JP2011506985A - Navigation device and method for reporting traffic conditions by a driver - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for operating a portable navigation device (PND) or navigation system is described along with a PND and navigation system capable of performing the method and a computer program for performing the method. The method provides a means by which a user can identify a specific location or range of locations on the earth, including the current location of the device or navigation system, and at least temporarily stores the location or range in memory. Including the step of. The method further includes providing the user with a plurality of user-selectable options, each indicating a plurality of temporary phenomena, wherein the selection of the at least one option associates the phenomenon with the identified location or range. The primary information is stored together. The method is further characterized in that after the primary information is stored, it is transmitted to the remote device by wireless or physical connection. The transient phenomenon is a phenomenon that will affect current or future traffic flow and movement near a specific location or range and towards a specific location or range. The current or future path may include at least one of the phenomena that may be of interest to the user of other devices having a path that passes through or adjacent to a specific location or range . In the former case, the temporary phenomena are traffic congestion characteristics and / or details, accident and accident details, route detours, closures and regulations including road works and repairs, and current It may be at least one of local weather conditions and special vehicle identification that is very wide, heavy and slow among other vehicles.
[Selection] Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an improved navigation apparatus and method.

Portable navigation devices (PNDs) including GPS (Global Positioning System) signal reception and processing means are well known, and are widely installed as in-vehicle navigation systems. Modern PNDs are essentially
A processor;
Memory (at least one of volatile and non-volatile, both in common);
Map data stored in the memory;
Software driving the system and any at least one additional program executed thereon to control the function of the device and provide various features;
A GPS antenna for receiving a satellite broadcast signal containing location information and then processing to determine the current location of the device;
A signal that can be processed to determine the current angular and linear acceleration in relation to the position information obtained from the GPS signal, the velocity and the associated displacement of the device, ie the vehicle in which it is mounted. Any electronic gyroscope and accelerometer to generate,
For example, input / output means including a visual display (which may be a touch panel to allow user input), at least one physical button for controlling on / off operation, and for audible output Speakers,
Any power supply and any at least one data signal that can be transmitted to and received from the device; and
And any at least one wireless transmitter / receiver that allows mobile phone communications such as Wi-Fi, Wi-MAX GSM, etc. and communications over other signal and data networks.

  The usefulness of PND is manifested primarily in the ability to determine the path between the start or current location and the destination. It can be entered by the user into the computing device by any of a variety of different methods, such as a zip code, street name or street number, a previously saved known favorite or recently visited destination, etc. Typically, PND is enabled by software to calculate the “best” or “optimum” path between the start address location and the destination address location from the map data. The “best” or “optimal” route is determined based on predetermined criteria and need not be the fastest or shortest route. The selection of the route to guide the driver can be highly sophisticated, and the selected route will include the current predicted dynamically and / or wirelessly received traffic road information and a history of road speed. Information and driver preferences for factors that determine road selection may be considered. In addition, the device may continuously monitor the road traffic information and may choose to propose or change the route for the remaining route according to the changed conditions. Real-time traffic monitoring systems are used to identify traffic delays and provide information to notification systems based on various technologies (eg, mobile phone calls, fixed cameras, GPS vehicle tracking).

  The navigation device may typically be mounted on a vehicle dashboard. However, it may be formed as part of an on-board computer for a vehicle or car radio. The navigation apparatus may be (part of) a portable system such as a PDA (Personal Navigation Device), a media player, or a mobile phone. And in those cases, the normal functionality of the portable system is extended by the installation of software on the device to perform both route calculation and navigation along the calculated route. In any case, once the route is calculated, the user interacts with the navigation device to arbitrarily select the desired calculated route from the list of suggested routes. The user may arbitrarily guide or interfere with the route selection process by specifying a route, road, position, or reference that should be avoided or specified as being essential for a specific route. PND route calculation is one main function provided, and navigation along such a route is another main function. During navigation along the calculated route, the PND provides visual and / or audible instructions and guides the user along the selected route to the end of the route, ie the desired destination. It is normal for PNDs to display map information on the screen during navigation, and when the device is used for navigation in the car, the displayed map information is the user or the device corresponding to the user's vehicle. Such information is periodically updated on the screen to represent the current location. The icon displayed on the screen representatively shows the current position of the device, and is located in the center together with map information of the current and surrounding roads. The other map features are displayed in the same manner. In addition, the map information on which the navigation information is displayed may be arbitrarily displayed on one side, the upper or lower status bar. For example, navigation information that includes the distance from the current road that is required to be obtained by the user to the next departure, for example, the status of the deviation represented by a further icon that indicates that particular type of departure For example, a left turn or a right turn. The navigation function determines the content, duration and timing of audible instructions that the user can be guided along the route. As can be seen, a simple instruction such as “turn left at 100 m” requires a great deal of processing and analysis. As described above, the dialogue with the user's device may be performed by a touch panel, or may be additionally or alternatively by remote control with a steering column, or may be activated by voice or by other appropriate methods.

