JP2017072971A - Update information distribution system, update information distribution method, and update information distribution program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an update information distribution system, an update information distribution method, and an update information distribution program that can appropriately distribute update information according to update needs of each map display terminal.SOLUTION: An update information distribution system 100 distributes difference update information for updating map information in response to a distribution request from an on-vehicle device 1 including the map information for displaying a map. The update information distribution system comprises: a communication unit 21 for receiving a distribution request; a determination unit 271 for determining a permissible rate corresponding to the probability that distribution of the difference update information is permitted on the basis of the attribute of a received distribution request whenever the communication unit 21 receives the distribution request; and a distribution unit 272 for distributing the difference update information on the basis of the permissible rate determined by the determination unit 271.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to an update information distribution system, an update information distribution method, and an update information distribution program.

  Conventionally, as a technique for updating map information of a plurality of map display terminals, a map distribution server that distributes update information for updating map information is provided on the center side, and each map display terminal is provided with the map distribution server. On the other hand, a technique for distributing update information (for example, see Patent Document 1) has been known.

  However, the map distribution server on the center side in this technology generates and distributes update information corresponding to the received distribution request every time it receives a distribution request from each map display terminal. When distribution requests are concentrated, the processing load on the map distribution server for generating update information increases, processing delay may occur, and many errors due to the processing delay may occur. It was.

  Therefore, in order to reduce the processing load of the map distribution server, which is the cause of the error, for some distribution requests, access restrictions that do not generate and distribute update information are set according to the amount of the processing load. A technique for reducing the processing load of a map distribution server for generating update information in a uniform manner has been proposed.

JP 2010-210433 A

  However, in the technology for reducing the processing load of the map distribution server for generating the update information described above, since the access restriction is uniformly performed for each map display terminal, the map information of each map display terminal is updated. It was difficult to meet individual needs.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an update information distribution system, an update information distribution method, and an update that can appropriately distribute update information according to the update needs of each map display terminal An object is to provide an information distribution program.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an update information distribution system according to the present invention updates the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. An update information distribution system for distributing update information for receiving, receiving means for receiving the distribution request, and each time the receiving means receives the distribution request, based on attributes of the received distribution request, A determination unit configured to determine a permissible rate corresponding to a probability that the distribution of the update information is permitted; and a distribution unit configured to distribute the update information based on the permissible rate determined by the determination unit.

  The update information distribution method according to the present invention is an update information distribution method for distributing update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. The receiving unit receives the distribution request, and the determining unit receives the distribution request every time the receiving unit receives the distribution request, based on the attribute of the received distribution request. A determining step for determining a permissible rate corresponding to a probability that distribution is permitted; and a distributing unit for distributing the update information based on the permissible rate determined by the determining step.

  An update information distribution program according to the present invention distributes update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. The receiving means for receiving the distribution request and the computer each time the receiving means receives the distribution request, the distribution of the update information is allowed based on the attribute of the received distribution request. A determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability, and a distribution unit that distributes the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination unit.

  According to the update information distribution system, the update information distribution method, and the update information distribution program according to the present invention, each time the reception unit receives a distribution request, the update information distribution method is updated based on the attribute of the distribution request received by the reception unit. Since the permissible rate corresponding to the probability that delivery is allowed is determined, for example, individual circumstances at each map display terminal can be reflected in the permissible rate, and each map display can be performed while reducing the load for updating. Update information can be appropriately distributed according to the update needs of the terminal.

It is a block diagram which illustrates the update information distribution system concerning each embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram exemplifying allowable rate specifying information according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart of a delivery process. It is a flowchart of a delivery determination process. 6 is a diagram exemplifying allowable rate specifying information according to Embodiment 2. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram exemplifying allowable rate specifying information according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information according to a sixth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of an update information distribution system, an update information distribution method, and an update information distribution program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to each embodiment.

  Each time an update information distribution system according to the present invention receives a distribution request from a map display terminal, the update information distribution system determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability that update information distribution is permitted based on the attribute of the received distribution request. The system distributes update information based on the determined allowable rate.

  Here, the “map display terminal” is a display unit that displays a map based on map information, and is a device that is connected to a distribution unit that distributes update information in a wired or wireless manner. Includes an in-vehicle device or a terminal device. The “in-vehicle device” is a device mounted on a vehicle, and specifically has a concept including an in-vehicle navigation device and the like. The “terminal device” is a device on which a predetermined computer is mounted, and specifically includes a stationary computer device, a smartphone, a portable navigation device, and the like.

  The “distribution request” is a request for distribution of update information, specifically, a request including information used in the process for distributing update information. For example, map information Distribution request area location specifying information for specifying the location of the distribution request area which is an area for requesting distribution, home location specifying information for specifying the user's home location on the map display terminal, and specifying the location of the current location of the map display terminal Among current location identification information, destination location identification information that identifies the location of the destination of the map display terminal, or midpoint location identification information that identifies the location of the current location of the map display terminal and the midpoint location of the destination location At least one specific information, identification information for uniquely identifying the map display terminal, “device ID”, and the version of the map information stored in the map display terminal Is information including a order version specific information. Further, the “distribution request attribute” is a characteristic or property of the distribution request, and is specifically information used to determine the allowable rate, for example, in addition to each specific information included in the distribution request. Thus, it is a concept including at least one information of day-of-week specifying information for specifying the day of the week when the distribution request is made or time specifying information for specifying the time of the time when the distribution request is made.

  The “permissible rate” is the probability corresponding to the probability that the distribution of update information is permitted. Specifically, it is the degree of certainty that the distribution of update information is permitted. , Percent).

  In each of the embodiments described below, when the “map display terminal” is an “in-vehicle device”, the following specific information is used as “distribution request attribute” for determining the allowable rate. The case will be described. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the case where the distribution request area location specifying information is used is described as the “distribution request attribute”, and in the second embodiment, the home location specifying information and the destination location specifying information are used. In the third embodiment, the case where the distribution request region location specifying information and the home location specifying information are used will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the case where the distribution request region location specifying information and the destination location specifying information are used. In the fifth embodiment, the case where the distribution request area location specifying information and the midpoint location specifying information are used will be described. In the sixth embodiment, the distribution request area location specifying information, the day of the week specifying information, and the time specifying information are described. The case where it is used will be described, and in modifications, cases other than Embodiments 1 to 6 will be described. In the following, a vehicle equipped with an in-vehicle device (a vehicle on which a person who operates the in-vehicle device is boarded) will be referred to as “own vehicle”. The “own vehicle” is a concept including, for example, a four-wheeled vehicle, a two-wheeled vehicle, a bicycle, and the like. Hereinafter, a case where the own vehicle is a four-wheeled vehicle will be described.

(Embodiment 1)
First, the first embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, a case where an allowable rate is determined using “distribution request area location specifying information” will be described.

(Constitution)
First, the update information distribution system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. The update information distribution system 100 includes an in-vehicle device 1, a receiving server 2, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information database server 4 (hereinafter referred to as “DB”), and a file server 5. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an update information distribution system according to each embodiment of the present invention. The update information distribution system 100 actually includes a plurality of other in-vehicle devices having the same configuration as the in-vehicle device 1 in addition to the in-vehicle device 1. In the case where only the device 1 is shown in FIG. 1 and the in-vehicle device 1 and a plurality of other in-vehicle devices are generically referred to as “an in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100” will be described below.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
Initially, the structure of the vehicle-mounted apparatus 1 is demonstrated. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1 generally includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device-Communication unit)
The communication unit 11 is a communication unit that performs communication with the receiving server 2 via a network. Although the specific kind and structure of this communication part 11 are arbitrary, a well-known mobile radio | wireless communication means can be used, for example.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device-Touch panel)
The touch panel 12 is an operation unit that receives various operation inputs from the user when pressed by a user's finger or the like. The touch panel 12 is formed to be transparent or translucent, and is provided on the front surface of the display 13 so as to overlap the display surface of the display 13. As the touch panel 12, for example, a known touch panel provided with an operation position detection unit using a resistance film method, a capacitance method, or the like can be used.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device-Display)
The display 13 is a display unit that displays various images based on the control of the control unit 17 described later, and in particular, a display unit that displays a map based on map information stored in a map information DB 161 described later. The specific configuration of the display 13 is arbitrary. For example, a known flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display can be used.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device-Speaker)
The speaker 14 is a sound output unit that outputs information by sound based on control of the control unit 17 described later. The specific form of the sound output from the speaker 14 is arbitrary, and it is possible to output a synthesized sound generated as necessary and a sound recorded in advance.

