JP2011069665A - Map information processor and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To present to a user that area-to-area map information has become old when such a case arises. <P>SOLUTION: An electronic control device 18 determines whether a flag stored in an area map information database shows that area map information is old. When it is determined that the flag does not show that the map information is old, the electronic control device 18 obtains version information showing the latest version of the map information from the exterior. The electronic control device 18 determines whether the map information is old by comparing version information stored in the information database with the obtained version information. When it is determined that the flag shows that the map information is old or the map information is determined to be old, the electronic control device 18 presents that the map information is old. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a map information processing apparatus and program for displaying map information for each divided area.

  2. Description of the Related Art In general, a map information processing apparatus such as a navigation apparatus that is installed in a moving body such as a vehicle and displays map information to guide a route from a current location to a destination is known. In this map information processing apparatus, map information for each divided area is displayed.

  In connection with such a map information processing apparatus, in principle, it is assumed that it is possible to use map data (map information) partially by obtaining the right to use, but there is no right to use in reality. There is disclosed a technique (hereinafter referred to as prior art) that allows provisional use when there is map data to be used and can improve the usability of the user (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this prior art, for example, by acquiring a usage right for each predetermined unit of data in the map data, only a necessary part designated by the user can be used.

JP 2002-243457 A

  By the way, in the above-described prior art, the map information displayed on the map information processing apparatus is displayed in the corresponding part (the use of the map information for each divided area). Freshness (newness) may vary from one division area to another.

  In this way, when the map information displayed on the map information processing apparatus has a different newness for each divided area, for example, when a vehicle enters the divided area of the old map information, the issue date of the old map information Thereafter, a newly constructed road is not displayed and a route that should originally be the shortest route is not guided.

  In addition, in the old map information, the surrounding information of the road is also old. For example, even though the gas station is displayed on the map information processing apparatus, inconsistency such as the gas station does not exist may occur. is there.

  As described above, when old map information is displayed, a difference in road information or an excess or shortage of information may occur.

  In order to avoid such a situation, it is conceivable to take measures such as purchasing a new map information when the map information for each divided area displayed in the map information processing apparatus becomes old.

  However, since it is difficult for the user to memorize all the new and old map information for each divided area, which map information among the map information for each divided area displayed in the map information processing apparatus is out of date. It is difficult for the user to judge whether

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a map information processing apparatus and program capable of presenting to the user that the map information for each divided area is outdated.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, in the map information processing apparatus for displaying the area map information of the divided areas, the version information indicating the version of the area map information and whether or not the area map information is old. An area map information database for storing a flag; first determination means for determining whether the flag stored in the area map information database indicates that the area map information is old; and If it is determined by the first determination means that it does not indicate, the acquisition means for acquiring the version information indicating the latest version of the area map information from the outside, the version information stored in the area map information database, and Second determination means for determining whether the area map information is old by comparing the acquired version information When the first determination means determines that the flag indicates that the area map information is old, or when the second determination means determines that the area map information is old, the area map information Is provided with a presenting means for presenting that it is old.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the map information processing apparatus for displaying the area map information of the divided areas, the area map storing the area map information and the purchase date information indicating the purchase date of the area map information. The information database, the clock device that provides the current date, and the purchase date of the area map information indicated by the purchase date information stored in the area map information database and the current date provided by the clock device are compared. A calculating means for calculating a period from the purchase date to the current date, a setting means for setting a display pattern according to the calculated period, and the area map according to the set display pattern. There is provided a map information processing apparatus comprising display means for displaying area map information stored in an information database.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the map information processing apparatus for displaying the area map information of the divided areas, the area map information, the version information indicating the version of the area map information, and the issuance of the area map information Whether it is possible to communicate with an external information center that holds version information indicating the latest version of the area map information stored in the area map information database and the area map information database that stores the issue date information indicating the date If it is determined that the information center can communicate with the determination means, the acquisition means for acquiring the version information held in the information center, and the version information stored in the area map information database The area map information version indicated and the area indicated by the acquired version information When it is determined that communication with the first calculation means for calculating the first difference from the latest version of the figure information, the clock device providing the current date, and the information center is not possible, the area map information database Second calculation means for calculating a period from the issue date of the area map information indicated by the issue date information stored in the current date to the current date provided by the timepiece device as a second difference, and A determining means for determining an image effect based on the first difference calculated by the calculating means or the second difference calculated by the second calculating means; and an area map stored in the area map information database Display processing means for executing a process for applying the determined image effect to information; and display means for displaying area map information for which the process for applying the image effect has been executed. Map information processing apparatus is provided that comprises.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the map information processing apparatus for displaying the area map information of the divided areas, the issue date, the update count, the update date, the date attached to the area map information and the area map information. Based on the area map information database storing the area map incidental information such as the updated travel distance and the off-route amount, and the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database, the area map information database stores the area map incidental information. A calculation means for calculating new and old parameters for representing the newness or oldness of the area map information, and a predetermined first image processing for the area map information stored in the area map information database. Thus, the first generation means for generating the first area map information and the area map information stored in the area map information database Based on the calculated old and new parameters, second generation means for generating second area map information by performing second image processing different from the predetermined first image processing, Third generation for generating the third area map information by blending the first area map information generated by the first generation means and the second area map information generated by the second generation means. There is provided a map information processing apparatus comprising: means; and display means for displaying the third area map information generated by the third generation means.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in the map information processing apparatus for displaying the area map information of the divided areas, the area map storing the area map information and the purchase date information indicating the purchase date of the area map information. Based on an information database, a use history database that stores use history information indicating a use history of area map information stored in the area map information database, and a use history information stored in the use history database, Calculation means for calculating the frequency of use of area map information stored in the area map information database, a clock device that provides the current date, and an area map indicated by purchase date information stored in the area map information database The period from the date of purchase of information to the current date provided by the timepiece device depends on the calculated use frequency The determination means for determining whether or not it is a predetermined period or more, and when it is determined that the period is a predetermined period or more according to the use frequency, the area map information stored in the area map information database is There is provided a map information processing apparatus comprising a presentation means for presenting an old message.

  The present invention makes it possible to present to the user that the map information for each divided area is outdated.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the map information processing apparatus which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 shown in FIG. The figure which shows an example in the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows the process sequence in case area map information is displayed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the display screen when the fact that the area map information of a target division area is old is displayed. The flowchart which shows the process sequence in the case of performing the route search to the destination in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the display screen when the fact that the area map information on a route is old is displayed. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the age determination process by the period performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the age determination process by the comparison performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the map display process shown in FIG.10 and FIG.11. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. 14 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for new and old map determination processing shown in FIG. 13. The map Ver. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of a determination process. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the update date determination process shown in FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for map display processing shown in FIG. 13. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence when area map information is updated in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the area map incidental information updated by the process shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows the process sequence in case the off-route amount contained in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database is updated. The flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of displaying old area map information with respect to a user among the area map information stored in the area map information database. The figure which shows an example of the new and old parameters calculated by the electronic control unit 18. The figure which shows an example of the normalization old and new value produced | generated from the old and new parameters shown in FIG. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the related map information database of the information center 20 in this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the usage history database of the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the route calculation process performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the map display process performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the map display process performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the map information processing apparatus according to this embodiment. A map information processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 is installed in a moving body (for example, a vehicle), displays map information for each divided area (hereinafter referred to as a divided area), and displays a route from the current location to the destination. A navigation device having a function of guiding the user.

  The map information processing apparatus 10 is connected to the information center 20. The information center 20 stores, for example, map information for each divided area (hereinafter referred to as area map information) and information associated with the area map information (hereinafter referred to as area map associated information) in association with each other. A center database is provided.

  In addition, the area map information stored in the information center database of the information center 20 in this embodiment is, for example, the latest area map information for each divided area. The area map accompanying information stored in the information center database includes, for example, the latest version (indicating version information) of the area map information and the issue date (indicating issue date information) of the area map information.

  The map information processing device 10 and the information center 20 constitute a map information processing system.

  The map information processing apparatus 10 includes a communication device 11, a display device 12, a clock (device) 13, an input device 14, an odometer 15, a position detector 16, an external storage device 17, and an electronic control device 18.

  The communication device 11 is a device for communicating with an external information center 20 and transmitting / receiving various types of information. Information received by the communication device 11 is processed by the electronic control device 18.

  The display device 12 has a function of displaying, for example, area map information for each divided area for guiding a route or the like to a user (user).

  The clock 13 has a function of providing, for example, the current date to the electronic control device 18. The input device 14 has a function of accepting user instructions and the like.

  The odometer 15 has a function of measuring the mileage of the vehicle on which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed.

  The position detector 16 has a function of detecting the current location (information) of the map information processing apparatus 10 (the vehicle on which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed) from GPS satellite radio waves received by a GPS (Global Positioning System) antenna (not shown), for example. .