  A further important function provided by the device is automatic path recalculation. It is in the following cases.

  The user deviates from the previously calculated route during navigation.

  Real-time traffic conditions indicate that the alternative route is more convenient and that the device can properly recognize such conditions automatically.

  Or, the user actively causes the device to recalculate the path for any reason.

  It is well known that routes are calculated according to user-defined criteria. For example, the user may prefer a sightseeing route calculated by the device. Alternatively, it may be desired to avoid roads that are currently widening due to predicted traffic congestion. The device software then calculates the various routes, for example tagged as a scenic spot, or tagged along the route as using stored information indicating widespread traffic conditions on a particular road. It would prefer to evaluate routes that contain many points of interest (known as POIs) and order the calculated routes for possible levels of congestion or delay. Other POI-based and traffic information-based route calculations and navigation criteria are possible as well.

  Although route calculation and navigation functions are essential to the overall utility of the PND, it is possible to use the device purely for displaying information. That is, “free driving”. In that case, only map information relating to the current device position is displayed. In that case, no route is calculated, and the current navigation by the device is not performed. Such modes of operation are often applied when a user desires to travel along a route that does not require navigation assistance.

  More modern PNDs include not only an essential GPS antenna that can receive satellite signals, but also a second mobile telecommunications antenna that can effectively make the device part of a mobile telecommunications network. Typically, the device further comprises an integrated or removable subscriber identity module (SIM) card, which identifies the device to the network and enables communication over the network. There are various data required to encode and decode a signal suitable for this purpose.

  It is also well known today that PNDs and navigation systems are equipped with shorter range wireless communication means. For example, there is a Wi-Fi antenna that facilitates a pair of devices, along with Bluetooth®, other similar devices that can be used, and well-known portable communication handsets. Both of these technologies are previously passive devices, ie devices that only provide in-vehicle navigation and route guidance functions based on continuous and repeated determination of the device's current location from the received GPS signals. On the other hand, it can be an active device that can return information to a centralized data processing service via a wider telecommunications network.

  In this regard, US6253151 states that end users of navigation systems that use geographic data may experience other problems such as poor quality route calculations and over-the-air guidance, as well as recognized errors and inaccuracies in geographic data. Describes features that can easily be reported accurately. End users use the navigation system's user interface to point out recognized errors, inaccuracies and other problems. The navigation system includes a report program that operates in response to end user indications. The report program collects information indicating errors, inaccuracies and other problems and sends a report containing the collected information to the geographic database developer. The geographic database developer can update the geographic database with the information in the report.

  However, the above system is of interest by ensuring that the map data provider's centralized geographic or map database is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as opposed to providing non-map related data. . The provision of non-map-related data means, for example, road construction, temporary detours and road closures, traffic jams, accidents, traffic flows, and movements. It is a temporary phenomenon such as other temporary incidents or events that must not be.

US Pat. No. 6,253,151

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a PND that provides an improved configuration for reporting transient phenomena, a navigation system, the above operating method, and a computer program that controls the above.

  The present invention is a method for operating a PND or a navigation system, the method being identifiable with reference to map data stored locally in the device or system and being a current location or the current Optionally including a location, providing a means for a particular location or range of locations to be stored at least temporarily in memory, and multiple user selectable options each indicating a plurality of temporal phenomena. And the selection of at least one option stores the phenomenon in association with an identified location or range, both as primary information, and the primary information is subsequently transmitted to the remote device. To provide a method.

  Preferably, the present invention may include embodiments where the apparatus or system is given an opportunity to associate a particular transient phenomenon with a particular location or range when such a phenomenon occurs. The primary information is subsequently transmitted wirelessly. The primary information is then stored in the device or system for later transmission to the remote device over a physical connection. For example, when the device or system is connected to a remote PC or a suitable or suitable device by USB or other cable connecting to the PC or a suitable or suitable device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method allows the user to record descriptive secondary information about the phenomenon or the associated position or range after association and storage of the phenomenon or the range for the phenomenon. Further comprising providing further options, wherein the secondary information is additionally stored at least temporarily associated with one of the location or range and the primary information and later stored on a remote device. It is transmitted wirelessly.