(Configuration-On-vehicle device-Current position detector)
The current position detection unit 15 is a current position detection unit that detects the current position (current position) of the in-vehicle device 1. The current position detection unit 15 includes a GPS or a geomagnetic sensor (both not shown), and detects the current position (coordinates), direction, and the like of the in-vehicle device 1 by a known method.

(Configuration-On-vehicle device-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 16 is a recording unit that records a program and various data necessary for the operation of the in-vehicle device 1, and is configured using, for example, a hard disk (not shown) as an external recording device. However, any other recording medium including a magnetic recording medium such as a magnetic disk or an optical recording medium such as a DVD or a Blu-ray disc can be used instead of or together with the hard disk (in each embodiment) The same applies to the data recording section of each device).

  The data recording unit 16 includes a map information DB 161.

  The map information DB 161 is a map information storage unit that stores map information. Here, the “map information” is information used for guidance, and is information necessary for identifying various positions including roads, road intersections, road structures, facilities, etc. Node data related to each set node (eg, node ID, coordinates, etc.) and link data related to each link set on the road (eg, link ID, link name, connection node ID, road coordinates, road type (eg, paid) Road, general road, elevated road, etc.), number of lanes, etc.), feature data (eg traffic lights, road signs, guardrails, facilities, etc.), terrain data, etc. Such map information in the map information DB 161 is updated in a distribution process described later.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device-Control unit)
The control unit 17 is a control unit that controls the in-vehicle device 1. Specifically, the CPU, various programs interpreted and executed on the CPU (a basic control program such as an OS, and a specific function that is activated on the OS, And an internal memory such as a RAM for storing the program and various data. In particular, the update information distribution program according to the embodiment is substantially installed in the in-vehicle device 1 via an arbitrary recording medium or network, thereby substantially configuring each unit of the control unit 17 (reception in each embodiment) The same applies to the control unit of each device including the server). Here, for example, the following description will be made assuming that “device ID” is stored in the internal memory of the control unit 17. Here, the “apparatus ID” is identification information for uniquely identifying the in-vehicle apparatus of the update information distribution system 100 as described above, and can be expressed using arbitrary numbers, characters, and the like. Here, for example, it is a numerical value of a predetermined number of digits (for example, 7 digits) so that it can be used in “delivery determination processing” to be described later, and for each in-vehicle device of the update information delivery system 100 It is assumed that the values are set so as to increase one by one (that is, incremented) sequentially from “0” in a predetermined order such as a manufacturing order, for example, so that the numerical values are different from each other. For example, a numerical value as a device ID stored in the internal memory of the control unit 17 is also referred to as “ID1” for convenience of explanation and will be described below.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2 will be described. The receiving server 2 is a receiving means for receiving information, and is a device provided on the center side. Specifically, the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100, the difference map calculation server 3 on the center side, An interface receiving server that functions as an interface between the map information DB server 4 and the file server 5, and generally includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26, and a control unit 27 as shown in FIG. ing.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Communication part)
The communication unit 21 is a communication unit that performs communication with the in-vehicle device 1 via a network, and in particular, is a reception unit that receives a distribution request. The specific configuration is the same as the configuration of the communication unit 11. It is.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26 includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261 is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261 is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 2, the allowable rate specifying information is configured by associating an item “reference point” and an item “allowable rate” with information corresponding to each item. Here, the information corresponding to the item “reference point” is information for specifying a reference point for determining the distribution location in the distribution area, and in this embodiment, the home or purpose of the user of the in-vehicle device 1 in FIG. (In FIG. 2, “home”, “destination”). Here, the “distribution area” is a partial area (distribution request area) of the map specified by the map information, and is an area that can be defined using any technique. In the present embodiment, For example, the following description will be made assuming that the “delivery location” and the “reference point” are used. The “distribution location” is a location on the map specified by the map information, specifically, a location serving as a reference for the distribution region, for example, the location of the central point in the distribution region, and the touch panel 12 The user's predetermined operation is received through the registration. In addition, the “reference point” is a point on the map specified by the map information, specifically, a point serving as a reference for the delivery location, for example, a point serving as a landmark around the delivery location. Registration is performed when a user's predetermined operation is accepted via the touch panel 12. Here, for example, the following description will be made assuming that “delivery location” is coordinates of longitude and latitude, and “reference point” is the home or destination of the user of the in-vehicle device 1. The “home” is the home of the user of the in-vehicle device 1, and the “destination” is a point where the own vehicle is to be moved, and these “home” and “destination” For example, registration is performed by receiving a user's predetermined operation via an input unit (not shown) in the receiving server 2 of FIG. Further, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” is information for specifying the allowable rate (in FIG. 2, the percentage is expressed as “5”, “10”).

  Then, the process of generating and distributing the difference update information (hereinafter, the process of the difference update information) is performed within the range of the processing capability of the update information distribution system 100, and the process of the difference update information is performed on the map information. The above-described allowable rate specifying information is determined so as to be performed according to the priority according to the update needs, and a user's predetermined operation is received via an input unit (not shown) in the receiving server 2 of FIG. The determined allowable ratio specifying information is recorded (the same applies to each embodiment and modification other than the first embodiment). The “difference update information” is information for updating the map information, specifically, information generated in response to a distribution request from the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100, for example, This is information including map information corresponding to the received distribution request. The “processing capability of the update information distribution system 100” is the capability of the update information distribution system 100, specifically, the capability for generating and distributing the differential update information, for example, the difference described later. The map calculation server 3 can appropriately process the difference update information at the same time (for example, at the same time, or one hour) without delay, and the receiving server 2 and the update information distribution system 100. It is the capability corresponding to the communication capacity (hereinafter referred to as the processing maximum communication capacity) with the in-vehicle device. Further, “needs for updating map information” is the degree of necessity of updating map information, and can be determined arbitrarily. In this embodiment, for example, when the reference point is “home” From the viewpoint that the user is highly likely to know the information on the actual map, it is possible to determine that the needs are lower than when the reference point is “home”. In addition, “priority” is a degree of priority, specifically, a degree determined according to “needs for updating map information”. For example, the higher “needs for updating map information”, Highly determined. Here, for example, the value corresponding to the item “permissible rate” in FIG. 2 becomes a larger value as the map information update needs (that is, the priority) are higher, and the difference update information is generated and distributed. In addition, it is not required to process the number of pieces of difference update information exceeding the maximum number of processes, and communication exceeding the maximum processing capacity is received between the receiving server 2 and the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100. The following description will be given on the assumption that a user inputs data via an input unit (not shown) in the receiving server 2 shown in FIG. .

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27 includes a determination unit 271 and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271 is a determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of difference update information is allowed based on an attribute of the received distribution request. . The distribution unit 272 is a distribution unit that distributes the difference update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination unit 271. The processing performed by each unit of the control unit 27 will be described later.

(Configuration-Difference map calculation server)
Next, the configuration of the difference map calculation server 3 will be described. The difference map calculation server 3 is a generation unit that generates difference update information, and is a device provided on the center side.