  The external storage device 17 has an area map information database. In the area map information database, area map information for each divided area used in the map information processing apparatus 10 and area map associated information associated with the area map information are stored in association with each other. The area map information stored in the area map information database includes purchased area map information and unpurchased area map information. Further, the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database includes the version of the area map information (indicating version information), the issue date of the area map information (indicating issue date information).

  The electronic control device 18 uses the communication device 11, the clock 13, the input device 14, the odometer 15, the position detector 16, and the external storage device 17 for each divided area stored in the area map information database. The processing for displaying the area map information is executed.

  In the present embodiment, various processes executed by the electronic control device 18 (executed by the map information processing device 10) execute programs stored in the external storage device 17, for example. To be realized. This program can be stored in advance in a computer-readable storage medium and distributed. Further, this program may be downloaded via a network, for example. The same applies to the following embodiments.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 shown in FIG. In the information center database, the latest area map information and the area map accompanying information associated with the latest area map information are stored in association with each other, but the latest area map information is omitted in FIG. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the information center database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 201-204. The area map accompanying information includes a version and an issue date in association with the divided area ID.

  The division area ID is an identifier for identifying the area (division area) of the latest area map information stored in the information center database. The version indicates the latest version of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID. The issue date indicates the issue date of the latest area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, the area map accompanying information 201 includes a version “5.0” and an issue date “2009/9/2” in association with the divided area ID “1”. According to this, the latest version of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “1” is “5.0”, and the issue date of the latest area map information is September 2, 2009 It is shown that.

  Here, the area map incidental information 201 has been described, but since the same applies to the other area map incidental information 202 to 204, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. In the area map information database, area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10 and area map incidental information associated with the area map information are stored in association with each other. Is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the area map information database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 171 to 174. The area map accompanying information includes a version, an issue date, a license (information), and a flag in association with the divided area ID.

  The division area ID is an identifier for identifying a division area of the area map information stored in the area map information database. The version indicates the version of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID. The issue date indicates the issue date of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID.

  The license indicates the presence / absence of use rights (that is, license) of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID. The license includes “Yes” indicating that there is a usage right and “No” indicating that there is no usage right.

  The flag indicates whether or not the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID is old. Specifically, for example, the flag is determined that the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID is old by communication with the information center 20, and new area map information (latest area map information) is purchased. Set if not. In the state where the flag is set, when the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID is updated to the latest area map information, the flag is cleared (released).

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the area map incidental information 171 includes a version “3.0”, an issue date “2007/11/30”, and a license “Yes” in association with the divided area ID “1”. Yes. According to this, the version of the area map information identified by the divided area ID “1” is “3.0”, the issue date of the area map information is November 30, 2007, and the area map information Is shown to have usage rights. Further, in this area map accompanying information 171, since the flag is set in association with the divided area ID “1”, the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “1” may be old. Indicated.

  Further, the area map incidental information 172 includes a version “2.0”, an issue date “2007/12/9”, and a license “Yes” in association with the divided area ID “2”. According to this, the version of the area map information identified by the divided area ID “2” is “2.0”, the issue date of the area map information is December 9, 2007, and the area map information Is shown to have usage rights. Further, in this area map incidental information 172, since the flag is not set in association with the divided area ID “2”, the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “2” is not old ( That is, it is new).

  Here, the area map incidental information 171 and 172 have been described, but the same applies to the other area map incidental information 173 and 174, and therefore detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, a processing procedure when area map information is displayed in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The map information processing apparatus 10 displays, for example, area map information with the right to use (that is, area map information whose license is included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database). The

  First, the electronic control device 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 acquires the current location (information) detected by the position detector 16.

  The electronic control unit 18 refers to the area map information database and identifies a divided area including the acquired current location or a divided area adjacent to the divided area. The division area specified here is referred to as a target division area.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not a flag associated with the divided area ID for identifying the target divided area is set in the area map information database (that is, whether the flag is old). No) is determined (step S1).

  When it is determined that the flag is not set (NO in step S1), the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not the area map information of the target divided area is old by communicating with the information center 20 (step S1). S2).

  In this case, the version stored in the area map information database in association with the division area ID for identifying the target division area and the version stored in the information center database of the information center 20 in association with the division area ID. If these versions do not match by comparing (the latest version of the area map information of the target division area), the area map information (in the area map information database) of the target division area used in the map information processing apparatus 10 It is determined that the stored area map information) is old.

  In this determination process, issue dates stored in the area map information database and the information center database may be used. That is, the issue date of the area map information of the target division area stored in the area map information database is earlier than the issue date of the latest area map information of the target division area stored in the information center database (that is, If they do not match, it is determined that the area map information of the target divided area is old.

  When it is determined that the area map information of the target divided area is old (YES in step S2), the fact that the area map information is old is displayed via the display device 12 (step S3). The fact that the area map information is old is displayed together with the area map information, for example.

  As described above, when it is determined that the area map information of the target divided area is old by communication with the information center 20, and the latest area map information of the target divided area is not purchased by the user, the area A flag associated with the divided area ID for identifying the target divided area is set in the area map incidental information stored in the map information database.

  If it is determined in step S1 that the flag is set, the process in step S3 is executed.

  Moreover, when it determines with the area map information of an object division | segmentation area not being old in above-mentioned step S2, the process of step S3 is not performed.

  Here, FIG. 5 shows an example of a display screen when the fact that the area map information of the target divided area is old is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the area map information of the target divided area can be distinguished from other area map information by changing the color of the area 121 corresponding to the area map information of the target divided area on the display screen. It is displayed as you can. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, a character string “Map is out of date” is displayed at the bottom of the display screen.

  By displaying a display screen as shown in FIG. 5 via the display device 12, the fact that the area map information of the target divided area is out of date is presented to the user.

  Note that the display screen shown in FIG. 5 is an example, and any display screen may be used so that the user can recognize that the area map information of the target divided area is old.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 6, the process procedure in the case of performing the route search from the present location to the destination in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  First, the electronic control device 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 performs a route search in response to a user instruction from the input device 14 (step S11).

  At this time, the user can specify a destination, for example, using the input device 14. For example, the electronic control unit 18 performs a route search from the current location detected by the position detector 16 to the destination designated by the user based on each area map information stored in the area map information database. Thereby, the electronic control unit 18 acquires route information indicating a route from the current location to the destination.

  Next, in the area map information database, the electronic control unit 18 sets a flag of area map information (hereinafter referred to as area map information on the route) of the divided area through which the route indicated by the acquired route information passes. It is determined whether or not (step S12). The on-route area map information flag is a flag associated with the divided area ID for identifying the divided area of the on-route area map information in the associated area map information stored in the area map information database. is there.

  When it is determined that the flag is not set (NO in step S12), the electronic control unit 18 determines whether the on-route area map information is old by communicating with the information center 20 (step S13). . This determination process is the same as the process of step S2 shown in FIG.

  When it is determined that the route area map information is old (YES in step S13), the fact that the route area map information is old is displayed via the display device 12 (step S14). The fact that the route area map information is old is displayed together with the route area map information.

  If it is determined in step S12 that the flag is set, the process of step S14 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S13 that the on-route area map information is not old, the process in step S14 is not executed.

  Here, FIG. 7 shows an example of a display screen when the fact that the on-route area map information is old is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the on-route area map information can be distinguished from other area map information by changing the colors of the areas 122 to 124 corresponding to the on-route area map information on the display screen. Is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 7, a character string “Map is out of date” is displayed at the bottom of the display screen.

  By displaying the display screen as shown in FIG. 7 via the display device 12, the user can recognize the outdated area map information in the on-route area map information.

  In addition, since the number of area map information (namely, area map information on a route) to be used increases when the distance of a route is long, the information center 20 for determining whether the area map information on a route is old or not It may take time to communicate. In this case, except for the on-route area map information within a predetermined range from the current location, it may be determined whether only the flag is old or not and communication with the information center 20 is not performed.

  Also, for example, if the area map information differs depending on the scale, it is determined whether or not the area around the current location and the destination is old with respect to the area map information with a small scale. By performing the determination, the amount of communication with the information center 20 can be reduced.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that the area map information is old by communicating with the information center 20, the fact that the area map information is old is displayed together with the area map information. Thereby, in this embodiment, since the area map information for each divided area can be presented to the user, the user can determine which area map information of the latest version of the area map information (that is, It is possible to easily determine whether new area map information) should be purchased.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the area map information is old based on a flag included in the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database. For this reason, in this embodiment, even if it is a case where communication with the information center 20 is impossible, for example, it becomes possible to show to a user that area map information became old.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since the user can easily recognize that the area map information being used is out of date, the user can purchase a new map, for example, a convenience store or a nearby store. The latest information (peripheral information) such as a gas station can be obtained, and further, a route search of the shortest distance using a new road that is not in the old area map information can be performed.

  In addition, since the change interval differs between area map information and surrounding information, you may distinguish and display these. The user can use these as information for determining whether or not to purchase a new map.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the map information processing apparatus according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and will be described with reference to FIG. 1 as appropriate.

