, user data server, group information server, parking lot server, advertisement providing server, etc.) The latest information is automatically obtained from (regularly or when data changes (updates)).

  For example, the HTTP protocol is used for transmission / reception between the dedicated server devices and between the server device and the terminal device. As a result, a common communication method can be used even if there is a difference in the type or manufacturer of the terminal device, thereby increasing versatility.

  In a terminal device, by using a Web browser for route search menu display, routes and searches provided by the server device can be obtained without depending on the type of device such as a car navigation device, a mobile phone device, or a personal computer (PC). The function can be used if the apparatus includes a Web browser. Functions other than menu display may be realized by an application unique to the terminal device.

  In this way, by enhancing the versatility, the route search result obtained by instructing the server device from the PC is stored in a predetermined region of the storage device on the server device side (a region used by the same user, for example, a user ID The identification information is stored in advance, and the identification information is transmitted to the server device by another device (or the same device), for example, a car navigation device or a mobile phone. Compared with the registered and stored identification information, if they match, the route search result stored in advance in the corresponding storage device area is transmitted to the car navigation device or mobile phone. realizable.

  It is also possible to perform a route search based on personal information described later with an AI (Artificial Intelligence) search function. Personal information used in route search includes terminal device identification information, manufacturer information, serial number, product number, map type, format information, version information, navigation software version information, and contract information for using the server device ( VIP, normal, etc.), vehicle manufacturer name, type, size, user gender, age, preference information, and the like. Such personal information is stored in the server device in association with the user ID.

  At this time, when the car navigation device or the like is turned on or when a predetermined operation is performed, it is automatically inquired whether there is route search result information in the server device (for example, not downloaded) It is also possible to receive the information automatically (determining whether or not undownloaded information is added). This saves the user from having to operate.

  The recommended route search described above may be set so as to be repeated at a predetermined date and time (for example, a predetermined time every day, a predetermined time on a predetermined day of the week, a predetermined time on the same day, etc.). Alternatively, the route search may be started so that the date and time for performing the route search is started a predetermined time before the departure date and time, or the date and time when the calculation ends is a predetermined time before the departure date and time. Thereby, when the same departure place and arrival place are moved each time (for example, commuting, for example), the troublesome operation can be saved and the optimum recommended route at that time can be acquired (also applicable to the local method). At this time, when a route result different from the previous recommended route or the last used route is obtained, a warning may be given to the user (displayed on the display screen, notified by voice or sound).

  In addition to the route search result, information related to the route search result may be received from the server device. For example, there is information related to facilities around the route and around the destination (these information is information obtained from the dedicated server described above). Further, the map information on which the route of the route search result is drawn may be received from the server device.

The advantage of the server method is
1. Information that frequently changes with time, such as traffic regulation information and road traffic jam information, can be acquired and used in a timely manner.
2. Since a dedicated calculation device can be used in route calculation, calculation can be performed using a larger amount of information used for the calculation, so that an accurate calculation result can be obtained more quickly.
3. Since the terminal device does not require route calculation hardware, it can be manufactured at a low cost.
4). Since the information exchanged between the terminal device and the server device is basically destination / departure point information and link information, the amount of data to be transmitted / received is small, and the time required to obtain the calculation result can be shortened.
5). When a new function is added to the recommended route search menu, it is not necessary to change the software of the terminal device.

  Further, when the user ID can be received from the terminal device, a table of provided menu information (menu information provided to the user of the terminal device) corresponding to each user ID is stored on the server device side. By reading the provided menu corresponding to the received user ID from the table and transmitting the menu information to the terminal device, the service content provided for each user can be changed.

  The calculated route information (route information) is the infrastructure link information (the most widely used general link data, for example, VICS (Road Traffic Information Communication System)) to which the infrastructure link number is assigned. and Communication System) link) is received from the server device and converted into link data that can be handled by the map used by the device itself. This conversion is performed using a conversion table (see FIG. 13) between the infrastructure link number and the ID (number) assigned to each of the links that can be handled on the device by a map. Moreover, you may make it convert with a conversion type | formula. This is because even if the type and format of the map data used is completely different or the map type and format are the same, the size of the mesh to be divided differs depending on the size of the display unit of the device that uses the map. This is because the link number may be different because the manner in which the link is divided differs depending on the boundary node provided at the boundary.

  Such link conversion may be performed on the server apparatus side having the conversion table, and the converted link data may be transmitted to the terminal apparatus (client apparatus). At this time, prior to the conversion, it is necessary to receive information indicating the type of map and the type of link data used by the terminal device from the terminal device.

  When the received link data or the map related to the converted link data is not stored in the storage device, or is stored but old, the latest map data is downloaded from the map information server device. .

  In this way, even if there are terminal devices using various types of maps and link data, a route search service can be provided by a single server device. Of course, dedicated link data may be used.

  If the conversion table or conversion formula of link data is old, a new conversion table or conversion formula may be received from another device.

