JP2012197079A - Route search system, route search method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the convenience of a user in searching a route to reach a destination by using a transportation system allowing the acquisition of a utilization ticket for a fixed section beforehand or the other transportation system allowing the use of a specific payment system.SOLUTION: The route search system comprises a route network information storage (106) for storing route network information showing lines of facilities for travel; input parts (206a, 206b, 235) receiving the input information of a departure point, a destination and a designated line among lines to be used from the departure point to the destination; route search parts (104, 231) preparing the information of the route from the departure point to the destination including at least a part of the designated line based on information of the departure point, the destination and the designated line section referring to the route network information when a predetermined conditions are fulfilled; and output parts (202, 232) outputting the route.

Description

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

  Conventionally, a route search using a computer or a mobile phone has been performed. In one technique, the user connects to the Internet from the mobile phone 11 and accesses the train guidance server 21. Then, the departure station, the destination station, and the arrival time are designated, and the train information server 21 is requested to search for train information (departure / arrival time, train name, etc.). The train guide server 21 extracts a plurality of pieces of train information from the timetable database 22 and the transfer database 23 and transmits them to the mobile phone 11.

JP 2002-225712 A

  In the prior art as described above, a route that can move to the destination at the shortest time or the lowest cost is searched so as to arrive at the destination at or before the designated arrival time.

  On the other hand, for example, a user may be provided with an express ticket with a train seat reserved ticket in advance from a company during a business trip. In such a case, the user wants to know the route and time on the assumption that the train is used. Further, when the user has a commuter commuter pass, it may be desired to move to the destination at a low cost by using a route that preferentially uses the route of the commuter pass instead of the shortest route. Furthermore, when a user uses a payment system such as electronic money or a prepaid card, the user may want to move to a destination by a route that preferentially uses a route that can be used by the payment system. However, such a point has not been considered in the prior art.

  Such problems are not limited to trains, but are transportation systems such as route buses, commuter ferry boats, air routes, etc., and use sections and routes such as boarding tickets, limited express tickets, commuter passes, and coupon tickets are fixed. Widely used when using a transportation system that can obtain or reserve a use ticket in advance or a transportation system that can use a specific payment system such as electronic money or a prepaid card.

  The invention according to the present application is a user who searches for a route to reach a destination using a transportation system that can obtain a use ticket with a fixed usage section in advance or a transportation system that can use a specific payment system. The purpose is to improve convenience.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention employs, as one aspect thereof, a route search system having the following configuration. This route search system
A route network information storage unit for storing route network information representing routes of transportation;
An input unit that receives inputs of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used from the departure point to the destination among the routes;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, referring to the route network information, based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, the route from the departure point to the destination, A route search unit for preparing information of a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
An output unit for outputting the route.

  With such an aspect, when using a traffic system in which a user can obtain a use ticket with a fixed usage section in advance or a traffic system in which a specific payment system can be used, the user can effectively use those traffic systems. A possible route can be searched.

  The “designated route section” is “a part or all of the route” designated by the user. Examples of the “designated route section” include, for example, “Shinkansen between Nagoya and Tokyo” and “JR Tokai route”.

  In addition, the route search system may be realized in a form in which each component is included in one housing, or may be realized by a plurality of components that can perform data communication with each other.

  The route search unit refers to the route network information when the predetermined condition is not satisfied, and based on the departure location and the departure location based on the departure location and not based on the designated route section. It is preferable to prepare a route to reach the destination.

  With such an aspect, there is a possibility of determining a route that can use the use ticket or the payment system and a route that can reach the destination in a shorter time as a result of fewer search constraint conditions. A search can be used properly as needed.

In addition, the output unit further promotes input of a first station that is a boarding station for the express ticket of the transportation that has been purchased or reserved and a second station that is a station for getting off the express ticket. It is preferable that an input screen can be displayed.
And it is preferable that the said input part receives the input of a said 1st station and a said 2nd station as at least one part of the input of the said designated route section.
Furthermore, it is preferable that the route search unit prepares information on a route including the designated route section as the route when the predetermined condition is satisfied.

  With such an aspect, it is possible to search for a route based on the use of an express ticket that has already been purchased or reserved.

  In addition, it is preferable that the said route search part prepares the information of the path | route including all the said designated route sections as said path | route, when the said predetermined conditions are satisfy | filled.

  The express ticket is not limited to a tangible object, and may be electronic data. The limited express ticket may be a limited express ticket (for example, a seat designated express ticket) for using a transportation means operated at a specific time, or between the first station and the second station, It may be an express ticket (for example, an express ticket without a seat designation) that can be used by arbitrarily selecting a transportation means that operates at various times. In the present specification, “transportation means” is a concept including operation time. For example, “Nagoya Station 8:00:00 Departure Express Nagano 3” is an example of transportation.

Preferably, the route search system further includes a timetable information storage unit that stores timetable information that is information on the timetable of the transportation facility. In such an aspect, each part preferably has the following configuration.
The output unit further inputs at least one of a departure time when the transportation means corresponding to the express ticket leaves the first station, and a name of the transportation means. An urging transportation means input screen can be displayed.
The input unit can receive at least one of the departure time and the name of the transportation means.
The route search unit refers to the route network information and the timetable information, and is based on at least one of the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, and the departure time and the name of the transportation means. To prepare the route.

  In such an aspect, if the user inputs either one of the departure time of the transportation means or the name of the transportation means, the user can obtain a route based on the use of the transportation means. That is, according to such an aspect, it is possible to reduce the load on the user when inputting information on the designated route section to the route search system.

  The “name of transportation means” is, for example, “Express Shinano No. 3”, “Nozomi 202 No.”, and the like. The “transportation means input screen for prompting input of at least one of the departure time and the name of the transport means” includes an input screen for prompting input of the departure time, an input screen for prompting input of the name of the transport means, And an input screen that prompts the user to input the name of the vehicle, and an input screen that prompts the user to enter the departure time or the name of the vehicle.

Moreover, it is preferable that the route search system further includes a storage unit that stores the departure place, the destination, and the designated route section. In such an aspect, each part preferably has the following configuration.
After the route is prepared based on at least one of the departure time and the name of the transportation means, the output unit further corresponds to an express ticket that is purchased or re-booked after the corresponding transportation means is changed. The transportation means input screen prompting the user to input at least one of the departure time at which the transportation means leaves the first station and the name of the transportation means is displayed again.
The input unit can receive the input of the departure time again after the transportation means input screen is displayed again.
The route search unit refers to the route network information and the timetable information, and stores the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section stored in the storage unit, and the departure time received again. The route is prepared based on at least one of the names of the transportation means.

  If it is set as such an aspect, the user's load at the time of searching for the route predicated on the use of the limited express ticket purchased by changing the content or the limited express ticket whose reservation content has been changed can be reduced.

It is preferable that the output unit can further display a first stay time input screen that prompts the user to input a first stay time that the user desires to stay at the first station.
Preferably, the input unit can receive an input of the first stay time.
It is preferable that the route search unit prepares the route so that the user can stay at the first station for a time longer than the first stay time based on the first stay time.

  According to such an aspect, the user can know the schedule of movement including the time for staying at the express boarding station, for example, for shopping or eating.

  In the present specification, the terms “boarding station” and “disembarking station” do not limit the means of transportation to be used mainly to move using wheels. In other words, the terms “boarding station” and “disembarkation station” are also used when using a transportation means such as a ship or an aircraft that does not move mainly using wheels.

It is preferable that the output unit can further display a second stay time input screen that prompts the user to input a second stay time that the user desires to stay at the second station.
It is preferable that the input unit can receive an input of the second stay time.
It is preferable that the route search unit prepares the route so that the user can stay at the second station for a time longer than the second stay time based on the second stay time.

  According to such an aspect, the user can know the schedule of movement including the time for staying for shopping or eating at the express exit station.

The output unit can further display a station input screen that prompts input of a first station that is one end of a commuter pass section and a second station that is the other end of the commuter pass section. Is preferred.
It is preferable that the input unit can receive input of the first station and the second station as at least part of the input of the designated route section.

  If it is set as such an aspect, the route which can utilize a commuter pass effectively can be searched. The commuter pass is not limited to a tangible object, and may be electronic data.

In addition, it is preferable that the said output part can further display the station input screen which prompts the input of the route which connects a 1st station and a 2nd station.
It is preferable that the input unit can receive an input of the route as at least a part of an input of the designated route section.

In addition, the route search unit
Search for a plurality of routes from the starting point to the destination,
Based on the fare of each route and the fare of the section included in each route of the designated route section, select a route from the plurality of routes,
It is preferable to prepare information on the selected route as information on a route including at least a part of the designated route section.

  If it is such an aspect, a route can be determined in consideration of both including a designated route section and a fare.

It is preferable that the output unit can further display a selection screen that prompts input of an instruction as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section.
It is preferable that the input unit can receive an instruction as to whether to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section.
It is preferable that the predetermined condition includes that an instruction to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section is input.

  With such an aspect, there is a possibility that a route that can effectively use the commuter pass and a route that can reach the destination in a shorter time can be determined as a result of fewer search constraints. Searching can be used properly as needed.