  In the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, the process of determining the age of the area map information according to the period (hereinafter referred to as the age determination process according to the period) and the age of the area map information with the information center 20 A process of determining by comparison with the latest area map information at the time of communication (hereinafter referred to as an age determination process by comparison) is executed.

  Note that the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above in that the display method for the user that the area map information is old is changed by the above-described determination process of the area map information.

  Here, FIG. 8 shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in the present embodiment. In the information center database, as described above, the area map information and the area map associated information associated with the area map information are stored in association with each other, but the area map information is omitted in FIG.

  Note that, in the information center database of the information center 20 in this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above, area map information other than the latest area map information for each divided area is also stored. .

  As shown in FIG. 8, the information center database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 205 to 207. The area map accompanying information includes a version of the area map information in association with a map ID for identifying the area map information.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the area map incidental information 205 includes a version “6.1. 5” in association with the map ID “100-615”. This indicates that the version of the area map information identified by the map ID “100-615” is “100-615”.

  Here, the area map incidental information 205 has been described, but the same applies to the other area map incidental information 206 and 207 and the like, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. In the area map information database, area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10 and area map incidental information associated with the area map information are stored in association with each other. Is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the area map information database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 175 to 177. The area map incidental information includes a version of the area map information associated with a map ID for identifying the area map information, a purchase date (indicating purchase date information) for purchasing the area map information, and the area map information. A flag (old map flag) indicating whether or not it is old is included. The old map flag is set to 0 when the area map information is not old, and is set to 1 when the area map information is old.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 9, the area map incidental information 175 includes a version “6.0.1” and a purchase date “2008/1/22” in association with the map ID “100-601”. According to this, the version of the area map information identified by the map ID “100-601” is “6.0.1”, and the purchase date of the area map information is January 22, 2008. Indicated. In addition, since the area map accompanying information 175 includes the old map flag “0”, it is indicated that the area map information identified by the map ID “100-615” is not old.

  Here, the area map incidental information 175 has been described, but the same applies to the other area map incidental information 176, 177, etc., and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  In the information center database and the area map information database, different map IDs are assigned to different area map information of the same divided area when the versions are different.

  Hereinafter, the age determination process based on the period and the age determination process based on comparison performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the following description, the area map information to be subjected to these determination processes is referred to as target area map information.

  First, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 10, the process procedure of the age determination process by the period performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment is demonstrated. The age determination process based on the period is executed, for example, when a power on / off operation of the map information processing apparatus 10 is performed or when a command is input.

  The electronic control unit 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 determines whether or not a power on / off operation has been performed in accordance with, for example, a user operation (step S21).

  If it is determined that the power on / off operation has not been performed (NO in step S21), the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not a command is input in accordance with, for example, a user operation (step S22).

  When it is determined in step S21 that the power on / off operation has been performed, or when it is determined in step S22 that a command has been input, the electronic control unit 18 stores the area map stored in the area map information database. In the accompanying information, the purchase date associated with the map ID for identifying the target area map information is acquired. In addition, the electronic control device 18 acquires the current date provided by the clock 13 provided in the map information processing device 10.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 compares the acquired purchase date and the current date. Thereby, the electronic control unit 18 calculates a period from the purchase date to the current date (step S23). That is, the electronic control unit 18 calculates how many years have passed since the target area map information was purchased.

  The electronic control unit 18 sets (sets) a display pattern corresponding to the calculated period (step S24). In this display pattern, the calculated period is different in units of 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, and 10 years.

  The display pattern includes a display pattern [time10] when the calculated period is 10 years or more, a display pattern [time5] when the calculated period is 5 years or more (and less than 10 years), A display pattern [time3] when the period is 3 years or more (and less than 5 years) and a display pattern [time1] when the calculated period is 1 year or more (less than 3 years) are included.

  Based on the set display pattern, the electronic control unit 18 executes a process of displaying the target area map information (hereinafter referred to as a map display process) (step S25). Details of this map display processing will be described later.

  In addition, when it determines with the command input not having been carried out in above-mentioned step S22, the age determination process by a period is complete | finished.

  As described above, in the age determination process by period, a display pattern is set according to the period from the purchase date stored in the area map information database to the current date, so communication with the information center 20 is required. do not do.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11, a processing procedure of comparison age determination processing executed in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  The electronic control unit 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 associates with the map ID for identifying the target area map information, and displays an old map flag “1” indicating that the target area map information is old in the area map information database. "Is set or not (step S31).

  When it is determined that the old map flag “1” is not set (YES in step S31), the electronic control device 18 determines whether or not the map information processing device 10 can communicate with the information center 20 ( Step S32).

  When it is determined that the map information processing apparatus 10 can communicate with the information center 20 (YES in step S32), the electronic control unit 18 determines the latest version of the area map information of the target area map information (that is, the target area map). A map ID for identifying the latest divided area map information) is acquired from the information center 20 (step S33).

  The electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not they are the same by comparing the map ID acquired from the information center 20 and the map ID for identifying the target area map information stored in the area map information database. (Step S34).

  If it is determined that they are not identical (NO in step S34), the electronic control unit 18 sets the display pattern [new] (step S35). This display pattern [new] is a display pattern when there is the latest version of the area map information of the target area map information (that is, the target area map information is not the latest version).

  Based on the set display pattern (here, display pattern [new]), the electronic control unit 18 executes a process of displaying the target area map information (map display process) (step S36). Details of this map display processing will be described later.

  If it is determined in step S31 that the old map flag “1” is set, the process of step S35 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S32 that the map information processing apparatus 10 cannot communicate with the information center 20, or if it is determined in step S34 that the information processing apparatus 10 is the same, the comparison age determination process is terminated.

  As described above, in the comparison age determination process, the age of the target area map information is determined by comparing the map ID acquired from the information center 20 and the map ID stored in the area map information database. As described above, for example, the latest version stored in the information center database of the information center 20 (the latest version of the target area map information) and the version of the target area map information stored in the area map information database are compared. By doing so, the age of the target area map information may be determined.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, the processing procedure of the map display process described above (the process of step 25 shown in FIG. 10 and the process of step S36 shown in FIG. 11) will be described.

  First, the electronic control unit 18 executes a display process according to the display pattern set in the age determination process based on the above-described period or the age determination process based on the comparison (step 41). The target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 by this display process.

  Here, the display process according to the display pattern will be specifically described. As described above, the display pattern includes the display pattern [time10], display pattern [time5], display pattern [time3], and display pattern [time1] set in the age determination process according to the period. A display pattern [new] set in the process is included.

  Hereinafter, specific examples of the display process corresponding to each of these display patterns will be described. When the display pattern [time10] is set, the target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 in a dark sepia color, for example. When the display pattern [time5] is set, the target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 in a slightly dark sepia color, for example. When the display pattern [time3] is set, the target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 in a slightly light sepia color, for example. When the display pattern [time1] is set, the target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 in a thin sepia color, for example. When the display pattern [new] is set, for example, when the target area map information is displayed, it is notified that there is, for example, the latest version of the area map information of the target area map information.

  When the process of step S41 described above is executed, the area map information stored in the area map information database is old in association with the map ID for identifying the area map information of interest. Is set (step S42).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the display pattern determined in the age determination process based on the above-described period or the age determination process based on the comparison is set, and the display corresponding to the display pattern is performed on the target area map information. Processing is executed.

  Thereby, in this embodiment, in addition to the fact that the area map information is old, there is a period (that is, the degree of oldness) from the date of purchase or that there is area map information of the latest version of the target area map information. It can be presented to the user.

  Further, in the age determination process based on the period in the present embodiment, since it is not necessary to communicate with the information center 20, even if communication with the information center 20 is not possible, the age of the target area map information is not determined. Can be determined.

  Similarly, in the present embodiment, when the old map flag indicating that the target area map information is old is set, the target area is not communicated with the information center 20 in the comparison age determination process. It can be determined that the map information is old.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the map information processing apparatus according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and will be described with reference to FIG. 1 as appropriate.

  In this embodiment, the difference between the version of the area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10 and the latest version of the area map information, or the issue date (update date) of the area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10 ) And the current date are different from the first and second embodiments described above in that the image effect when displaying the area map information is changed.

  In the present embodiment, the data structures of the information center database of the information center 20 and the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the area map associated information stored in the information center database of the information center 20 only needs to include at least a version of the area map information in association with the divided area ID.

  In the present embodiment, the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 may include at least a version and an issue date in association with the divided area ID.

  Next, a processing procedure of the map information processing apparatus 10 (the electronic control apparatus 18 thereof) according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, for example, a case where area map information is displayed to guide a route from the current location to the destination will be described.

  First, the electronic control device 18 sets a destination designated by the user using the input device 14 (step S51). In addition, the electronic control device 18 acquires the current location (information) detected by the position detector 16.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 performs a process of selecting a route from the acquired current location to the set destination (hereinafter referred to as a route selection process) to the area map information stored in the area map information database. Based on this (step S52). In addition, when the destination is not set in step S51, it becomes the present location.

