JP2019100749A - Map delivery system, map server device and onboard device - Google Patents

Abstract

To enable the amount of information included in a navigation image to be changed.SOLUTION: An onboard device 300 requests delivery data for generating a navigation image. A map server device 200 determines whether to include an additional element in the navigation image. When including an additional element in the navigation image, the map server device 200 generates delivery data using standard data and additional data. When not including an additional element in the navigation image, the map server device 200 generates delivery data using standard data without using additional data. Then the map server device 200 delivers the delivery data. The onboard device 300 generates a navigation image on the basis of the delivery data and displays the navigation image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to map distribution and car navigation.

Dynamic maps have been developed and maintained for freeways since fiscal 2015.
A dynamic map is a high-precision three-dimensional map including dynamic information, semi-dynamic information, quasi-static information and static information.
The static information of the dynamic map identifies the lanes of the road with an accuracy of a few centimeters to a few tens of centimeters.

A car corresponding to the dynamic map can drive automatically.
The vehicle is equipped with sensors such as a camera and a radar. The information obtained by each sensor is then compared with the information obtained from the dynamic map (information such as lanes and road features). This makes it possible to recognize the exact position of the vehicle. As a result, the performance of automatic operation control is improved.

Patent Document 1 shows a form of automatic operation control using a dynamic map.
Development and maintenance of dynamic maps for general roads are required in preparation for the spread of autonomous vehicles in the future.

Patent Document 2 shows a form of maintenance of a dynamic map.
In the Mobile Mapping System (MMS), the measurement vehicle collects 3D point cloud information of the road, and the 3D point cloud information obtains linearized data of the road and feature. Then, based on the obtained linearization data, a dynamic map is generated. The generated dynamic map is distributed to map companies and automobile companies.
In order to proceed with the development of the dynamic map, it is necessary to travel a long distance by a measuring vehicle.

The invention according to Patent Document 3 is to notify that there is a part that can not be operated automatically in the guidance route when high precision map data is not provided in a part of the guidance route.
The object of the invention according to Patent Document 3 is to eliminate the driver's sense of incongruity caused in a situation where an area in which high precision map data is maintained and an area in which high precision map data is not maintained are mixed. .
Such discomfort can be eliminated if the development of a dynamic map for general roads is advanced.

Patent Document 4 discloses a technique for improving the efficiency of a partial update operation of data for map display.
In order to promote the spread of dynamic maps, it is necessary to simplify the work of updating dynamic maps.

Patent Document 5 discloses a method for improving the convenience of the user in displaying guide information at the time of route search. Specifically, guidance information for guiding the area of interest along with the route is displayed. As a result, the user can select various actions at the time of movement from the departure place to the destination, such as stopping at a notable area that does not exist on the route.
Improvements in user convenience are also required for the development of dynamic maps.

  Patent Document 6 describes the concept and maintenance of a dynamic map.

International Publication 2017/150059 International Publication 2017/110801 JP, 2016-200472, A International Publication No. 2005/088584 Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2009-222572 “Issues on establishing“ dynamic map collaboration area ”and expectations for Connected Car”, Dynamic Map Foundation Planning Co., Ltd., March 9, 2017

  An object of the present invention is to make it possible to change the amount of information included in a navigation image.

The map distribution system of the present invention is
A map server device and an in-vehicle device are provided.
The map server device
A storage unit for storing standard data indicating standard elements included in a map and additional data indicating additional elements included in the map;
A receiving unit for receiving a distribution request for requesting distribution data for generating a navigation image;
A determination unit that determines whether to include the additional element in the navigation image;
When the navigation image includes the additional element, the distribution data is generated using the standard data and the additional data, and when the navigation image does not include the additional element, the standard is used without the additional data. A preparation unit that generates the delivery data using data;
And a delivery unit for delivering the delivery data to the in-vehicle device.
The in-vehicle device is
A request unit for transmitting the distribution request;
An acquisition unit for acquiring the distribution data;
A generation unit that generates the navigation image based on the delivery data;
And a navigation unit for displaying the navigation image.