(Configuration-map information DB server)
Next, the configuration of the map information DB server 4 will be described. The map information DB server 4 is map information storage means for storing map information. Here, the “map information” stored in the map information DB server 4 is information used for guidance, and is included in the map information stored in the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100. This is information including information corresponding to (for example, node data, link data, feature data, terrain data, etc.). The map information DB server 4 stores map information generated every predetermined period (for example, one day, one week, etc.) based on the latest information on the map (for example, information on road abolition or establishment). Are provided and accumulated sequentially. That is, the map information DB server 4 stores the map information of each past version together with the latest version of map information for each area on the map. Here, for example, “versions 1 to 4” are provided for the “version” of the map information, “version 1” is the oldest, “version 2” is the oldest after “version 1”, and “version” In the following, it is assumed that “3” is the next oldest version after “Version 2” and “Version 4” is the latest.

(Configuration-file server)
Next, the configuration of the file server 5 will be described. The file server 5 is a storage means for storing difference update information, and is a device provided on the center side.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the distribution process (in the following description of each process, step is abbreviated as “S”). The “distribution process” is a process for distributing, and specifically, a process for distributing difference update information. Although the timing for executing this distribution process is arbitrary, for example, it is assumed that the process is started when the update information distribution system 100 is turned on. Here, for example, when the version of the map information of the in-vehicle device 1 of FIG. 1 is “version 2”, the in-vehicle device 1 is stored in its own device ID (that is, in the internal memory of the control unit 17). “ID1” and “version specific information” = “version 2”, “reference point” = “home”, “delivery place” = “34 degrees 56 minutes 40 seconds, 137 degrees 11 minutes 50 seconds” ”,“ Distribution area ”=“ area surrounded by a 10-kilometer square centered on the distribution location ”” including a “distribution request area location specifying information” (hereinafter, an example distribution request) A description will be given using an example of generating and transmitting the generated distribution request as appropriate.

  First, as shown in FIG. 3, in SA1, the control unit 17 of the in-vehicle device 1 generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, it is transmitted via the communication unit 11. Here, for example, an exemplary distribution request is generated and transmitted.

  Next, in SA2, the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 receives the distribution request transmitted in SA1 via the communication unit 21, and starts the distribution determination process. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the delivery determination process. This “delivery determination process” is a process for determining whether or not to distribute difference update information. As for a specific determination method, any method can be used as long as it is a method performed using an allowable rate, and the higher the allowable rate is, the easier it is to determine “what to deliver”. Here, for example, a description will be given below on the assumption that a method of determining by using the last two digits of the numerical value as the device ID described above together with the allowable rate is used.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4, in SB1, the determination unit 271 in the control unit 27 of the reception server 2 determines the allowable rate. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, as the attribute of the received distribution request, the “reference point” in the “distribution request area location specifying information” of the distribution request is acquired, and in the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” of the allowable rate specifying information The information corresponding to the acquired “reference point” is specified, and the specified information is determined as the allowable rate. Here, for example, when an exemplary distribution request is received, “reference point” = “home” is acquired as an attribute of the received exemplary distribution request, and the information corresponding to the acquired “home” is permitted. The item “allowable rate” = “5” of the rate specifying information is specified, and the specified “5” is determined as the allowable rate.

  Next, in SB2, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 determines a random number upper limit value. Here, the “random number upper limit value” is the upper limit value of the comparison target random number value. The “comparison target random value” refers to an operation value (specifically, a “comparison residue value” to be described later) based on the last two digits of the numerical value as the device ID (hereinafter, the last two digits of the device ID). )) And a value consisting of a two-digit numerical value, and a numerical value of the first place and a numerical value of the tens place are values set by random numbers. Specifically, the random number upper limit value is determined so that the larger the allowable rate value, the smaller the random number upper limit value, based on the allowable rate determined in SB1. Here, for example, after calculating “100 ÷“ permissible rate determined by SB1 ””), an integer value that is a result of rounding off the first decimal place of the calculation result is determined as the random number upper limit value. . In addition, since the value of “allowable rate determined by SB1” is small, if the integer value of the calculation result is a numerical value of 3 digits or more, “99” is determined as the random number upper limit value. If the integer value of the operation result is “0” because the value of “allowable rate determined by SB1” is large, “1” is a random number so that it can be used as a divisor in SB5 division described later. Determine the upper limit. Here, for example, when an example distribution request is received, an operation of “100 ÷“ 5 ”” is performed, and “20” is determined as the random number upper limit value.

  Next, in SB3, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 determines a comparison target random number value. Specifically, a comparison target random number value equal to or smaller than the random number upper limit value determined in SB2 is determined. More specifically, if the value generated by generating a random number in the first digit and the tenth digit is less than or equal to the upper limit of the random number determined in SB2, the generated value is compared with the comparison target disturbance. On the other hand, if the value generated by generating a random number in the first digit and the tenth digit is larger than the random number upper limit determined in SB2, a value less than the random upper limit is generated. Generate random numbers until it is done. Here, for example, when an example distribution request is received, a random number is generated and a value equal to or smaller than “20” is determined as a comparison target random value, but “comparison target random value” = “5” is determined. This will be described below.

  Next, in SB4, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 acquires the last two digits of the device ID. Specifically, the last two digits of the device ID are acquired from the distribution request received at SA2 in FIG. Here, for example, when an example distribution request is received, “ID1” is acquired, but the following description will be made assuming that the last two digits of “ID1” are the numerical value “85”.

  Next, in SB5, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 calculates a comparative remainder value. Here, the “comparison residue value” is a residue value to be compared with the comparison target random number value. Specifically, “the last two digits of the device ID” is a dividend and “random number upper limit value” is a divisor. The remainder value of the division result. Specifically, division is performed with the “last 2 digits of the device ID” acquired in SB4 as a dividend and the “random number upper limit value” determined in SB2 as a divisor, and the remainder in this division is calculated as a comparative remainder value. Here, for example, when an example distribution request is received, a division of “85 ÷ 20” is performed, and “5” that is a remainder in this division is calculated as a comparative remainder value.

  Next, in SB6, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 determines whether or not the difference update information is distributed. Specifically, the comparison target random value determined in SB3 and the comparison remainder value calculated in SB5 are compared to determine whether or not these values match each other. When the comparison target random value and the comparison remainder value match each other, it is determined that the difference update information is to be distributed, and permission information indicating permission for distribution is set in the control unit 27 in FIG. After being stored in the illustrated memory, the distribution determination process is returned and the process proceeds to SA3 in FIG. In addition, when the comparison target random value and the comparison remainder value do not match (that is, when the comparison target random value and the comparison remainder value are different from each other), it is determined that the difference update information is not distributed and distributed. 1 is stored in a memory (not shown) of the control unit 27 in FIG. 1, the distribution determination process is returned, and the process proceeds to SA3 in FIG. Here, for example, when an example distribution request is received, “comparison random number value” = “5” is determined in SB3 as described above, and “comparison residue value” = “5” is calculated in SB5. Then, it is determined that the difference update information is to be distributed, and “permission information” is stored in a memory (not shown) of the control unit 27 in FIG. 1 and then the distribution determination process is returned.

  Returning to FIG. 3, in SA3, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 determines whether or not the difference update information is distributed. Specifically, the determination is based on whether “permission information” or “restriction information” is stored in a memory (not shown) of the control unit 27 in FIG. If the permission information is stored, it is determined that the difference update information is to be distributed (YES in SA3 in FIG. 3), and the process proceeds to SA4. If the restriction information is stored, it is determined that the difference update information is not distributed (NO in SA3), and the process proceeds to SA16. Here, for example, when the example distribution request is received, since the permission information is stored, it is determined that the difference update information is distributed, and the process proceeds to SA4.

  Next, in SA4, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 generates and transmits a difference update information creation request that is a request for creating difference update information. Specifically, the “device ID”, “version identification information”, “distribution location”, and “distribution area” are acquired from the distribution request received in SA2, and a difference update information creation request including these acquired information is acquired. And the generated difference update information creation request is transmitted to the difference map calculation server 3. Here, for example, when an exemplary distribution request is received, “device ID” = “ID1”, “version identification information” = “version 2”, “distribution location” = “34 degrees 56 minutes 40” from the exemplary distribution request. Second, 137 degrees 11 minutes 50 seconds ", and" distribution area "=" area surrounded by a 10-kilometer square centered on the distribution location ", and a request for creating a difference update information including these acquired information Generate and send.