  The electronic control unit 18 confirms the area map information of the divided area through which the route selected in the route selection process passes and the area map information around the destination, so that the new and old of the area map information (that is, the area map information). A process of determining whether or not is old (hereinafter referred to as a new and old map determination process) is executed (step S53). Details of the new and old map determination processing will be described later.

  Next, based on the processing result of the old and new map determination processing, the electronic control device 18 executes area map information display processing (hereinafter referred to as map display processing) (step S54). According to this map display processing, area map information is specially displayed, for example. Details of this map display processing will be described later.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the process procedure of the new / old map determination process (process of step S53 shown in FIG. 13) mentioned above is demonstrated. Hereinafter, the area map information of the divided areas that pass through the route selected in the route selection process and the area map information around the destination, which are targets of the new and old map determination process, are referred to as target area map information.

  First, the electronic control device 18 determines whether or not the map information processing device 10 can communicate with the information center 20 (step S61).

  Assume that the map information processing apparatus 10 is determined to be able to communicate with the information center 20 in step S61. In this case, the user can select one of “Ver information mode” and “update date mode” using, for example, the input device 14 as a method of determining whether the target area map information is new or old (old).

  “Ver information mode” refers to the latest version (Ver information) of area map information stored in the information center database of the information center 20 and area map information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10. This is a mode for determining whether the area map information is new or old based on the version difference and selecting (determining) an image effect to be applied to the area map information according to the difference.

  On the other hand, the “update date mode” refers to the issue date of the area map information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 (that is, the date when the area map information is issued) and the current date. This is a mode for determining whether the area map information is new or old based on the difference, and selecting (determining) an image effect to be applied to the area map information according to the difference.

  The electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not the “Ver information mode” is selected by the user (step S62).

  When it is determined that the “Ver information mode” has been selected by the user (YES in step S62), a map Ver. A determination process is executed (step S63).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the “Ver information mode” is not selected by the user (that is, “update date mode” is selected) (NO in step S62), an update date determination process described later is executed ( Step S64).

  In addition, when it determines with the map information processing apparatus 10 not being communicable with the information center 20 in above-mentioned step S61, an update date determination process is performed (step S64).

  Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. The procedure of the determination process (the process of step S63 shown in FIG. 14) will be described.

  First, the electronic control device 18 acquires the latest version (indicating version information) of the target area map information stored in the information center database of the information center 20 from the information center 20 (step S71).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 obtains the acquired version (the latest version of the target area map information) and the version of the target area map information stored in the area map information database (the target area map information in the area map incidental information). A difference (first difference) is calculated by comparing the version associated with the divided area ID for identifying the divided area (step S72).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines an image effect when displaying the target area map information based on the calculated difference (step S73).

  Here, the image effect determined in step S73 will be specifically described. When the difference calculated by the electronic control device 18 is, for example, 0 or more and less than 2, “no image effect” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed. According to this “no image effect”, the target area map information is displayed in color or the like, for example, as usual.

  When the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is, for example, 2 or more and less than 4, “image effect 1” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed. According to the “image effect 1”, the target area map information is displayed with a blue scale of 50%, for example.

  When the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is, for example, 4 or more and less than 6, “image effect 2” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed. According to the “image effect 2”, the target area map information is displayed, for example, in sepia (color).

  When the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is 6 or more, for example, “image effect 3” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed. According to the “image effect 3”, the target area map information is displayed in black and white, for example.

  Next, a processing procedure of the above-described update date determination process (the process of step S64 shown in FIG. 14) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the current date provided by the clock 13 (step S81). Next, the electronic control unit 18 issues the issue date (the target object) associated with the division area ID for identifying the division area of the target area map information in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database. A difference (second difference) from the last update date of the area map information to the present (date) is calculated (step S82).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines an image effect when displaying the target area map information based on the calculated difference (step S83).

  In this case, if the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is less than one year, for example, “no image effect” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed.

  When the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is, for example, 1 year or more and less than 3 years, “image effect 1” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed.

  When the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is, for example, 3 years or more and less than 5 years, “image effect 2” is determined as the image effect when the target area map information is displayed.

  Further, when the difference calculated by the electronic control unit 18 is, for example, five years or more, “image effect 3” is determined as the image effect when displaying the target area map information.

  Note that “no image effect”, “image effect 1”, “image effect 2”, and “image effect 3” are described in the map Ver. Since it is as having demonstrated in the determination process, the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  Next, the procedure of the map display process described above (step S54 shown in FIG. 13) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the map display process, first, the user is allowed to select whether or not to perform special image display using the above-described image effect. The user can select whether or not to perform special image display using the input device 14, for example.

  Thereby, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not the user has selected to perform the special image display (step S91).

  When it is determined that the special image display is selected by the user (YES in step S91), the electronic control unit 18 determines in the above-described old and new map determination processing (the map Ver. Determination processing or the update date determination processing). Whether or not there is an image effect is determined based on the image effect that has been made (step S92). When “no image effect” is determined in the above-described new and old map determination processing, it is determined that there is no image effect. On the other hand, if it is determined in the new / old map determination process that other than “no image effect” is determined, it is determined that there is an image effect.

  If it is determined that there is an image effect (YES in step S92), the electronic control unit 18 executes a process (image effect process) for applying the image effect determined in the old and new map determination process to the target area map information. (Step S93). Specifically, when the image effect determined in the old and new map determination processing is “image effect 3”, for example, processing for displaying the target area map information in black and white is executed.

  The electronic control device 18 displays the target area map information on which the above-described image effect processing has been executed on the display device 12 (step S94).

  In addition, the electronic control device 18 displays, for example, a message for prompting the update on the display device 12 (step S95).

  Note that the message displayed on the display device 12 can be changed according to the mode selected by the user in the old and new map determination processing, for example.

  Specifically, when “Ver information mode” is selected in the above-described old and new map determination processing (that is, the map Ver. Determination processing is executed), for example, “There is the latest map. Please check. Is displayed.

  On the other hand, when “update date mode” is selected in the new and old map determination processing (that is, the update date determination processing is executed), for example, a message such as “Map is getting old. Please check.” Is displayed.

  If it is determined in step S91 that the user has not selected to display a special image, or if it is determined in step S92 that there is no image effect, target area map information is displayed ( Step S96). In this case, the target area map information is displayed in, for example, the same color as usual.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the map information processing apparatus 10 can communicate with the information center 20, the map Ver. In which the image effect is determined according to the difference in the version of the area map information. One of the update date determination processing in which the image effect is determined according to the difference between the determination processing and the update date (issue date) of the area map information is selected by the user. In the present embodiment, the map Ver. The area map information to which the image effect determined in the determination place or the update date determination process is applied is displayed.

  In the present embodiment, when the map information processing apparatus 10 cannot communicate with the information center 20, an update date determination process that can be executed without communicating with the information center 20 is executed.

  Thereby, in this embodiment, it becomes possible to show a user visually that the area map information became old with the image effect according to the version of the area map information or the difference in update date. .

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the map information processing apparatus according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and will be described with reference to FIG. 1 as appropriate.

  In the present embodiment, as described later, the first to third implementations described above are that old and new parameters are calculated for each divided area (area map information), and display of area map information is changed based on the old and new parameters. Different from form.

  Here, FIG. 18 shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in the present embodiment. In the information center database, as described above, the latest area map information and the area map incidental information associated with the latest area map information are stored in association with each other. However, in FIG. Information is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the information center database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 208-211. In the area map incidental information, the date of issue of the latest area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID in association with the divided area ID for identifying the divided area and the number of updates of the latest area map information (That is, the number of updates until the latest area map information is associated).

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 18, the area map accompanying information 208 includes an issue date “2000/01/01” and an update count “0” in association with the divided area ID “1”. According to this, the issue date of the latest area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “1” is January 1, 2000, and the update count of the latest area map information is 0. Is shown.

  Here, the area map incidental information 208 has been described, but since the same applies to the other area map incidental information 209 to 211, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 19 shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. The area map information database stores area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10 and area map incidental information associated with the area map information in association with each other. In FIG. Information is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the area map information database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 178 to 181. The area map accompanying information includes an issue date, the number of updates, an update date, an update travel distance, and an off-route amount in association with a divided area ID for identifying a divided area.

  The issue date is the issue date of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID. The update count is the update count of the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID. An update date shows the update date on the map information processing apparatus 10 of the area map information of the division area identified by division area ID. The updated travel distance indicates the travel distance of the vehicle in which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed when the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID is updated. The off-route amount indicates an amount deviated from the route on the area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 19, the area map incidental information 178 has an issue date “2000/01/01”, an update count “0”, and an update date “2000/01/01” associated with the divided area ID “1”. The updated travel distance “0” and the off-route amount “500” are included. According to this, the issue date of the area map information identified by the divided area ID “1” is January 1, 2000, the update count is 0, and the update date on the map information processing apparatus 10 is 2000. It is shown that the travel distance of the vehicle at the time of the update is 0 and the off-path amount is 500, which is January 1 of the year.