In addition, the said output part can also be set as the aspect which displays the station input screen which further prompts selection of the transportation system which can utilize a specific payment system.
And the said input part can also be set as the aspect which can receive the selection of the said transportation means as at least one part of the input of the said designated route area.

It is preferable that the output unit can further display a payment system input screen that prompts the user to specify a payment system that can be used on a specific route among the routes of the transportation facility.
Preferably, the input unit receives a designation of the payment system corresponding to the specific route as at least a part of an input of the designated route section.

  If it is set as such an aspect, the user can know the path | route which can utilize effectively the payment system which he uses. The payment system may be a prepaid system that charges money value in advance, or may be a postpay system that pays money value after use.

The route search system may further include a payment system processing unit that performs processing for a payment system that can be used on a specific route among the routes of the transportation facility.
In such an aspect, the input unit receives information on the use of the payment system corresponding to the specific route from the user via the payment system processing unit as at least a part of the input of the designated route section. It is preferable that it is possible.

  With such an aspect, the user does not need to input information only for the purpose of obtaining information on the designated route section by the route search system. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the load on the user when searching for a route that can effectively use the predetermined payment system.

In addition, the route search unit
Search for a plurality of routes from the starting point to the destination,
Based on the fare of each route and the fare of the section included in each route of the designated route section, select a route from the plurality of routes,
It is preferable to prepare information on the selected route as information on a route including at least a part of the designated route section.

  If it is such an aspect, a route can be determined in consideration of both including a designated route section and a fare.

In an aspect in which the route search unit can prepare a plurality of routes as the route including at least a part of the designated route section, it is preferable to adopt the following modes.
The output unit can output the plurality of routes.
The plurality of routes are:
A first path;
And a second route having a shorter distance to use the designated route section than the first route and a short time from the starting point to the destination.

  According to such an aspect, the user selects a preferable route from a plurality of routes having different degrees of use of the designated route section in consideration of, for example, the cost and time required for movement, the possibility of a detour, and the like. be able to. Note that it is also preferable that the output unit be configured to display a route selection screen that prompts selection of a route from a plurality of routes.

It is preferable that the route network information includes information on facilities that a user can use for the stations on the route.
The route search unit preferably prepares information on the route including information on the facility at a stop station where the transportation means of the transportation facility stops on the route.
It is preferable that the said output part can display the said path | route with the display of the presence or absence of the said facility of the said stop station.
If it is set as such an aspect, the user can plan a movement in consideration of the possibility of utilization of the facility in a stop station. Further, in a mode in which a plurality of routes are displayed, the user can select a preferable route from among a plurality of routes having different degrees of use of the designated route section in consideration of, for example, the required time and the possibility of using the facility. Can be selected.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms, for example, a route search device, a route search method, a computer program for realizing the function of the method or device, and a record in which the computer program is recorded. It can be realized in the form of a medium, a data signal including the computer program and embodied in a carrier wave, and the like.

The figure which shows the hardware constitutions of the route search system which is 1st Example of this invention. An image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in order to prompt input of information on a commuter pass section. An image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in order to prompt input of electronic money information. The flowchart which shows the process of the route search performed in a route search system. The image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in step S10. The image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S20 of FIG. The image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S30 of FIG. 6 is a chart showing information exchange between the mobile phone 200, the route search server 100, and the timetable server 170 when performing route search in step S70 of FIG. The figure which shows example SD1 of the image displayed on the display panel 202 by FIG.4 S80. The figure which shows example SD3 of the image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile telephone 200 in 2nd Example. The figure showing a part of the content of the route network data which the route search server 100 has. The figure which shows balloon B04b displayed on the display panel 202 by step S80 of FIG. 4 in a modification.

A. First embodiment:
A1. overall structure:
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a route search system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The route search system of the first embodiment includes a route search server 100, a map server 150, a timetable server 170, and a mobile phone 200.

  The mobile phone 200 includes a GPS unit 201, a display panel 202, an audio output unit 203, a vibration mechanism 204, a communication unit 205, a command input unit 206, a clock unit 209, an electronic money storage unit 213, and an electronic A money management unit 214, a main control unit 210, and a call control unit 220 are included.

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

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

  The communication unit 205 can communicate with the route search server 100 and the map server 150 via the Internet INT to transmit and receive information.

  The command input unit 206 includes a numeric keypad 206a and a cursor key 206b. The user inputs information to the mobile phone 200 via the numeric keypad 206a and the cursor key 206b.

  The clock unit 209 outputs current time information indicating the current time in response to a request from the main control unit 210.

  The electronic money storage unit 213 stores electronic money. “Electronic money” is a monetary value replaced with information. The electronic money management unit 214 charges (deposits) electronic money in the electronic money storage unit 213 by exchanging data with the outside, consumes the electronic money stored in the electronic money storage unit 213, and sends the electronic money to the outside. Pay.

  The call control unit 220 is a circuit that performs an incoming call for a call, a voice / electrical signal conversion, and the like.

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

  The route search server 100 includes a communication unit 102, a control unit 104, and a storage unit 106. The communication unit 102 can communicate with the map server 150, the timetable server 170, and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT.

  The storage unit 106 stores route network data (route search data) for route search. The storage unit 106 further stores data received from the map server 150, the timetable server 170, and the mobile phone 200, and data generated based on them.

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

  The node information is data representing points such as road intersections, curve start and end points, route stations, and the like.

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

  The station attribute information includes entry route information indicating how many of the train routes are entering the station. Further, the attribute information of the station includes information on whether or not the station has a toilet in the ticket gate and whether or not the restaurant has a restaurant in the ticket gate. Furthermore, the attribute information of the station includes information on the time required for transfer between platforms at the station.

  The arc information is information regarding arcs that are roads or route sections between nodes. Each arc is assigned a unique ID. In addition, information on the name of the road (such as National Highway 1 and Prefectural Road 30) is associated with the arc of the road section. And the information of the name (Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, etc.) of the route is associated with the arc of the route section. Furthermore, each arc information is also associated with information on the time required to move on the road corresponding to the arc.

  Each arc information includes latitude and longitude data of a number of points included in each arc. That is, roads and route sections for which a route can be set can be represented as a point sequence of those points.

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

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

  The timetable server 170 includes a communication unit 172, a control unit 174, and a timetable database 176. The communication unit 172 can communicate with the route search server 100 via the Internet INT.

  The timetable database 176 stores timetable data for train routes in Japan. Based on the data received from the route search server 100, the control unit 174 provides information on the departure time of the train near the specific station, the specific route, and the specific time, as well as the stop station of the train and the stop station of the train. Data including information on stop time and departure time (hereinafter referred to as “timetable original data”) is created and transmitted to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 172.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 refers to the route network data in the storage unit 106, and based on the data received from the map server 150, the timetable server 170, and the mobile phone 200, from the departure point to the destination. Generate route data representing the route to. The route may include a section of a train route. For this reason, the route data includes, for example, information on the station to be boarded when traveling to the destination, the departure time of the train to be boarded, the stop station of the train, and the stop time and departure time of the stop station. Is included. The generated route data is transmitted to the mobile phone 200 and used for displaying the route in the mobile phone 200.

A2. Entering information on commuter pass segments and electronic money:
Prior to the search for the route, the cellular phone 200 is preliminarily input with information on the commuter pass section and electronic money held by the user.

  FIG. 2 is an image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in order to prompt the user to input information on the commuter pass section. However, the image shown in FIG. 2 is an image in which various types of information have already been input by the user.

  The user who has seen the image for inputting information in FIG. 2 inputs the input box IB01 for inputting the route of the commuter pass, the input box IB02 for inputting the boarding station, the input box IB03 for inputting the getting-off station, The cursor is moved to the input box IB04 for inputting the expiration date of the ticket, and the center button of the cursor key 206b is pressed. Then, the screen of the display panel 202 enters a mode for inputting characters into the input box. In this state, the user operates the numeric keypad 206a to input a route name, a boarding station name, a getting-off station name, and an expiration date of a commuter pass. Hereinafter, input operations for other input boxes displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 are performed in the same manner.

  Thereafter, the user presses the “confirm” button BD. Specifically, the cursor is moved to the “confirm” button BD and the center button of the cursor key 206b is pressed. Hereinafter, when it is described that a certain button displayed on the display panel 202 is pressed, the same operation is meant. When the “confirm” button BD is pressed, information input to each input box is stored in the ROM of the main control unit 210. And the process which inputs the information of a commuter pass is complete | finished.

  In the example of FIG. 2, “20080331” representing March 31, 2008 is input in the input box IB04 for inputting the expiration date. The main control unit 210 displays a screen on the display panel 202 that prompts the user to re-enter the expiry date of the commuter pass two days before the expiration date input in the input box IB04. When the time limit input in the input box IB04 has passed, the information input in the input boxes IB01 to IB03 and stored in the RAM of the main control unit 210 is deleted.

  On the other hand, when the “cancel” button BU in FIG. 2 is pressed, nothing is input in the input boxes IB01 to IB03. From that state, the user can input characters into the input boxes IB01 to IB03 by the above-described operation.

  FIG. 3 is an image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in order to prompt input of electronic money information. However, the image shown in FIG. 3 is an image in which information has already been input by the user.