  In addition, by selecting another device corresponding to the position information received from the presence server device, it is possible to set a route search destination and perform a route search. For example, position information selected from position information of one or more other devices acquired from the presence server device can be set as a destination for route search.

  Further, a route search may be performed by setting a plurality of destinations (stopping places) (multi-destination function). In this case, the destination may be guided first to the nearest (or farthest) destination from the starting point (start position), or the order may be arbitrarily set. It is also possible to calculate a route that starts from the start point, passes through a plurality of destinations, and arrives at the goal point with the shortest distance or time.

  In addition, the start point and the arrival point are set to the same position (the current location of the device or a point set arbitrarily), and a plurality of destinations are set to perform route search (pick-up mode and round-trip mode). A recommended route (for example, the shortest time and the shortest distance) that starts from the start point, passes through a plurality of destinations, and returns to the start point is calculated. At this time, the order of passing through a plurality of destinations may be arbitrarily set in advance, or the order may be determined in the route search calculation process.

  Also, the departure point, destination, scheduled departure date (or scheduled arrival date), route search start date (or desired route search result acquisition date) are set as one set, and multiple routes are set to perform route search. These results may be acquired together, and the results may be displayed or transmitted to another communication device. At this time, the route search may be performed a predetermined time before each departure date and time.

  Further, the location information of facilities and places searched and acquired by the surrounding search function (around the position where the device is located, around the set predetermined position) may be set as a destination or a stopover.

  A function for causing the peripheral search function and the route search function to operate automatically (cooperation function) will be described next. By specifying the category name presented on the menu or from the operation input unit and specifying the category name, the specified range (from the current position of the device, or the input position, start position) from a predetermined range (from the center) Search for a destination such as a facility or place corresponding to a category name existing in the database (you may enter a predetermined distance or set a predetermined distance by default). The details of will be described later) Output one or more of the results, and use the results to search for a recommended route from a given location to the location of the facility, place, etc., and the results (one or more recommended routes) Also displays for each facility and location. When one of the recommended routes is selected by the user and set as a guide route, navigation starts. Alternatively, an optimum route (a route that matches a condition set by the user) may be automatically set as the guide route to the facility or place closest to the start position.

  Here, to give a specific example, for example, by entering a convenience store and beer, search for one or more convenience stores that sell beer in a predetermined range from the position of the acquired own device or stock it. Then, one or more recommended routes to the convenience store stocking one or more beers searched from the position of the own device are searched and output. This makes it possible to search for facilities and places (periphery search) and route search with a single operation (without starting route search). The predetermined position described above may be set as the destination position. Then, one or more facilities and places existing within a predetermined range of the position input as the destination, and one or more recommended routes from the position of the own device (or a predetermined set position) to the respective facilities and places Can be output and displayed.

  In addition, a function for calculating a recommended route by searching for a route by inputting it as a category, instead of setting the facility or place of the stop-by location, will be described. For example, if you want to stop at a convenience store and buy beer on the way to your destination, and want to get to your destination the fastest, first find several routes that don't take a long time from your starting point to your destination. To the user in order from the route that takes the least time in the route that has a convenience store selling beer (specifically, the route that includes the link data to which the convenience store data is associated with the link data). At this time, it is possible to set the time (period) for staying at the stopover and use the time (when the start time is also set, a traffic jam can be predicted according to the stay time) for route search. This saves the user from having to select a stopover. In addition, search result routes with the same search condition can be used (reused) between users.

  Further, in the route search function, when the hybrid method is set, when a route search is instructed by the user, the route search can be performed by a method set in advance in advance. At this time, when the method set with priority cannot be used for some reason, the other method is automatically used to function as a backup.

  For example, when the server method is prioritized, if the terminal device enters a place where radio waves do not reach and communication with the server device is interrupted, the server device is down, or the server is busy, When the server device cannot be used, such as when a signal indicating that access is possible from the server device is received, when access is slow, or when a response to a request to the server device is not received within a predetermined time, etc. When the failure is detected, the route search is automatically performed by switching to the local method. In addition, when the local method is prioritized, or when the route search cannot be performed only on the terminal device side, such as when the data for route search is insufficient, the server method is switched to the server method. The route search is newly performed on the device side or is continued from the middle.

  In the case of the server method, it may take some time until the route search result can be obtained, so the recommended route (departure and destination are the same) in the past should be presented first. The recommended route may be displayed when the search is completed (quick navigation function).

  Further, the server method and the local method may be switched depending on the content of the selected menu. For example, in the route search menu, if the shortest distance is selected, it can be calculated using only map information, so the local method is selected. If the minimum time is selected, information such as traffic information is required, so the server method is selected. .

