JP2014215204A - Server device, terminal device, information processing method, information processing system and information processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information processing system capable of accurately and efficiently collecting information, in a server device, necessary for updating map data used for movement of a navigation device.SOLUTION: An information processing system comprises: a storage section 14 which stores map data VD for movement; an interface 10 which receives a verification result corresponding to a feature included in a map from a navigation device S; a processing section 11 which determines whether or not the received verification result coincides with the map data VD; and a recording section 14 which records the verification result when the same is determined not to coincide with the map data VD. The verification result is sent from the navigation device S only when photographed data included in the map data VD stored in the navigation device S is different from the photographed data newly taken by the navigation device S.

Description

  The present application belongs to the technical fields of server devices, terminal devices, information processing methods, information processing systems, and information processing programs. More specifically, in the technical field of a server device and a terminal device, an information processing method and an information processing system, and an information processing program for the server device that perform processing related to map information used for moving a moving object such as a vehicle or a person. Belongs.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, for example, navigation devices that are mounted on vehicles and guide their movement have been widely used. In general, in a navigation apparatus, guidance along a route from a departure place to a destination is performed, for example, while displaying a map or outputting guidance voices.

  Recently, for example, for intersections and points with large signboards, actual images (including both still images and moving images) obtained by actually photographing the scenery around the intersections and the signboard itself from the driver's perspective. The same is also displayed with a map for guidance on the intersection. According to the navigation device that displays such a live-action image, since the scenery that is actually visible from the driver is displayed on, for example, a display and the corresponding point is guided, the burden on the driver is reduced, More convenient and reliable guidance is possible. At this time, as a configuration for performing the guidance displaying the above-described photographed image, image information corresponding to the photographed image is recorded in association with map information including a point where the photographed image is captured. Is called.

  On the other hand, the scenery and signs around the intersection may naturally change over time. In this case, with the change, the content of the photographed image obtained by photographing them before and the actual situation (the content of the signboard or the like) differ. As a result, if the guidance is performed using an old live-action image that is different from the actual situation, the operator may be confused. Therefore, for example, every predetermined period, it is necessary to update the image information corresponding to the photographed image included in the map information to the latest one. Conventional techniques relating to such updating of image information are disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 below.

  At this time, according to the technique described in Patent Document 1 below, in order to update facility information including a photographed image on the center side, a peripheral photographing camera mounted on the vehicle is used. More specifically, an image obtained by photographing a facility in the past is compared with an image obtained by photographing the facility with a camera. If there is a difference between the two, the newly photographed image is transmitted to the center. It is supposed to be used for updating image information.

  Further, in the technique described in Patent Document 2 below, when a signboard image model is prepared in advance and a signboard that matches the model is photographed by an in-vehicle camera, for example, from GPS (Global Positioning System) Along with the obtained position information, a newly photographed image is recorded as map information.

Japanese Patent No. 4946238 JP 2004-151523 A

  However, the techniques described in the above-mentioned patent documents cause the following problems.

  First, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when the comparison result in the vehicle is negative, “always” and “image information itself” are transmitted to the center, so the number of vehicles equipped with cameras increases. Then, there is a problem that a large amount of image information is intensively transmitted to the center, and as a result, the communication amount may become enormous.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 2, there is a possibility that there is an error in the collation result of a signboard or the like on the vehicle, and there is a possibility that the position information by GPS also contains an error. Therefore, if the image is recorded as it is as map information in these cases, the accuracy of the map information itself is lowered and it is not suitable for sharing with the map information for other vehicles. There is.

  Therefore, the present application has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and one example of the problem is to accurately and efficiently collect information necessary for updating map information used for movement of the navigation device. A server device and a terminal device, an information processing method and an information processing system, and an information processing program for the server device can be provided.

  In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 is a map information storage means for storing map information used for movement of the terminal device, and a land corresponding to the feature included in the map information. When the object information is transmitted from the terminal device, the apparatus includes a receiving unit that receives the transmitted feature information and a feature information storage unit that stores the received feature information. The feature information includes the feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that has transmitted the feature information, and the feature information newly acquired in the terminal device. The terminal device is configured to transmit only when it is determined that the terminal device is different.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 7 is an information processing system including a terminal device and a server device connected to the terminal device via a network. The map information storage means for storing the map information used for the movement of the terminal device and the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information are transmitted from the terminal device. Receiving means for receiving feature information; and feature information storage means for storing the received feature information; wherein the terminal device stores terminal device storage means for storing terminal device map information; Terminal device determination means for determining whether or not the feature information included in the terminal device map information being different from the feature information newly acquired for the feature in the terminal device; Terminal device transmitting means for transmitting the feature information to the server device only when it is determined that the feature information included in the device map information is different from the acquired feature information; Is provided.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 8 is included in a storage device that stores map information in the terminal device connected to the server device via a network, and the stored map information. Determination means for determining whether or not the feature information is different from the feature information newly acquired for the feature in the terminal device, the feature information included in the map information, And a transmission unit that transmits the feature information to the server device only when it is determined that the acquired feature information is different.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 9 is a server device connected to a terminal device, wherein the map information storage means for storing map information used for movement of the terminal device, An information processing method that is executed in a server device including object information storage means, and when the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device, the transmission Receiving the received feature information; and a storage control step of storing the received feature information in the feature information storage means, wherein the received feature information includes the feature information The feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that transmitted the information is different from the feature information newly acquired in the terminal device in the terminal device. In case Configured as transmitted from the terminal device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 10 is a server device connected to a terminal device, wherein map information storage means for storing map information used for movement of the terminal device, When the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device to the computer included in the server device including the object information storage means, the transmitted feature An information processing program for functioning as receiving means for receiving information and storage control means for storing the received feature information in the feature information storage means, wherein the received feature information is In the terminal device, the feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that has transmitted the object information and the feature information newly acquired in the terminal device are Only when it is to be differences, configured as transmitted from the terminal device.

It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the information processing apparatus which concerns on embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a block diagram etc. which show the detailed structure of the navigation apparatus based on 1st Example, (a) is the said block diagram, (b) is a figure which illustrates the content of the map data currently recorded in the navigation apparatus. is there. It is a block diagram etc. which show the detailed structure of the server apparatus based on 1st Example, (a) is the said block diagram, (b) is a figure which illustrates the content of the map data currently recorded in the server apparatus. is there. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 3rd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 4th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 5th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on 6th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the update process of the map data which concerns on a 2nd modification, (a) is a flowchart which shows the production | generation process of an update list, (b) is a flowchart which shows the update process of the feature data using an update list. It is.

  Next, the form for implementing this application is demonstrated using FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the server device according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the server apparatus SV according to the embodiment includes a map information storage unit 14, a reception unit 10, and a feature information storage unit 15.

  In this configuration, the map information storage unit 14 stores map information used for the movement of the terminal device S.

  On the other hand, when the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device S, the receiving means 10 receives the transmitted feature information.

  Thereby, the feature information storage means 15 stores the feature information received by the receiving means 10.

  At this time, the feature information received by the receiving unit 10 includes the feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device S that has transmitted the feature information, and new information in the terminal device S. Only when it is determined that the feature information acquired by the terminal device S is different from the terminal device S, the feature information is transmitted from the terminal device S.