  Preferably, the secondary information is transmitted wirelessly with the primary information substantially simultaneously or immediately continuously.

  Most preferably, the secondary information is at least one of an alphanumeric format and a digitized audio format, the former being input by a user via the touch panel of the device, and the latter being the device or system Are recorded via a microphone provided as a part of.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method includes providing an option for entering an audio recording mode. Selection of that option causes the device or system to activate the microphone, initiate digitization of the received audio signal, and store it in a digital audio file for streaming.

  More preferably, during or after completion of the recording, the digital audio file is associated with at least one of the primary information and the location or range that forms part.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method includes providing a user with an option of an alphanumeric character input mode, and the selection of the option causes the device or system to display a virtual keyboard on a display screen and be input by the user. A text file is created and opened at the same time in a memory storing alphanumeric characters.

  Most preferably, during or after generation of the text file, the text file is associated with at least one of the primary information and the position or range that forms a part.

  Preferably, said transient phenomenon affects current or future traffic flow and movement near said specific location or range, and towards said specific location or range. And a phenomenon that may be of interest to users of other devices that have a path that the current or future path travels through or adjacent to the specific location or range. One of these types. Preferably, in the former case, the temporary phenomenon comprises traffic jam characteristics and / or details, accidents and details of the accidents, detours of travel paths, closures and regulations including road works and repairs, At least one of current local weather conditions and special vehicle identification that is very wide and heavy and slow.

  According to a further aspect of the invention, a computer-readable, if necessary, provided to carry out the above method, as well as a PND and / or navigation system configured to carry out the described method. A computer program embodied on a simple medium.

  As an alternative, the PND or navigation system may not include a mobile telecommunications antenna, such as provided by other devices that can communicate on the mobile telecommunications network or by local mobile phones. In this aspect, the PND or navigation system can communicate with the local mobile device for transmission to the local mobile device so that the primary and secondary information is first transmitted subsequently over the wireless telecommunications network. A short-range wireless antenna may be provided by establishing communication.

  As can be seen from the above, the present invention provides a real-time or pseudo-real-time indication of a transient event to a remote device or system for verification, verification, and subsequent reply to other suitable available devices. Provide a means of reporting. Most preferably, implemented in a wireless telecommunications network, the appropriate usable device effectively forms a node of the network.

  In addition, the configuration for reporting transient events provides a more legitimate and acceptable means of communicating transient traffic, accidents, and path phenomena than using a mobile phone while driving. provide. It is illegal today in many countries if the vehicle is not applied to a hands-free system. As a further advantage, the information quality available to the user base of properly enabled devices (such as having mobile telecommunications capabilities) is significantly improved.

  For example, when one or a few users report an accident at a specific location on a congested roadway at or immediately after an accident, the traffic jam is predicted by the remote device that transmitted the information. In particular, this is the case where the traffic volume level as a history is known for a specific time and the corresponding roadway. That information can be returned on an active user base installed across all available devices. Available devices can identify information to the user and, if the user desires, can provide an opportunity before the appropriate route recalculation.

It is a figure which shows an example of a global positioning system (GPS). It is a figure which shows an example of the block diagram of the electronic element of a navigation apparatus. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a manner in which a navigation device can receive information on a wireless communication channel. FIG. 6 illustrates execution of an embodiment of a navigation device. FIG. 6 illustrates execution of an embodiment of a navigation device. FIG. 4 shows a basic screen shot from a device that can be used with the present invention.

  The present application will be described by way of example embodiments with reference to the drawings and will be described in more detail below.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a global positioning system (GPS) that can be used by a navigation device. Such systems are known and are used for various purposes. In general, GPS is a satellite radio based navigation system that can determine continuous position, velocity, time, and in some cases, direction information for an unlimited number of users. As once known as NAVSTAR, GPS includes a plurality of satellites that move with the earth in highly accurate orbits. Based on these precise orbits, GPS satellites can relay their position to the receiver.