  Also, using the route search function of the server device, the drive plan is delivered from the drive plan providing server device to the terminal device using the route search result in a predetermined season and date (predetermined future date and time). You can also. The drive plan distributes route information (link data) from a departure place to a destination, various information related to areas, facilities, facilities, and the like around the route to the terminal device. In addition, when the route search result and the drive plan are transmitted from the server device to the terminal device, the announcement information may be distributed together.

  Also, if there is no map that displays the recommended route calculated by the own device or server device (or a map that displays the road indicated by the link data) in the storage means of the own device, or if the version is old, You may make it receive map information from another apparatus.

(Route guidance)
Next, when one of the recommended routes as a result of the route search is selected, route guidance can be started. The route guidance function is a function for notifying the user of a direction to proceed using a voice or a display screen when traveling along a route to a destination.

  When a route is set by selecting one of a plurality of recommended routes presented by the route search function, a map is displayed. On the map, respective marks (including marks, icons, etc.) are displayed at the position of the own device (start position) and the position of the destination (goal position). When the route guidance is started, the position information of the own apparatus is periodically acquired, and the mark of the own apparatus is displayed on the map based on the acquired position information of the own apparatus. Moreover, the technique (multi-person map information display function) which displays the own position and the other party's position between communication terminals which will be described later is also applicable.

  In addition, information indicating a route (for example, a thick red line) is drawn on the map. In addition, the distance to the destination or the remaining distance, the remaining arrival time, the arrival time, the map scale information (scale display), the direction display mark, the direction of turning at the intersection, date and time information, warning information, etc. are displayed and updated as appropriate. The In addition, two-dimensional map information is usually displayed, but it may be switched to display three-dimensional map information (three-dimensionally drawn map information). A two-dimensional map and a three-dimensional map may be displayed on the same screen. Similarly to the two-dimensional map, a mark indicating the position of the destination or the target object may be displayed on the three-dimensional map using the position information.

  Here, the display of the two-dimensional map is basically to display the map so that the traveling direction of the own device is the upward direction of the map display. At this time, if your device (or the user you own) rotates to the right (turns clockwise when viewed from above), the current direction is detected (the direction is detected based on the output of the magnetic sensor or acceleration sensor). The three-dimensional map displays the map information rotated to the right (the map data is shifted to the left), and the two-dimensional map displays the map information rotated to the left (counterclockwise). The same applies when the orientation is changed on the map with a cursor or the like. The map information to be displayed based on the position information of the moving own device may also be displayed so as to move. At this time, the own apparatus mark indicating the position of the own apparatus is not moved from a certain position.

  When navigation starts, the position of the device itself is periodically acquired by GPS means, and based on the position information and route information (departure location, arrival location information, information about a turning position, route width information, etc.) Various operations for guiding to the ground (update of position display of own device, guidance by voice or display (turn right at the next intersection (turning corner), deviate route, etc.), notify when approaching destination, etc.) ).

  At this time, the route search is repeated in the server device, and when the recommended route is changed due to a change in traffic jam information or other information, a message to that effect or link data of the recommended route is transmitted to the terminal device. Anyway. Further, when the route deviates from the route, the route may be reset from the position to the destination. In this route search, the restart position and the destination position are transmitted to the server device, the route search is performed again on the server device side, and the result is received and set by the terminal device. Further, in the case of the hybrid method, the route search is performed on the terminal device side to reset.

  Further, during the navigation, the “periphery search function”, “current location search function”, or other functions may be executed, and may be restarted after the functions are completed.

  Further, it is possible to confirm the navigation in advance by performing a simulation without actually performing the navigation based on the position information. That is, instead of acquiring position information, the position of the apparatus is moved at a predetermined speed based on a set route, and various operations for guiding to the destination described above are virtually performed (simulation). . In this way, the same operation as the actual navigation is performed except that the acquired position information of the own device is not used. In this case, the departure point can be set at an arbitrary position, and the date and time can also be set arbitrarily. That is, the navigation from an arbitrary starting point to an arbitrary destination is simulated.

  In addition, the navigation actually performed can be stored as a file and played back. For this, the information set by navigation, the position information of the own apparatus acquired by the position information acquisition means and the related information are stored, and when reproducing, the navigation is operated based on the stored information. Actually, the navigation simulation function is operated based on the position information and the interval information (difference in time acquired) of the position information. Further, the simulation operation may be fast-forwarded by simulating time. The file can be sent to another device and played on that device.

  As described above, if there is the position information of the destination and the position information of the departure place, that is, at least two pieces of position information, navigation can be performed using the navigation function described above.

(Navigation of electric vehicles)
Since an electric vehicle is powered by a storage battery (battery), there is a drawback that the distance that can be driven without charging is shorter than that of a general gasoline vehicle. In addition, the facilities (infrastructure) that can be charged like a gas station are not yet fully prepared.

  Therefore, the present invention solves such a problem, and when a route search is performed, each route of the search result is traveled from the departure point to the destination with fuel at the time of departure (without charging and without refueling). To inform the user whether it is possible to return to the starting point.