According to the present invention, the amount of information included in the navigation image can be changed.
For example, it is possible to present to a pay user a navigation image including both standard elements and additional elements. In addition, it is possible to present a navigation image including standard elements without additional elements to free users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The block diagram of the map delivery system 100 in Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a map server device 200 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the in-vehicle device 300 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of map data 400 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a map 401 in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of standard data 411 in Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of additional data 412 in Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of combined data 413 in Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 shows a standard image 421 in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 shows an additional image 422 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 shows a composite image 423 according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart of a map distribution method by the map server device 200 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of additional delivery data 431 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of additional delivery data 432 in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of standard delivery data 433 in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart of a navigation method by the on-vehicle apparatus 300 according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart of a navigation method by the map delivery system 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a map server device 200 according to a second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of an in-vehicle device 300 according to a second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart of a map distribution method by the map server device 200 according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart of a navigation method by the on-vehicle apparatus 300 according to Embodiment 2. The navigation method by the map delivery system 100 in Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a map server device 200 according to a third embodiment.

  In the embodiments and the drawings, the same elements and corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions of elements with the same reference numerals will be omitted or simplified as appropriate. Arrows in the figure mainly indicate the flow of data or the flow of processing.

Embodiment 1
The map distribution system 100 will be described based on FIGS. 1 to 17.

*** Description of the configuration ***
The configuration of the map distribution system 100 will be described based on FIG.
The map distribution system 100 includes a map server device 200 and an on-vehicle device 300.
The map server device 200 and the in-vehicle device 300 communicate with each other via the network 101. A specific network 101 is the Internet.

The on-vehicle apparatus 300 is mounted on a vehicle 110.
For example, the in-vehicle device 300 is a navigation system.

The configuration of the map server device 200 will be described based on FIG.
The map server device 200 is a computer including hardware such as a processor 201, a memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, and a communication device 204. These pieces of hardware are connected to each other via signal lines.

The processor 201 is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs arithmetic processing, and controls other hardware. For example, the processor 201 is a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a graphics processing unit (GPU).
The memory 202 is a volatile storage device. The memory 202 is also referred to as main storage or main memory. For example, the memory 202 is a random access memory (RAM). The data stored in the memory 202 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 203 as needed.
The auxiliary storage device 203 is a non-volatile storage device. For example, the auxiliary storage device 203 is a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a flash memory. The data stored in the auxiliary storage device 203 is loaded into the memory 202 as needed.
The communication device 204 is a receiver and a transmitter. For example, the communication device 204 is a communication chip or a NIC (Network Interface Card).

  The map server device 200 includes elements such as a reception unit 211, a determination unit 212, a preparation unit 213, a distribution unit 214, and a charging unit 215. These elements are realized by software.

The auxiliary storage device 203 stores a map server program for causing a computer to function as the reception unit 211, the determination unit 212, the preparation unit 213, the distribution unit 214, the charging unit 215, the storage unit 221, and the communication unit 222. The map server program is loaded into memory 202 and executed by processor 201.
Furthermore, an OS (Operating System) is stored in the auxiliary storage device 203. At least a portion of the OS is loaded into the memory 202 and executed by the processor 201.
That is, the processor 201 executes the map server program while executing the OS.
Data obtained by executing the map server program is stored in a storage device such as a memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a register in the processor 201 or a cache memory in the processor 201.

The auxiliary storage device 203 functions as the storage unit 221. However, another storage device may function as the storage unit 221 instead of the auxiliary storage device 203 or together with the auxiliary storage device 203.
The communication device 204 functions as the communication unit 222.

  The map server device 200 may include a plurality of processors that replace the processor 201. The plurality of processors share the role of the processor 201.

  The map server program can be recorded (stored) in a computer readable manner on a non-volatile storage medium such as an optical disk or flash memory.

The configuration of the in-vehicle apparatus 300 will be described based on FIG.
The in-vehicle device 300 is a computer including hardware such as a processor 301, a memory 302, an auxiliary storage device 303, a communication device 304, and an input / output interface 305. These pieces of hardware are connected to each other via signal lines.

The processor 301 is an IC that performs arithmetic processing, and controls other hardware. For example, the processor 301 is a CPU, a DSP or a GPU.
The memory 302 is a volatile storage device. The memory 302 is also referred to as main storage or main memory. For example, the memory 302 is a RAM. The data stored in the memory 302 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 as needed.
The auxiliary storage device 303 is a non-volatile storage device. For example, the auxiliary storage device 303 is a ROM, an HDD or a flash memory. The data stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 is loaded into the memory 302 as needed.
The communication device 304 is a receiver and a transmitter. For example, the communication device 304 is a communication chip or a NIC.
The input / output interface 305 is a port to which an input / output device is connected. For example, the input / output interface 305 is a USB terminal. USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus.