  As described above, according to the server device SV according to the embodiment, the feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device S and the terminal device S newly acquire the feature. The feature information transmitted only when the feature information is different from the received feature information is stored.

  Therefore, it is possible to accurately and efficiently collect the feature information necessary for updating the map information stored in the server device SV.

  Next, specific examples corresponding to the above-described embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In each embodiment described below, an information processing system in which a plurality of navigation devices mounted on or possessed by a moving body such as a vehicle and a server device are connected via a network such as the Internet, for example. It is an Example at the time of applying an embodiment to.

(1) First Example First, a first example corresponding to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the navigation apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the server apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the first embodiment. At this time, in FIG. 2, FIG. 5 (a) and FIG. 5 (b), for each of the constituent members of the first example corresponding to the respective constituent members in the server device SV according to the embodiment shown in FIG. The same member number as each component member in SV is used.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing system SS according to the first example includes a server device SV and a plurality of navigation devices S1, navigation devices S2,..., Navigation as examples of the terminal device S according to the embodiment. And a device Sn (n is a natural number). The server device SV and each navigation device S1, navigation device S2,..., Navigation device Sn are connected so as to be able to exchange information via a network W such as the Internet. In the following description, when a common item is described for each navigation device S1, navigation device S2,..., Navigation device Sn, it is simply referred to as “navigation device S” as appropriate.

  In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 3A, each navigation device S guides the movement of the moving body, the display 20 made of a liquid crystal display, the operation unit 4 made of operation buttons or a remote controller, and the like. A recording unit 9 composed of a hard disk or the like that records a database including map data SD, which will be described later, corresponding to a map displayed at the time, in a nonvolatile manner, a self-supporting sensor such as an acceleration sensor, a GPS sensor, and traffic information The sensor unit 6 includes a VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) (registered trademark) sensor and the like, and an imaging unit such as a charge coupled device (CCD), for example, and images the direction specified by the processing unit 8 described later. A camera 7 and a processing unit 8 including a CPU, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like. It has been made. In addition to the map data and the like, navigation data such as voice data necessary for guiding the movement of the moving body is also recorded in the recording unit 9 as nonvolatile information.

  The processing unit 8 includes an interface 1, a determination unit 3, and an update unit 5. At this time, the interface 1, the determination unit 3, and the update unit 5 may be configured by a so-called hardware logic circuit, or correspond to a flowchart showing map data update processing according to a first embodiment described later. The program may be functionally realized by the CPU in the processing unit 8 reading and executing the program. The camera 7 corresponds to an example of “imaging unit” according to the present application, and the processing unit 8 corresponds to an example of “detection unit”, an example of “terminal device determination unit”, and an example of “determination unit” according to the present application. The recording unit 9 corresponds to an example of “terminal device storage unit” and an example of “storage unit” according to the present application, respectively, and the interface 1 includes an example of “terminal device transmission unit” and “transmission” according to the present application. It corresponds to an example of “means”.

  Next, the map data SD according to the first embodiment recorded in the recording unit 9 will be described with reference to FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S according to the first embodiment includes feature data 90, road data 91, and background data 92. It is. At this time, the feature data 90 includes data related to the features to be included in the map displayed on the display 20 when guiding the movement of the moving object.

  Here, the “feature” according to the first embodiment means an object that is significant in guiding the movement of the moving object, such as a facility such as a building, a park or an overpass, or a signal, a sign, a pedestrian crossing, etc. In principle, it refers to things that exist on or around the road. Then, as the feature data 90, the version in the map data SD of data indicating the feature identified by the feature ID is associated with a preset feature ID for identifying from other features. Version data to be displayed, position data including, for example, latitude data and longitude data indicating the position of the feature, and feature amount data quantitatively indicating the feature of the feature are recorded. As an example of the feature amount data, feature amount data extracted by a SIFT (Scale-Invariant Feature Transform) method, which is an algorithm used for object recognition in an image, can be cited. This SIFT method is an algorithm conventionally used for the object recognition and the like. For example, instead of the image data corresponding to the actual image of the feature, the feature amount data by the SIFT method is recorded, so that the data amount can be greatly reduced.

  On the other hand, the road data 91 is the same as the road data for map data used in the conventional navigation device, and road data indicating roads included on the map is recorded as link data indicating a plurality of links, for example. ing. The background data 92 is the same as the background data for map data used in the conventional navigation device, and the background other than the roads and features included on the map (in a planar map, roads Or background data used for drawing of the background of the feature).

  Note that the geographical range of the map recorded in the navigation device S as the map data SD may be, for example, the whole country (for example, Japan) where the navigation device S is used, or, for example, one prefecture or It may be limited to a partial region such as one region. The version of the feature data 90 and the version of the map data SD as a whole may match each other, or the version of the map data SD and the version of each of the feature data 90 are set separately. It may be a thing.

  On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, the server apparatus SV according to the first example includes an interface 10 corresponding to an example of the receiving unit 10 according to the embodiment, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. Are recorded in the processing unit 11 corresponding to an example of the “determination means”, the display 12 including a liquid crystal display, the operation unit 13 including a keyboard and a mouse, and the navigation devices S connected to the server device SV. And a recording unit 14 including a hard disk or the like for recording in a nonvolatile manner a database including map data VD as master map data used for updating the map data SD. The recording unit 14 corresponds to an example of the map information storage unit 14 and an example of the feature information storage unit 15 of the embodiment. The processing unit 11 corresponds to an example of an “update unit” and an example of an “extraction unit” according to the present application. Further, the interface 10 corresponds to an example of “transmission unit” and an example of “identification information transmission unit” according to the present application.

  Next, the map data VD according to the first embodiment recorded in the recording unit 14 will be described with reference to FIG. 4B. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the map data VD recorded in the server device SV according to the first embodiment includes feature data 140, road data 141, and background data 142. ing. At this time, in the feature data 140, the map displayed on the display 20 of the navigation device S when guiding the movement of the moving body is similar to the feature data 90 of the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S. Contains data about features that should be included in the. That is, as the feature data 140, the version data indicating the version in the map data VD of the data indicating the feature identified by the feature ID in association with the feature ID similar to the map data SD, and the feature data Position data indicating the position of the feature identified by the object ID is recorded. In addition, actual image data obtained by photographing the feature identified by the feature ID may be recorded. In the following description, the actual image data is simply referred to as “real image data”.

  On the other hand, in the road data 141, as with the road data 91 of the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S, road data indicating roads included on the map is recorded as link data, for example. The background data 142 is also recorded with background data used for drawing backgrounds other than roads and features included on the map, as is the case with the background data 92 of the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S. ing. The above feature data 140, road data 141, and background data 141 are master map data for the feature data 90, road data 91, and background data 92 recorded in each navigation device S, as described above. It has the positioning as.

  Note that the geographical range of the map recorded in the server device SV as the map data VD may be limited to a certain area as the map data SD used in the navigation device S. However, from the viewpoint that the map data VD is used to generate update data for updating the map data SD recorded in the plurality of navigation devices S, the corresponding geographical range is, for example, one country (for example, (Japan) It is desirable to be across.

  Further, the version of the feature data 140 and the version of the map data VD as a whole may coincide with each other like the feature data 90 of the navigation device S, or the version and features of the map data VD as a whole. The version in each data 140 may be set separately.