  The user who sees the information input image in FIG. 3 checks the check box displayed together with the name of the electronic money used by the user among the check boxes CB01 to CB04. Specifically, the cursor is placed on the check box and the center button of the cursor key 206b is pressed. Hereinafter, the operation of checking the check box is performed in the same manner.

  Thereafter, the user presses the “confirm” button BD. When the “confirm” button BD is pressed, information input using the check box is stored in the ROM of the main control unit 210. And the process which inputs the information of electronic money is complete | finished.

  On the other hand, when the “cancel” button BU in FIG. 3 is pressed, the check boxes CB01 to CB04 are not checked. From that state, the user can check the check boxes CB01 to CB04 by the above-described operation.

  As described above, information on commuter pass sections and available electronic money is input and stored in the mobile phone 200 in advance of route search. Based on the information on the section of the commuter pass and the information on the electronic money that can be used on the specific route, the section on the specific route and the route on which the electronic money can be used can be determined. Information on the section of the commuter pass and information on electronic money that can be used on a specific route may be referred to as “designated route section information” in this specification.

  2 and 3 described above, the function unit of the main control unit 210 that displays a screen that prompts the user to input information is shown as an output unit 234 in FIG. 2 and 3 described above, a function unit of the main control unit 210 that performs a function of receiving information input from the user is shown as an input unit 235 in FIG.

A3. Route search:
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing route search processing executed in the route search system. First, in step S <b> 10, the user inputs a departure point, a destination, and a search condition to the mobile phone 200. Here, the “search condition” is a condition for determining whether or not to search for a route in consideration of information on the express ticket, commuter pass, and electronic money held by the user. In the present specification, an object or information indicating a right to use a predetermined section or route of a predetermined transportation system, such as a boarding ticket, a limited express prefecture, a commuter pass, or a coupon ticket is referred to as a “use ticket”.

  FIG. 5 is an image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in step S10. The image in FIG. 5 is an image for prompting the user to input a starting point, a destination, and a search condition. However, the image shown in FIG. 5 is an image in which various types of information have already been input by the user.

  The user who sees the image of FIG. 5 for inputting information inputs the departure place in the input box IB11 for inputting the departure place. In addition, the destination is input in the input box IB12 for inputting the destination.

  In the present embodiment, “current position” is input by default in the input box IB11 for inputting the departure place. In the example of FIG. 5, the content of the input box IB11 is “current position”. In the example of FIG. 5, “Tokyo International Forum” is input in the input box IB12 for inputting the destination. When the current location is designated as the departure location, the current location information acquired from the GPS unit 201 is used as departure location information during the route search.

  In addition, when the user has already purchased a limited express ticket for a train to be used for moving from the departure place to the destination, or when such a limited express ticket has been reserved, Then, check the check box CB11 displayed as "Purchase / reserved express ticket".

  When a user wishes to search for a route that preferentially uses a route that can be used such as a commuter pass held by the user or an electronic money ticket, Check the check box CB12 displayed as "Priority on route". In the example of FIG. 5, the check box CB12 is not checked.

  After entering information in the respective input boxes and check boxes, the user presses a “confirm” button BD. Then, the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG. Information input to the mobile phone 200 by the user in each step of FIG. 4 is stored in the RAM of the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200.

  On the other hand, when the “Cancel” button BU is pressed on the screen of FIG. 5, “current position” is input to the input box IB11, and nothing is input to the input box IB12. Further, the check boxes CB11 and CB12 are not checked. From this state, the user can input characters into the input boxes IB11 and IB12 and check the check boxes CB11 and CB12 by the above-described operation.

  In step S15 of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the check box CB11 is checked. If the check box CB11 is checked, the process proceeds to step S20. If the check box CB11 is not checked, the process proceeds to step S35, and then a route search is performed. That is, in the state of FIG. 5, pressing the “confirm” button BD by the user when the check box CB11 is not checked corresponds to a route search instruction.

  FIG. 6 is an image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S20 of FIG. The image of FIG. 6 is an image that prompts the user to input the boarding station, the getting-off station, the departure time, and the train name of the train to be used. However, the image illustrated in FIG. 6 is an image in which various types of information have already been input by the user.

  In step S20 of FIG. 4, the user inputs the name of the train designated by the special express ticket purchased or reserved in the input box IB21 for inputting the name of the train as the transportation means (hereinafter also referred to as “train name”). Enter. In addition, the user inputs the boarding station designated by the express ticket in the input box IB22 for inputting the boarding station name. And a user inputs the getting-off station which the express ticket has designated into the input box IB23 for inputting a getting-off station name.

  Further, the user inputs the departure date of the train of the limited express ticket in the input box IB24 for inputting the departure date. Then, the user inputs the departure time of the train in the input box IB25 for inputting the departure time. In the example of FIG. 6, 1107 meaning November 7 is input to the input box IB24. And 0744 meaning 7:44 is input in the input box IB25.

  Thereafter, when the user finishes inputting in each input box, the user presses the “OK” button BD. Then, the process proceeds to step S30 in FIG. If no information is input in any of the input boxes, the process remains at step S20 in FIG. 4, and a warning that no information is input in the input box is displayed.

  However, if appropriate information is input in the input boxes IB21 to IB24 in FIG. 6, the process proceeds to step S30 even if the departure time is not input in the input box IB25. If appropriate information is input to the input boxes IB22 to IB25, the process proceeds to step S30 even if the train name is not input to the input box IB21.

  On the other hand, if the “return” button BB is pressed on the screen of FIG. 6, the process returns to step S10. The process when the “return” button BB is pressed on the screen of each step is the same, and the display on the display panel 202 returns to the input screen of the previous step. In order to facilitate understanding of the processing contents of the route search, the processing when the “return” button BB is pressed on the screen of each step is not shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 7 is an image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S30 of FIG. The image in FIG. 7 is an image prompting the user to input the desired stay time at the boarding station and the getting-off station of the train to be used. However, the image shown in FIG. 7 is an image in which various types of information have already been input by the user.

  In step S30 of FIG. 4, the user inputs a desired stay time at the boarding station in the input box IB31 displayed together with the boarding station name (Nagoya Station). In addition, the user inputs a desired stay time at the getting-off station in the input box IB32 displayed together with the name of the getting-off station (Tokyo station). In the input boxes IB31 and IB32, 0 hours and 0 minutes are input by default. Thereafter, when the “confirm” button BD is pressed, the process proceeds to step S35. The user pressing the “confirm” button BD corresponds to a route search instruction.

  Note that in steps S10, S20, and S30 of FIG. 4, the function unit (see FIGS. 5 to 7) of the main control unit 210 that displays a screen that prompts the user to input information is the output unit 234 (FIG. 5). 1). In step S10, S20, and S30 of FIG. 4, the function unit (see FIGS. 5 to 7) of the main control unit 210 that performs the function of receiving information input from the user is the input unit 235 (see FIG. 1). ).

  In step S35, it is determined whether or not the check boxes CB11 and CB12 are checked on the input screen in FIG. 5 (see step S10 in FIG. 4). Note that information on whether or not the check boxes CB11 and CB12 are checked in the input screen of FIG. 5 is stored in the RAM of the main control unit 210.

  If neither of the check boxes CB11 and CB12 is checked, the process proceeds to step S40 in FIG. In step S40, the route from the departure point to the destination in the shortest time is searched without considering the information on the express ticket, commuter pass and electronic money. In the route search, for example, the route search is performed on the assumption that the departure point is 5 minutes after the current time. Details of the route search processing will be described later.

  On the other hand, if the check box CB11 is checked and the check box CB12 is not checked in step S35 in FIG. 4 (see step S10 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5), the process proceeds to step S50. Proceed to In step S50, the train information of the limited express ticket (see step S20 and FIG. 6 in FIG. 4) and the staying time information (see step S30 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 7) without considering the information on the commuter pass and electronic money. In consideration of the above, the route from the departure point to the destination in the shortest time is searched.

  That is, in step S50, it is assumed that the train specified by the information input in step S20 of FIG. 4 is used and that the stay is at the boarding station and the getting-off station for at least the stay time input in step S30. The route from the starting point to the destination in the shortest time is searched.

  In step S35, when the check box CB11 is not checked and the check box CB12 is checked (see step S10 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5), the process goes to step S60. move on. In step S60, the route from the departure point to the destination is searched in consideration of information on the commuter pass and electronic money (see FIG. 2) without considering the train information and the stay time information of the express ticket. .

  That is, in step S60, as the first route, at least a part of the commuter pass section or the section in which electronic money can be used input in step S20 in FIG. The route to be searched is searched. On the other hand, in step S60, in the same process as step S40, a route from the departure point to the destination in the shortest time is searched for as the second route without considering information on commuter passes and electronic money.

  The first route is more likely to be a preferable route for the user than the second route in terms of cost required for movement. On the other hand, the second route is searched under fewer constraints than the first route. For this reason, the second route is likely to be a route that can reach the destination in a shorter time than the first route.

  When the time required for the first route is incremented from the time required for the second route within a predetermined range (for example, 20 minutes), the first route is determined as the finally searched route. . If the increment of the required time of the first route from the required time of the second route is equal to or greater than a predetermined range, the second route is determined as the finally searched route.