  Next, in SA5, the difference map calculation server 3 receives the difference update information creation request transmitted in SA4, and generates and transmits a difference map information search request that is a request for searching for difference map information. Here, the “difference map information” is information used to create difference update information, and specifically, update information distribution for the map information stored in the map information DB server 4 of FIG. This is information corresponding to the difference between the map information stored in the in-vehicle device of the system 100. Specifically, in SA5 of FIG. 3, "version specifying information", "distribution location", and "distribution area" are acquired from the received difference update information creation request, and the difference map information search including these acquired information A request is generated, and the generated difference map information search request is transmitted to the map information DB server 4. Here, for example, from the difference update information creation request, “version specific information” = “version 2”, “delivery location” = “34 degrees 56 minutes 40 seconds, 137 degrees 11 minutes 50 seconds”, and “delivery area” = “ An area surrounded by a 10-kilometer square centered on the distribution location is acquired, and a difference map information search request including the acquired information is generated and transmitted.

  Next, in SA6, the map information DB server 4 receives the difference map information search request transmitted in SA5, and searches for and transmits the difference map information. Specifically, the map information corresponding to the difference in the map information of the version specified by the “version specifying information” of the received difference map information search request with respect to the map information stored in the map information DB server 4 of FIG. Yes, the map information corresponding to the area specified by the “distribution location” and “distribution area” of the received difference map information search request is searched as “difference map information”, and the retrieved difference map information is the difference map. It transmits to the calculation server 3. Here, for example, map information of “region surrounded by a square of 10 kilometers centered at (34 degrees 56 minutes 40 seconds, 137 degrees 11 minutes 50 seconds)” and “version 3 and version 4” The map information (hereinafter referred to as differential map information for the in-vehicle device 1) is retrieved and transmitted.

  Next, in SA7, the difference map calculation server 3 receives the difference map information transmitted in SA6 and stores the difference update information. Specifically, difference update information including the received difference map information is generated, and the generated difference update information is stored in the file server 5. Here, for example, the difference update information including the difference map information is generated and stored for the in-vehicle device 1.

  Next, in SA8, the file server 5 transmits storage location specifying information, which is information specifying the storage location of the differential update information stored in SA7, to the differential map calculation server 3. Here, for example, the storage location specifying information for specifying the storage location for the differential update information including the difference map information for the in-vehicle device 1 (hereinafter, storage location specifying information for the in-vehicle device 1) is transmitted.

  Next, in SA9, the difference map calculation server 3 receives the storage location specifying information transmitted in SA8 and transmits a storage location response. Here, the “storage location response” is a response about the storage location of the differential update information, and specifically is a response including the storage location specifying information and the device ID. Specifically, for SA9, a storage location response including the received “storage location specifying information” and “device ID” included in the difference update information creation request received in SA5 is generated, and the generated storage location response is received. Send to server 2. Here, for example, a storage location response including “storage location specifying information for the in-vehicle device 1” and “ID1” (hereinafter, a storage location response for the in-vehicle device 1) is generated and transmitted.

  Next, in SA10, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 receives the storage location response transmitted in SA9, and sends the received storage location response to the in-vehicle information of the update information distribution system 100 via the communication unit 21. Send to device. Here, for example, a storage location response for the in-vehicle device 1 is transmitted.

  Next, in SA11, the control unit 17 of the in-vehicle device 1 acquires difference update information. Specifically, the storage location response transmitted in SA10 is received via the communication unit 11, and the storage location response including the device ID of the received storage location response is specified and specified. The storage location specifying information of the storage location response and its own device ID are transmitted to the receiving server 2 via the communication unit 11. Here, for example, “storage location specifying information for in-vehicle device 1” and “ID1” are transmitted.

  Next, in SA12, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 acquires difference update information. Specifically, the storage location specifying information and the device ID transmitted in SA 11 are received via the communication unit 21, and a transmission request including the received storage location specifying information is transmitted to the file server 5. Here, for example, a transmission request including storage location specifying information for the in-vehicle device 1 is transmitted.

  Next, in SA13, the file server 5 transmits the difference update information. Specifically, the transmission request transmitted in SA12 is received, the storage location specifying information included in the received transmission request is specified, and the difference update information stored in the location specified by the specified storage location specifying information is updated. Acquire and transmit the acquired difference update information to the receiving server 2. Here, for example, the difference map information is acquired and transmitted for the in-vehicle device 1.

  Next, in SA14, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 transmits the difference update information. Specifically, the differential update information transmitted in SA13 is received, the received differential update information is associated with the device ID received in SA12, and the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100 is connected via the communication unit 21. To send. Here, for example, the difference map information and “ID1” are transmitted in association with each other for the in-vehicle device 1.

  Next, in SA15, the control unit 17 of the in-vehicle apparatus 1 ends the distribution process after updating the map information. Specifically, the information transmitted in SA14 is received via the communication unit 11, and the difference update information corresponding to the information including the own device ID in the received information is acquired and acquired. The map information in the map information DB 161 of FIG. 1 is updated so that the updated difference update information is reflected. Here, for example, the difference map information is acquired and updated for the in-vehicle device 1.

  Returning to FIG. 3, in the determination of SA3, when it is determined that the difference update information is not distributed (NO in SA3) and the process proceeds to SA16, the distribution unit 272 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 in SA16 An access restriction response is transmitted via the communication unit 21 in FIG. Here, the “access restriction response” is a response notifying that the difference update information is not distributed. Specifically, in SA16, a device ID is acquired from the distribution request received in SA2, an access restriction response including the acquired device ID is generated, and the generated access restriction response is transmitted.

  Returning to FIG. 3, in SA17, the control unit 17 of the in-vehicle device 1 displays the access restriction information, and then ends the distribution process. Here, the “access restriction information” is information indicating that the access restriction is restricted, specifically, information indicating that the difference update information is not distributed. Information or image information. Specifically, for SA17, the access restriction response transmitted in SA16 is received via the communication unit 11, and the access restriction response including its own device ID is acquired from the received access restriction response. After the access restriction information is displayed on the display 13 in FIG. 1, the distribution process is terminated. With this configuration, every time the determination unit 271 in the control unit 27 of the receiving server 2 in FIG. 1 receives a distribution request, the allowable rate is determined in SB1 in FIG. Difference update information can be appropriately distributed according to the update needs of each in-vehicle device.

(Effect of Embodiment 1)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, every time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, it corresponds to the probability that distribution of difference update information is allowed based on the attribute of the distribution request received by the communication unit 21. Since the allowable rate is determined, for example, individual circumstances in the in-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100 can be reflected in the allowable rate, and the on-vehicle device of the update information distribution system 100 can be reduced while reducing the load for updating. Difference update information can be appropriately distributed according to each update need.

  Further, since the allowable rate is determined based on the distribution request area location specifying information as the attribute of the distribution request, for example, the allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of update is determined based on the location of the distribution request area. It is possible to reduce the load for updating and to distribute differential update information according to the update needs.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a case where the allowable rate is determined using “home location specifying information” and “destination location specifying information” will be described. The configuration of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified, and the configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment is the same as that used in the first embodiment. These symbols are attached as necessary, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Constitution)
First, update information distribution system 100B according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, this update information distribution system 100B includes an in-vehicle device 1B, a receiving server 2B, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information DB server 4, and a file server 5.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
First, the configuration of the in-vehicle device 1B will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1B schematically includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17B.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2B will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the receiving server 2B schematically includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26B, and a control unit 27B.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26B includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261B.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261B is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261B is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 5, the allowable rate specifying information is configured by associating the item “distance (home-destination)” and the item “allowable rate” with information corresponding to each item. . Here, the information corresponding to the item “distance (home-destination)” is information for specifying the range of the distance between the home and the destination (in FIG. 5, the unit is kilometers, and “less than 10”). ], "10 or more and less than 40", "40 or more and less than 80", "80 or more and less than 160", and "160 or more"). Here, the “distance between the home and the destination” is the distance between the location of the user's own home of the in-vehicle device 1B and the point where the own vehicle is to be moved. Then, “home” and “destination” are registered by receiving a predetermined operation of the user via the touch panel 12, for example, as described in the first embodiment. Further, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” is information for specifying the allowable rate (in FIG. 5, it is expressed as a percentage, “1”, “5”, “10”, “20”, “30”). ).