  In the configuration described above, the interface 1 of each navigation device S controls the input / output of data via the network W with the server device SV under the control of the processing unit 8, and also includes the recording unit 9 and the sensor unit 6. And input / output of data to / from the camera 7. Then, the determination unit 3 and the update unit 5 of the processing unit 8 obtain necessary information based on information that indicates whether or not update that is set in advance in the navigation device S or an operation by a user (such as a driver) in the operation unit 4. While displaying on the display 20, the map data update process which concerns on an Example is performed. At this time, the feature data 90 or the like recorded in the recording unit 9 is read out as necessary, and is supplied to the map data update process by the determination unit 3 or the like. In addition, the camera 7 takes an image of the front, side, or rear of a vehicle or the like on which the navigation device S is mounted under the control of the processing unit 8, and outputs live-action data corresponding to the image to the processing unit 8. Further, the processing unit 8 executes a navigation process for guiding the movement of the moving body on which the navigation device S is mounted based on the current position data and the traffic jam information output from the sensor unit 6, and the first described later. The map data update process according to the embodiment is executed.

  At this time, the processing unit 8 of each navigation device S mainly uses the camera 7 (in other words, the navigation device S itself) based on the current position data output from the sensor unit 6 and the direction data indicating the moving direction of the moving body. ) On the map and the shooting direction as the camera 7 can be calculated / estimated. When the moving body is a vehicle, the camera 7 can be used for calculation / estimation of the shooting direction by inputting in advance the installation position and installation direction of the camera 7 in the vehicle. From these, the processing unit 8 can calculate / estimate for each feature whether or not the feature on the map is in a position and direction that can be photographed by the camera 7 at that time. .

  On the other hand, the interface 10 of the server device SV controls the input / output of data via the network W with each navigation device S under the control of the processing unit 11. And the process part 11 performs the map data update process which concerns on 1st Example, displaying required information on the display 12 based on operation by the user (administrator) in the operation part 13. FIG. At this time, the feature data 140 or the like recorded in the recording unit 14 is read out as necessary and used for the map data update processing by the processing unit 11 or from each navigation device S under the control of the processing unit 11. It is updated with the actual photograph data transmitted.

  Next, the map data update process according to the first embodiment will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. The map data update process is a process of updating the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S using the map data VD recorded in the server device SV as master map data, and is mainly processed by each navigation device S. It is executed centering on the unit 8 and the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the map data update process according to the first embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S uses, for example, a preset movement distance, a preset position, or a time by the camera 7. It is monitored whether or not there is a possibility of photographing any of the surrounding features (step S1). At this time, as described above, the processing unit 8 determines whether or not there is a possibility that the feature on the map located around the moving body is in a position and direction that can be photographed by the camera 7 at that time. Monitoring is performed while calculating each time.

  If there is no possibility that any feature has been photographed in the monitoring in step S1 (step S1; NO), the processing unit 8 continues monitoring the possibility of photographing the feature according to step S1. On the other hand, when there is a possibility that any feature has been photographed in the monitoring in step S1 (step S1; YES), the determination unit 3 of the processing unit 8 corresponds to a feature that may have been photographed. The feature amount indicated by the feature amount data (see FIG. 3B) is collated with the feature amount corresponding to the feature reflected in the actual image data actually output from the camera 7 (step S2). ), It is determined whether or not there is a difference between them (step S3).

  If there is no difference between the two in step S3 (step S3; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S3 that the two feature quantities are different (step S3; YES), the processing unit 8 notifies the fact (the matching result indicating inconsistency) via the interface 1. It transmits to the server device SV (step S4). At this time, the processing unit 8 shows the feature collated in the above steps S2 and S3, and includes the feature data 90 including at least the version data, the corresponding position data, and the date and time of the latest version up (update). The verification result is transmitted to the server device SV. Here, the fact that the collation result is transmitted from the navigation device S to the server device SV means that the content when the feature photographed in the monitoring in step S1 is a signboard has been changed. This means that it is highly likely that the feature data 90 corresponding to the feature needs to be updated.

  Next, whether or not the processing unit 8 has received the update data for updating the map data SD of the navigation device S, transmitted from the server device SV corresponding to the collation result transmitted by the processing of step S4. Is determined (step S5). When the update data is not received in the determination in step S5 (step S5; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature. On the other hand, when update data is received in the determination of step S5 (step S5; YES), the processing unit 8 updates the corresponding portion of the map data SD using the received update data (step S6).

  Thereafter, the processing unit 8 determines whether or not to end the map data update process according to the first embodiment as the navigation device S, for example, when the power of the navigation device S is turned off (step S7). When the map data update process is ended in the determination of step S7 (step S7; YES), the processing unit 8 ends the process as it is, and when the map data update process is not ended in the determination of step S7 (step S7). NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature.

  Next, the map data update process according to the first example in the server apparatus SV corresponding to the map data update process according to the first example in the navigation apparatus S will be described with reference to FIG.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the map data update process according to the first embodiment, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV is inconsistent with any of the navigation apparatuses S when the power is turned on, for example. It is monitored whether or not a matching result is received (step S10). In the monitoring in step S10, when no collation result is received from any navigation device S (step S10; NO), the processing unit 11 continues to monitor the reception of the collation result.

  On the other hand, if the collation result from any of the navigation devices S is received in the monitoring in step S10 (step S10; YES), the processing unit 11 generates the collation result based on the received collation result. (See step S2 and step S3), it is determined whether or not it is necessary to update the map data SD including the feature data 90 for the feature photographed (step S11). Specifically, for example, the determination in step S11 corresponds to the contents (see FIG. 3B) of the version data and position data of the feature data 90 transmitted together with the collation result, and the feature data 90. Compare the contents of the feature data 140 in the recording unit 14 such as the version data and the position data (see FIG. 4B). If they are different, it is determined that the update is necessary. If they match, it is determined that there is no need for updating. Also, it is determined that there is a need for the update even when the feature data 140 in the recording unit 14 corresponding to the feature data 90 transmitted together with the collation result does not exist in the first place.

  If it is determined in step S11 that there is no need to update the map data SD (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues monitoring the reception of the matching result. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that there is a need to update the map data SD (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 maps the map data VD corresponding to the feature data SD to be updated (for example, The update data including the map data 140) corresponding to the map data 90 to be updated is generated and transmitted to the navigation device S that has transmitted the collation result (step S12). In the navigation device S that has received this update data, the processing from step S5 to step S7 is thereafter executed.

  Thereafter, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV determines whether or not to end the map data update process according to the first embodiment as the server apparatus SV, for example, when the power of the server apparatus SV is turned off ( Step S13). When the map data update process is ended in the determination in step S13 (step S13; YES), the processing unit 11 ends the process as it is, and on the other hand, when the map data update process is not ended in the determination in step S13 (step S13). NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues monitoring the reception of the collation result.

  As described above, according to the map data update process according to the first embodiment, the feature data 90 included in the map data SD for movement and corresponding to the surrounding features is newly added. The feature data of the photographed feature is compared, and when it is determined that there is a difference between the two, the feature data 90 is transmitted to the server device SV. Then, only when update data is transmitted from the server device SV corresponding to the transmitted feature data 90, the map data SD is updated using the update data.