  In addition, a search mode for preferentially selecting a road with a charging facility (fuel supply facility) can be provided during route search. This charging facility information is stored in association with the link data.

  In addition, if the calculated route shows that it is not possible to go to the destination and return to the departure place with the fuel at the time of departure, the route using the road with the charging facility may be presented to the user. Is possible.

  The embodiment described above relates to a round trip between the departure point and the destination, but can also be applied to a one-way route or a case where the departure point approaches one or more stop points.

  In addition, a warning may be issued when the vehicle is in a position where it can be predicted that it will not be possible to return to the departure place even during normal driving.

  The distance that can be traveled (the distance that can be traveled) is calculated based on the voltage of the storage battery. That is, information associating the voltage of the storage battery with the distance traveled by the voltage is stored in advance in the storage means as table data, and the actually measured voltage value of the storage battery and the travel distance corresponding to the voltage are obtained from the table. To calculate the travel distance (travelable distance). Further, since the distance that the storage battery can travel is shortened depending on the number of times of use and the like, information for correcting it is also stored in the storage means and used as correction data when calculating the travelable distance.

  In addition, since automobiles using other fuels (gasoline, fuel cell, LP gas, diesel, etc.) have the same problem, the present invention can be applied naturally.

(Railway navigation)
The functions related to the navigation function described so far have mainly been described for cars and roads, but the functions can be replaced with functions for navigation of trains and tracks, that is, railways. For example, when a road is replaced with a track and an intersection is replaced with a station, the navigation function related to the car and the road described above can be operated as a navigation function related to the train and the track.

  One feature of railway navigation different from car navigation is that a train or train is operated based on a timetable (timetable information). Using this feature, when the train route guidance function is operated, the actual position of the own device (that is, the terminal device owned by the user on the train) and timetable data (predetermined station) The train position calculated from the departure time and arrival time of a given station) (the average speed is calculated from the departure time and arrival time, and the train position is calculated from the departure time and average speed) on the map Can be displayed on the track. Of course, map mapping is to match the tracks on the map. When approaching a station that requires a transfer, information that prompts a transfer is displayed or a warning is given by voice.

  And as a map to be used, a railway-dedicated map in which tracks are drawn in detail may be used. In addition, an old timetable (selected from a plurality of timetables received from the server device) is set, and a simulation is performed so that the train position is displayed on the map based on the average speed calculated from the departure time and arrival time. You may make it do.

<Presence function>
(Presence function using location information)
Next, the presence function used for the navigation function will be described. Based on the location information acquired by the location information acquisition means, status information (presence function status information) indicating what usage state the user using the device is in is determined, and other devices are in that status. Information can be acquired. For example, predetermined position information (home and company position information) is registered in advance in the own apparatus, and the position information acquired by the own apparatus by the position information acquisition unit is within a predetermined area including the position information of the home. In this case, a status of “at home” is assigned, a status of “working” is assigned when the user is within the company location area, and a status of “going out” is assigned when the user is not at home or at the company. In addition, the “movement mode” described in the other embodiments can be set as the status.

Registration of location information
1. The device is actually brought to the position to be registered, and the position information acquired by the GPS means or the position information acquisition means by the base station is registered on the spot.
2. Data indicating position information is input and registered using the operation means of the apparatus.
3. The position information displayed using the operation means of the apparatus is selected and registered.
Etc.

  It is also possible to register a plurality of position information in one status information. When the terminal identification information of another device that is permitted to acquire the status is stored in the storage unit in advance, and the command information (command information) for acquiring the status of the presence function and the terminal identification information are received. If the terminal identification information is stored in advance, the status information is transmitted to the terminal device. Of course, status information may be transmitted even to a terminal device that is not stored. Further, the status information may be transmitted without receiving the above-described command information.

  When the status information of the counterpart device is received, the information is displayed (for example, displayed on a standby screen). At this time, the text data can be displayed, but may be displayed with an icon (a symbol, an image, an image taken with the camera of the apparatus, etc.).

  The type of icon to be displayed (changing shape, color, and size) can be changed depending on the status. Also, especially in case of emergency (important), display such as blinking the icon depending on the status, displaying a large icon, alternately displaying a large icon and a small icon, alternately displaying icons of different shapes, etc. Do. Further, the type of icon to be displayed may be changed based on the distance from the counterpart device. When the icon is selected, the display of the telephone or mail function is displayed (or the detailed information of the partner device is displayed). When the icon is selected, the telephone number registered in association with the icon is displayed and the call is made. Then you can call. Similarly, if an e-mail address is registered, the e-mail address can be transferred to a new e-mail creation screen in which the e-mail address is set as the destination, and the e-mail can be transmitted after the e-mail is created.

  In addition to the status corresponding to the position information, status information corresponding to the use state of the device such as busy, busy, or communicating, or status information created and set by the user (for example, the operation state of the device) good. Further, the terminal device may transmit the status information and the position information by using a “position information transmission function” described later. In this way, it is possible to easily know the state of a user who uses another device using his / her terminal device.