  By adopting such an aspect, it is possible for the user to present a route that is preferable for the user in terms of the cost required for movement and that the required time increment is within a predetermined range. If there is no such route, a route that can reach the destination in the shortest time can be presented to the user.

  Furthermore, when both the check box CB11 and the check box CB12 are checked in step S35 in FIG. 4 (see step S10 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5), the process proceeds to step S70. In step S70, the train information of the express ticket (see step S20 and FIG. 6 in FIG. 4) and the stay time information (see step S30 and FIG. 7 in FIG. 4), as well as information on commuter passes and electronic money (see FIG. 2 and FIG. In consideration of (see FIG. 3), the route from the departure point to the destination is searched.

  That is, in step S70, the purpose is to be achieved in the shortest time on the premise that the train input in step S20 in FIG. 4 is used and that the stay is at the boarding station and the getting-off station for the stay time input in step S30. A first route to the ground is searched. The first route is a route from the departure point to the destination by using at least a part of the commuter pass section or the section where electronic money can be used input in step S20 of FIG.

  Further, in step S70, the purpose is to be achieved in the shortest time on the premise that the train input in step S20 of FIG. 4 is used and that the stay is at the boarding station and the getting-off station for the stay time longer than that input in step S30. The second route to the ground is searched without considering commuter pass and electronic money information.

  The first route is more likely to be a preferable route for the user than the second route in terms of cost required for movement. On the other hand, the second route is likely to be a route that can reach the destination in a shorter time than the first route.

  When the time required for the first route is incremented from the time required for the second route within a predetermined range (for example, 20 minutes), the first route is determined as the finally searched route. . If the increment of the required time of the first route from the required time of the second route is equal to or greater than a predetermined range, the second route is determined as the finally searched route.

  By adopting such an aspect, it is possible to present to the user a route that is preferable for the user in terms of the cost required for movement and that the required time increment is within a predetermined range on the premise of using an express ticket. Further, when there is no such route, it is possible to present to the user a route that can reach the destination in the shortest time on the premise of using an express ticket.

  By performing the processing shown in FIG. 4 described above, the user searches for a route on the premise of using an express ticket (steps S50 and S70), and searches for a route that can effectively use a commuter pass and electronic money. (Steps S60 and S70), a search that has fewer constraints than those and that can find a route that can reach the destination in a shorter time can be used depending on the purpose (CB11 in FIG. 5). , CB12).

  FIG. 8 is a chart showing information exchange between the mobile phone 200, the route search server 100, and the timetable server 170 when the route search is performed in step S70 of FIG.

  When the route search instruction is received from the user in step S105, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 receives information on the departure point and destination (see step S10 and FIG. 5 in FIG. 4), train information on the express ticket (see FIG. 4 (see step S20 in FIG. 6 and FIG. 6), information on the desired stay time at the station (see step S30 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 7), information on the section of the commuter pass (see FIG. 2), information on available electronic money, etc. To the route search server 100.

  In step S205, the route search server 100 refers to the route network data in the storage unit 106, and information on the departure and destination points, train information on the express ticket, information on the desired staying time at the station, commuter pass section The first and second paths in step S70 described above are searched based on the above information and electronic money information. A 1st path | route is a path | route using the area which can be used with a commuter pass or electronic money. A 2nd path | route is a path | route produced | generated without considering the area which can be utilized with a commuter pass or electronic money.

  In step S210, the route search server 100 transmits to the timetable server 170 information on the boarding station and the getting-off station on the route included in the determined first or second route, and information on the boarding time at the boarding station. To inquire about the time of the train to be used (boarding time, getting off time, etc.).

  In addition, the boarding time in a boarding station is obtained by integrating | accumulating the travel time matched with arc information, such as a road included in a path | route, from departure time. Further, the transferable time at the transfer station can be calculated from the arrival time of the train used immediately before at the transfer station and the transfer time at the transfer station. Furthermore, in step S30 of FIG. 4, when the desired stay time at the station is specified, the desired stay time is also added to determine the available boarding time.

  In step S305, the timetable server 170 refers to the timetable database 176, and is from a departure station included in the route based on the information of the boarding station, the getting-off station, and the boarding time received from the route search server 100. Determine the train to be used in the section of use to the destination station. And the names of those trains (Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, etc.), the number of vehicles, the boarding platform at the boarding station, the departure time at the boarding station, the arrival time at the getting-off station, the getting-off platform at the getting-off station, the stopping station, the stopping station The arrival time and departure time at the stop platform at the stop station are determined. Information on these trains is transmitted to the route search server 100.

  The processes in steps S210 and S305 are performed for each use section of the route included in the first and second routes. As a result, information on the train times used in the first and second routes is determined.

  In step S215, the route search server 100 determines whether or not the increment of the time required for the first route from the time required for the second route is within a predetermined range (for example, 20 minutes). When the time required for the first route is incremented from the time required for the second route within a predetermined range, the first route is determined as the finally searched route. If not, the second route is the route finally searched.

  In step S220, the route search server 100 determines the route name of the train to be used in the determined route, the boarding platform at the boarding station, the departure time at the boarding station, the arrival time at the getting-off station, the getting-off platform at the getting-off station, and the stopping station. Route data is generated based on the stop platform at the stop station, the arrival time and departure time at the stop station, and the route determined in step S205. The generated route data is stored in the storage unit 106 of the route search server 100 together with information such as a departure place, a destination, and a search condition.

  The route data includes node information, intersection and station attribute information, and arc information. The arc information further includes information of a point sequence of latitude and longitude. Further, the route data includes information on various times of the above-described train and information such as a home. Note that node information and arc information may be collectively referred to as “route information”.

  The route data generated by the route search server 100 in step S220 is transmitted to the mobile phone 200. The mobile phone 200 receives the route data (step S110). A functional unit of the main control unit 210 that transmits information such as a departure point, a destination, and search conditions to the route search server 100 and receives route data from the route search server 100 is a route preparation unit 231 (see FIG. 1). .

  In FIG. 8, the process in step S70 in FIG. 4 has been described as an example. However, for steps S40 to S60, the route is determined in the same manner except that some processes are not performed.

  That is, in the process of step S60 in FIG. 4, the route is searched in step S205 in FIG. 8 without considering the information on the express ticket.

  In the process of step S50 in FIG. 4, the route is searched in step S205 in FIG. 8 without considering the information on the commuter pass. In the process of step S40 of FIG. 4, the route is searched in step S205 of FIG. 8 without considering the information on the limited express ticket and commuter pass. Further, in the processes in steps S40 and S50 in FIG. 4, the first and second routes are not searched in the process in step S205 in FIG. That is, one route is searched. In step S220, the two routes are not compared.

  In step S80 of FIG. 4, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 displays a route on the display panel 202 based on the route data and map image data separately acquired from the map server 150.

  In addition, the function part of the main control part 210 which acquires map image data from the map server 150 is shown as the map information preparation unit 233 in FIG. The functional unit of the main control unit 210 that displays a route based on route data is a route display unit 232 (see FIG. 1).

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example SD1 of an image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S80 of FIG. In the example of FIG. 9, it is assumed that the search condition that both the information on the limited express ticket and the information on the commuter pass are used in step S10 in FIG. 4 (see FIG. 5). As a result, the route shown in FIG. 9 is the route determined by the process of step S70 of FIG.

  In the image display SD1, the departure point SP, the transfer station Stb, the transfer station Stt1, the stop station Sts1, the stop station Sts2, the transfer station Stt2, the destination station Std, and the destination PD are based on the node information in the route data. It is shown on the map image.

  In addition, in the image display SD1, based on the arc information in the route data, the section S00 (departure point SP to the transfer station Stb), the section S01a (departure point SP to the transfer station Stt1), S02 (transfer station Stt1 to stop) Station Sts1), S03 (stop station Sts1, stop station Sts2), S04 (stop station Sts2 to transfer station Stt2), S05 (transfer station Stt2 to destination station Std), S06 (target station Std to destination PD), etc. Has been. The sections S01a and S02 to S05, which are train routes, are indicated by thick solid lines. Sections S00 and S06, which are general roads, are indicated by thick broken lines.

  In FIG. 9, six lines L00a, L00b, L01, L02, L03, and L04 are shown. Among them, the sections used in the searched route are the use section Lu00a (station Stb to station Stt1) of the route L00a, the use section Lu01 (station St1 to station Stt2) of the route L01, and the route L02. This is the use section Lu02 (station St2 to station Std).

  In the example of FIG. 9, it is assumed that S02 to S04 are the sections (see FIG. 6) of the express ticket designated in step S20 of FIG. In FIG. 9, sections S02 to S04 are indicated by thicker lines than sections S01a and S05.

  Further, in step S30 of FIG. 4, it is assumed that the staying time of 1 hour and 20 minutes is specified for the station where the limited express train gets off (see FIG. 7). Then, it is assumed that the stay time of 0 hour and 0 minutes is designated at the boarding station of the limited express train (see FIG. 7).

  Further, in the example of FIG. 9, the section Fs between the station Stb and the station So on the line L00a is assumed to be a section (see FIG. 2) designated by information on the commuter pass. In FIG. 9, the section Fs is indicated by a one-dot chain line.

  In the transfer station Stb, transfer station Stt1, stop station Sts1, stop station Sts2, transfer station Stt2, and destination station Std, balloons B00 to B05 are shown based on the attribute information of the stations, respectively.