  And, for such tolerance rate specifying information, for example, from the viewpoint that the closer the destination is to the home, the higher the possibility that the user is familiar with the information on the actual map, the “need to update map information” ”Will be described below as being recorded in the same manner as in the first embodiment after being determined so as to decrease as the distance between the home and the destination decreases.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27B includes a determination unit 271B and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271B is a determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability that distribution of difference update information is permitted based on the attribute of the received distribution request. . The processing performed by each unit of the control unit 27B will be described later.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100B configured as described above will be described. This distribution process is the same as the corresponding step in the distribution process of the first embodiment except for SA1 in FIG. 3 and SB1 in FIG. 4, and is different from the step of the distribution process in the first embodiment here. Only SA1 in FIG. 3 and SB1 in FIG. 4 will be described (the same applies to Embodiments 3 to 6 described later).

  First, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17B of the in-vehicle device 1B generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, it is transmitted via the communication unit 11. More specifically, first, the locations of “home” and “destination” registered by a predetermined operation of the user via the touch panel 12 are specified. Next, in addition to its own device ID, version identification information, and distribution request area location identification information, home location identification information for identifying the identified “home” location, and the identified “destination” location The distribution request including the destination location specifying information for specifying is generated, and the generated distribution request is transmitted.

  Next, in SA2, the distribution determination process of FIG. 4 is started, and in SB1, the determination unit 271B in the control unit 27B of the reception server 2B determines the allowable rate. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, “home location specifying information” and “destination location specifying information” of the distribution request are acquired as attributes of the received distribution request, and “home and destination and ”Distance between”, and in the information corresponding to the item “distance (home-destination)” of the tolerance ratio specifying information, the information including the above-calculated “distance between home and destination” is specified. Then, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” corresponding to the specified information is determined as the allowable rate. Here, for example, when “distance between home and destination” = “2” (km) is calculated, “1” is determined as an allowable rate, and for example, “between home and destination” When “distance” = “100” (kilometers) is calculated, “20” is determined as the allowable rate.

(Effect of Embodiment 2)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the allowable rate is determined based on the home location specifying information and the destination location specifying information as the attributes of the distribution request, for example, the home location and the destination location are determined. Based on this, it is possible to determine an allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of update, and it is possible to reduce the load for update and distribute differential update information according to update needs.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. In the third embodiment, a case where the allowable rate is determined using “home location specifying information” and “distribution request region location specifying information” will be described. The configuration of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified, and the configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment is the same as that used in the first embodiment. These symbols are attached as necessary, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Constitution)
First, update information distribution system 100C according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the update information distribution system 100C includes an in-vehicle device 1C, a receiving server 2C, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information DB server 4, and a file server 5.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
First, the configuration of the in-vehicle device 1C will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1C schematically includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17C.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2C will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the receiving server 2C schematically includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26C, and a control unit 27C.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26C includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261C.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261C is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261C is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 6, the allowable rate specifying information is configured by associating the item “distance (home-delivery location)” and the item “allowable rate” with information corresponding to each item. . Here, the information corresponding to the item “distance (home-delivery location)” is information for specifying the range of the distance between the home and the delivery location (in FIG. 6, the unit is kilometers, and “less than 10”). ], "10 or more and less than 40", "40 or more and less than 80", "80 or more and less than 160", and "160 or more"). Note that “home” and “delivery location” are registered by receiving a predetermined operation of the user via the touch panel 12, for example, as described in the first embodiment. Further, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” is information for specifying the allowable rate (in FIG. 6, it is expressed as a percentage, “1”, “1”, “10”, “20”, “30”). ).

  And about such tolerance specification information, for example, from the viewpoint that the closer the distribution location is to the home, the more likely the user is familiar with the information on the actual map, The following description will be given on the assumption that “needs” are recorded in the same manner as in the first embodiment after being determined so that the distance between the home and the delivery location becomes shorter.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27C includes a determination unit 271C and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271C is a determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability that distribution of difference update information is permitted based on the attribute of the received distribution request. . The processing performed by each unit of the control unit 27C will be described later.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100C configured as described above will be described.

  First, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17C of the in-vehicle device 1C generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, it is transmitted via the communication unit 11. More specifically, first, a “home” location and a “delivery location” registered by a predetermined operation of the user via the touch panel 12 are specified. Next, in addition to its own device ID and version specifying information, home location specifying information for specifying the specified “home” location, and delivery request area location specifying information including the specified “delivery location” A distribution request including the request is generated and the generated distribution request is transmitted.

  Next, the delivery determination process of FIG. 4 is started in SA2, and the determination unit 271C in the control unit 27C of the reception server 2C determines the allowable rate in SB1. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, “home location specifying information” and “delivery request area location specifying information” of the distribution request are acquired as attributes of the received distribution request, and “home and distribution location” are acquired based on the acquired information. In the information corresponding to the item “distance (home-delivery location)” of the tolerance specification information, information including the above-calculated “distance between home and delivery location” is calculated. The information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” corresponding to the specified information is determined as the allowable rate.

(Effect of Embodiment 3)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the allowable rate is determined based on the distribution request area location specifying information and the home location specifying information as the attributes of the distribution request, for example, the location of the distribution request area and the home Based on the location, it is possible to determine the allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of the update, to reduce the load for the update, and to distribute the differential update information in accordance with the update needs.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, a case will be described in which the allowable rate is determined using “destination location specifying information” and “distribution request region specifying information”. The configuration of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified, and the configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment is the same as that used in the first embodiment. These symbols are attached as necessary, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Constitution)
First, update information distribution system 100D according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the update information distribution system 100D includes an in-vehicle device 1D, a receiving server 2D, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information DB server 4, and a file server 5.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
First, the configuration of the in-vehicle device 1D will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1D schematically includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17D.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2D will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the reception server 2D schematically includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26D, and a control unit 27D.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26D includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261D.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261D is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261D is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 7, the tolerance rate specifying information is configured by associating the item “distance (destination-delivery location)”, the item “acceptance rate”, and information corresponding to each item. Yes. Here, the information corresponding to the item “distance (destination-delivery location)” is information specifying the range of the distance between the destination and the delivery location (in FIG. 7, the unit is kilometers, 10 or less, 10 or more and less than 40, 40 or more and less than 80, 80 or more and less than 160, and 160 or more). Note that “destination” and “delivery location” are registered when a predetermined operation of the user is accepted via the touch panel 12, for example, as described in the first embodiment. Further, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” is information for specifying the allowable rate (in FIG. 7, it is expressed as a percentage, “1”, “5”, “10”, “20”, “30”). ).

  And about such allowance rate specific information, for example, from the viewpoint that the closer the distribution location is to the destination, the more likely the user is familiar with the information on the actual map, The following description will be given on the assumption that “necessity” is recorded in the same manner as in the first embodiment after the distance between the destination and the delivery location is determined to be lower.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27 </ b> D includes a determination unit 271 </ b> D and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271D is a determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of difference update information is allowed based on the attribute of the received distribution request. . The processing performed by each unit of the control unit 27D will be described later.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100D configured as described above will be described.

  First, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17D of the in-vehicle device 1D generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, it is transmitted via the communication unit 11. More specifically, first, the “destination” location and “delivery location” registered by the user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12 are specified. Next, in addition to its own device ID and version identification information, destination location identification information that identifies the location of the above-mentioned identified “destination”, and a distribution request region location identification that includes the aforementioned identified “distribution location” A distribution request including information is generated, and the generated distribution request is transmitted.