  The on-vehicle apparatus 300 includes elements such as a request unit 311, an acquisition unit 312, a generation unit 313, and a navigation unit 314. These elements are realized by software.

The auxiliary storage device 303 stores an in-vehicle program for causing a computer to function as the request unit 311, the acquisition unit 312, the generation unit 313, the navigation unit 314, the storage unit 321, the communication unit 322, the reception unit 323, and the display unit 324. ing. The on-vehicle program is loaded into the memory 302 and executed by the processor 301.
Further, the auxiliary storage device 303 stores an OS. At least a portion of the OS is loaded into the memory 302 and executed by the processor 301.
That is, the processor 301 executes the in-vehicle program while executing the OS.
Data obtained by executing the in-vehicle program is stored in a storage device such as the memory 302, the auxiliary storage device 303, a register in the processor 301, or a cache memory in the processor 301.

The auxiliary storage device 303 functions as the storage unit 321. However, another storage device may function as the storage unit 321 instead of the auxiliary storage device 303 or together with the auxiliary storage device 303.
The communication device 304 functions as the communication unit 322.
The input / output interface 305 functions as the reception unit 323 and the display unit 324.

  The on-vehicle apparatus 300 may include a plurality of processors that replace the processor 301. A plurality of processors share the role of the processor 301.

  The in-vehicle program can be recorded (stored) in a computer-readable manner on a non-volatile recording medium such as an optical disk or a flash memory.

The map data 400 will be described based on FIG.
The map data 400 is data corresponding to static information of a dynamic map, and is used for navigation and autonomous driving.
The map data 400 is data representing a map of a road, and is stored in advance in the storage unit 221 of the map server device 200.

The map data 400 includes a plurality of area data 410.
The area data 410 is data representing a map of the area.
Each area data 410 includes standard data 411 and additional data 412.
Standard data 411 indicates one or more standard elements.
The additional data 412 indicates one or more additional elements.

Standard elements are elements included in the map. Specifically, the standard element is a symbol or figure representing a standard feature.
A standard feature is a roadway or an adjunct to a roadway. For example, standard features include roadways, lanes, sideways, median dividers, road markings, signs and traffic lights.

The additional elements are elements included in the map. Specifically, the additional element is visual information of a standard feature or additional feature.
An additional feature is a feature existing around the roadway. For example, additional features include buildings, sidewalks, portals, bridges, and elevated tracks.
Visual information is information that represents the appearance of a feature. For example, visual information represents the shape of a feature (in particular, a three-dimensional shape) and color.

The map 401 will be described based on FIG.
The map 401 shows a roadway and the like. A roadway is an example of a standard feature.
Map 401 is represented by map data 400.

The map 401 is divided by mesh. Each mesh is referred to as area 402. The area 402 is also referred to as a parcel. For example, a parcel is a 50 meter square area.
Area 402 is represented by area data 410.

The n-th area will be described based on FIGS. 6 to 8.
FIG. 6 shows the standard element of the nth area. The standard element of the nth area is represented by the standard data 411 of the nth area. White circles represent standard elements.
The n-th area includes a roadway, a standard feature S1 and a standard feature S2.

FIG. 7 shows an additional element of the nth area. The additional element of the nth area is represented by the additional data 412 of the nth area. Black circles represent visual information.
The n-th area includes the standard feature S2 and the additional feature A1.
Visual information is added to each of the standard feature S2 and the additional feature A1.

FIG. 8 shows standard elements and additional elements in the n-th area. The standard element and the additional element of the nth area are represented by the composite data 413 of the nth area.
The composite data 413 is data obtained by combining the standard data 411 and the additional data 412.
The nth area includes the standard feature S1, the standard feature S2, and the additional feature A1.
Visual information is added to each of the standard feature S2 and the additional feature A1.

The standard image 421 will be described based on FIG.
The standard image 421 is generated based on the standard data 411.
The standard image 421 shows a three-dimensional map of standard elements.
Specifically, the standard image 421 shows a roadway, a lane line, a lane link, a road shoulder edge, a sign and a traffic light. Roadways, lanes, lane links, road shoulders, signs and traffic lights are examples of standard features.