  In the balloon B00 of the boarding station Stb, the name “S station” of the boarding station Stb, the departure time Td01 of the train to be boarded at the S station, the route name (O line), and the home (“No. 1” representing the first platform) H ”) is displayed. Based on these displays, the user can know the time at which the user should arrive at the first boarding station on the premise of using the purchased express ticket.

  The balloon B00 at the boarding station Stb shows an icon Ic1 indicating that there is a toilet in the ticket gate of the station, and an icon Ic2 indicating that there is a restaurant in the ticket gate of the station. By adopting such a mode, the user can know whether the restroom can be used without exiting the ticket gate and the restaurant can be used without exiting the ticket gate after passing through the ticket gate at the station. .

  These icons Ic1 and Ic2 are displayed according to the presence / absence of toilets and restaurants in the ticket gates even at transit stations on the way (see balloons B01 and B04 in FIG. 9). For this reason, the user can know whether or not he / she can go to the toilet during the transfer time. The icons Ic1 and Ic2 are also displayed for a stop station on the way (see a balloon B03). For this reason, the user can know whether or not he / she can use the toilet or the restaurant without getting off at the stop station on the way and leaving the ticket gate.

  The balloon B01 of the transfer station Stt1 includes the name “A station” of the transfer station Stt1, the scheduled arrival time Ta1 of the train that has boarded from the S station (transfer station Stb), its route name (O line), and the platform (No. 2) A display TLa1 of H), a departure time Td11 of the train to be boarded at the station A, and a display TLd1 of the route name (P line) and the home (“No. 1 H” representing the No. 1 home) are shown. The same applies to the balloon B04 at the transfer station Stt2.

  Based on these displays, the user can know the schedule of train transfer at a transfer station based on the use of a purchased limited express ticket. And a user can know whether there is time to go to a toilet or a restaurant during the time of connection.

  At the stop station Sts1, there are no toilets and restaurants in the ticket gate. For this reason, the icons Ic1 and Ic2 are not shown in the balloon B02 of the stop station Sts1. The station name “B station” and the route name “P line” are displayed in the balloon B02 of the stop station Sts1. The same applies to the balloon B03 of the stop station Sts2.

  The departure time at the transfer station Stt1 is set 5 minutes after the arrival time in consideration of the transfer time at the transfer station Stt1. On the other hand, the departure time at the transfer station Stt2 is set 1 hour and 50 minutes after the arrival time in consideration of the desired stay time (see FIG. 7) in addition to the transfer time at the transfer station Stt2. For this reason, the user can know the transfer schedule on the premise that he / she eats a meal or buys a souvenir at the transfer station Stt 2, which is a large station where the limited express stops and has a restaurant inside the ticket gate.

  In the balloon B05 of the destination station Std, the estimated arrival time Ta5 of the train boarded from the D station (transfer station Stt2) and the display TLa5 of the route name (Q line) and the home (No. 1 H) are shown. Yes. Based on this display, the user can know the arrival time at the disembarking station based on the use of the purchased limited express ticket.

  It is assumed that the time required for movement between the transit station Stb and the transfer station Stt1 is shorter by 3 minutes when using the route L00b than when using the route L00a. For this reason, in step S10 of FIG. 4, the instruction of “priority ticket and electronic money route is given priority” is not given (see FIG. 5). Therefore, when the process of step S50 of FIG. As a moving means between Stb and station Stt1, section Lu00b of route L00b is determined.

  However, in the example of FIG. 9, a search condition for using the information of the commuter pass is set (see FIG. 5). And the difference of the required time of the 1st path | route which uses the area of a commuter pass and the 2nd path | route which is not used is 3 minutes which is less than 20 minutes. For this reason, the section Lu00a of the route L00a is determined as the moving means between the station Stb and the station Stt1. For this reason, the user can move to the destination at a lower price without significantly increasing the required time.

  In the route search processing, the data stored in the RAM of the mobile phone 200 and the storage unit 106 of the route search server 100 are held for a predetermined time (for example, 3 hours). In step S85 of FIG. 4, it is determined again whether or not a route search instruction has been given within a predetermined time. If there is no route search instruction again within the predetermined time, the process ends.

  On the other hand, in step S85, if there is an instruction for route search again within the predetermined time, the process returns to step S10. At that time, on each screen prompting the user to input information (see FIGS. 5 to 7), the previously input information is displayed by default. If the user presses the confirm button, the information is input as it is. For this reason, the load which a user inputs information is reduced.

  In many cases, only the time of the reserved express ticket is changed. For this reason, in step S85, a screen that prompts the user to input an instruction as to whether or not to change only the time of the reserved express ticket may be presented. When an instruction to change only the time of the reserved express ticket is input, only the input process in step S20 is executed, and the information input process in other steps is stored in the storage unit 106 of the route search server 100. It is also possible to adopt an aspect that is automatically performed using stored data.

B. Second embodiment:
In the first embodiment, on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200, the sections included in the route, the display of each station, and the arrival time and departure time of the train are displayed on the map (see FIG. 9). However, in the second embodiment, the sections included in the route, the display of each station, and the arrival time and departure time of the train are not displayed on the map but are displayed as a guide map. The other points of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example SD3 of an image displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in the second embodiment. In the image display SD3, a block B2s is displayed instead of the departure place icon SP (see FIG. 9). Further, a block B2e is displayed instead of the destination icon PD. Then, blocks B20 to B25 are displayed instead of the icons and balloons of the departure station, the destination station, the transfer station, and the stop station.

The blocks B20 to B25 are linearly arranged between the starting block B2s and the destination block B2e. Blocks B20 to B25 include displays corresponding to the balloons B00 to B05 of the first embodiment. 10, elements denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in FIG. 9 are the same elements as those in FIG. The section indicated by the bold line is
This is the section designated in the information on the limited express ticket (see step S20 in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6).

  Even in such an aspect, the user can know the arrival time according to the actual situation and the departure time of the train to be boarded. Further, the aspect of the second embodiment has less display information on the screen than the first embodiment. For this reason, the user can easily know the arrival time and the departure time of the train to be boarded.

C. Third embodiment:
In the third embodiment, a search for a first route using a section in which a commuter pass or electronic money can be used will be described. In addition, the search for the first route that does not use a part of the section of the ticket even when the ticket is held will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a part of the contents of route network data included in the route search server 100. In FIG. 11, a station to e station are connected by a route. In FIG. 11, the route is indicated by a solid line. The fares between stations are shown in parentheses. For example, the charge between station a and station b is 500 yen.

  For example, a route from station a to station e is searched. As a route from the a station to the e station, a route R01 directly connecting the a station and the e station, a route R02 from the a station to the e station via the b station and the c station, the a station to the b station, the c station, and There are a plurality of routes such as a route R03 that reaches the e station via the d station. The fares Vb of these routes R01 to R03 are shown in the lower part of FIG.

(1) If you do not consider information on express tickets, commuter passes, and electronic money:
If neither of the check boxes CB11 and CB12 is checked in step S10 in FIG. 4 (see FIG. 5), in step S40, the route search server 100 provides information on express tickets, commuter passes, and electronic money. For example, the route is searched based on the fare Vb. As a result, the route R01 with the lowest fare Vb is selected and displayed on the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 in step S80. In step S40, for example, a route having the shortest required time may be selected.

(2) When considering information on tickets and limited express tickets:
The user already has a boarding ticket and a limited express ticket (hereinafter, in the explanation using FIG. 11, except for the case where the express ticket is clearly indicated, collectively treated as a “boarding ticket”), in step S10 of FIG. When the check box CB11 (see FIG. 5) is checked and the check box CB12 is not checked, in the third embodiment, in step S50 of FIG. Done.

  A case where the user has a ticket from station b to station d will be described. In FIG. 11, the section of the ticket is indicated by a dashed arrow At01. When a route is determined in consideration of a ticket from station b to station d, routes R01 to R03 from station a to station e are evaluated with the following evaluation value Ve1.

  Ve1 = Vb + (Vh−Vs1) (1)

  Vb is the fare for each route. Vh is a fee for a ticket already owned by the user. In the example of FIG. 11, it is 3000 yen. Vs1 is a charge for the section used on the route among the tickets already owned by the user.

  In equation (1), (Vh−Vs1) represents a fee corresponding to a section that has not been utilized in the route among the tickets already owned by the user. That is, (Vh−Vs1) is a fare corresponding to a useless section of the tickets already owned by the user. Ve1 obtained by Equation (1) is the sum of the fare (Vb) and the fare (Vh−Vs1) corresponding to the wasted section of the ticket. The value of Ve1 for each route is shown in the lower part of FIG.

  In step S50 of FIG. 4, the route having the smallest evaluation value Ve1 is selected as the first route among the plurality of routes. In the example of FIG. 11, the route R02 is selected.

  When Formula (1) includes the term of Vb, a route with a small fare and distance is easily selected. In addition, since the expression (1) includes the term (Vh−Vs1), it is easy to select a route on which the ticket already owned by the user is more utilized. Therefore, by setting it as the above aspects, as a 1st route | route used for a ticket, the route which a user can already use can be utilized, and the route which does not become a detour can be searched. . Such a process can be applied when the boarding station, the getting-off station, and the route connecting them have a fixed use ticket (for example, a boarding ticket, a limited express ticket, etc.).