(Intelligent presence function)
The presence function described above is a communication terminal device provided with a presence server function, and can also display presence information of a plurality of other devices. However, when the presence information of a plurality of other communication terminal devices is displayed on one communication terminal device, the presence information needs to be inquired to other devices by the number of other communication terminal devices to be displayed. As the number increases, the communication time and the amount of communication increase. Similarly, a terminal that receives an inquiry also increases the number of times the inquiry is received. Therefore, in order to solve such a problem, a method of using a dedicated presence server device that provides a presence function will be described below.

  First, a user who uses the presence function uses a communication terminal device (may be another device, for example, a PC), and sets a region used for a group (for example, family, company, friend, etc.) on the presence server device. Secure (create) and register the identification information of its own communication terminal device in the created group (a plurality of groups can be created). Examples of information registered in the group include a group name, identification information of the own device, a name, a status and position information (region information) corresponding to the status, text data, and the like. Other registration information includes category names, keywords, etc., which can be used for searching (of course, other registration data can also be searched). Other users can also register device identification information in the group. A plurality of pieces of identification information (for example, a mobile phone and a PC) may be registered with the same name in the same group. As the presence function setting information, information (on / off information) for determining whether or not to use the presence function can be set.

  In order to collect location information of registered terminal devices, the presence server device periodically (or at a predetermined time and a predetermined interval) provides location information to terminal devices whose presence function is turned on. The inquiry and received position information is stored in association with the terminal identification information. Alternatively, the location information is collected by transmitting the location information to the server device periodically from the terminal device side or when the status of the terminal device is changed and the status is changed (determining a change in the position by the terminal device). May be. Further, the collection period of position information may be changed according to the status of the apparatus. For example, in the case of “going out”, the sampling cycle is shortened (or lengthened).

  Next, the server device acquires the position information acquired from one or more terminal devices registered in the group, the status information stored in association with the position information, and other information (identification information of other devices, (Name, information input by the user, etc.) are transmitted to one or more terminal devices registered in the group (belonging to) (may be transmitted to the terminal device that sent them). May be sent). Do the same for other registered groups. At this time, position information and status information may be transmitted periodically, or may be transmitted when the status (or position information) changes. Alternatively, an arbitrary group is selected on the terminal device side, a group name is transmitted, and status information of other devices registered in the group is periodically inquired to the server device, and the server device responds to the inquiry. Position information and status information.

  Next, the terminal device displays the received position information, status information, and other information on the standby screen (standby screen) of the display unit for each registered terminal device (the corresponding information of the own device may be displayed). A plurality of groups may be displayed for each group or a mixture of terminal devices registered in the plurality of groups. Alternatively, a group to be displayed may be selected and set, or a group that uses the presence function may be selected and set. For example, the terminal device whose presence function is turned off may display the icon in reverse video, make it thin (drop a dot), change the color or shape, or not display the icon.

  Also, for example, when the distance between the terminal device and the device itself is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance (or vice versa) (this determination can use the technique of the approach notification function), the icon of the terminal device is displayed. You may make it not display.

  As a display form of the status information, list display (detailed display for displaying the name of the terminal device, status (icon or text), other information, etc.) (see FIG. 14), icon display (simple display of only icons, for example, Even if it is displayed on the standby screen, it can be displayed together with other display information) (see FIG. 15), map display (mark or icon is displayed on the map at a position corresponding to the position information) (see FIG. 16), etc. .

  Similarly, in addition to transmitting the group name, the category or keyword is transmitted, and the status information or position information of the terminal device belonging to the category, or the status information or position of the terminal device in which the information including the keyword is registered. The information is received from the server device that has retrieved them and displayed.

  As position information used in the presence function, specifically, there is position information (GPS mode) acquired by GPS means, or position information (base station mode) acquired by position information acquisition means by a base station (see FIG. 17). The two modes (or functions) may be switched and used.

(Intelligent navigation)
A method for performing navigation using the intelligent presence function will be described with reference to FIG. First, use the “navigation function” to set a destination and start navigation. At this time, the map information (the map information of the area based on the position information) stored in the memory is displayed based on the position information of the device itself. Next, the location information of another device is received from the presence server device.

  Next, a mark of the own device and a mark of another device are displayed at positions on the map based on the position information. The mark may be an icon used in the presence function. Then, a mark (for example, an arrow) indicating the direction in which the device is moving is displayed for each device based on the past position information of the device. Further, the trajectory of the movement of the device based on the past position information of the device may be displayed on a map for each device. For each device, information (status information) such as its name, distance from its own device, moving speed, and which direction it sees from its own device is displayed (these text data are displayed as map information (map display area)) It may be displayed in a text display area distinguished from the above). Further, a chat function may be prepared so that chat contents are displayed for each device.