  Here, the area map incidental information 178 has been described, but since the same applies to the other area map incidental information 179 to 181 and the like, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20, a processing procedure when the area map information (and area map incidental information) is updated in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  It is assumed that the information center database of the information center 20 stores the area map accompanying information 208 to 211 shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that the area map information database 178 to 181 shown in FIG. 19 is stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10.

  Here, a case where the latest area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “4” is downloaded to the map information processing apparatus 10 and the area map associated information associated with the area map information is updated will be described. . It is assumed that the current date is July 1, 2009, and the travel distance of the vehicle on which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed is 95,000.

  Hereinafter, the latest area map information downloaded to the map information processing apparatus 10 (that is, the latest area map information of the divided area identified by the divided area ID “4”) is referred to as target area map information.

  First, the electronic control unit 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 acquires the issue date and update count of the target area map information from the information center 20 via the communication apparatus 11 (step S101). Here, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the issue date “2009/01/01” and the update count “9” included in the area map incidental information 210 in association with the divided area ID “4”.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the current date provided by the clock 13 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 as the update date of the target area map information on the map information processing apparatus 10 (step S102). ). Here, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the update date “2009/07/01” on the map information processing apparatus 10.

  The electronic control unit 18 acquires the updated travel distance from the odometer 15 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 (step S103). Here, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the updated travel distance “95000”. In addition, the electronic control unit 18 sets the updated off-path amount to 0 (step S104).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 corresponds to the division area ID “4” for identifying the division area of the target area map information, with respect to the issue date, the update count, the update date, the update travel distance, and the off-route amount. The attached area map accompanying information is stored (overwritten) in the area map information database (step S105).

  Thereby, the area map incidental information (area map incidental information associated with the updated area map information) stored in the area map information database is updated.

  Here, FIG. 21 shows an example of the area map accompanying information updated by the process shown in FIG.

  Here, the issue date, the update count, the update date, the update travel distance, and the off-route amount associated with the division area ID “4” for identifying the division area of the target area map information are updated. The area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the area map incidental information 182 shown in FIG.

  Specifically, in the area map incidental information 182, the issue date “2005/01/01” included in the area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the issue date “2009/01/01”. The updated issue date “2009/01/01” is the issue date acquired in step S101 shown in FIG.

  Further, in the area map incidental information 182, the update count “5” included in the area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the update count “9”. The update count “9” after the update is the update count acquired in step S101 shown in FIG.

  In addition, in the area map incidental information 182, the update date “2005/01/01” included in the area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the update date “2009/07/01”. The update date “2009/07/01” after the update is the update date acquired in step S102 shown in FIG.

  In addition, in the area map incidental information 182, the updated travel distance “50000” included in the area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the updated travel distance “95000”. The updated travel distance “95000” after the update is the updated travel distance acquired in step S103 shown in FIG.

  In the area map incidental information 182, the off-path amount “200” included in the area map incidental information 181 shown in FIG. 19 is updated to the off-path amount “0”. The updated route deviation amount “0” is the value set in step S104 shown in FIG.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 22, a processing procedure when the off-route amount included in the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database is updated will be described.

  First, the electronic control unit 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 acquires a route (information) from the area map information stored in the area map information database (step S111). At this time, the electronic control unit 18 obtains coordinates using the road that is currently traveling on the acquired route as a straight line.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the current location detected by the position detector 16 (the current location of the vehicle on which the map information processing device 10 is installed) from the position detector 16 (step S112). Thereby, the electronic control unit 18 obtains the coordinates of the current location.

  The electronic control unit 18 calculates a deviation distance between the route acquired in step S111 and the current location (position) acquired in step S112 (step S113). In this case, the electronic control unit 18 calculates a deviation distance by using a straight line as a route and a point as a current location and using respective coordinates.

  The electronic control unit 18 adds the calculated deviation distance to the route deviation amount included in the area map incidental information in association with the division area ID that identifies the division area including the current location (step S114).

  In addition, the process of above-described step S111-step S114 is performed, for example, whenever a vehicle travels a fixed distance.

  As described above, the amount of off-route included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database is updated by executing the processing of steps S111 to S114 shown in FIG.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 23, the process sequence at the time of displaying old area map information among the area map information stored in the area map information database to a user is demonstrated. Area map information to be displayed in the process shown in FIG. 23 is referred to as target area map information.

  It is assumed that the information center database of the information center 20 stores the area map accompanying information 208 to 211 shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that the area map information database 178 to 181 shown in FIG. 19 is stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10.

  In addition, it is assumed that the current date is July 1, 2009, and the travel distance of the vehicle in which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed is 95,000.

  First, the electronic control unit 18 included in the map information processing apparatus 10 calculates, for all divided areas (divided area IDs), old and new parameters for representing the newness or oldness of the area map information of the divided areas ( Step S121). The new and old parameters include the area map incidental information stored in the information center database of the information center 20, the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database, the current date provided by the clock 13, and the odometer 15 It is calculated based on the current travel distance acquired from

  Here, FIG. 24 shows an example of new and old parameters calculated by the electronic control unit 18. As described above, the old and new parameters are calculated for each divided area (ID).

  As shown in FIG. 24, the old and new parameters include the number of years from the date of issue, the difference in the number of updates, the number of years from the date of update, the difference in travel distance at the time of update, and the amount of off-route in association with the divisional area ID. It is.

  The number of years from the issue date indicates the period (years) from the issue date to the current date included in the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10. The difference in the number of updates is included in the number of updates included in the area map incidental information stored in the information center database of the information center 20 and the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10. Indicates the difference from the update count.

  The number of years since the update date indicates a period (years) from the update date to the current date included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10. The update travel distance difference indicates a difference between the update travel distance and the current travel distance included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10.

  Note that, as the amount of off-route, the amount of off-route included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 is used as it is in the old and new parameters.

  Here, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” will be specifically described. The issue date of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database shown in FIG. 19 is “2000/01/01”. The current date acquired from the clock is “2009/07/01”. Therefore, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” include “9 years and a half (9 years and 6 months)” as the number of years since the issue date.

  In addition, the update count of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map incidental information stored in the information center database shown in FIG. 18 is “0”. In addition, the update count of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database illustrated in FIG. 19 is “0”. Therefore, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” include “0” as the difference in the number of updates.

  Further, the update date of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database shown in FIG. 19 is “2000/01/01”. The current date acquired from the clock is “2009/07/01”. Therefore, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” include “9 and a half years” as the number of years since the update date.

  Further, the updated travel distance of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database shown in FIG. 19 is “0”. The current travel distance acquired from the odometer 15 is “95000”. Therefore, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” include “95000” as the difference in the update travel distance.

  Further, the off-path amount of the divided area ID “1” included in the area map accompanying information stored in the area map information database shown in FIG. 19 is “500”. Therefore, the old and new parameters of the divided area ID “1” include “500” as the amount of off-route.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 24, the old and new parameters of the divisional area ID “1” include the age of “9 and a half years” from the date of issue, the difference in update count “0”, and the total number of years from the update date “9 years”. ”Half”, the updated travel distance difference “95000” and the off-route amount “500” are included.

  Here, the division area ID “1” has been described, but the same applies to the other division area IDs “2” to “4”, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Returning to FIG. 23 again, the electronic control unit 18 normalizes each of the new and old parameters calculated in step S121 to a value between 0.0 and 1.0. The normalization process is executed for each item included in the old and new parameters (the number of years from the date of issue, the difference in the number of updates, the number of years from the date of update, the difference in travel distance at the time of update, and the amount of off-route).

  Thereby, the electronic control unit 18 generates (acquires) a normalized new and old value (hereinafter referred to as a normalized new and old value) (step S122). In the normalized old and new values, the closer to 0.0, the newer the value, and the closer to 1.0, the older.

  Here, FIG. 25 shows an example of the normalized old and new values generated from the old and new parameters shown in FIG.

  In the example shown in FIG. 25, the number of years from the issue date included in the old and new parameters will be specifically described. In the new and old parameters shown in FIG. 24, the number of years from the issue date of the divided area ID “1” is “9 and a half years”, and the number of years from the issue date of the other divided area IDs “2” to “4”. Longer. Accordingly, the normalized old and new values of the number of years from the issue date of the divided area ID “1” included in the new and old parameters shown in FIG. 24 are “1.0” as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the new and old parameters shown in FIG. 24, the age of the divided area IDs “3” and “4” from the issue date is “4 and a half years”, and the other divided area IDs “1” and “2” It is shorter than the number of years since the issue date. Therefore, the normalized old and new values of the aging from the issue date of the divided area IDs “3” and “4” included in the old and new parameters shown in FIG. 24 are “0.0” as shown in FIG.

  In addition, the normalization old and new values of the number of years from the issue date of the division area ID “2” are based on the relationship with the number of years from the issue date of the other division area IDs “1”, “3” and “4”. As shown in FIG. 25, “0.4” is obtained.