  Next, in SA2, the distribution determination process of FIG. 4 is started, and in SB1, the determination unit 271D in the control unit 27D of the reception server 2D determines the allowable rate. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, “destination location specifying information” and “distribution request region location specifying information” of the distribution request are acquired as attributes of the received distribution request, and “destination and location information” are acquired based on the acquired information. "Distance between delivery locations" is calculated, and in the information corresponding to the item "distance (destination-delivery location)" of the tolerance ratio specifying information, the above-calculated "distance between destination and delivery location" And the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” corresponding to the specified information is determined as the allowable rate.

(Effect of Embodiment 4)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the allowable rate is determined based on the distribution request area location specifying information and the destination location specifying information as the attributes of the distribution request, for example, the location and the purpose of the distribution request area Based on the location of the ground, the allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of the update can be determined, the load for the update can be reduced, and the difference update information can be distributed according to the update needs.

(Embodiment 5)
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the case where the allowable rate is determined using “middle point location specifying information” and “distribution request region location specifying information” will be described. The configuration of the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified, and the configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment is the same as that used in the first embodiment. These symbols are attached as necessary, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Constitution)
First, the update information distribution system 100E according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the update information distribution system 100E includes an in-vehicle device 1E, a reception server 2E, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information DB server 4, and a file server 5.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
First, the configuration of the in-vehicle device 1E will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1E schematically includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17E.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2E will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the reception server 2E schematically includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26E, and a control unit 27E.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26E includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261E.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261E is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261E is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 8, the allowable rate specifying information is configured by associating the item “distance (middle point−delivery location)”, the item “allowable rate”, and information corresponding to each item. Yes. Here, the information corresponding to the item “distance (middle point−delivery location)” is information specifying the range of the distance between the midpoint and the delivery location (in FIG. 8, the unit is kilometers, 10 or less, 10 or more and less than 40, 40 or more and less than 80, 80 or more and less than 160, and 160 or more). Here, the “intermediate point” is an intermediate point, and is a point between the “departure point” and the “destination”, and can be arbitrarily defined. ”Will be defined below as points set at predetermined distances (for example, every 5 kilometers) on the travel route from“ to ”the“ destination ”. The “departure place” is a point where the vehicle starts to move, and is set, for example, by receiving a user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12, or detected by the current position detection unit 15 in FIG. The current position is set. Further, the “travel route” is a route on which the host vehicle is to travel, for example, a route generated and set by the control unit 17E.

  For such tolerance rate specifying information, for example, as the delivery location is closer to the midpoint (that is, the distance between the midpoint and the delivery location is shorter), the area to be updated passes by the user. In view of the high possibility that it corresponds to the area to be implemented, the “need to update map information” is set so that the distance between the intermediate point and the delivery location becomes shorter, The following description will be made assuming that recording is performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27E includes a determination unit 271E and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271E is a determination unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability that distribution of difference update information is allowed based on the attribute of the received distribution request. . In addition, the process performed by each part of these control parts 27E is mentioned later.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100E configured as described above will be described.

  First, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17E of the in-vehicle device 1E generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, it is transmitted via the communication unit 11. More specifically, first, a travel route from a “departure point” to a “destination” set by a user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12 is generated, and the location of the intermediate point on the generated travel route (For example, longitude and latitude coordinates). Next, the “distribution location” registered by the user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12 is specified. Next, in addition to its own device ID and version identification information, the middle point location identification information for identifying the location of the identified “middle point”, and the distribution request area location identification including the identified “distribution location” A distribution request including information is generated, and the generated distribution request is transmitted.

  Next, in SA2, the distribution determination process of FIG. 4 is started, and in SB1, the determination unit 271E in the control unit 27E of the reception server 2E determines the allowable rate. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, “middle point location specifying information” and “distribution request region location specifying information” of the delivery request are acquired as attributes of the received delivery request, and “middle point and "Distance between delivery locations" is calculated, and in the information corresponding to the item "distance (middle point-delivery location)" of the tolerance ratio specifying information, the above-calculated "distance between intermediate points and delivery location" And the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” corresponding to the specified information is determined as the allowable rate.

(Effect of Embodiment 5)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the allowable rate is determined based on the distribution request area location specifying information and the midpoint location specifying information as the attributes of the distribution request, for example, the location and the middle of the distribution request area Based on the location of the points, the allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of the update can be determined, the load for updating can be reduced, and the difference update information can be distributed according to the update needs.

(Embodiment 6)
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. In the sixth embodiment, the case where the allowable rate is determined using “distribution request area location specifying information”, “day of the week specifying information”, and “time specifying information” will be described. The configuration of the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment unless otherwise specified, and the configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the first embodiment is the same as that used in the first embodiment. These symbols are attached as necessary, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Constitution)
First, the update information distribution system 100F according to the present embodiment will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the update information distribution system 100F includes an in-vehicle device 1F, a reception server 2F, a difference map calculation server 3, a map information DB server 4, and a file server 5.

(Configuration-In-vehicle device)
First, the configuration of the in-vehicle device 1F will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle device 1F schematically includes a communication unit 11, a touch panel 12, a display 13, a speaker 14, a current position detection unit 15, a data recording unit 16, and a control unit 17F.

(Configuration-receiving server)
Next, the configuration of the receiving server 2F will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the reception server 2F schematically includes a communication unit 21, a data recording unit 26F, and a control unit 27F.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Data recording unit)
The data recording unit 26F includes an allowable rate specifying information DB 261F.

  The allowable rate specifying information DB 261F is a storage unit that stores the allowable rate specifying information. Here, the “allowable rate specifying information” stored in the allowable rate specifying information DB 261F is information for specifying the allowable rate. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating allowable rate specifying information. As shown in FIG. 9, the allowable rate specifying information is configured by associating an item “distribution area”, an item “allowable rate”, and information corresponding to each item. Here, the information corresponding to the item “distribution area” is information for identifying the place of the mark included in the distribution area (in FIG. 9, “home”, “destination”, “company”, “regularity”). Where to go "). The “company” is a company to which the user of the in-vehicle device 1F commute. For example, in the same way as “home” and “destination”, registration is performed by accepting a user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12. Is done. In addition, the “place to go regularly” is a place where the user of the in-vehicle apparatus 1F goes regularly and can be defined by using an arbitrary method. Here, for example, the “destination” in the past is used. The following description will be made on the assumption that the definition is made in association with the day of the week and the time zone based on the results registered as. For the definition of “place to go regularly”, the point set as the “destination” in a predetermined period in the past (for example, one year) for each day of the week and time zone (for example, “Saturday morning ”,“ Sunday afternoon ”, etc.), and the frequency set as the destination is totaled for the points set as the destination on each acquired day of the week and time, and the total frequency is a predetermined number of times (for example, The above points are defined as “places to go regularly” in each day of the week and time zone. That is, for example, if “30” times are counted as the frequency of going to “fitness gym” and “10” times are counted as the frequency of going to “department store” in “Saturday morning”, “Saturday morning” It is defined that “a place to go regularly” = “fitness gym”. Further, the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” is information for specifying the allowable rate (in FIG. 9, percentage notation is “10”, “30”, “5”).

  For such allowable rate specifying information, for example, for “home”, there is a high possibility that the user is familiar with the information on the actual map, and “where to go regularly” and “company” Is more likely to be familiar with the information on the actual map, but with respect to the “destination”, it is likely that the user is not familiar with the information on the actual map. From "Map information update needs" to "Destination", "Home", "Company" (and "Location to go regularly" ("Company" and "Location to go regularly" are the same)) In the following description, it is assumed that the recording is performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

(Configuration-Receiving server-Control unit)
Returning to FIG. 1, the control unit 27F includes a determination unit 271F and a distribution unit 272 in terms of functional concept. Each time the communication unit 21 receives a distribution request, the determination unit 271F is a determination unit that determines a permissible rate corresponding to the probability that distribution of differential update information is permitted based on the attribute of the received distribution request. . The processing performed by each unit of the control unit 27F will be described later.