  In particular, the GPS system is implemented when a device equipped to receive GPS data starts scanning radio frequencies for GPS satellite signals. When receiving a radio signal from a GPS satellite, the device determines the exact location of the satellite by one of a number of different conventional methods. The device often continues scanning the signal until it has acquired signals for at least three different satellites (position is determined by only two signals using other triangulation techniques, although not usual). When performing geographic triangulation, the receiver utilizes three known positions to determine a two-dimensional position with respect to the satellite. This is done in a known manner. Additionally, obtaining the fourth satellite signal allows the receiving device to calculate the three-dimensional position by the same geographical calculation in a known manner. This position and velocity data can be updated in real time by an unlimited number of users in a continuous manner.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the GPS system is generally indicated by reference numeral 100. The plurality of satellites 120 are in orbit about the earth 124. The orbit of each artificial satellite 120 does not necessarily have to be synchronized with the orbits of other artificial satellites 120, and in fact, tends to be asynchronous. The GPS receiver 140 is shown to receive spread spectrum GPS satellite signals 160 from various satellites 120.

  The spread spectrum signal 160 is transmitted continuously from each satellite 120 and uses a very accurate frequency reference obtained by a very accurate atomic clock. Each artificial satellite 120 is a part of the data signal transmission unit 160 and transmits a data stream indicating a specific artificial satellite 120. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the GPS receiver 140 generally obtains a spread spectrum GPS satellite signal 160 from at least three satellites 120 for the GPS receiver 140 and performs two-dimensional triangulation. Calculate the position of. The acquisition of the additional signal results in a signal 160 from a total of four artificial satellites 120, but the GPS receiver 140 can calculate a three-dimensional position by a known method. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of electronic elements of the navigation device 200 in the form of block elements. It should be noted that the block diagram of the navigation device 200 does not include all the elements of the navigation device, but only shows many representative elements.

  The navigation device 200 is located in a housing (not shown). The housing includes a processor 210 connected to the input device 220 and a display screen 240. Input device 220 may include a keyboard device, a voice input device, a touch panel and / or other known input devices used to input information. Display screen 240 can include any type of display screen, such as an LCD display. The input device 220 and the display screen 240 are integrated into an integrated input display device, and include a touch pad or a touch panel, and select one of a plurality of display selections or activate one of a plurality of virtual buttons. Therefore, only a part of the display screen 240 needs to be touched.

  In addition, other types of output devices 250 can include, but are not limited to, audible output devices. The output device 241 is equally understood as being capable of generating audible information to the user of the navigation device 200, and as such, the input device 240 is also a microphone for receiving input voice commands. Software can be included. In navigation device 200, processor 210 is operatively connected to be configured to receive input information from input device 240 via connection 225. Then, it is operatively connected to at least one of the display screen 240 and the output device 241 via the output connection unit 245, and outputs information there. Further, processor 210 is operatively connected to memory 230 via connection 235 and receives / transmits information from / to input / output (I / O) port 270 via connection 275. Further configured. As a feature, the I / O port 270 can be connected to an I / O device 280 outside the navigation device 200. The external I / O device 270 may include an external bug such as an earphone, but is not particularly limited thereto. The connection to the I / O device 280 is an external device such as a car stereo for connection to an earphone or headphone such as hands-free operation and / or voice-operated operation, and / or connection to a mobile phone or the like. It may be a wired or wireless connection to. As a feature, the connection of the mobile phone is to establish a data connection between the navigation device 200 and the Internet or another network, and / or to connect to a server via the Internet or another network. It may be used to establish.

  The navigation device 200 is connected to the server 302 via a mobile device 400 (eg, mobile phone, PDA, and / or other mobile phone technology) that establishes a digital connection (eg, a digital connection via known Bluetooth technology). A “mobile body”, that is, a telecommunications network may be established. Thereafter, the mobile device 400 can establish a network connection (via the Internet or the like) with the server 302 via the network service provider. As such, a “mobile” network connection is established between the navigation device 200 (often mobile when moved alone and / or in a vehicle) and the server 302 in real time. Or at least a gateway for very up-to-date information can be provided.

  Establishment of a network connection between the portable device 400 (via a service provider) and another device such as the server 302 can be performed by a known method using the Internet 410 or the like. This can include, for example, the use of a TCP / IP structured protocol. The portable device 400 can use communication standards such as CDMA, GSM, and WAN.

  As such, the Internet connection may be utilized while being realized via a data connection, for example via a mobile phone technology or a mobile phone within the navigation device 200. For that connection, an internet connection between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 is established. This can be done, for example, via a mobile phone or other portable device and a GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) connection (GPRS connection is a high-speed data connection for portable devices provided by a telecommunications operator Is a way to connect to the internet).

  The navigation device 200 can further complete the connection between the portable device 400 and finally the Internet 410 and the server 302 by a known method such as existing Bluetooth technology. As a feature, the data protocol can utilize various standards such as data protocol standards for GSRM, GSM standards, for example.