  Therefore, in the server apparatus SV, the feature data 90 for updating the map data VD can be collected accurately and efficiently. Further, the map data SD is updated centrally and accurately by updating the map data SD of the navigation device S only by using the update data generated by determining the necessity of update in the server device SV. be able to. Furthermore, since the map data SD is updated only when there is a difference between the feature data and update data is transmitted, the map data SD is updated while reducing the amount of information exchanged with the server device SV. can do. Furthermore, since the map data SD is updated with the update data corresponding to the transmitted feature data 90, it is possible to update the map data SD according to the route or area where the navigation device S moves.

  Further, since the collation result in the navigation device S (see step S2 to step S4 in FIG. 5) and the position data indicating the position of the corresponding feature are included in the feature data 90 transmitted to the server device SV ( As shown in FIG. 3B, the map data SD can be updated by specifying the changed feature by using the position data with a small data amount.

  Furthermore, since the feature data 90 of the live-action data obtained by photographing the corresponding feature is included in the feature data 90, the map data SD can be updated by accurately identifying the changed feature with the live-action data. it can.

  Furthermore, since it is determined whether there is a difference from the map data 90 recorded in the recording unit 9 based on the feature amount data in the live-action data in which the features are newly photographed by the camera 7, The presence or absence of the difference can be accurately determined.

  In the first embodiment described above, when the map data SD used in the plurality of navigation devices S are compared, the map data SD as a whole may have different generations (versions). There may be incompatibility between the two. In such a case, as the map data VD of the server apparatus SV, a plurality of map data VD is recorded for each generation of the map data SD, and the update data is generated / transmitted for each generation. It is desirable to do.

  Further, when a moving image is used as the live-action data, the collating process (see step S2 and step S3 in FIG. 5) in each navigation device S is performed by using continuous still images for a plurality of frame images as the real-action data. In this case, the transmission of the collation result to the server device SV (see step S4 in FIG. 5) includes, for example, a predetermined range that can include a position that is calculated / estimated when a feature to be imaged is captured as a moving image. Is preferably set after the current position of the mobile body has left the range.

  This is because the collation process for a plurality of frame images is continuously performed within the predetermined range, and the collation result is generated after leaving the range. That is, in the above collation processing, a correct collation result is not always obtained in a short time. For example, the feature itself may not be photographed due to the presence of some obstacle, or the collation result may vary depending on the photographing direction. In this case, the collation result using the live-action data of the moving image cannot be obtained correctly unless the moving body moves beyond the above range.

  In this case, although depending on the method of the above collation processing, if a positive collation result (a collation result that the feature amount data is matched) is obtained even once within the above range, generally, as step S3, The determination result is “NO”. On the other hand, it is considered that the determination result in step S3 is “YES” after the moving object has left the above range.

  It should be noted that, in cases where the determination result in step S3 using the moving image data is “NO”, a case where the determination result is “YES”, except for the case where the determination result is statistically greater than or equal to the predetermined ratio. Techniques can also be used. In this case, the collation result may be transmitted to the server device SV even if the current position of the moving body is within the above range.

(2) Second Example Next, a second example, which is another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the second embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the second embodiment is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the second embodiment will be described using the member numbers used for the description of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, the same processing as that in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the map data update processing according to the first embodiment described above, if the server device SV determines that there is a need to update the map data SD of the navigation device S (see step S11 in FIG. 5; YES), it immediately responds to it. The update data thus transmitted is transmitted to the navigation device S. On the other hand, in the map data update process according to the second embodiment described below, when the server device SV determines that there is a need to update the map data SD, only the fact is first displayed in the navigation device. The server apparatus SV is configured to transmit corresponding update data from the server apparatus SV only after there is a request for update data from the navigation apparatus S.

  That is, in the map data update process according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, when the process from step S1 to step S4 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Based on the transmitted collation result, the server apparatus SV executes the processes of steps S10 and S11 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S11 that there is a need to update the map data SD (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 of the server device SV next notifies the necessity of update indicating that the update is necessary. Is transmitted to the navigation device S that has transmitted the collation result in the monitoring in step S10 (step S20). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 monitors whether or not an update request for requesting the update has been transmitted from the navigation device S that has transmitted the update necessity notification (step S21). When the update request is not transmitted from the navigation device S in the monitoring in step S21 (step S21; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and monitors the reception of the collation result. On the other hand, when the update request is transmitted in the monitoring of step S21 (step S21; YES), the processing unit 11 includes the map data VD corresponding to the feature data SD to be updated corresponding to the update request. Data is generated and transmitted to the navigation device S that has transmitted the collation result (step S12). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S that has transmitted the collation result by the process of step S4 next determines whether or not the update necessary notification transmitted from the server device SV has been transmitted by the process of step S20. Is monitored (step S15). When the update necessity notification is not received in the monitoring in step S15 (step S15; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature. On the other hand, in the determination of step S15, when the update necessary notification transmitted from the server device SV is received (step S15; YES), the processing unit 8 uses a method such as displaying on the display 20, for example, the user of the navigation device S. Whether or not the driver or the like is informed of the necessity of the update of the map data SD and whether or not updating is indicated based on, for example, an operation using the operation unit 4 or a setting of the navigation device S. (Step S16, step S17). When the operation is not executed in the determination in step S17 (step S17; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that an operation to update the corresponding map data SD is executed (step S17; YES), the processing unit 8 transmits the update request corresponding to the update to the server device SV ( Step S18).

  Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the processing of steps S5 to S8 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 to update the map data SD.

  As described above, according to the map data update process according to the second embodiment, in addition to the operational effects of the map data update process according to the first embodiment, an operation for performing an update using the operation unit 4 is performed. When executed in the navigation device S (step S17 in FIG. 6; YES), the map data SD is updated using the update data received from the server device SV, so the intention of the user of the navigation device S (driver, etc.) The map data SD can be updated accordingly.

(3) Third Example Next, a third example, which is still another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the third embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the third embodiment is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the third example will be described using the member numbers used for the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, the same processing as that in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the map data update processing according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the map data SD of each navigation device S is updated by transmitting update data from the server device SV. On the other hand, in the third embodiment described below, in addition to the update of the map data SD, the map data VD recorded in the server device SV is updated using the live-action data photographed by the navigation device S. The configuration is as follows.

  That is, in the map data update process according to the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the process from step S1 to step S6 in the flowchart shown in FIG. In parallel with this, in the server apparatus SV according to the third embodiment, the processes of steps S10 to S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 are executed.

  Next, when it is determined that there is no need to update the map data SD in the determination in step S11 (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV according to the third embodiment performs the process in step S10. It is determined whether or not to send the live-action data related to the matching process (see step S2 and step S3) corresponding to the matching result transmitted in the monitoring to the navigation device S that has transmitted the matching result (step S27). . The determination process in step S27 will be described in detail later.