(3) When considering information on commuter passes and electronic money:
If the user has a commuter pass or uses electronic money, and the check box CB12 (see FIG. 5) is checked in step S10 in FIG. 4 and the check box CB11 is not checked, the third In the embodiment, in step S60 of FIG. 4, a route search and selection is performed as follows.

  A case where the user has a commuter pass for the section between the b station and the d station will be described. In FIG. 11, the section of the commuter pass is indicated by a dashed arrow At02. When a route is determined in consideration of a commuter pass from station b to station d, routes R01 to R03 from station a to station e are evaluated with the following evaluation value Ve2.

  Ve2 = Vb−Vs2 (2)

  Vb is the fare for each route. Vs2 is a charge for a section of a commuter pass held by the user or a section used in the route among sections available for electronic money used by the user. That is, Ve2 obtained by Expression (2) is an amount obtained by subtracting the fee for the electronic money that can be used or the fee for the commuter pass section that can be used from the fare (Vb). In the case of using a commuter pass or electronic money, unlike the case of a ticket, there is no wasted fee. For this reason, Formula (2) does not have a term corresponding to Vh of Formula (1). The value of Ve2 for each route is shown in the lower part of FIG.

  In step S60 of FIG. 4, a route having the smallest evaluation value Ve2 is selected as the first route among the plurality of routes. In the example of FIG. 11, the route R02 is selected.

  When Expression (2) includes the term of Vb, a route with a small fare and distance is easily selected. In addition, since the expression (2) includes the term (−Vs2), it is easy to select a route that makes more use of the commuter pass or electronic money section that the user already has. Therefore, by setting it as the above aspects, the commuter pass and electronic money which a user has can be utilized, and the path | route which does not become a detour significantly can be searched as a 1st path | route. Such a process is applied when the boarding station, the getting-off station, etc. are not fixed in advance and have a use ticket (for example, a commuter pass or electronic money) that can be used for a predetermined range of routes. can do.

(4) When considering information on tickets, commuter passes and electronic money:
When the user checks both the check boxes CB11 and CB12 (see FIG. 5) in step S10 in FIG. 4, in the third embodiment, in step S70, the route search and selection is performed as follows. Is done. That is, the routes R01 to R03 from the a station to the e station are evaluated with the following evaluation value Ve3. The value of Ve3 for each route is shown in the lower part of FIG.

  Ve3 = Ve1 + Ve2 (3)

  In step S70 of FIG. 4, a route having the smallest evaluation value Ve3 is selected as the first route among the plurality of routes. In the example of FIG. 11, the route R02 is selected.

  By adopting such an aspect, it is possible to search for a route that can utilize a ticket, a limited express ticket, a commuter pass, and electronic money possessed by the user, and that does not significantly detour, as the first route. it can.

  In the above description, the processing based on the evaluation value with three candidate routes shown has been described (see FIG. 11). The candidate routes for which the evaluation value is calculated can be, for example, a predetermined number (for example, three) of routes from the cheapest fare Vb among routes from the departure point to the destination. In addition, the route as a candidate for which the evaluation value is calculated can be, for example, a predetermined number of routes from the shortest estimated time among routes from the departure point to the destination.

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

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

D2. Modification 2:
In the above embodiment, the route search system includes the GPS unit. However, the route search system may be configured not to include a GPS unit. In such an aspect, the user can search for a route search system route by inputting the departure place into the input box IB11 (see FIG. 5) in the same procedure as other input boxes.

  Moreover, in the said Example, the system which receives the electromagnetic wave from the satellite of GPS (Global Positioning System / global positioning system) and pinpoints a present position is used. The current position acquisition unit as a component of the guidance device may be based on any principle or use a system operated by any institution as long as the current position can be specified.

D3. Modification 3:
In the said Example, the information which a user input is once shown and the screen which asks for confirmation is not explained. However, such a confirmation screen can be provided for each information input. In such an embodiment, the intention display of “confirmation” on the confirmation screen after all the information necessary for the route search has been input corresponds to a route search instruction.

D4. Modification 4:
In the above-described embodiment, after a route search instruction is issued, information on a designated route section related to a commuter pass and electronic money is transmitted to the route search server (see step S105 in FIG. 8). However, commuter pass and electronic money information is sent to the route search server before the route search instruction is issued, and the route search server sends information on the specified route related to the commuter pass and electronic money. It can also be set as the aspect which hold | maintains the information of an area.

D5. Modification 5:
In the above embodiment, electronic money is selected and input (see FIG. 3). However, other modes can be adopted as the mode of inputting information on the designated route section. For example, a railway company such as JR East or Tobu Railway may be selected.

D6. Modification 6:
In the above embodiment, information on commuter passes and electronic money is input, and a route is searched in consideration of them. However, it is also possible to search for a route in consideration of a fee payment system other than commuter passes and electronic money. An example of a payment system is a prepaid system. A “prepaid system” is a system in which a thing or information representing a monetary value is purchased in advance, and payment is made using that thing or information.

  That is, it is preferable to search for a route in consideration of a fee payment system (referred to as “payment system” in this specification) that can be used for a specific partner. In such a case, it is preferable to present the screen prompting the payment system to the user to receive the payment system information (see, for example, FIG. 3). If it is set as such an aspect, the user can know the path | route which can utilize effectively the payment system which he uses.

  Further, for example, the following aspects can be adopted. That is, the electronic money management unit 214 notifies the main control unit 210 when electronic money is deposited. In addition, the electronic money management unit 214 can notify the main control unit 210 when electronic money is used.

  Based on the information of the payment system, it is possible to identify a route that can use the payment system. For this reason, the route preparation unit 231 (see FIG. 1), which is a functional unit of the main control unit 210, can obtain electronic money information without the input from the command input unit 206 by the user. That is, in such an aspect, the use of the payment system by the user corresponds to the input of the designated route section by the user.

  In such an aspect, it is possible to search for a route considering the payment system without allowing the user to input information about the payment system. For this reason, a user's load at the time of searching for a route in consideration of a payment system can be reduced.

D7. Modification 7:
In the above embodiment, the user inputs the desired stay time at the boarding station and the getting-off station of the limited express ticket. However, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which the desired stay time at a point specified by node information such as a station can be input at other points.

  For example, once the route is displayed in step S80 of FIG. 4, the user may select a node, display a screen for inputting the desired stay time at the node, and enter the desired stay time. it can. Thereafter, through step S85, the route search can be performed again in consideration of the desired staying time at the point of the node. If it is set as such an aspect, the user can assemble a journey process more freely using route search.

  In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the balloon B04 of the transfer station Stt2 includes the name “D station” of the transfer station Stt2, the estimated arrival time Ta4 of the train boarded from A station (transfer station Stt1) The route name (P line) and home (No. 2 H) display TLa4, the departure time Td41 of the train to be boarded at D station, the route name (Q line) and the home (No. 3 H) display TLd4 It is shown. However, for a station whose stay time is specified (see FIG. 7), in addition to the departure time of the train to be boarded at that station, the departure time of one or more alternative trains that depart at a previous time is displayed It is preferable.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a balloon B04b displayed on the display panel 202 in step S80 of FIG. 4 in a modified example. In FIG. 12, the display other than the balloon B04b is omitted for easy understanding. However, the image displayed on the display panel 202 in step S80 of FIG. 4 includes various information as in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 12, Td42 to Td44 are trains that leave the transfer station Stt2 before the train (Q line, third platform, 19:07 departure) to be boarded at the transfer station Stt2, It is a display of the departure time of a train that can be used instead of the train (Q line, 3rd platform, 19: 7 departure) to be boarded at Stt2.

  In such an aspect, the route search server 100 searches for a plurality of trains that depart before it in addition to the train that departs after the boarding time for the station for which the desired stay time is designated. The instruction to do is transmitted to the timetable server 170 in step S210 of FIG.

  In step S305 in FIG. 8, the timetable server 170 adds information on alternative trains that depart before that in addition to trains that depart at a time in the vicinity of the boarding time received from the route search server 100 (departure). (Including time and departure home) from the timetable. Then, the timetable server 170 returns the information to the route search server 100. Thereafter, the route search server 100 generates route data including information on such an alternative train and transmits the route data to the mobile phone 200.

  If it is set as such an aspect, when the user is going to leave the station before the designated desired stay time elapses, the user can know a train that can be used by the user. That is, the route search system according to the above aspect can provide effective transfer information to the user even when the user's itinerary is changed.

D8. Modification 8:
In the above-described embodiment, a mode has been described in which input is performed in Japanese or numbers in each input box. However, the input of information can also be performed in other ways. For example, the route search system may present a plurality of options and allow the user to select one or more options from the options.

D9. Modification 9:
In the above embodiment, the route is searched by specifying the time. However, it is also possible to search for a route without specifying the time. In such a case, it is preferable that the general required time for each section is output together with the route.

D10. Modification 10:
In the above-described embodiment, the route search is performed in consideration of the departure point, the destination, a commuter pass section as a designated route section, and a section where specific electronic money can be used. However, the route search can also be performed in consideration of one or more waypoints. In such an aspect, it is preferable to display a screen prompting the user to input a stopover and receive the input of the stopover.