  The navigation device 200 may include its own mobile phone technology within the navigation device 200 itself (including an antenna or the like, further characterized in that the internal antenna of the navigation device 200 can be used instead). The mobile phone technology in the navigation device 200 can include internal elements as specified above and / or can include an insertable card (subscriber identity module, ie SIM card), Necessary mobile phone technology and / or an antenna can be provided. As such, mobile phone technology within the navigation device 200 can establish a network connection between the navigation device 200 and the server 302 via the Internet 410 in a manner similar to any portable device 400.

  For GRPS phone settings, Bluetooth capable devices may be used to operate accurately in a once modified spectrum, such as a mobile phone model or manufacturer. The model / manufacturer specific settings may be stored on the navigation device 200, for example. Data stored for that information can be updated.

  FIG. 2 further illustrates a connection that operates between the processor 210 and the antenna / receiver 250 via connection 255. As a feature, the antenna / receiver 250 may be a GPS antenna / receiver or the like. It will be appreciated that the antenna and receiver designated by reference numeral 250 are illustratively coupled for illustration. However, the antenna and receiver may be separately located elements, and the antenna may be, for example, a GPS patch antenna or a helical antenna.

  Further, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the electronic elements shown in FIG. 2 are powered by a power source (not shown) in a conventional manner.

  As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, different configurations of the elements shown in FIG. 2 are contemplated within the scope of the present application. For example, the elements shown in FIG. 2 may communicate with each other via a wired and / or wireless connection or the like. Accordingly, the scope of the navigation device 200 of the present application includes a portable or handheld navigation device 200.

  In addition, the portable or handheld navigation device 200 of FIG. 2 can be connected or docked in a known manner to an electric vehicle such as a car or boat, for example. Such a navigation device 200 is then removed from the docked position for portable or handheld use.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of a block diagram of a navigation device and a server 302 that can communicate via a general communication channel 318. The server 302 and the navigation device 200 can communicate if a connection via the communication channel 318 is established between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 (where such a connection is, for example, over the Internet). A direct connection via a personal computer or a data connection via a portable device). Server 302 includes a processor 304 that is operatively connected to memory 306 and further operably connected to mass data storage device 312 in a wired or wireless manner, in addition to other elements not shown. The processor 304 is further operatively connected to the transmitter 308 and the receiver 310 and transmits information to the navigation device 200 via the communication channel 318. The transmitted and received signals may include data, communications, and / or other propagated signals. The transmitter 308 and the receiver 310 may be selected or designed according to communication specifications and communication techniques used in the communication design of the navigation system 200. Further, the functions of transmitter 308 and receiver 310 may be combined as a signal transceiver. The server 302 may be further connected (or included) to the mass storage device 312. Here, the mass storage device 312 may be coupled to the server 302 via the communication link 314. The mass storage device 312 includes storage of navigation data and map information. It can then be separated from the server 302 and incorporated into the server 302.

  The navigation device 200 is configured to communicate with the server 302 via a communication channel 318. And like the transmitter 320 and the receiver 322 that transmit and receive signals and / or data via the communication channel 318, as described above with reference to FIG. Here, these devices can be used to communicate with devices other than the server 302. Furthermore, the transmitter 320 and the receiver 322 are selected or designed according to communication specifications and communication techniques used in the communication design of the navigation device 200. Then, the functions of the transmitter 320 and the receiver 322 may be combined into a single transceiver.

  The software stored in the server memory 306 provides instructions to the processor 304 and allows the server 302 to provide services to the navigation device 200. One service provided by the server 302 includes processing a request from the navigation device 200 and transmitting navigation data from the mass storage device 312 to the navigation device 200. Other services provided by the server 302 include processing navigation data using various algorithms for the desired application and sending the results of the calculation to the navigation device 200.

  Communication channel 318 generally represents a path or propagation medium connecting navigation device 200 and server 302. Server 302 and navigation device 200 include a transmitter that transmits data via a communication channel and a receiver that receives data transmitted via the communication channel. The communication channel 318 is not particularly limited to communication technology. Additionally, the communication channel 318 may include several communication links that use various technologies. For example, the communication channel 318 can be configured to provide a path for electrical, optical, and / or electromagnetic communications. As such, the communication channel 318 includes, but is not limited to, one of a combination of electrical circuits, electrical conductors such as conductors and coaxial cables, optical fiber cables, converters, radio (rf) waves, air and free space, etc. Including. Further, the communication channel 318 can include intermediate devices such as routers, repeaters, buffers, transmitters, receivers, and the like.