  In the determination in step S27, when the live-action data related to the matching process corresponding to the received matching result is not transmitted (step S27; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues to monitor the reception of the matching result. . On the other hand, when the photographed data is transmitted in the determination of step S27 (step S27; YES), the processing unit 11 requests the photographed navigation data S to transmit the photographed data to the server SV. Is transmitted (step S28). Next, the processing unit 11 monitors whether or not the photograph data corresponding to the photograph data request is transmitted from the navigation device S (step S29). In the monitoring in step S29, for example, when the live-action data is not transmitted even after a predetermined time has elapsed (step S29; NO), the processing unit 11 performs the process in step S28 to transmit the real-action data request to the navigation device S again. Return to. On the other hand, in the monitoring in step S29, when the desired live-action data is transmitted (step S29; YES), the map data VD (more specifically, the map data VD is used by using the transmitted real-action data. The corresponding feature data 140) is updated (step S30). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 proceeds to the determination in step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In response to this, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S monitors whether or not the live-action data request has been transmitted from the server device SV after updating the portion of the map data SD by the processing of step S6 ( Step S25). If no live-action data request is transmitted in the monitoring in step S25 (step S25; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing the feature. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S25 that a live-action data request transmitted from the server SV is received (step S25; YES), the processing unit 8 performs real-action data corresponding to the received real-action data request (in other words, the above step). The actual photograph data photographed by the process of S1) is transmitted to the server device SV (step S26), and then the processing unit 8 proceeds to the determination of step S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Next, the determination process in step S27 in the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV will be specifically described.

  In the determination in step S27, for example, when the determination result in step S11 is “NO”, it is necessary to immediately transmit the live-action data related to the collation result transmitted in the monitoring in step S10. It can be determined (step S27; YES). That is, the contents such as the version data and position data of the feature data 90 transmitted together with the collation result, and the contents such as the version data and position data of the feature data 140 in the recording unit 14 corresponding to the feature data 90. Is determined to be transmitted. In this case, since the collation result indicating that the two do not coincide with each other is received, the map data VD recorded in the server device SV can be updated. Judge that there is sex.

  Other conditions may be imposed in addition to the case where the determination result in step S11 is “NO”. More specifically, it is a collation result for a feature not included in the map data 140 of the map data VD, or a collation result for a feature for which data as the feature data 140 is being collected. In other words (in other words, for a feature for which sufficient data has already been collected, it is assumed that transmission of the corresponding live-action data is not requested).

  Here, the feature that is “collecting data” as the feature data 140 is related to the fact that the collation result received in the monitoring in step S10 may be incorrect. That is, in the collation processing (see step S2 and step S3 above) in the navigation device S according to the embodiment, the feature of the target feature to be collated may not be temporarily correctly collated only at a certain timing. In this case, even if the feature to be collated is unchanged, the collation result may be inconsistent (in other words, the collation result indicating inconsistency may be incorrect). At this time, the above condition “cannot be correctly collated” is, for example, when there is an obstacle in the shooting range of the camera 7, when the feature itself is under construction, and it is hidden and cannot be shot, For example, the object may be exposed to direct sunlight and cannot be clearly photographed. In such a case, it is considered appropriate for the server device SV to update the so-called “statistically” feature data VD. That is, as data included in the feature data 140, until a certain number of data is collected as a population, the data is treated as “a candidate for an update candidate in the feature data 140” in order to treat the data as a series. Are handled (managed).

  Further, as another condition in the determination in step S27, for example, update of the feature data VD using a plurality of data acquired at least from the timing when the acquisition of data in the server device SV as the feature data 140 is ended. Until the timing when the determination is made (see step S27 and step S29), the collation result indicating that the feature corresponding to the feature data 140 to be judged is inconsistent from another navigation device S (see above) Even if step S3 (see YES) is transmitted, it is conceivable that the live-action data is unnecessary.

Further, as the determination in step S27, the following five conditions may be weighted.
(I) Camera 7 performance and shooting conditions (so-called camera parameters)
(II) Date and time of shooting, weather, direction and position of camera 7 (estimation of the appearance of features)
(III) Whether or not the navigation device S is a feature that easily causes a collation error (when there is data indicating it)
(IV) Load status in the processing unit 11 of the server device SV and load status of the network W (V) Communication status such as transmission of the collation result in the past from each navigation device S Among these, (I) and (II) above By adding the above consideration conditions, it is possible to estimate the appearance of the feature in the live-action data and the “accuracy” of the matching process corresponding to the feature. In addition, by adding the consideration condition (III) above, a statistical result such as “the accuracy of the matching process is generally low” may be obtained from the case of the past matching result. These “accuracy” can be used as a basis for determining whether or not the corresponding live-action data is worth acquiring in the server device SV. Can be determined. On the other hand, depending on the situation of other loads in the information processing system SS, it may be determined that it is difficult to perform the update process of the map data VD at present or (in terms of service), but in this case, the above (IV) In addition, by adding the consideration condition (V), when it is “difficult to perform or is not appropriate at present”, it can be one criterion for determining that the transmission of the live-action data is not performed.

  Furthermore, in the update process of the map data VD using the live-action data according to the step S30, the update process may be automatically executed by the processing unit 11 or transmitted (step S30). (See S29; YES) It may be configured to display the live-action data on the display 12 while making judgment of the user (administrator, etc.) of the server device SV.

  As described above, according to the map data update process according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the map data update process according to the first embodiment, only when there is a request for live-action data from the server device SV. Since the live-action data is transmitted from the navigation device S to the server device SV, for example, while reducing the amount of data related to the communication on the network W, the real-action data is used for update processing of the map data VD in the server device SV. Can be made.

(4) Fourth Example Next, a fourth example, which is still another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the fourth embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the fourth embodiment is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the fourth example will be described using the member numbers used for the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same step numbers, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In the map data update processing according to the first to third embodiments described above, the feature data 90 included in the map data SD is obtained by using the live-action data photographed by the camera 7 of any of the navigation devices S. Differences with the actual situation of the feature were collated (see step S2 and step S3 above). On the other hand, in the fourth embodiment described below, based on the current position data from the sensor unit 6 of the navigation device S and the like, the road data 91 in the map data SD and the current state of the mobile body provided with the navigation device S are provided. The road data 91 is updated as necessary by checking the position.

  That is, in the map data update processing according to the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, first, in the processing unit 8 of any of the navigation devices S, for example, the current position data or the like for each preset moving distance or time. Based on the above, the current position of the moving body or the route traveled is compared with the position of the road indicated by the road data 91 (step S35), and it is determined whether there is a difference between them (step S36). Here, the difference between the two in the determination in step S36 (step S36; YES) means that the moving body is moving on a new road that is not included in the road data 91, for example.

  If there is no difference between the two in the determination in step S36 (step S36; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S35 and continues collation with the road data 91. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S36 that they are different from each other (step S36; YES), the processing unit 8 confirms that effect (the fact that it is located on a road not in the road data 91, And the current position data and the like at that time) are transmitted to the server device SV via the interface 1 (step S4). Thereafter, the processing unit 8 performs the processes of Steps S5 to S7 and Steps S25 and S26 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  At this time, in the process of step S5, update data for updating as new road data different from the road data 91 is received, and the new road data is updated by the process of step S6 using the received update data. . Further, the actual photograph data to be transmitted to the server device SV as the process in step S26 is the actual photograph data obtained by photographing the features in the vicinity of the road, which are photographed by the camera 7 in the collation process in steps S35 and S36. In addition, as the actual image data, for example, the actual image data of the feature photographed by the camera 7 immediately before it is determined that they are inconsistent in the determination in step S36 (see YES in step S36), or the inconsistency. Either the actual photograph data of the feature photographed immediately after the determination, or the actual photograph data of the feature photographed during the determination is transmitted.