  Here, the number of years from the date of issue included in the old and new parameters was explained, but the same applies to other items (difference in the number of updates, age from the date of update, difference in travel distance at the time of update, and off-route amount). Therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Returning to FIG. 23 again, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the normalized old and new values of the divided areas (divided areas that need to be displayed) of the target area map information (step S123).

  In this case, the electronic control unit 18, for example, the number of years from the date of issue, the difference in the number of updates, the number of years from the update date, associated with the divided area ID that identifies the divided area of the target area map information in FIG. The normalization old and new values of the difference in travel distance at the time of update and the off-route amount are acquired. The electronic control unit 18 calculates the average value of the normalized old and new values of the acquired age, the difference in the number of updates, the age from the update date, the difference in travel distance at the time of update, and the off-route amount. Acquired as the normalized old and new values of the map information division.

  Specifically, when the divided area ID for identifying the divided area of the area of interest map information is "1", as a normalized old and new values of the divided areas requiring display, from the date of issue as shown in FIG. 25 , The difference in the number of updates “0.0”, the age from the update date “1.0”, the difference in travel distance at update “1.0”, and the off-path amount “0.5” "0.7" is acquired.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 generates the target area map information (first target area map information) for displaying that the target area map information is new (step S124).

  The target area map information for displaying that the target area map information is new is generated by performing predetermined image processing (first image processing) on the target area map information. The predetermined image processing (first image processing) includes, for example, image processing for displaying the target area map information in color or the like as usual.

  The electronic control unit 18 generates the target area map information (second target area map information) for displaying that the target area map information is old (step S125).

  The target area map information for displaying that the target area map information is old is the image processing (first operation) for generating the target area map information for displaying that the target area map information is new. The predetermined image processing (second image processing) different from the first image processing) is performed on the target area map information. Note that the predetermined image processing (second image processing), for example, the target area map information is executed based on the target area map information or component thereof for displaying a new effect, sepia conversion , Saturation reduction, lightness reduction, contrast reduction, blue luminance reduction, mosaic display, blurring or shading.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 blends the old and new target area map information (first and second target area map information) generated in step S124 and step S125, thereby determining the age of the target area map information ( The target area map information (third target area map information) corresponding to the newness is generated. (Step S126).

  In this case, the electronic control unit 18 blends the new and old target area map information at a ratio of “1.0−normalized new / old value: normalized old / new value”. The normalized old and new values are the normalized old and new values acquired in step S123 described above.

  For example, when the regular old and new values acquired in step S123 are 0.4, the target area map information (first target area map information) for displaying a new effect and the target area map information for displaying an old effect (Second target area map information) is blended at 0.6: 0.4 (that is, 6: 4).

  The electronic control unit 18 outputs (displays) the target area map information (third target area map information) generated by blending the old and new target area map information in step S126 to the display device 12 (step S127). ). Accordingly, the target area map information is displayed on the display device 12 in a format (color or the like) according to the age.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, old and new parameters are calculated for all divided areas, and normalized old and new values are generated based on the new and old parameters. In this embodiment, area map information for displaying that the area map information is new (area map information displayed when new) and area map information for displaying that the area map information is old (when old) Area map information) is generated, and the old and new area map information is blended based on the normalized old and new values and displayed on the display device 12.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, since it is possible to present to the user by changing the color or the like of the area map information according to the degree of age (freshness), user age of the area map information Thus, it is possible to facilitate the determination of not trusting the old area map information or purchasing the latest area map information of the divided area of the old area map information.

  In this embodiment, since the new and old area map information is blended and displayed based on the regular old and new values, not only the bisection display of the new area map information and the old area map information, but also according to the freshness Display that combines various patterns.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the map information processing apparatus according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and will be described with reference to FIG. 1 as appropriate.

  In the present embodiment, by using the frequency of use of the area map information for each divided area (usage history), and the first to fourth embodiments that determine the age of the area map information (freshness) of the above-described Different.

  In the present embodiment, the information center 20 is provided with a related map information database in addition to the information center database described above. The related map information database stores related map information indicating the relationship between the area map information stored in the area map information database.

  In the present embodiment, the external storage device 17 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 stores a usage history database in addition to the area map information database. The usage history database stores usage history information indicating the usage history of the area map information stored in the area map information database.

  Hereinafter, the data structures of the information center database of the information center 20, the related map information database, the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10, and the usage history database in the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 26 shows an example of the data structure of the information center database of the information center 20 in this embodiment. In the information center database, as described above, the area map information and the area map associated information associated with the area map information are stored in association with each other, but the area map information is omitted in FIG.

  Note that, in the information center database of the information center 20 in this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above, area map information other than the latest area map information for each divided area is also stored. .

  As shown in FIG. 26, the information center database stores a plurality of area map associated information including area map associated information 212 to 214. In the area map accompanying information, the map type ID for identifying the type of the area map information, the version of the area map information, and the area map information are updated in association with the map ID for identifying the area map information. Update date. In addition, map ID contained in area map incidental information combines map classification ID and a version, for example. In addition, the update date included in the area map attached map information is additional information in the management of the area map information in the present embodiment.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 26, the area map incidental information 212 is associated with the map ID “100-615”, the map type ID “100”, the version “6.1.5”, and the update date “2009/7/20”. "It is included. According to this, the map type ID for identifying the type of area map information indicated by the map ID “100-615” is “100”, and the version of the area map information is “6.1.5”. Yes, it is shown that the update date updated in the area map information is July 20, 2009.

  Here, the area map incidental information 212 has been described, but the same applies to the other area map incidental information 213 and 214, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 27 shows an example of the data structure of the related map information database of the information center 20 in this embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 27, the related map information database stores a plurality of related map information including related map information 215 to 217. The related map information is associated with a map ID for identifying the area map information and related map ID for identifying the area map information related to the area map information and the relation indicating the relation between the area map information. Contains information.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 27, the related map information 217 includes a related map ID “101-615” and related information “adjacent” in association with the map ID “200-514”. This indicates that the area map information identified by the map ID “200-514” is adjacent to the area map information identified by the related map ID “101-615”.

  Here, the related map information 217 has been described, but the same applies to the other related map information 215 and 216, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 28 shows an example of the data structure of the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the area map information database, but are stored in association zone map accompanying information accompanying the area map information and the area map information used in the map information processing apparatus 10, in FIG. 28, the zone map Information is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 28, the area map information database stores a plurality of area map accompanying information including area map accompanying information 183 to 185. In the area map accompanying information, the map type ID for identifying the type of the area map information in association with the map ID for identifying the area map information, the version of the area map information, the purchase date of the area map information And a provisional use flag indicating the presence or absence of the right to use the area map information. This temporary use flag is set to 0 when there is no right to use the area map information, and is set to 1 when there is a right to use the area map information. In addition, map ID contained in area map incidental information combines map classification ID and a version, for example.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 28, the area map incidental information 183 is associated with the map ID “100-601”, the map type ID “100”, the version “6.0.1”, and the purchase date “2008/1/22”. "It is included. According to this, the map type ID for identifying the type of area map information identified by the map ID “100-601” is “100”, and the version of the area map information is “6.0 · 1”. It is indicated that the purchase date of the area map information is January 22, 2008. Also, in this area the map accompanying information 183, because it contains interim use flag "0", no mastership of said area map information (i.e., license has not been obtained) can be shown.

  Although the area map incidental information 183 has been described here, the other area map incidental information 184 and 185 and the like are the same, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 29 shows an example of the data structure of the usage history database of the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 29, the usage history database stores a plurality of usage history information including usage history information 186 and 187. The use history information, use history ID for identifying the usage history area map information, the area map information used date indicating a date of use, a map ID and the used to identify the area map information such use The usage type indicating the type of the file is included.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29, the usage history information 186 includes a usage history ID “1200”, a usage date “2008/1/22”, a map ID “100-601”, and a usage type “purchase”. According to this, it is indicated that the usage history ID for identifying the usage history that the area map information identified by the map ID “100-601” was purchased on January 22, 2008 is “1200”. .

  Although the usage history information 186 has been described here, the same applies to the other usage history information 187 and the like, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 30, the process procedure of the route calculation process performed in the map information processing apparatus 10 which concerns on this embodiment is demonstrated. This route calculation process is a process for calculating a route to a destination designated by the user, and is executed when the destination is designated by the user while the vehicle in which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed is stopped, for example. The

  First, the electronic control unit 18 provided in the map information processing apparatus 10 sets a destination designated by the user (step S131).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 acquires the current location (information) detected by the position detector 16 (step S132).

  The electronic control device 18 is necessary for calculating the route from the current location acquired in step S132 to the destination set in step S131 in the zone map incidental information stored in the zone map information database of the map information processing device 10. such area map information (hereinafter, the area of interest map information hereinafter) with reference to the provisional use flag associated with the map ID for identifying, whether the right of use of the target area map information is not acquired Is determined (step S133).

  Specifically, if the provisional use flag associated with the map ID for identifying the target area map information is 0, it is determined that the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired, and the provisional use If the flag is 1, it is determined that the right to use the target area map information is not yet acquired (that is, the right to use is acquired).