  For example, the communication channel 318 includes a telephone and a computer network. Further, the communication channel 318 may correspond to wireless communication such as radio frequency, microwave frequency, and infrared communication. Additionally, the communication channel 318 can accommodate satellite communications.

  The communication signal transmitted via the communication channel 318 is not limited and may be required or desired for a given communication technology. For example, the signal may be configured to be used in mobile phone communication technologies such as time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access, code division multiple access, global system for mobile communications (GSM), etc. . Both digital and analog signals can be transmitted over the communication channel 318. These signals may be modulated, encrypted, and / or compressed signals as desired for communication technologies.

  Server 302 includes a remote server accessible by navigation device 200 via a wireless channel. Server 302 may include a network server located on a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a virtual private network (VPN).

  Server 302 may include a personal computer, such as a desktop or laptop computer, and communication channel 318 may be a cable connected between the personal computer and navigation device 200. Alternatively, the personal computer may be connected between the navigation device 200 and the server 302, and an Internet connection may be established between the server 302 and the navigation device 200. Alternatively, a mobile phone or other handheld device may establish a wireless connection to the Internet in order to connect the navigation device 200 to the server 302 via the Internet.

  The navigation device 200 may be provided with information from the server 302 by downloading information. Downloading the information may be periodically updated when the user connects the navigation device 200 to the server 302 and / or navigation with the server 302 via a wireless portable connection device, TCP / IP connection, or the like. It may be updated dynamically when the connection with the device 200 is constant or frequent. For many dynamic calculations, the processor 304 of the server 302 may be used to handle a large amount of processing needs, but the processor 210 of the navigation device 200 is also often independent of the connection to the server 302. Can handle more processing and calculations.

  As shown above in FIG. 2, the navigation device 200 includes a processor 210, an input device 220, and a display screen 240. The input device 220 and the display screen 240 are integrated into an integrated input display device, and both information input (direct input, menu selection, etc.) and information display via a touch panel screen are possible. Such a screen may be a touch input LCD screen as is well known to those skilled in the art. Further, the navigation device 200 can include an additional input device 220 such as a voice input / output device and / or an additional output device 241.

  4A and 4B are perspective views of the navigation device 200. FIG. As shown in FIG. 4A, the navigation device 200 may be a single unit that includes an integrated input display device 290 (eg, a touch panel screen) and the other elements of FIG. 2 (but is not limited to an internal GPS receiver). 250, microprocessor 210, power supply, memory system 220, etc.).

  The navigation device 200 may be positioned on the arm 292 and secured to the vehicle dashboard / window, etc., using a large suction cup itself. This arm 292 is an example of a docking station to which the navigation device 200 can be docked.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the navigation device 200 may be docked or connected to the docking station arm 292 by, for example, connecting the navigation device 292 to the arm 292 in a click (this is an example). And other known alternatives for connection to the docking station are within the scope of the present application). The navigation device 200 can then rotate on the arm 292 as shown by the arrow in FIG. 4B. To release the connection between the navigation device 200 and the docking station, for example, a button on the navigation device 200 may be pressed (this is an example and other known for disconnecting from the docking station) Alternative methods are within the scope of this application).

  Referring to FIG. 5, a series of screenshots illustrating an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In the screen shot 500, the apparatus displays map information 502 and a display 504 of the current position. In addition, an icon 506 that can be selected by the user is displayed. This is optional and this icon forms part of the underlying menu structure consisting of a variety of different icons that are accessed simply by touching the display screen while the map information is displayed. Also good. However, in any event, the device provides several means so that the user can provide an indication to the device that he wants to report an incident or some kind of temporary phenomenon. . In the present embodiment, the icon 506 is related to a traffic situation report. Selection of an icon on this screen causes the device to enter traffic report mode, as shown at 508.

  In this mode, as shown by the screen shot 510, the map information 502 and the current position display 504 continue to be displayed, but instead an icon 512 that can be selected by any user is displayed, and the device is in the traffic condition report mode. To the user.

  In this mode, the current speed of the vehicle (measured by the device) is compared to the expected traffic speed of the road network on which the device is currently moving. This may additionally be determined by the device from a comparison of the current geographical location of the device and the underlying map data stored in the device's memory. If the vehicle speed is slower than the expected traffic speed stored in the device's memory for that particular type of road (instead, this data is derived from the map data speed limit information for the current road The vehicle position and the current vehicle speed may ideally be provided with a suitable antenna and a suitable subscriber identification module, resulting in a mobile telecommunications network formed by the device, Sent to the remote data processing server. If the current speed of the vehicle is not slower than the expected traffic speed, the device exits the “traffic situation report mode”.