  On the other hand, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV in the map data update process according to the fourth embodiment is basically the same as the processing unit 11 of the server device SV in the map data update process according to the third embodiment. Steps S10 through S13 and steps S27 through S30 are executed.

  At this time, in the determination in step S11, the processing unit 11 determines whether or not the map data VD includes the road data 141 including the current position included in the collation result received in the monitoring in step S10. judge. When the road data 141 including the current position included in the matching result is included in the map data VD, it is transmitted as update data to the navigation device S (step S11; YES and step S12). ).

  Further, in the determination process of step S27, the processing unit 11 immediately performs the process of step S10 when the determination result of step S11 is “NO”, similarly to the determination process of step S27 as the third embodiment. It is conceivable that it is determined that it is necessary to transmit the live-action data related to the collation result transmitted in the monitoring (step S27; YES). That is, when there is no road data at the position indicated by the current position data or the like transmitted together with the collation result (see step S11; NO), it is determined that the actual photograph data needs to be transmitted. In this case, the server has received a collation result indicating that the moving body is moving even though the road corresponding to the position indicated by the transmitted current position data or the like is not on the map. It is determined that the road data of the map data VD recorded in the device SV needs to be updated.

  When the determination result in step S11 is “NO”, i) the same as the case of the third embodiment, i) the matching result for roads not included in the road data of the map data VD, or When the condition that the result is a collation result for a feature for which data as new road data is being collected is further satisfied, the photographed data may be transmitted. In this case, the meaning of “data is being collected” is the same as that in the third embodiment. Further, as the determination in step S27, the five consideration conditions described in the third embodiment may be added in a weighted manner.

  Furthermore, as a process of step S30 of the fourth embodiment, the map data VD including the new road data is updated using the transmitted actual photograph data.

  As described above, according to the map data update process according to the fourth embodiment, the map data SD using the update data in addition to the operational effects of the map data update process according to the first embodiment and the third embodiment. Since the new road data is updated while the navigation device S is moving, it is possible to move using the updated map data SD and new road data.

(5) Fifth Example Next, a fifth example, which is still another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the fifth embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the fifth embodiment is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the fifth example will be described using the member numbers used for the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, the same processing as that in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the map data update processing according to the first to fourth embodiments described above, various data (for example, live-action data) acquired by any one of the navigation devices S is recorded in the navigation device S. Map data SD or map data VD recorded in the server device SV is updated. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment described below, the road data 91 of the map data SD is updated based on the guidance location data indicating the guidance location included in the route for travel guidance set in the navigation device S. The configuration is as follows.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 9, in the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S shows a route for guiding the movement of the moving body on which the navigation device S is mounted. Data is set by, for example, a predetermined route search method (step S40). The route data includes departure point data indicating the position of the departure point as the route, destination data indicating the position of the destination as the route, and the position of the guide point to be routed to the destination. The guide location data shown is included.

  Next, the processing unit 8 transmits, for example, guide place data among the route data generated by the process of step S40 to the server device SV (step S41). At this time, the destination data may be transmitted simultaneously. Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the processing from step S5 to step S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG. At this time, the processing unit 8 receives the update data for the guidance location data transmitted by the process of step S41 from the server device SV (step S5; YES), and uses the received update data. The map data SD is updated (step S6).

  On the other hand, in the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV receives the above guidance location data or the like from any of the navigation devices S when the power as the server device SV is turned on, for example. It is monitored whether or not (step S45). In the monitoring in step S45, when the guidance location data or the like is not received from any navigation device S (step S45; NO), the processing unit 11 continues monitoring the reception of the guidance location data or the like.

  On the other hand, if the guidance location data or the like from any of the navigation devices S is received in the monitoring in step S45 (step S45; YES), the processing unit 11 then performs the guidance location based on the received guidance location data or the like. By searching the map data VD for the guidance location included in the data, etc., and confirming whether or not the new feature data 140 etc. is recorded for the guidance location etc., the feature data about the guidance location etc. It is determined whether or not it is necessary to update the map data SD including 90 (step S11).

  When it is determined in the determination in step S11 as the fifth embodiment that there is no need to update the map data SD (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and receives the guide area data and the like. Continue monitoring. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the map data SD needs to be updated (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 corresponds to the guide data in the feature data SD to be updated. The update data including the guide location data of VD is generated and transmitted to the navigation device S that has transmitted the guide location data and the like (step S12). In the navigation device S that has received this update data, the processing from step S5 to step S7 is thereafter executed.

  Thereafter, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As described above, according to the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the map data update process according to the first embodiment, the update of the map data SD using the update data is route setting. Therefore, it is possible to set a route for movement and guide using the route using the updated map data SD.

  Here, in the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment described above, as a result, there are many cases where the data of the facility serving as each target (guide area) in the guidance using the route is often updated. In addition, for example, based on the type of facility that serves as a guide, etc., whether or not the map data SD relating to the route or other facilities within a certain geographical range from the destination is updated (see step S56 in FIG. 9). ) And updates thereof. More specifically, for example, with regard to recommended tourist facilities (spots), evacuation facilities, etc., it may be determined whether or not the corresponding map data SD is updated. In addition, the certain geographical range in this case may be configured to be changed based on the type of the other facility.

(6) Sixth Example Finally, a sixth example, which is still another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the sixth embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the sixth embodiment is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the sixth example will be described using the member numbers used for the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, the same processing as that in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 or the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the map data update processing according to the first to fourth embodiments described above, various data (for example, live-action data) acquired by any one of the navigation devices S is recorded in the navigation device S. Map data SD or map data VD recorded in the server device SV is updated. On the other hand, in the sixth embodiment described below, the map data SD is updated based on route data indicating the route set in the navigation device S.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 10, in the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S executes the process of step S40 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Next, the processing unit 8 transmits the route data itself generated by the process of step S40 to the server device SV (step S50). The timing of transmission as step S50 may be, for example, immediately after the route is searched for, or after the search result is approved by the user (driver or the like) of the navigation device S.

  Thereafter, the processing unit 8 monitors whether or not a re-search result corresponding to the transmitted route data and update data corresponding to the result are transmitted from the server device SV (step S51). When the re-search result or the like has not been transmitted in the monitoring of step S51 (step S51; NO), the processing unit 8 proceeds to the process of step S52 described later, and uses the route data generated by the process of step S40. The route guidance of the moving body that was was done.

  On the other hand, in the monitoring of step S51, when the re-search result or the like has been transmitted (step S51; YES), the processing unit 8 updates the map data SD using the transmitted update data (step S6). Further, route guidance of the moving body is performed using the route data included in the re-search result (step S52). Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the process of step S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment, the processing unit 11 of the server device V receives the route data from any of the navigation devices S, for example, when the power as the server device SV is turned on. Is monitored (step S55). In the monitoring in step S55, when route data is not received from any navigation device S (step S55; NO), the processing unit 11 continues monitoring the reception of the route data.