(processing)
Next, a distribution process executed by the update information distribution system 100F configured as described above will be described.

  First, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17F of the in-vehicle device 1F generates and transmits a distribution request. Specifically, a place of a landmark (hereinafter referred to as a landmark spot) included in the delivery area is specified, and the delivery information includes “marker spot information” corresponding to the feature or property of the delivery request. The request is transmitted via the communication unit 11. More specifically, first, the current day of the week and time zone (that is, the distribution request is determined) using a timing unit such as a timer (not shown) of the in-vehicle device 1F (having a function for specifying time and day of week). Whether or not the “delivery area” registered by the user's predetermined operation via the touch panel 12 includes “place to go regularly” for the specified day and time. If it is determined that “place to go regularly” is included, “marking point” = “place to go regularly” is specified (that is, based on day-of-week specifying information and time specifying information) If “departure place” is not included, the “delivery area” is “company”, “home” or “destination”. To determine whether or not it is included. To identify. In addition, when multiple of “company”, “home” or “destination” are specified as “marking points”, priority is set for “company”, “home”, and “destination”. According to the degree, only one point is specified as a “marking point”. If none of “company”, “home”, and “destination” is specified as a “marking point”, “marking point” = “none” is specified. Next, in addition to its own device ID, version specifying information, and distribution request area location specifying information, a distribution request including mark point information where “marking point information” = “previously specified mark point” is generated and generated Send the delivery request.

  Next, in SA2, the distribution determination process of FIG. 4 is started, and in SB1, the determination unit 271F in the control unit 27F of the reception server 2F determines the allowable rate. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on the attribute of the received distribution request and the allowable rate specifying information in FIG. More specifically, “marking point information” of the distribution request is acquired as an attribute of the received distribution request, and the above-described “marking point information” is acquired in the information corresponding to the item “allowable rate” of the allowable rate specifying information. Information corresponding to “information” is specified, and the specified information is determined as an allowable rate. Here, for example, when “marking point information” = “home” is acquired, “10” is determined as the allowable rate, and when “marking point information” = “destination” is acquired, “30” is set as the allowable rate. When “marking point information” = “company” is acquired, “5” is determined as an allowable rate, and when “marking point information” = “place to go regularly” is acquired, “5” is set. Decide on an acceptable rate. When “marking point information” = “none” is acquired, a predetermined allowable rate (for example, “1” which is an extremely small value) may be determined.

(Effect of Embodiment 6)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the allowable rate is determined based on the distribution request area location specifying information, the day of the week specifying information, and the time specifying information as attributes of the distribution request, for example, the distribution request area Based on the location, the day of the week when the distribution request area was performed, and the time, the allowable rate corresponding to the necessity of the update can be determined, the load for the update is reduced, and the differential update information according to the update needs Distribution can be performed.

[Modifications to Embodiment]
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, specific configurations and means of the present invention are arbitrarily modified and improved within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention described in the claims. be able to. Hereinafter, such a modification will be described.

(About problems to be solved and effects of the invention)
First, the problems to be solved by the invention and the effects of the invention are not limited to the above contents, and may vary depending on the implementation environment and details of the configuration of the invention. May be solved, or only some of the effects described above may be achieved. For example, even if the appropriateness of the distribution according to the update needs performed using the update information distribution system according to the present invention is similar to the conventional one, the same appropriate distribution as the conventional one is performed by the structure different from the conventional one. In this case, the problem of the present invention has been solved.

(About distribution and integration)
Further, each of the electrical components described above is functionally conceptual and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each unit are not limited to those shown in the drawings, and all or a part thereof may be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads or usage conditions. Can be configured. The “system” in the present application is not limited to one configured by a plurality of devices, but includes one configured by a single device. In addition, the “apparatus” in the present application is not limited to one configured by a single apparatus, but includes one configured by a plurality of apparatuses. For example, some functions of the in-vehicle device may be provided in the reception server, or some functions of the reception server may be provided in the in-vehicle device. In addition, the receiving server is configured to be distributed among a plurality of devices configured to be able to communicate with each other, and one of the determination unit or the distribution unit is provided in a part of the plurality of devices, and the other of the plurality of devices You may provide the other of a determination part or a delivery part in one part. For example, the functions of the receiving server, difference map calculation server, map information DB server, or file server of each embodiment may be integrated.

(About shape, numerical value, structure, time series)
Regarding the constituent elements illustrated in the embodiments and drawings, the shape, numerical value, or the structure or mutual relationship of a plurality of constituent elements are arbitrarily modified and improved within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. be able to.

(About tolerance rate specific information)
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the allowance rate specifying information of the allowance rate specifying information DB of each embodiment is recorded when the user inputs it via an input unit (not shown) in the receiving server 2 of FIG. Although the case has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the range of processing capability of the update information distribution system, the receiving server determines the “allowance rate” of the allowance specification information at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 24 hours) according to the priority according to the update needs of the map information. ”And the allowable rate specifying information may be updated based on the calculation result.

(About determination of tolerance rate)
In the second embodiment, the case where the allowable rate is determined using “home location specifying information” and “destination location specifying information” is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the allowable rate may be determined using “current location specifying information” instead of “home location specifying information”. In this case, instead of the item “distance (home-destination)”, the item “distance (current location-destination)” is provided instead of the item “distance (home-destination)”. As the information corresponding to “,” the information specifying the range of the distance between the current location and the destination of the in-vehicle device 1 is recorded. Then, in SA1 of FIG. 3, the control unit 17B of the in-vehicle device 1B of FIG. 1 acquires the detection result (for example, longitude and latitude coordinates) of the current position detection unit 15, and specifies the current location that is the acquired detection result. The distribution request including the “current location specific information” to be generated instead of the “destination location specific information” in the second embodiment is generated and transmitted, and the control unit 27B of the receiving server 2B in SB1 of FIG. The determination unit 271B in FIG. 4 determines the allowable rate based on the “current location determination information” included in the received distribution request and the allowable rate determination information including information corresponding to the item “distance (current location−destination)”. Is configured to determine.

  Further, after arbitrarily combining the tolerance specification information in each of the above embodiments and modifications, the tolerance is determined by arbitrarily combining the methods for determining the tolerance in each of the embodiments and modifications. You can do it. Specifically, the allowable rate is determined based on at least one of the distribution request area location specifying information, home location specifying information, current location specifying information, destination location specifying information, or midpoint location specifying information. Alternatively, the allowable rate may be determined based on the at least one information and the day-of-week specifying information or the time specifying information. For example, in the case of determining the allowable rate based on the at least one information and the day-of-week specifying information or the time specifying information, for example, the receiving server determines the allowable rate of the allowable rate specifying information of each embodiment and the modification. The permissible rate may be determined in consideration of the day of the week or time when the distribution request is received after recording the distribution request every day or time.

  In addition, the permissible rate specifying information stored in the receiving server in each of the above embodiments may be configured to be used individually with respect to each of the plurality of in-vehicle devices of the update information distribution system. You may comprise so that it may be used in common regarding a vehicle-mounted apparatus.

(About the midpoint)
In the fifth embodiment, the intermediate point is defined as a point set for every predetermined distance (for example, every 5 kilometers) on the travel route from the “departure point” to the “destination”. Although the case where it processes above was demonstrated, it is not restricted to this. For example, from the viewpoint of reducing the load for specifying the location of the intermediate point, the intermediate point is simply connected by a straight line or a curve regardless of the travel route, and the connected straight line Alternatively, processing may be performed after defining a point at a predetermined distance on the curve. Further, it may be defined as “departure place” and “home”.

(About placemark information)
Moreover, although the said Embodiment 6 demonstrated the case where the in-vehicle apparatus 1F transmits to the receiving server 2F as some information of a delivery request | requirement information, it is not restricted to this. For example, the reception server 2F may store information necessary for determining the landmark location information, and the reception server 2F may determine the landmark location information.