  Further, weather information (weather forecast information) or parking lot availability information corresponding to the displayed area is received from the server device, and the result is displayed. Also, weather information near the destination or parking space availability information may be displayed. In addition, information indicating another device outside the area of the displayed map may be displayed. Further, when a mark of a device displayed on the map is selected (for example, the cursor is overlapped), detailed information regarding the device is displayed. When an execution command is given by selecting a device mark displayed on the map, map information centered on the device is displayed.

  Further, by selecting another device, it is possible to set the navigation destination and perform navigation. For example, position information selected from the position information of one or more other devices acquired from the presence server device described above can be set as a navigation destination. In addition, the “information search function” may be used using a text display area.

  In addition, the operation records of intelligent navigation functions such as location information, chat information, device operation information, information retrieval usage status, etc. of the device itself and each device are stored in memory together with time information and saved as history information, and stored in the server device. By uploading, the information can be downloaded and reused by other devices.

(Location information transmission function)
Next, the position information transmission function used for the navigation function will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the communication apparatus according to the present embodiment includes GPS means (position information acquisition means of its own apparatus), communication partner identification means, and communication means, and communicates with a predetermined communication partner. Has a position information transmission function for transmitting the position information (or information related to the position information, time information, date and time information, message, GPS positioning level, etc.) acquired by the GPS means to the communication partner apparatus. Specifically, location information data is included in the call setup signal (SETUP) and transmitted to the communication partner apparatus. Of course, the communication partner identification means is not essential, and may be transmitted to all the partners. Position information includes errors depending on the state of measurement (when radio waves cannot be received from the satellite, etc.), so the positioning level (for example, within 50 m, within 100 m, within 200 m, etc., and with the number of symbols and marks) May be displayed. Further, one or more acquired position information and related information (date and time, positioning level, etc.) may be stored (history information).

  When a calling side device (sending side device) calls a predetermined telephone number, the calling side device (sending side device, called side device, receiving side device) transmits its own location information. Based on the received position information, the counterpart communication device displays map information and a mark indicating the location of the counterpart communication device at a predetermined position of the map information. Further, if the counterpart device also has a GPS function, it is possible to display its own location information together with the location information of the calling side device that has transmitted the location information. In order to easily recognize the position information, a mark may be displayed on the map information instead of the position information itself (hereinafter, the position information includes the position mark). In this case, it is preferable to display a mark that can distinguish the opponent from the other person. Specifically, marks such as letters, numbers, alphabets, pictograms, pictures, figures, and figures can be considered. The map data is stored in advance in the memory means of the own device and the communication partner device, and this map data is used for normal display. In addition, when the map data corresponding to the location information or the area to be displayed is not stored in the storage means or when the map data is stored but is old map data, the map data is transferred to another device (for example, a base station). It may be downloaded from a device in the station, a device connected to the base station, a server device or the like), stored in the memory means, and displayed.

  Moreover, communication devices may transmit map data together with position information. In addition, by exchanging position information with each other between the communication devices, the positions of the partner devices can be displayed on the display unit of their own devices. Further, if both devices are equipped with a GPS function, the positions of the partner device and one's own device can be displayed on the display unit of one's own device. Moreover, this is the same not only between two persons but between many persons. Further, the calling side device can have the function of the called side device described above.

  As a specific example of the communication partner determination means for determining whether or not the caller is a predetermined communication partner to which position information should be sent, identification information such as the other party's telephone number or communication address (partner identification information, terminal identification information) It is conceivable to use a telephone directory means (identification information storage means) for storing. Taking a telephone number as an example, the telephone number of the destination of location information is registered in the telephone directory means.

  Specifically, a storage area corresponding to the telephone number stored in the phone book, that is, a location information transmission bit is prepared, and the location information transmission bit is activated for a telephone number registered as a telephone number to which the location information is transmitted. Keep it. When a telephone number having an active location information transmission bit is selected from the telephone directory means or when a telephone number is directly entered using the numeric keypad, the telephone number is registered in the telephone directory means and the location When the telephone number checker that checks whether the information transmission bit is active determines that the input telephone number is registered in the telephone book and that the location information transmission bit is active For example, the position information acquired by the GPS means is inserted into a communication protocol (for example, a call setup signal (SETUP)) and transmitted to the partner apparatus. The called device also has a similar telephone book means, and checks whether the identification information of the calling device received from the calling device is stored in the phone book. It is checked whether it is active, and if it is active, the location information of the own device (called device) is transmitted to the calling device.

  Alternatively, a telephone number or address stored in the telephone book may be selected and set as the destination telephone number or address of the location information. Or you may make it select the telephone number or address memorize | stored in the telephone directory, and memorize | store it in another memory | storage means. In addition to the telephone number, the other party identification information may be a mail address, an IP address, a URI, or the like. The position information is inserted into each protocol and transferred to the partner apparatus. Further, instead of the communication partner determining means, the partner identification information is set (stored in the memory) by selecting the communication partner from the telephone book means, and the position information is transmitted to the set communication partner. good.