  When it is determined that the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired (NO in step S133), the electronic control unit 18 calculates a route from the current location acquired in step S132 to the destination set in step S131. (Step S134).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 executes a map information freshness determination process based on the usage history information stored in the usage history database (step S135). According to the map information freshness determination process, it is determined whether the target area map information is old.

  In the map information freshness determination process, the use frequency of the target area map information is calculated (calculated) based on the use history information stored in the use history database. Specifically, the usage frequency is calculated based on the usage history information including the map ID for identifying the target area map information among the usage history information stored in the usage history database. In the calculation of the usage frequency of the target area map information, among the usage history information including the map ID for identifying the target area map information, a specific date is determined according to the usage date or the usage type included in the usage history information. Only usage history information within a period or a specific usage type may be used.

  Here, in the map information freshness determination process, two predetermined values (hereinafter referred to as first and second threshold values) are prepared. The second threshold is higher than the first threshold value.

  In the map information freshness determination process, a period according to the use frequency of the calculated target area map information is set. Specifically, when the usage frequency is equal to or higher than the second threshold (that is, when the usage frequency is high), it is two years, when it is equal to or higher than the first threshold and lower than the second threshold (that is, used) When the frequency is medium), 3 years is set. When the frequency is less than the first threshold (that is, when the usage frequency is low), 5 years is set.

  In the map information freshness determination process, if the target area map information has not been updated within the period set as described above, it is determined that the target area map information is old.

  Specifically, the period in which the period from the date of purchase of the target area map information included in the area map associated information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock 13 is set as described above When it is above, it is determined that the target area map is old.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether the target area map information is the latest version (area map information) (step S136).

  In this case, when it is determined that the target area map information is old in the map information freshness determination process described above, it is determined that the target area map information is not the latest version.

  When it is determined that the target area map information is not old in the map information freshness determination process, the information center 20 is inquired about the latest version of the target area map information. The latest version inquired to the information center 20 is compared with the version of the target area map information stored in the area map information database, and the version of the target area map information is not the same as the latest version inquired to the information center 20. In this case, it is determined that the target area map information is not the latest version.

  If it is determined that the target area map information is not the latest version (NO in step S136), the electronic control unit 18 indicates that the target area map information is not the latest version and sets the target area map information to the latest version area. The user is notified that the map information should be updated (step S137). The user who has received this notification can instruct to update the target area map information by operating the map information processing apparatus 10. In other words, in step S137, the user is given an opportunity to update the target area map information.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not there is an instruction to update the target area map information in accordance with a user operation (step S138).

  If it is determined that there is an instruction to update the target area map information (YES in step S138), the electronic control unit 18 updates the target area map information by communicating with the information center 20 (step S139). ).

  Depending on the destination set in step S131 and the current location acquired in step S132, a plurality of target area map information may exist. In this case, when it is determined that there is an instruction to update the target area map information as described above, the entire target area map information may be updated. Thus, by giving the user an opportunity to update a plurality of maps at once, the purchase (update) of the area map information by the user can be promoted.

  If it is determined that there is an instruction to update the target area map information, the area map information related to the target area map information (for example, the area map information adjacent to the target area map information and the divided area) By searching from the related map information database of the information center 20, the area map information related to the target area map information is presented to the user, and the area map information selected by the user, for example, from the presented area map information May be updated together with the target area map information. In this way, by giving the user an opportunity to update the area map information related to the target area map information together with the target area map information at a time, for example, the related area map information (for example, between adjacent areas) The freshness (newness) of the area map information, etc.) can be unified.

  When the process of step S139 is executed, the process returns to the above-described step S133 and the process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S133 that the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired, the process of step S138 described above is executed. In the case where the right of use of the area of interest map information is determined to be not acquired, the effect or the like can be provisional used like that can be temporarily used for example to that effect and the target area map information Informed to the user.

  If it is determined in step S136 that the target area map information is the latest version, or if it is determined in step S138 that there is no instruction to update the target area map information, the route calculation process is performed. Is terminated.

  Next, a processing procedure of map display processing executed in the map information processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 31 and 32. Map display processing is processing for displaying the area map information of the divided area containing the location other than the current location or current location (position) is performed, for example, during the movement of the map information processing vehicle apparatus 10 is installed in the (running) The

  First, the electronic control unit 18 of the map information processing apparatus 10 determines whether display of area map information for a place other than the current location (for example, a place designated by the user) is instructed in accordance with a user operation. (Step S141).

  When it is determined that display of area map information for a place other than the current position (hereinafter referred to as a designated place) is not instructed (that is, display of area map information for the current position is instructed) (NO in step S141) ), The electronic control unit 18 acquires the current location (information) detected by the position detector 16 (step S142).

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 uses the area map associated information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10 to obtain the area map information (hereinafter, target area) of the divided area including the current location acquired in step S142. It is determined whether or not the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired with reference to a provisional use flag associated with a map ID for identifying (map information) (step S143).

  When it is determined that the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired (NO in step S143), the electronic control unit 18 performs a map information freshness determination process based on the use history information stored in the use history database. Execute (Step S144). The map information freshness determination process is the same as the process of step S135 shown in FIG. 30 described above, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not the target area map information is the latest version (step S145). Since the process of step S145 is the same as the process of step S136 shown in FIG. 30 described above, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  If it is determined that the target area map information is not the latest version (NO in step S145), the electronic control unit 18 indicates that the target area map information is not the latest version and sets the target area map information to the latest version area. The user is notified that the map information should be updated (step S146).

  The electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not there is an instruction to update the target area map information according to the user's operation (step S147).

  If it is determined that there is no instruction to update the target area map information (NO in step S147), the electronic control unit 18 displays the target area map information according to the age of the target area map information. 12 is displayed (step S148).

  In this case, the target area map information is displayed by a method different from the normal display method, for example, an old texture. As the display method for displaying at old texture target area map information, for example, elapsed period from the date of purchase of the target area map information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock 13 and the like A gradation expression method that gradually approaches a sepia color in proportion to or a display method that lowers the color saturation of the target area map information is employed. With such a display method, it is possible to tell the user how old the target area map information is. Note that other display methods may be used as long as the target area map information is old.

  In addition to displaying the target area map information with an old texture, an icon or a message indicating that the target area map information is old may be displayed. Thus, by using a more impressive expression, it is possible to clearly indicate the necessity of updating the target area map information to the user.

  As described above, by displaying the target area map information by a display method different from the normal one, it is indicated to the user that the target area map information is old.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S145 that the target area map information is the latest version, the electronic control device 18 displays the target area map information on the display device 12 (step S149). In this case, the target area map information is displayed by, for example, a normal display method (that is, a normal texture). Thereby, when the target area map information is the latest version, it can be presented to the user without reducing the information amount of the target area map information.

  When an instruction to update the target area map information is given in step S147, the electronic control device 18 communicates with the information center 20 via the communication device 11 to update the target area map information. The area map information is updated to the version, and the process of step S149 described above is executed.

  When the process of step S148 or step S149 described above is executed, the electronic control unit 18 is based on the current location detected by the position detector 16, the area map information stored in the area map information database, and the area map associated information. Then, it is determined whether the edges of the displayable area (section) are approaching. In this case, for example, if the right to use the area map information near the current location adjacent to the target area map information displayed in step S148 or step S149 (that is, the area map information of the area approached by the movement of the vehicle) has not been acquired. , it is determined that the end of the viewable area are close. The area map information adjacent to the target area map information can be specified by referring to the related map information database of the information center 20, for example. Further, (whether it is not acquired) in the presence or absence of entitlement area map information adjacent to the target area map information, in the area map associated information stored in the area map information database of the map information processing apparatus 10, the It is determined by referring to the temporary use flag associated with the map ID for identifying the area map information.

  Next, the electronic control unit 18 determines whether or not notification of temporary use or update is necessary based on the result of the determination process as to whether or not the end of the displayable area is approaching. (Step S150). In this case, when it is determined that the edge of the displayable area is approaching, it is determined that notification of provisional use or update is necessary.

  If it is determined that notification of provisional use or update is necessary (YES in step S150), the electronic control unit 18 notifies the user that the provisional use is possible or should be updated. (Step S151). At this time, it is notified that provisional use is possible or that it should be updated, and that the end of the displayable area is approaching.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that notification about temporary use or update is not necessary (NO in step S150), the map display process is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S143 that the right to use the target area map information has not been acquired, the process in step S147 described above is executed. Incidentally, the right of use of the area of interest map information when it is determined that the non-acquired, the fact and the like is notified to the user for example it is possible to provisionally used to that effect and the target area map information. Further, after it is determined that the right to use the target area map information is not acquired, if it is determined in step S147 that there is no instruction to update the target area map information, the target area map information cannot be displayed. Therefore, the process of step S148 is not executed.

  Next, a case where display of area map information for a place other than the current location (designated place) is instructed according to a user operation will be described. In this case, in step S141, it is determined that display of area map information for the designated place has been instructed.