  On the other hand, if the route data from any of the navigation devices S is received in the monitoring in step S55 (step S55; YES), the processing unit 11 is indicated by the route data based on the received route data. It is verified whether or not the route is optimal in light of the map data VD recorded in the server device SV at that time (step S56). More specifically, the processing unit 11 performs a new route search using the departure point data and destination data included in the transmitted route data, and has the same content as the route data received in the monitoring in step S55. It is determined whether the route. At this time, it is also determined whether there is a road that can no longer be used in the route searched in the navigation device S. When the content of the route data received in the monitoring in step S55 is the same as the content of the newly searched route (step S56; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S55 and receives the route data. Continue monitoring. In this case, the fact that they are the same may be transmitted to the navigation device S that has transmitted the route data in the monitoring in step S55.

  On the other hand, when the contents of both route data are different in the determination of step S56 (step S56; YES), the processing unit 11 uses the route data indicating the newly searched route as the re-search result in the monitoring of step S55. It transmits with respect to the navigation apparatus S which has transmitted route data (step S57). At this time, if there is a road that is no longer usable in the route data received in the monitoring in step S55, the processing unit 11 also transmits the fact and related update data together. Thereafter, the processing unit 11 executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment described above, when there is not enough update data to update the map data SD of the navigation device S only by the re-search result transmitted from the server device SV, the navigation device The processing unit 8 of S requests and acquires the update data of the insufficient portion (for example, insufficient road data 91) to the server device SV, and updates the map data SD using the request. Also good.

  In the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment described above, the route data (see step S50) transmitted from the navigation device S includes incidental information such as an instruction to travel on the road and changes due to time zones included therein. It may be included. In addition, the accompanying information may include version data of road data 91 indicating a guide point included in the route data. In this case, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV determines whether or not the map data VD including the accompanying information is the latest, and if the updated data is in the map data VD, the updated data is used as the update data. May be transmitted to the navigation device S to update the map data SD.

  As described above, the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment.

  Next, a modification according to the embodiment will be described.

(7) First Modification First, a first modification will be described. In the first to third embodiments described above, for example, the feature 7 is photographed and collated by the camera 7 for each preset moving distance or time, but in addition, the navigation device S is mounted. It is also possible to perform a feature collation during guidance using a route for a moving object.

  More specifically, in general, during route guidance, guidance is provided including information on peripheral features that are easy to understand for each guidance location. For example, guidance such as “turns 30 meters ahead, turn left at XX (facility name)” is given by voice. Usually, at each intersection, there are a plurality of facilities that are candidates for guidance facilities at each corner, and based on the current moving direction of the moving body and the direction of bending, the user (driver etc.) is easy to see. Is selected as the facility for the guide in the route. The data of these guidance facilities and the facilities that are candidates thereof are known at the time of setting the route. In addition, after setting a guide point, when the user approaches the guide point, a facility that is actually used for guidance may be determined from facilities around the guide point.

  Therefore, when approaching a certain guide location, a collation process with the map data SD for one facility used for guidance at the guide location or a plurality of facilities including candidates thereof (see step S2 and step S3 above). Can be considered. In this case, the collation processing is performed by using live-action data within a range in which the facility can be photographed from the camera 7 in principle and can be calculated / estimated that it can be used for the collation processing. In this case, a geographical range for performing the matching process may be set in advance. The transmission to the server apparatus SV using the collation result is performed after moving outside the geographical range, for example.

  Then, as a result of transmission to the server device SV, when the update data for the facility is transmitted from the server device SV, the map data SD of the navigation device S is updated using the update data (the step S6). reference).

  According to the configuration of the first modification described above, the map data SD for the facility used for guidance of the moving body can be updated with priority, and the amount of communication with the server device SV can be suppressed.

(8) Second Modification Next, a second modification will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the second modification. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the second modification is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information processing system according to the second modification will be described using the member numbers used in the description of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment.

  In each of the embodiments and the first modification described above, the update processing of the map data SD or the map data VD is started when the collation result from any of the navigation devices S is received by the server device SV. At this time, the corresponding feature data 140 or the feature data 90 may not be updated over a long period of time due to various causes, for example, when the feature is present in a place where a person does not stop much. This is not particularly preferable as the map data VD having a position as master map data.

  Therefore, in the map data update process according to the second modification, the server device SV identifies a feature for which the corresponding feature data 140 is not updated for a long period of time, and updates the feature from each navigation device S. The feature data 140 is collected and the feature data 140 is updated. The map data update process according to the second embodiment is a process executed as an interrupt process when the map data update process according to each embodiment is a main routine. In addition, as the feature data 140 according to the second modification, time data indicating the timing at which they are updated is recorded in the recording unit 14 for each feature in association with each feature ID.

  Specifically, in the map data update process according to the second modified example, the features corresponding to the feature data 140 that are not updated for a long period of time are specified and listed at regular intervals. In the following description, the list is referred to as an “update list”. This update list is recorded in a nonvolatile manner in the recording unit 14 of the server device SV.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11A, as the map data update process according to the second modified example, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV has a timing set in advance as a timing for specifying the feature data 140 that is not updated for a long period of time. Whether or not has arrived is monitored (step S60). As the timing to be specified at this time, for example, the processing unit 11 periodically sets an interval of about once every few weeks as the timing to be specified.

  When the timing to be specified has not arrived in the monitoring in step S60 (step S60; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, when the timing to be specified has arrived in the monitoring in step S60 (step S60; YES), the processing unit 11 next determines whether or not the listing process has been completed for all the features (step S60). S61) If completed (step S61; NO), the process returns to the original main routine.

  On the other hand, when there is a feature for which the listing process has not been completed (step S61; YES), the processing unit 11 next reads the time data indicating the latest update timing for the feature from the recording unit 14. (Step S62) Next, it is determined whether or not the current time is a time when a predetermined period (for example, about several weeks) has elapsed from the read update timing (Step S63). If it is determined in step S63 that the current time is not the time when the predetermined period has elapsed (step S63; NO), it is assumed that listing for updating the feature data 140 corresponding to the feature is unnecessary, and the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that the current time is the time when the predetermined period has elapsed (step S63; YES), the processing unit 11 adds the feature to the update list (step S64), and further the next location. The feature ID is incremented by “1” in order to repeat the processing from step S61 onward for the object (step S65), and the process proceeds to step S61. By repeating the processes in steps S60 to S65 for all the features, an update list including the features corresponding to the feature data 140 that is not updated for the predetermined period is generated.

  Next, the update process of the feature data 140 using the update list will be specifically described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 11B, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV performs update processing of the feature data 140 according to the second embodiment, for example, in parallel with the update list generation processing shown in FIG. It is monitored whether there is any communication from any of the navigation devices S (step S70). The communication in this step S70 includes not only the reception of the collation result in each of the above embodiments but also other communication that can identify the navigation device S that is the transmission source. When there is no communication in the determination of step S70 (step S70; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, when there is some communication in the determination in step S70 (step S70; YES), the processing unit 11 next identifies whether or not the navigation S as the communication source corresponds to the update of the feature data 140 ( Step S71), if not (Step S71; NO), return to the original main routine.