  In this way, position information is transmitted to each other during a telephone call or data communication, and map data and its position are displayed based on the received position information. Specifically, when packet data carrying call data or communication data is being transmitted, the packet data carrying position information is inserted between the packets and transmitted. Further, transmission / reception of location information and display of map data and location may be performed even during a telephone call or data communication. By doing so, it is possible to confirm the position of the user and the position of the opponent on the display unit.

  In addition, when dialing a so-called emergency telephone number typified by 110 or 119, the location information may or may not be set to be transmitted by the location information transmission setting means. You may make it transmit. This is so-called automatic transmission of position information. Whether or not the dialing is an emergency call is determined by comparing whether or not the telephone number input to the device by the input means is a predetermined telephone number stored in advance.

  Alternatively, when an emergency telephone number is input or when it is determined as an emergency telephone number, a message as to whether or not to transmit position information may be displayed on the display device. In this case, if there is a positive input, the position information is transmitted. In addition, when there is an input of a telephone number or emergency telephone number and an input of a call instruction (so-called call button or call button or equivalent input), a message asking whether to send location information is displayed. If there is an affirmative input for, position information may be transmitted. Further, the position information may be inserted into the control protocol and transmitted by pressing a predetermined button during a call or during communication. The position information may be transmitted when a predetermined button is pressed only when connected by an emergency telephone number.

  In addition, when a call is made to an emergency telephone number, the location information may be transmitted periodically (with a predetermined period) thereafter. Further, an emergency button may be provided on the device, and when the button is operated, the location information of the device itself is periodically transmitted to a predetermined communication device.

  The position information to be transmitted is the position information acquired by the position information acquisition means, and the technology relating to the position information described in other embodiments can be applied. In addition, when the position information is the position information obtained by the GPS means, the method of transmitting the position information after receiving the calculation result of the position information in the external device takes time, so the data itself received from the satellite is directly You may transmit, or you may transmit the positional information calculated based on the data received from the satellite.

  The position information transmission means includes mail means, server connection means, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) means, HTTP means, and the like. As the mail means, there is a mail means that employs so-called E-Mail using SMTP or POP3 or a unique protocol. The location information is transmitted in the body of the mail or in the “Subject” field. The server connection means connects to a server device such as so-called NTT Docomo's i-mode (registered trademark), KDDI's Ezweb (registered trademark), or the Internet, and exchanges data between the server device and the terminal device. Yes, position information is transmitted as data. The FTP unit or the FTP unit transmits position data in the data area of the protocol or as data itself. Since the position information is automatically transmitted in this way, it is possible to specify the position of a communication apparatus that cannot normally specify the position.

<Overall Description of this Embodiment>
In the description of the present embodiment, mere repetitive descriptions and common-sense, well-known, and conventional descriptions are omitted. In order to avoid misunderstandings, confirmation items are listed below.

  The technique used for the “position information” of the own apparatus used in the description of the present embodiment can be applied to the position information of another apparatus or the position information of the destination.

  In the present embodiment, information received from the server device mainly includes map information (map data) and a plurality of position information. Each position information is associated with coordinates on the map information. As a result, when an arbitrary position on the map is specified in the terminal device, if the position is within a predetermined range, position information corresponding to the coordinates of the specified position is specified (received plural One piece of position information). Then, by transmitting the position information to the server device, information based on the position information can be received from the server device. Further, it is possible to specify position information corresponding to a position arbitrarily designated on the map by converting the coordinate data into position information.

  Alternatively, only map information may be received from an external device (position information is not received), and the position information may be obtained from the position (coordinate information) on the map information.

  In this embodiment, the communication device transmits and receives data to and from the base station side device. However, the communication device has a built-in device, that is, a device built in the communication device (the base station side device, server device, storage device described above). Data may be transmitted to and received from a device, a database, a position information calculation device, or the like. The external device may be a storage device externally attached to the own device or a storage device built in the own device.

  Further, in the description of the present embodiment, the terms “base station side” or “communication line side” are used, but this means that the device on the communication line excluding its own device (communication terminal device). It means any device. In other words, “send to the base station side or communication line side” specifically means “send to equipment (base station, exchange station, server device, other device) for communication and other communication device” That is, “send from own device to another device”.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment, it can replace with a GPS means and the method of acquiring the positional information on a terminal device based on the communication state with several base stations is also applicable.

  In the description of the present embodiment, an IC card, an IC tag reader device, a mobile phone, an IP phone, an IP videophone, and a wristwatch are mentioned. However, as a communication terminal device, a mobile radio, an IP phone using a wireless LAN, an IP phone There are terminal devices having communication functions such as terminal devices, general subscriber phones, computers with communication functions, mobile phones, PHS, PDAs, and the like, which can be implemented using communication protocols that can be used by each communication terminal device. Since the configuration of each communication terminal device is well known, the illustration based on the block diagram is omitted, but the means according to the features of the present invention is provided in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment.