D11. Modification 11:
In the above embodiment, the route search server 100 determines one route. Then, the one route is displayed on the mobile phone 200. However, it is possible to adopt a mode in which a plurality of routes are searched.

  For example, when searching for a route in consideration of commuter pass information or electronic money information, there is a degree of using a route in a commuter pass section or a route in a transportation system where electronic money can be used. It is preferable to search for a plurality of different routes. It is preferable to display the plurality of routes and prompt the user to select from the routes.

  In the display of each route, it is preferable to display information on the facility of the stop station where the transportation means (the train on the railroad or the ferry on the regular connection route) stops on each route. If it is set as such an aspect, the user can consider a process including the possibility of utilization of the facility of a stop station.

  Note that the plurality of routes may be displayed in order, selectively, or simultaneously.

D12. Modification 12:
In the above embodiment, a display indicating that there is a toilet or a restaurant in the ticket gate of the station is performed (see FIGS. 9 and 10). However, the station information that the guidance device presents to the user is not limited to these. For example, the guidance device displays whether there is a souvenir shop in the ticket gate, whether there is a convenience store, and whether there is a kiosk or vending machine at each platform at the boarding station, getting off station, or stopping station It can also be set as the aspect to do. That is, the guidance device can be configured to present to the user whether or not the ticket gate has predetermined equipment that can be used by the user.

D13. Modification 13:
Although not described in the above embodiment, each display in each balloon (such as B00 to B05 in FIG. 9) and each display in a block (B2s to B2e in FIGS. 9 and 10) are displayed on the mobile phone 200. The cursor keys 206b can be selected in order.

  For example, if you select the station name by placing the cursor on it and press the enter key to confirm the selection, you will see information on the presence or absence of station facilities (souvenir shops, convenience stores, restaurants, etc.) and information on access routes It can also be set as an aspect. That is, the station attribute information can be displayed separately for information displayed before a predetermined operation is performed and information displayed after a predetermined operation is performed.

  In addition, when the cursor is placed on the route and the selection key is pressed to confirm the selection, the train platform number or the vehicle number closest to the stairs can be displayed. That is, train attribute information can be displayed separately for information displayed before a predetermined operation is performed and information displayed after a predetermined operation is performed.

D14. Modification 14:
In the above embodiment, the output unit that provides information to the user is configured as the display panel 202, the audio output unit 203, and the vibration mechanism 204 (see FIG. 1). However, the output unit can output information in the form of a printed matter, or can output information with unevenness constituting Braille. The output unit only needs to be able to provide information to the user in some form such as an image, sound, touch, or vibration.

D15. Modification 15:
In the said 3rd Example, a path | route is determined based on evaluation value Ve1-Ve3 regarding a charge. However, the route can be determined taking into account various other factors. For example, in addition to the evaluation values Ve1 to Ve3, the route can be determined in consideration of other evaluation items such as the required time to the destination and the number of transfers. When determining a route in consideration of a plurality of evaluation items, for example, the comprehensive evaluation value can be determined as follows.

  V = Ct × (Vt / Vtmin) + Ce × (Ve / Vemin) + Cc × (Vc / Vcmin) (4)

  Vt is the time required to reach the destination on the route. Vtmin is the minimum required time of the required time for each candidate route. Vc is the number of transfers on the route. Vcmin is the minimum number of transfers among the number of transfers for each candidate route.

  Ve is an evaluation value related to a charge, and is Vb, Ve1, Ve2 or Ve3. If the user does not check the check boxes CB11 and CB12 (see FIG. 5) in step S10 of FIG. 4, Ve is Vb. When the check box CB11 (see FIG. 5) is checked and the check box CB12 is not checked, Ve is Ve1. When the check box CB12 (see FIG. 5) is checked and the check box CB11 is not checked, Ve is Ve2. When the check boxes CB11 and CB12 (see FIG. 5) are checked, Ve is Ve3. Vemin is the minimum Ve among Ve of each candidate route.

  Ct, Ce, and Cc are weighting factors. A large weighting factor is set for an evaluation item that is emphasized by the user. For evaluation items that are not emphasized by the user, the weighting factor is set small. It is preferable that the user can freely set Ct, Ce, and Cc.

  Then, the route having the smallest V determined by the equation (4) is selected. If it is set as such an aspect, a path | route can be determined in consideration of several evaluation items. Here, there are three types of evaluation items to be considered. However, the number of evaluation items considered when selecting a route may be three or less, or may be four or more. However, as an evaluation item to be considered, it is preferable to consider at least one of an evaluation item related to required time, an evaluation item related to a charge, and an evaluation item related to convenience (for example, the number of times of transfer and the time required for transfer).

D16. Modification 16:
In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a route of a train is included in the route has been described. However, the present invention can be applied to route guidance in the case where various routes such as a route bus, a regular ferry, and an aircraft are included in the route in addition to the train. That is, the route included in the route may be “a route on which the transportation means is operated according to the timetable”.

  Here, the “transportation means” is a concept associated with the operation schedule. That is, “a train that departs Nagoya Station at 8:21 and heads toward Tokyo” is an example of “transportation”. In this case, for example, “Tokaido Shinkansen” is an example of “route”.

  Moreover, the said Example demonstrated the aspect in which the user transfers from one train to another train in the path | route which reaches a destination. However, the transfer may be performed in a mode of changing to a different type of transportation such as a train to a bus or a walk to a train. In other words, the route search system only needs to be able to indicate to the user the station from which the “transport means that the user should transfer” departs and the departure time.

  Here, “the transportation means to be changed by the user” means “the transportation means to be used next after stopping the means (for example, walking, bicycle, automobile, or other train, ship or aircraft) to be used before that”. "Means. The moving means used before the “transport means to be changed by the user” does not need to be operated according to the timetable, and may be, for example, walking, a bicycle, a car, or the like. In addition, when using a moving means that does not depend on these timetables, the arrival time at the station can be calculated based on the average moving speed and the average required time included in the current position and route information.

  In addition, the “station where the transportation means departs” does not mean “a starting station of the transportation means”. The “station from which the transportation means departs” means a station from which the transportation means departs regardless of whether the transportation means has stopped at another station before the station. That is, the “station from which the transportation means departs” is a concept that includes both “the station where the transportation means arrives from another station and then departs” and “the first departure station of the transportation means”.

D17. Modification 17:
In the above embodiment, the route search system includes the route search server 100, the map server 150, the timetable server 170, and the mobile phone 200 as its components. However, a mobile terminal that is carried by the user and that includes a GPS unit and a display may be provided with the functions of the route search server 100 and the map server 150. Furthermore, the function of the timetable server 170 can also be provided in a portable terminal. Further, the route search server 100 and the map server 150 may be the same server. The timetable server 170 may be the same server as the route search server 100.

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

D18. Modification 18:
In the above embodiment, a part of the configuration realized by hardware may be replaced with software, and conversely, a part of the configuration realized by software may be replaced by hardware. For example, a part of the function of the application software 212 (FIG. 1) can be executed by the control circuit.

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

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

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Route search server 102 ... Communication part 104 ... Control part 106 ... Memory | storage part 150 ... Map server 152 ... Communication part 154 ... Control part 156 ... Map database 170 ... Timetable server 172 ... Communication part 174 ... Control part 176 ... Timetable Database 200 ... Cellular phone 201 ... GPS unit 202 ... Display panel 203 ... Audio output unit 204 ... Vibration mechanism 205 ... Communication unit 206 ... Command input unit 206a ... Numeric keypad 206b ... Cursor key 209 ... Clock unit 210 ... Main control unit 212 ... Application Software 220 ... Call control unit 231 ... Route preparation unit 232 ... Route display unit 233 ... Map information preparation unit B20 to B25 ... Block indicating information about the station B2e ... Block indicating the destination B2s ... Block indicating the departure point BB ... "Back" ”Button BD ...“ Confirm ”button BU ...“ Cancel ”button CB01 to CB04 ... Check box for inputting usable electronic money CB11 ... Check box for specifying whether or not to use information on express ticket CB12 ... Periodic Check box for specifying whether or not to use information on tickets and electronic money Fs ... Commuter ticket section IB01 ... Input box for inputting commuter ticket routes IB02: Input box for inputting commuter ticket boarding stations IB03 ... Input box for entering the commuter station of the commuter pass IB11 ... Input box for entering the departure point IB12 ... Input box for entering the destination IB21 ... Input box for entering the train name of the express ticket IB22 ... Input box for entering the express train boarding station IB23 ... Entering the express train boarding station Input box IB24 ... Input box for inputting the date of the train for the limited express ticket IB25 ... Input box for inputting the departure time of the train for the express ticket IB31 ... Input box for inputting the desired stay time at the boarding station IB32: Input box for inputting desired stay time at the getting-off station INT: Internet Ic1 ... Icon indicating that there is a toilet Ic2 ... Icon indicating that there is a restaurant L00a, L00b, L01 to L04 ... Routes Lu00a, Lu01, Lu02 ... Use section Lu00b ... Virtual use section PD ... Destination icon S00, S01a, S01b, S02-S05 ... Section SD1, SD3 ... Image display SP ... Departure point icon So ... One end of commuter pass section Station Stb ... Station (Ride Station)
Std ... Station (target station)
Sts1, Sts2 ... Stop station Stt1, Stt2 ... Transfer station TLa1, TLa4, TLa5 ... Display of routes and arrival platforms TLd0, TLd1, TLd4 ... Display of routes and departure platforms Ta1, Ta4, Ta5 ... Display of estimated arrival times Td01, Td11 , Td41 ... Departure time display

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention employs, as one aspect thereof, a route search system having the following configuration. This route search system
A route network information storage unit for storing route network information representing routes of transportation;
An input unit that receives inputs of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used from the departure point to the destination among the routes;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, referring to the route network information, based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, the route from the departure point to the destination, A route search unit for preparing information of a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
An output unit for outputting the route.
The route search unit prepares a plurality of routes as the route including at least a part of the designated route section.
The output unit can output the plurality of routes.
The plurality of routes are:
A first path;
And a second route having a shorter distance to use the designated route section than the first route and a short time from the starting point to the destination.
Moreover, in order to achieve the said objective, this invention employ | adopts the route search system provided with the following structures as the one aspect | mode. This route search system
A route network information storage unit for storing route network information representing routes of transportation;
An input unit that receives inputs of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used from the departure point to the destination among the routes;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, referring to the route network information, based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, the route from the departure point to the destination, A route search unit for preparing information of a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
An output unit for outputting the route.