  During "traffic situation report mode", the device ideally transmits the current speed and position wirelessly every 30 seconds. This continues until one of the following conditions is met:

  1. Vehicle speed increased to the expected traffic speed on the road for at least 30 seconds.

  2. The user has reached the destination (when the route is planned).

  3. The device is turned off.

  If any of the above conditions is met, the device automatically exits the “traffic situation report mode” and the “traffic situation report” icon 512 is replaced with a “traffic situation report” icon 506.

  As described above, the “traffic status report” 512 is effectively reported to a centralized processing center for subsequent retransmission to other users in the installed device user base. A user may be selectable to further display a specific icon indicating a temporary local incident related to the specific type of traffic. For example, selection of icon 512 causes the screen shot shown at 514 to be displayed, where many other specific icons are displayed for a particular type of traffic-related transient phenomenon. In particular, these are a “width over” icon 516, a “major accident” icon 518, a “mild accident” icon 520, a “temporary detour” icon 522, and a “bad weather” icon 526. Of course, it is also possible to return to the display of the map information shown in the screen shot 510 by selecting these icons. Alternatively, a further menu structure may be displayed, so that it can be secondary in the device, either alphanumeric or by voice if the device is equipped with a microphone or software that allows the recording of spoken words. Information may be input.

  After selecting one of the icons shown in screen shot 514, the device returns to displaying the map information shown in screen shot 510, and automatic saving of certain types of temporary phenomena depends on the selected icon. Is performed in the apparatus.

  In an alternative embodiment, selection of icon 506 in screen shot 500 may immediately display a screen shot that includes a series of icons as displayed at 514. In this embodiment, the device is in a situation until one of the icons 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526 is selected in order to properly identify a particular type of temporary situation, event, or phenomenon. Not in report mode. The device then returns to 510 screen shot.

  In a preferred embodiment, the present invention may provide features for automated traffic situation reports. Therefore, when selected or enabled, the device is periodically updated with the current device speed and the expected travel speed for the particular road network element or segment the device is moving at the time of comparison. Options are provided as part of the device software to be compared. The period of comparison may be adjustable or may be predetermined such as at 10 second intervals. If the automatic situation report feature is enabled, if the route is planned and the device provides navigation for the route to the user, regardless of whether the device is in free driving mode or navigation mode A comparison should occur.

  Optionally, after being enabled, the feature of the automatic traffic report may only be “active” when the speed of the device reaches the expected travel speed of the current road network element. This is done so that no circumstances are reported if the device is stationary at the beginning of the journey or just after the power is turned on. Otherwise, the feature can be activated as soon as the device starts moving and false traffic data will be reported.

  Whenever the current speed of the navigation device falls below 80% of the expected travel speed for the current road network element, the device will identify the road element in some form along with the current speed. Upload to the backend processing, verification and / or matching configuration, ideally using a wireless data connection (eg, GPRS, WiFi, 3G) as described above.

  Typically, the following is ideally performed when information is received regarding the configuration of the remote back-end processing that performs verification and / or verification with traffic situation information received wirelessly.

  The traffic report is converted into a unified traffic format.

  Traffic conditions may be assigned to a valid period, for example a default valid period of 30 minutes. Optionally, the validity period of a circumstance depends on the type of circumstance (if one is identified) or by analysis of the severity of the circumstance (a situation where a 30% speed reduction situation is shorter than an 80% speed reduction) May be set).

  Traffic conditions reports for adjacent and connected road network elements are combined into a single traffic situation.

  A traffic report is sent to the installed user base of the device as part of the overall traffic report service (optionally provided to the device owner on the subscriber base). Identification of traffic conditions and general traffic flow information from other governmental and / or commercial sources is also included.