  In addition, “means” not described in the block diagram, which is described in the description of the present embodiment, is configured by dedicated hardware, or is configured by CPU, ROM, RAM and some hardware. It is what.

  In addition, each configuration described as this embodiment can be appropriately combined as long as it has the features of the present invention, and can be applied to other embodiments and configurations not directly mentioned in one embodiment. Applicable. Although it is virtually impossible to describe the description of all the combinations described in the embodiments and all the combinations and the effects thereof, those skilled in the art can assume the specific implementation and effects of the combinations. Needless to say, what has been described as an embodiment.

  Further, in the case where there are a plurality of elements (configurations) in the present embodiment, the number of elements is not limited to the number of elements described in the description of the present embodiment.

  Since the scope of the present invention includes a communication terminal device, if a predetermined transmission function is described in the description of the embodiment, the transmission function and a reception function for receiving information transmitted by the transmission function (and vice versa). It is possible to envisage a communication terminal device provided with the scope of the present invention.

As "input of information"
1. Arbitrary data is input by operating means of the apparatus.
2. Input by selecting from data prepared in advance.
In some cases, it is used as a broad meaning including the two.

  In the description of the present embodiment, except for a part that is specifically limited to “single”, it includes “one or more”, that is, “single” and “plural” even if it is not a plurality of expression forms. For example, “display phone number” means “display one or more phone numbers”.

  In the description of the present embodiment, setting values, operation modes, function on / off, and the like related to functions provided in a device can be set or changed from the device or an external device.

  In addition, in the description of this embodiment, when it is described that A, B, and C are transmitted, each of them is transmitted independently (A is transmitted, B is transmitted, and C is transmitted). It includes the case of transmitting in combination (A and B are transmitted, A and C are transmitted, and A, B and C are transmitted) (the same applies to reception and other cases). The same applies to the case where the conditions of D, E, and F are described as the conditions for obtaining a certain output, including the case of independent conditions and the case of arbitrarily combining them.

  In the description of the present embodiment, there is an example in which a is output by performing A even if there is no direct description that the output of A is an input of B. In other examples, B is output using a or a ′. In the case where the example of performing b and outputting b is described separately, a configuration is also included in which A is performed and a is output, B is performed using the a and b is output. Shall.

  In the description of this embodiment, one or more results such as reception, acquisition, measurement, detection, calculation, and determination are stored in the memory as history information.

  In the description of the present embodiment, the predetermined function used in the navigation function is described, but it can be used in cases other than the use in the navigation function (the function can be used independently). ).

  The “mode” used in the description of the present embodiment is basically used in the meaning of “function”, but may be used in the meaning of “state”.

(Summary)
The disclosed communication device has the following remarkable effects.
(1) Since route calculation (route determination, route search) is performed by a calculation dedicated device, a highly accurate route search result can be obtained. In addition, the cost can be reduced because there is no need for route calculation by the own device.
(2) Since the map is received from another device, the map can be obtained immediately even if there is no map.
(3) Since the infrastructure link number is a format close to a quasi-standard, even when a different format is used for each communication device, route information calculated by other devices can be used.
(4) The route can be calculated even when communication with other devices is not possible.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.・ Change is possible.

202, 402 Image display means 204, 404 Image taking means 206, 406 Image processing circuit 208, 408 Frame memory 210, 410 TV means 212, 412, 514 GPS means 214, 422, 516 Operation input / display unit 216, 424, 518 CPU
218, 426, 520 ROM
220, 428, 522 RAM
222, 430, 508 Communication circuit 224, 432, 510 Microphone unit 226, 434, 512 Speaker unit 228, 436 Wireless communication means 414 Acceleration sensor 416 Gyro sensor 418 Magnetic sensor 420 Input port 502 Base station wireless I / F means 504 LAN Wireless I / F means 506 IP means

JP 2006-118879 A

Claims (7)

Transmission means for transmitting departure point information and arrival point information, which are information for determining an optimum route, to an external device;
And a receiving unit configured to receive route information including link data representing road information constituting the optimum route from the external device. Comprising storage means for storing map information;
When the receiving means displays map information including road information represented by the link data received by the receiving means, when map information including the road information is not stored in the storage means, The communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein map information including the road information is received.   The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the received link data is infrastructure link information to which an infrastructure link number is assigned.   4. The communication apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising conversion means for converting the received infrastructure link number into link data usable by the own apparatus.   The communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit further transmits other information for determining the optimum route. Route determining means for determining the optimum route based on the departure place information and the arrival place information;
The communication according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one of the optimum route determined by the route determination unit and the optimum route received from the external device is selected. apparatus.   The communication apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, in the selection of the optimum route, when the link data cannot be received by the receiving unit, the use of the optimum route determined by the route determining unit is selected.

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