Claims (27)

A route search system,
A route network information storage unit for storing route network information representing routes of transportation;
An input unit that receives inputs of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used from the departure point to the destination among the routes;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, referring to the route network information, based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, the route from the departure point to the destination, A route search unit for preparing information of a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
A route search system comprising: an output unit that outputs the route. The route search system according to claim 1,
The route search unit refers to the route network information when a predetermined condition is not satisfied, and based on the departure point and the destination, based on the departure point and the destination, based on the designated route section. A route search system that prepares a route to reach. The route search system according to claim 1 or 2,
The output unit further provides a station input screen that prompts input of a first station that is a boarding station for the express ticket of the transportation that has been purchased or reserved and a second station that is a station where the express ticket is to be dropped off. Can be displayed,
The input unit receives input of the first station and the second station as at least part of the input of the designated route section,
The route search unit is configured to prepare route information including the designated route section as the route when the predetermined condition is satisfied. The route search system according to claim 3, further comprising:
A timetable information storage unit for storing timetable information which is information of the timetable of the transportation facility;
The output unit further inputs at least one of a departure time when the transportation means corresponding to the express ticket leaves the first station, and a name of the transportation means. You can display an urging vehicle input screen,
The input unit can receive at least one input of the departure time and the name of the transportation means,
The route search unit refers to the route network information and the timetable information, and is based on at least one of the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, and the departure time and the name of the transportation means. A route search system for preparing the route. The route search system according to claim 4, further comprising:
A storage unit for storing the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section;
In the output unit, after the route is prepared based on at least one of the departure time and the name of the transportation means, the transportation means corresponding to the express ticket of the transportation facility leaves the first station. A means of transport input screen prompting entry of at least one of the departure time and the name of the means of transport can be displayed again,
The input unit may further receive the input of the departure time again after the transportation means input screen is displayed again.
The route search unit refers to the route network information and the timetable information, and stores the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section stored in the storage unit, and the departure time received again. A route search system that prepares the route based on at least one of the names of the transportation means. The route search system according to claim 4 or 5,
The output unit can further display a first stay time input screen that prompts input of a first stay time desired to stay at the first station,
The input unit can receive an input of the first stay time;
The route search system, wherein the route search unit prepares the route so that the user can stay at the first station for a time longer than the first stay time based on the first stay time. The route search system according to any one of claims 4 to 6,
The output unit can further display a second stay time input screen that prompts input of a second stay time desired to stay at the second station,
The input unit can receive an input of the second stay time;
The route search system, wherein the route search unit prepares the route so that the user can stay at the second station for a time longer than the second stay time based on the second stay time. A route search system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The output unit can further display a station input screen that prompts input of a first station that is one end of a commuter pass section and a second station that is the other end of the commuter pass section. ,
The route search system, wherein the input unit can receive an input of the first station and the second station as at least a part of an input of the designated route section. The route search system according to claim 8,
The route search unit
Search for a plurality of routes from the starting point to the destination,
Based on the fare of each route and the fare of the section included in each route of the designated route section, select a route from the plurality of routes,
A route search system for preparing information on the selected route as information on a route including at least a part of the designated route section. The route search system according to claim 8,
The output unit can further display a selection screen that prompts input of an instruction as to whether to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section,
The input unit can receive an instruction as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
The route search system, wherein the predetermined condition includes that an instruction to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section is input. A route search system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The output unit can further display a payment system input screen that prompts the user to specify a payment system that can be used on a specific route of the transportation route,
The route search system, wherein the input unit can receive designation of the payment system corresponding to the specific route as at least a part of input of the designated route section. A route search system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The input unit receives the identification from the user through a payment system processing unit that performs processing for a payment system that can be used on a specific route of the transportation route as at least a part of the input of the designated route section. A route search system capable of receiving information on the use of the payment system corresponding to a route. The route search system according to claim 11 or 12,
The route search unit
Search for a plurality of routes from the starting point to the destination,
Based on the fare of each route and the fare of the section included in each route of the designated route section, select a route from the plurality of routes,
A route search system for preparing information on the selected route as information on a route including at least a part of the designated route section. A route search system according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
The route search unit prepares a plurality of routes as the route including at least a part of the designated route section,
The output unit can output the plurality of routes,
The plurality of routes are:
A first path;
A route search system including a second route having a shorter distance to use the designated route section than the first route and a short time from the starting point to the destination. 15. The route search system according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
The route network information includes information on facilities that a user can use for stations on the route,
The route search unit prepares information on the route including information on the facility at a stop station where the transportation means of the transportation facility stops on the route,
The said output part is a route search system which can display the said route with the display of the presence or absence of the said facility of the said stop station. A route search method,
(A) receiving an input of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used between the departure point and the destination among transportation routes;
(B) When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the route network information representing the route of the transportation facility is referred to, and based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section, the departure point to the destination Preparing information on a route that reaches the ground and includes at least a part of the designated route section;
(C) outputting the route. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
(D) including a step of prompting input of a first station that is a boarding station for the express ticket of the transportation that has been purchased or reserved, and a second station that is a station for getting off the express ticket;
The step (a) includes receiving the input of the first station and the second station as at least a part of the input of the designated route section,
The step (b) is a method of preparing information on a route including the designated route section as the route. 18. A method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising:
(D) prompting input of a first station that is one end of a commuter pass section and a second station that is the other end of the commuter pass section;
The step (a)
Receiving the input of the first station and the second station as at least part of the input of the designated route section. The method of claim 18, further comprising:
(E) prompting input of an instruction as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
(F) receiving an instruction as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
The predetermined condition includes a method in which an instruction to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section is input. 18. A method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising:
(D) prompting the designation of a payment system that can be used on a specific route of the transportation routes;
(E) receiving the designation of the payment system corresponding to the specific route as at least part of the input of the designated route section. 18. A method according to claim 16 or 17, comprising
The step (a) is performed by a user through a payment system processing unit that performs a process for a payment system that can be used on a specific route among the routes of the transportation as at least a part of the input of the designated route section. Receiving information on use of the payment system corresponding to the particular route. A computer program for searching a route by being executed in a computer,
A first function for receiving input of a departure point, a destination, and a designated route section to be used between the departure point and the destination among the routes of transportation;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the route network information representing the route of the transportation facility is referred to, and the route from the departure point to the destination is determined based on the departure point, the destination, and the designated route section. A second function of preparing information on a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
A computer program that causes the computer to realize a third function of outputting the path. A computer program according to claim 22, further comprising:
The computer has a function of displaying a station input screen that prompts input of a first station that is a boarding station for the express ticket of the transported vehicle that has been purchased or reserved, and a second station that is a station where the express ticket is getting off. To realize
The first function includes a function of receiving input of the first station and the second station as at least part of the input of the designated route section,
The second function is a computer program including a function of preparing information on a route including the designated route section as the route. 24. A computer program according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising:
The computer realizes a fourth function for displaying a station input screen that prompts input of a first station that is one end of a commuter pass section and a second station that is the other end of the commuter pass section. ,
The first function includes a function of receiving an input of the first station and the second station as at least a part of an input of the designated route section. 25. A computer program according to claim 24, further comprising:
A fifth function for displaying a selection screen for prompting an input as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
Causing the computer to realize a sixth function of receiving an instruction as to whether or not to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section;
The predetermined program includes a computer program including an instruction to prepare a route including at least a part of the designated route section being input. 24. A computer program according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising:
A fourth function for displaying a payment system input screen for prompting specification of a payment system that can be used on a specific route of the transportation routes;
A computer program that causes the computer to realize a fifth function of receiving designation of the payment system corresponding to the specific route as at least a part of the input of the designated route section. A computer program according to claim 22 or 23,
The first function is a payment system processing unit that performs processing for a payment system that can be used on a specific route of the transportation route as at least a part of the input of the designated route section. A computer program comprising a function of receiving information on use of the payment system corresponding to the specific route.

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