  On the other hand, in the identification of step S71, when the communicating navigation device S corresponds to the update of the feature data 140 (step S71; YES), the processing unit 11 then uses the navigation device S for movement guidance. Whether or not a route (route data) is set is determined using, for example, the received collation result (step S72). When the route is set in the navigation device S in the determination in step S72 (step S72; YES), the processing unit 11 is a feature on the set route or in an area along the route, The features currently included in the update list are listed according to the corresponding feature ID (step S73). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S72 that the route is not set (step S72; NO), the processing unit 11 is, for example, a predetermined geographical area centered on the current position of the mobile object on which the navigation device S is mounted. The features that are in the range or in the administrative division to which the current position belongs and that are currently included in the updated list are identified and listed by the corresponding feature ID (step) S74).

  Next, the processing unit 11 communicates data corresponding to the list (including the corresponding feature ID) generated by the process of step S73 or the process of step S74 in the monitoring of step S70. (Step S75).

  The processing unit 8 of the navigation device S that has received the data records the feature data 90 recorded by the navigation device S for the features whose feature ID is included in the list corresponding to the received data. Alternatively, the feature data 90 accompanied with the actual image data photographed by the camera 7 or the like of the navigation device S is transmitted to the server device SV.

  After transmitting the data corresponding to the list generated by the process of step S73 or the process of step S74, the processing unit 11 of the server apparatus SV receives the feature data 90 corresponding to the list from the destination navigation apparatus S. It is monitored whether it has been transmitted (step S76). When the corresponding feature data 90 is not transmitted in the monitoring of step S76 (step S76; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine, and when it is transmitted (step S76; YES), the processing is performed. The unit 11 updates the feature data 140 of the corresponding feature (the feature data 140 that has not been updated for a long time) and the map data VD related thereto using the content of the feature data 90 transmitted. (Step S77). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. A map in which the feature data 140 that has not been updated for the predetermined period of time is transmitted from the navigation device S by executing the processing in steps S70 to S77 every time any communication with the navigation device S is performed. The data 50 is updated.

  According to the map data update process according to the second modified example described above, a feature whose corresponding feature data 140 is not updated for a specified period is extracted from the navigation device S corresponding to the feature ID indicating the feature. Since the map data VD including the feature data 140 is updated using the transmitted feature data 90, the map data VD can be updated for each specified period.

  As described with reference to FIG. 11 (a), in addition to periodically checking all the features and making a list each time, as another example of the update list generation, for example, first all the features It is also possible to generate a (temporary) update list for, and update it individually for each feature.

  More specifically, for example, in the update list created once, the processing unit 11 arranges the feature data 140 in the order of the updated date and time, and updates the feature data 140 for each feature (that is, from the navigation device S). Update using the feature data 90 is performed at any time. When one feature data 140 is updated, the order of the feature data 140 in the existing update list is changed based on the updated date and time. In this way, it is possible to maintain a state where an update list in which the date and time of the update date and time can be determined at a glance is recorded in the recording unit 14.

  In addition, in the update list created first, the processing unit 11 sequentially expands the range of the feature data 140 to be updated so that the latest update date / time sequentially includes the latest update date / time at regular intervals. A method of updating the feature data 140 to be updated at that time using the feature data 90 from the navigation device S is also conceivable.

  Further, programs corresponding to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 10 are recorded in a recording medium such as a flexible disk or a hard disk, or acquired via a network such as the Internet, and this is stored in a general-purpose micro computer. It is possible to cause the microcomputer or the like to function as the processing unit 8 and the processing unit 11 according to the embodiment by being read out and executed by a computer or the like.

10 Receiving means (interface)
11 Processing Unit 14 Map Information Storage Unit (Recording Unit)
15 feature information storage means 90, 140 feature data 91, 141 road data 92, 142 background data S terminal device SS information processing system S1, S2, Sn navigation device SV server device W network SD, VD map data

Claims (10)

Map information storage means for storing map information used for moving the terminal device;
Receiving means for receiving the transmitted feature information when the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device;
Feature information storage means for storing the received feature information;
With
The received feature information includes feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that has transmitted the feature information, and feature information newly acquired in the terminal device. Are transmitted from the terminal device only when the terminal device is different from the terminal device. The server device according to claim 1,
The server device characterized in that the received feature information includes at least a determination result indicating that the feature is different in the terminal device and identification information for identifying the feature information in the map information. . In the server apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2,
Each of the terminal devices includes an imaging unit that images the feature,
The server apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the feature information corresponds to image information generated by imaging the feature corresponding to the feature information. The server device according to claim 3,
Each of the terminal devices further includes detection means for detecting a feature amount indicating the feature of the feature in the generated image information,
The received feature information is included in the terminal device map information based on the feature amount in the image information generated by imaging the feature corresponding to the newly acquired feature information. The server device is transmitted from the terminal device only when the feature information is different from the newly acquired feature information. In the server device according to claim 3 or 4,
Determining means for determining the necessity of updating the stored map information based on the received feature information;
When it is determined that there is a need for the update, a transmitting unit that transmits request information for transmitting the generated image information to the terminal device;
Further comprising
The server device, wherein the image information is transmitted from the terminal device to which the request information is transmitted only when the transmitted request information is received. In the server apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
An extracting means for extracting the features whose corresponding feature information is not received for a preset period in the receiving means from among the features whose feature information is included in the stored map information; ,
Identification information transmitting means for transmitting feature identification information indicating the extracted features to the terminal device;
When the feature information corresponding to the feature indicated by the transmitted feature identification information is transmitted from the terminal device, the update is performed to update the map information using the transmitted feature information. Means,
The server apparatus further comprising: In an information processing system including a terminal device and a server device connected to the terminal device via a network,
The server device
Map information storage means for storing map information used for movement of the terminal device;
Receiving means for receiving the transmitted feature information when the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device;
Feature information storage means for storing the received feature information;
With
The terminal device
Terminal device storage means for storing terminal device map information;
Terminal device determination means for determining whether or not the feature information included in the stored terminal device map information is different from the feature information newly acquired for the feature in the terminal device;
Terminal device transmission means for transmitting the feature information to the server device only when it is determined that the feature information included in the terminal device map information is different from the acquired feature information. When,
An information processing system comprising: In a terminal device connected to a server device via a network,
Storage means for storing map information;
Determining means for determining whether or not the feature information included in the stored map information is different from the feature information newly acquired for the feature in the terminal device;
Transmitting means for transmitting the feature information to the server device only when it is determined that the feature information included in the map information is different from the acquired feature information;
A terminal device comprising: An information processing method executed in a server device connected to a terminal device, the map information storing unit storing map information used for movement of the terminal device, and a feature information storing unit There,
When the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device, a receiving step of receiving the transmitted feature information;
A storage control step of storing the received feature information in the feature information storage means;
Including
The received feature information includes feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that has transmitted the feature information, and feature information newly acquired in the terminal device. Is transmitted from the terminal device only when the terminal device is different from the terminal device. A computer connected to a terminal device, the computer included in the server device comprising map information storage means for storing map information used for movement of the terminal device and feature information storage means,
Receiving means for receiving the transmitted feature information when feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information is transmitted from the terminal device; and
Storage control means for storing the received feature information in the feature information storage means;
An information processing program that functions as
The received feature information includes feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device that has transmitted the feature information, and feature information newly acquired in the terminal device. Is transmitted from the terminal device only when the terminal device is different from the information processing program.

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