  When it is determined that the display of the area map information for the designated place is instructed as described above (YES in step S141), the above-described steps S143 to S143 are performed using the area map information of the divided area including the designated place as the target area map information. Steps S152 to S158 corresponding to step S149 are executed.

  Note that the map display processing shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 is repeatedly executed in accordance with the movement of the vehicle in which the map information processing apparatus 10 is installed or the display of the area map information of the divided area including the designated place. .

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the area map information is not updated within the period according to the use frequency of the area map information calculated based on the use history information stored in the use history database. Is determined to be old. In the present embodiment, the area map information determined to be old is displayed (presented) by a method (for example, old texture) different from the normal display method.

  In the present embodiment, the area map information even when the area map information is not determined that the old may not be the latest version, the area map information is displayed in the old texture.

  Accordingly, in this embodiment, since it is possible to present to the user that the area map information is old, the user updates the presented area map information to the latest version of the area map information. It is possible to easily determine what to do.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, whether or not the area map information is old is determined based on whether or not the area map information is updated within a period according to the use frequency of the area map information. If it is determined that the information is old, the user is given an opportunity to update to the latest version of the area map information. Thereby, in this embodiment, since the area map information with high use frequency has high necessity for an update, many opportunities for the update with respect to the area map information with high use frequency can be given.

  In this embodiment, even when the area map information is not the latest version, the user can be given an opportunity to update the area map information.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. Further, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in each embodiment. Furthermore, it may be combined appropriately structural elements in different embodiments.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Map information processing apparatus, 11 ... Communication apparatus, 12 ... Display apparatus, 13 ... Clock (device), 14 ... Input device, 15 ... Odometer, 16 ... Position detector, 17 ... External storage device, 20 ... Information center.

Claims (10)

In the map information processing apparatus that displays the area map information of the divided areas,
An area map information database storing version information indicating a version of the area map information and a flag indicating whether the area map information is old;
First determination means for determining whether a flag stored in the area map information database indicates that the area map information is old;
If the first determination means determines that the flag does not indicate that the area map information is old, an acquisition means for acquiring from the outside version information indicating the latest version of the area map information;
A second determination means for determining whether the area map information is old by comparing the version information stored in the area map information database and the acquired version information;
When the first determination means determines that the flag indicates that the area map information is old, or when the area map information is determined to be old by the second determination means, the area map information is A map information processing apparatus comprising: presenting means for presenting an old message. In the map information processing apparatus that displays the area map information of the divided areas,
An area map information database storing purchase date information indicating the purchase date of the area map information and the area map information;
A clock device that provides the current date;
By comparing the purchase date of the area map information indicated by the purchase date information stored in the area map information database with the current date provided by the clock device, the period from the purchase date to the current date is calculated. A calculation means for calculating;
Setting means for setting a display pattern according to the calculated period;
A map information processing apparatus comprising: display means for displaying area map information stored in the area map information database in accordance with the set display pattern. In the map information processing apparatus that displays the area map information of the divided areas,
An area map information database storing the area map information, version information indicating a version of the area map information, and issue date information indicating an issue date of the area map information;
Determining means for determining whether or not communication with an external information center holding version information indicating the latest version of the area map information stored in the area map information database;
If it is determined that communication with the information center is possible, acquisition means for acquiring version information held in the information center;
A first difference between the version of the area map information indicated by the version information stored in the area map information database and the latest version of the area map information indicated by the acquired version information is calculated. A calculation means;
A clock device that provides the current date;
If it is determined that communication with the information center is not possible, a period from the issue date of the area map information indicated by the issue date information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock device Second calculating means for calculating the second difference;
Determining means for determining an image effect based on the first difference calculated by the first calculating means or the second difference calculated by the second calculating means;
Display processing means for executing processing for applying the determined image effect to the area map information stored in the area map information database;
A map information processing apparatus comprising: display means for displaying area map information subjected to the processing for applying the image effect. In the map information processing apparatus that displays the area map information of the divided areas,
An area map information database for storing area map incidental information such as the date of issue, the number of updates, the date of update, the travel distance at the time of update, the amount of off-route, etc. accompanying the area map information and the area map information;
Based on the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database, calculating means for calculating new and old parameters for representing the newness or oldness of the area map information stored in the area map information database;
First generation means for generating first area map information by performing a predetermined first image processing on the area map information stored in the area map information database;
A second area map information is generated by performing a second image process different from the predetermined first image process on the area map information stored in the area map information database. Means for generating
Based on the calculated old and new parameters, a third zone map information is generated by blending the first zone map information generated by the first generator and the second zone map information generated by the second generator. Third generation means for generating the area map information of
A map information processing apparatus comprising: display means for displaying the third area map information generated by the third generation means. In the map information processing apparatus that displays the area map information of the divided areas,
An area map information database storing purchase date information indicating the purchase date of the area map information and the area map information;
A usage history database for storing usage history information indicating a usage history of the area map information stored in the area map information database;
Based on the use history information stored in the use history database, calculation means for calculating the use frequency of the area map information stored in the area map information database;
A clock device that provides the current date;
A period from the purchase date of the area map information indicated by the purchase date information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock device is predetermined according to the calculated use frequency. A determination means for determining whether the period is equal to or longer than a period;
Presenting means for presenting that the area map information stored in the area map information database is old when it is determined that the period is not less than a predetermined period according to the frequency of use. Map information processing device. An external storage device having an area map information database for storing version information indicating the version of the area map information of the divided areas and a flag indicating whether or not the area map information is old, and electronic control using the external storage device In a map information processing apparatus composed of a device, a program executed by the electronic control device,
In the electronic control device,
Determining whether a flag stored in the area map information database indicates that the area map information is old;
If it is determined that the flag does not indicate that the area map information is old, obtaining from the outside version information indicating the latest version of the area map information;
Determining whether the area map information is old by comparing the version information stored in the area map information database and the acquired version information;
A program for executing a step of presenting that the area map information is old when the flag is determined to indicate that the area map information is old or when the area map information is determined to be old. An external storage device having an area map information database for storing area map information of the divided areas and purchase date information indicating a purchase date of the area map information, an electronic control device using the external storage device, and the current date A map information processing apparatus comprising a clock device that provides a program executed by the electronic control device,
In the electronic control device,
By comparing the purchase date of the area map information indicated by the purchase date information stored in the area map information database with the current date provided by the clock device, the period from the purchase date to the current date is calculated. A calculating step;
Setting a display pattern according to the calculated period;
Displaying the area map information stored in the area map information database in accordance with the set display pattern. An external storage device having an area map information database for storing area map information of the divided areas, version information indicating the version of the area map information, and issue date information indicating the issue date of the area map information, and the external storage device In a map information processing apparatus composed of an electronic control device that uses a clock and a clock device that provides the current date, a program executed by the electronic control device,
In the electronic control device,
Determining whether communication with an external information center holding version information indicating the latest version of the area map information stored in the area map information database is possible;
When it is determined that communication with the information center is possible, obtaining version information held in the information center;
Calculating a first difference between the version of the area map information indicated by the version information stored in the area map information database and the latest version of the area map information indicated by the acquired version information;
If it is determined that communication with the information center is not possible, a period from the issue date of the area map information indicated by the issue date information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock device Calculating as a second difference;
Determining an image effect based on the calculated first difference or second difference;
Executing a process of applying the determined image effect to the area map information stored in the area map information database;
Displaying the area map information on which the process of applying the image effect has been executed. The outside which has the area map information database which stores the area map information of the divided area and the area map accompanying information such as the date of issue, the number of updates, the update date, the travel distance at the time of update, and the amount of off-route In a map information processing apparatus composed of a storage device and an electronic control device using the external storage device, a program executed by the electronic control device,
In the electronic control device,
Calculating old and new parameters for representing the newness or oldness of the area map information stored in the area map information database based on the area map incidental information stored in the area map information database;
Generating first area map information by performing predetermined first image processing on area map information stored in the area map information database;
Generating second area map information by performing second image processing different from the predetermined first image processing on area map information stored in the area map information database; ,
Generating third area map information by blending the generated first area map information and second area map information based on the calculated old and new parameters;
A program for displaying the generated third area map information. Area map information database storing the area map information of the divided areas and the purchase date information indicating the purchase date of the area map information, and the use history information indicating the use history of the area map information stored in the area map information database In a map information processing apparatus comprising an external storage device having a use history database for storing the electronic storage device, an electronic control device that uses the external storage device, and a clock device that provides the current date, A program to be executed,
In the electronic control device,
Calculating the use frequency of the area map information stored in the area map information database based on the use history information stored in the use history database;
A period from the purchase date of the area map information indicated by the purchase date information stored in the area map information database to the current date provided by the clock device is predetermined according to the calculated use frequency. Determining whether it is greater than or equal to a period;
A program for executing the step of presenting that the area map information stored in the area map information database is old when it is determined that the period is longer than a predetermined period according to the use frequency.

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