Claims (25)

A method of operating a PND or navigation system, wherein the method is a current position or optionally includes the current position, and means for a particular position or position range to be stored at least temporarily in memory. Providing a process;
Providing the user with at least one first user-selectable option indicating at least one transient phenomenon to be reported;
By selecting the option, the phenomenon is stored as primary information together, either immediately or later, associated with a position or range identified now or later,
The primary information is subsequently transmitted to the remote device;
A method characterized by that. The selection of the first option puts the device or system into report mode, where the current speed of the device or the average speed since activation of the report mode is periodically determined for the road on which the device or system is currently moving. Determined relative to the stored speed, derived or appropriate for the type,
The method according to claim 1. From the comparison,
If the speed of the device is within a predetermined threshold of the stored speed for a road type, or greater than or equal to the threshold, exit the report mode, or
If the speed of the device does not meet any criteria, the primary information is periodically generated and subsequently transmitted.
The method according to claim 2.   4. The method of claim 3, wherein in report mode, user selectable icons are displayed with map information on the display of the device. By selecting the user selectable icon, at least one user selectable item is displayed on the display of the device;
The item represents at least one specific type of the specific transient phenomenon;
Associating information representing a particular type of phenomenon with the location or range of locations by selecting the item;
The method according to claim 4.   6. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the primary information is transmitted wirelessly to a remote device. Providing the user with further options to record descriptive secondary information about the phenomenon or associated location or range after association and storage of the phenomenon or range for the phenomenon;
The secondary information is additionally stored at least temporarily associated with one of the location or range and the primary information forming part thereof, and later transmitted to a remote device.
7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that   The method of claim 7, wherein the secondary information is transmitted wirelessly and simultaneously or immediately continuously with the primary information.   9. A method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the secondary information is at least one of an alphanumeric format and a digitized speech format.   The method of claim 9, wherein the secondary information is in alphanumeric form and is input by a user via a touch panel of the device or system.   The method of claim 9, wherein the secondary information is in a digitized audio format and is recorded via a microphone provided as part of the device or system. Providing the user with an audio recording mode option that, if selected, causes the device or system to activate the microphone and initiate digitization of the audio signal;
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the digital audio file is stored in a streaming manner in the memory of the device or system. During or after completion of the recording,
Associating said digital audio file with at least one of said primary information and said location or range forming part thereof;
The method according to claim 12. Providing the user with an option of an alphanumeric character input mode;
By selecting the option, the device or system displays a virtual keyboard on a display screen, and simultaneously generates and opens a text file in a memory that stores alphanumeric characters input by the user.
The method according to claim 10. During or after generation of the text file
Associating said text file with at least one of said primary information and said position or range forming part thereof;
15. The method of claim 14, wherein: The temporary phenomenon is
A phenomenon that will affect current or future traffic flows and movements near, and towards, the particular location or range;
Any one of the types of phenomena that may be of interest to users of other devices that have a path that the current or future path travels through or adjacent to the specific location or range 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that A phenomenon in which the phenomenon will affect current or future traffic flows and movements near, and towards, the specific location or range. Yes,
The temporary phenomena include traffic jam characteristics and / or details, accidents and details of the accident, detours of the roadway, closures and regulations including road construction and repairs, and current local weather conditions. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that it is at least one of special vehicle identification such as very wide, heavy and slow. Displaying map information on a touch panel of the device or system during navigation mode or free driving mode,
The display and the device or system is responsive to touch to display at least one user-selectable descriptor indicative of at least one feature provided by the device;
One of the features is to input a transient phenomenon specific to the location or range.
18. A method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that The report mode is an automatic traffic situation report mode, and the comparison is performed periodically and continuously except during the startup of the device or system,
When the device or system determines that the current speed does not meet at least one predetermined criterion, primary information is periodically generated and automatically transmitted to the remote device.
The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that   A computer program for carrying out the method and system according to any one of claims 1 to 19.   A machine-readable storage medium storing the computer program according to claim 20. A portable navigation device (PND) including at least a GPS signal receiving means, a processing means, a memory, and a display,
The PND is configured to at least temporarily store a specific position or position range, optionally whether it is or includes the current position;
The device provides at least a user with a user selectable first option indicative of at least one transient phenomenon;
By selecting the option, the phenomenon is associated with the identified position or range and stored together as primary information;
The device includes a configuration in which the primary information is subsequently transmitted to a remote device;
PND characterized by this. A touch panel,
23. A PND according to claim 22 configured to perform the method of any one of claims 2-19. A navigation system including at least a GPS signal receiving means, a processing means, a memory, and a display,
The system is configured to at least temporarily store a specific position or range of positions, optionally whether it is or includes the current position;
The system provides the user with at least a first user selectable option indicating at least one transient phenomenon;
By selecting the option, the phenomenon is associated with the identified position or range and stored together as primary information;
The system includes a configuration in which the primary information is subsequently transmitted to a remote device;
A navigation system characterized by that. A touch panel,
25. A navigation system according to claim 24, configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 2 to 19.

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