(About delivery judgment processing)
Also, in each of the above-described embodiments, instead of SB2 to SB6 in the distribution determination process of FIG. 4, it is known that “difference update information is distributed” with a probability corresponding to the allowable rate determined in SB1. Any determination method including the determination method may be used.

[Characteristics and effects of the embodiment]
Finally, some of the features and effects of the embodiments described so far are exemplified below. However, the features and effects of each embodiment are not limited to the following contents, and only some of the following effects can be achieved by including only a part of the following features. By providing the above features, there may be other effects than the following effects.

  The update information distribution system according to one aspect 1 of the embodiment distributes update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. An update information distribution system, wherein a receiving unit that receives the distribution request, and each time the receiving unit receives the distribution request, distribution of the update information is permitted based on an attribute of the received distribution request. A determining unit that determines an allowable rate corresponding to the probability of the update, and a distribution unit that distributes the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determining unit.

  According to the update information distribution system according to aspect 1, every time the receiving unit receives a distribution request, the tolerance corresponding to the probability that the distribution of the update information is permitted based on the attribute of the distribution request received by the receiving unit. Since the rate is determined, for example, individual circumstances in each map display terminal can be reflected in the allowable rate, and updated appropriately according to the update needs of each map display terminal while reducing the load for updating Information can be distributed.

  The update information distribution system according to another aspect 2 of the embodiment is the update information distribution system according to the aspect 1, wherein the attribute of the distribution request is a location of a distribution request area that is an area for requesting distribution in the map information. Distribution request area specifying information for specifying, home location specifying information for specifying the user's home location on the map display terminal, current location specifying information for specifying the location of the current location of the map display terminal, purpose of the map display terminal At least one specific information of destination location specifying information for specifying the location of the location, or midpoint location specifying information for specifying the location of the midpoint of the home location and the destination location, The determination means determines the allowable rate based on the at least one specific information.

  According to the update information distribution system according to aspect 2, the distribution request area location specifying information for specifying the location of the distribution request area, which is an area for requesting distribution in the map information, and the location of the user's home in the map display terminal are specified. Home location identification information, current location identification information that identifies the location of the current location of the map display terminal, destination location identification information that identifies the location of the destination of the map display terminal, or the location of the midpoint between the home location and the destination For example, the location of the distribution request area, the location of the user's home in the map display terminal, the map display terminal Based on the current location, destination location, or midpoint location, an acceptable rate corresponding to the need for the update can be determined and the load of the update Reduction, and it is possible to carry out the delivery of update information in line with the update needs.

  In the update information distribution system according to another aspect 3 of the embodiment, in the update information distribution system according to the aspect 2, the attribute of the distribution request is day-of-week specifying information for specifying a day of the week on which the distribution request is performed, or , Further including at least one specification information of time specification information for specifying a time at which the delivery request is made, wherein the determining means is further configured based on the day of the week specification information or the time specification information. Determine the rate.

  According to the update information distribution system according to aspect 3 described above, the allowable rate is determined based on the day-of-week specifying information for specifying the day of the week when the distribution request is made or the time specifying information for specifying the time at which the distribution request is made. Therefore, for example, it is possible to determine the allowable rate according to the user's behavior pattern of the map display terminal based on the day of the week or time, and appropriately update information according to the update needs in consideration of the user's behavior pattern Can be delivered.

  An update information distribution method according to another aspect 4 of the embodiment distributes update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. In the update information distribution method, the reception unit receives the distribution request, and the determination unit receives the distribution request every time the reception unit receives the distribution request, based on the attribute of the received distribution request, A determination step of determining an allowable rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of the update information is permitted, and a distribution unit that distributes the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination step. .

  According to the update information distribution method according to aspect 4, each time the receiving unit receives a distribution request, the tolerance corresponding to the probability that the distribution of the update information is permitted based on the attribute of the distribution request received by the receiving unit. Since the rate is determined, for example, individual circumstances in each map display terminal can be reflected in the allowable rate, and updated appropriately according to the update needs of each map display terminal while reducing the load for updating Information can be distributed.

  An update information distribution program according to another aspect 5 of the embodiment distributes update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map. An update information distribution program, comprising: a receiving unit that receives the distribution request; and a computer that distributes the update information based on attributes of the received distribution request each time the receiving unit receives the distribution request. And a distribution unit that distributes the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination unit.

  According to the update information distribution program according to aspect 5, every time the receiving unit receives a distribution request, the tolerance corresponding to the probability that the distribution of the update information is permitted based on the attribute of the distribution request received by the receiving unit. Since the rate is determined, for example, individual circumstances in each map display terminal can be reflected in the allowable rate, and updated appropriately according to the update needs of each map display terminal while reducing the load for updating Information can be distributed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 In-vehicle apparatus 1B In-vehicle apparatus 1C In-vehicle apparatus 1D In-vehicle apparatus 1E In-vehicle apparatus 1F In-vehicle apparatus 2 Reception server 2B Reception server 2C Reception server 2D Reception server 2E Reception server 2F Reception server 3 Difference map calculation server 4 Map information DB server 5 File server 11 Communication unit 12 Touch panel 13 Display 14 Speaker 15 Current position detection unit 16 Data recording unit 17 Control unit 17B Control unit 17C Control unit 17D Control unit 17E Control unit 17F Control unit 21 Communication unit 26 Data recording unit 26B Data recording unit 26C Data recording unit 26D Data recording unit 26E Data recording unit 26F Data recording unit 27 Control unit 27B Control unit 27C Control unit 27D Control unit 27E Control unit 27F Control unit 100 Update information distribution system 100B Update information distribution system 100C Update information distribution system 10 0D Update information distribution system 100E Update information distribution system 100F Update information distribution system 161 Map information DB
261 Permissible rate identification information DB
261B Permissible rate identification information DB
261C Permissible rate identification information DB
261D Permissible rate identification information DB
261E Permissible rate identification information DB
261F Allowable rate identification information DB
271 Determination unit 271B Determination unit 271C Determination unit 271D Determination unit 271E Determination unit 271F Determination unit 272 Distribution unit

Claims (5)

An update information distribution system that distributes update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map,
Receiving means for receiving the distribution request;
A determination unit that determines a permissible rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of the update information is permitted based on an attribute of the received distribution request every time the receiving unit receives the distribution request;
A distribution unit configured to distribute the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination unit;
An update information distribution system comprising: The attribute of the distribution request includes distribution request area location specifying information for specifying the location of the distribution request area, which is an area for requesting distribution in the map information, and home location specifying information for specifying the location of the user's home on the map display terminal. Current location specifying information for specifying the location of the current location of the map display terminal, destination location specifying information for specifying the location of the destination of the map display terminal, or an intermediate point between the location of the home and the destination Including at least one piece of identification information of intermediate point location identification information for identifying the location of
The determining means determines the allowable rate based on the at least one specific information;
The update information distribution system according to claim 1. The attribute of the distribution request further includes at least one specific information of day-of-week specifying information for specifying a day of the week when the distribution request is made or time specifying information for specifying a time of the time of the distribution request. Including
The determining means determines the allowable rate further based on the day-of-week specifying information or the time specifying information.
The update information distribution system according to claim 2. An update information distribution method for distributing update information for updating the map information in response to a distribution request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map,
A receiving step for receiving the distribution request;
A determining step for determining a permissible rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of the update information is permitted based on an attribute of the received distribution request every time the receiving unit receives the distribution request;
A distribution step of distributing the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination step;
Update information delivery method including An update information delivery program for delivering update information for updating the map information in response to a delivery request from a map display terminal having map information for displaying a map,
Computer
Receiving means for receiving the distribution request;
A determination unit that determines a permissible rate corresponding to a probability that distribution of the update information is permitted based on an attribute of the received distribution request every time the receiving unit receives the distribution request;
A distribution unit configured to distribute the update information based on the allowable rate determined by the determination unit;
Update information distribution program to function as.

Images