The additional image 422 will be described based on FIG.
The additional image 422 is generated based on the additional data 412.
The additional image 422 shows a three-dimensional map of additional elements.
Specifically, the additional image 422 shows visual information of each of the traffic light and the building. The traffic light is an example of a standard feature, and the building is an example of an additional feature.

The composite image 423 will be described based on FIG.
The composite image 423 is generated based on the composite data 413.
The composite image 423 shows a three-dimensional map of standard elements and additional elements.
Specifically, the composite image 423 shows a roadway, a lane line, a lane link, a road shoulder edge, a sign, a traffic light, and a building.
The traffic light is represented by an actual shape (vertical type).
The building is represented in a three-dimensional shape.

*** Description of operation ***
A data distribution method by the map server device 200 will be described based on FIG.
In step S101, the reception unit 211 receives a distribution request.
Specifically, the reception unit 211 receives the distribution request from the in-vehicle device 300 via the communication unit 222.
The distribution request is communication data that requests distribution data for generating a navigation image.
The navigation image is an image for navigation.

  In step S102, the determination unit 212 determines whether to include an additional element in the navigation image.

The determination method in step S102 will be described.
The distribution request includes information for determining whether to include the additional element in the navigation image. Specifically, the distribution request includes the user identifier.
Further, user management data is stored in advance in the storage unit 221. The user management data includes a user type for each user identifier. The user type indicates whether the user identified by the user identifier is a special user or a general user. An example of a special user is a paid user, and an example of a general user is a free user.
First, the determination unit 212 acquires the user identifier from the distribution request.
Next, the determination unit 212 selects the user type of the acquired user identifier from the user management data.
Then, the determination unit 212 determines which of the special user and the general user the selected user type indicates.
When the user type indicates a special user, the navigation image includes an additional element.
When the user type indicates a general user, the navigation image does not include additional elements.

If the navigation image includes an additional element, the process proceeds to step S103.
If the navigation image does not include the additional element, the process proceeds to step S105.

In step S103, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data based on the distribution request.
The additional delivery data is delivery data generated using the standard data 411 and the additional data 412.

A method of generating additional delivery data will be described.
The delivery request includes route information. The route information indicates a travel route. The travel route is a route on which the vehicle 110 travels. The route information is generated by the car navigation system of the vehicle 110.
First, the preparation unit 213 selects, from the map 401, a plurality of areas 402 corresponding to the travel route based on the route information included in the distribution request. Each selected area 402 is referred to as a corresponding area. The applicable area is an area 402 including a part of the travel route.
Next, the preparation unit 213 selects the area data 410 from the map data 400 for each applicable area.
Next, the preparation unit 213 extracts standard data 411 and additional data 412 from the area data 410 for each corresponding area.
Then, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data using the standard data 411 and the additional data 412 for each corresponding area.

The additional delivery data 431 will be described based on FIG.
The additional delivery data 431 is an example of additional delivery data.
The additional delivery data 431 includes standard data 411 and additional data 412.
The preparation unit 213 generates additional delivery data 431 including the standard data 411 and the additional data 412.

The additional delivery data 432 will be described based on FIG.
The additional delivery data 432 is an example of additional delivery data.
The additional delivery data 432 includes composite data 413.
The preparation unit 213 generates the combined data 413 by combining the standard data 411 and the additional data 412. Then, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data 432 including the combined data 413.

Referring back to FIG. 12, the description will continue from step S104.
In step S104, the distribution unit 214 distributes the additional distribution data.
Specifically, the distribution unit 214 transmits the additional distribution data to the on-vehicle apparatus 300 via the communication unit 222.

In step S105, the preparation unit 213 generates standard distribution data based on the distribution request.
The standard delivery data is delivery data generated using the standard data 411 without using the additional data 412.

A method of generating standard delivery data will be described.
First, the preparation unit 213 selects, from the map 401, a plurality of areas 402 corresponding to the travel route based on the route information included in the distribution request. Each selected area 402 is referred to as a corresponding area. The applicable area is an area 402 including a part of the travel route.
Next, the preparation unit 213 selects the area data 410 from the map data 400 for each applicable area.
Next, the preparation unit 213 extracts standard data 411 from the area data 410 for each applicable area.
Then, the preparation unit 213 generates standard distribution data using the standard data 411 for each corresponding area.

The standard delivery data 433 will be described based on FIG.
The standard delivery data 433 is an example of standard delivery data.
The standard delivery data 433 includes standard data 411.
The preparation unit 213 generates standard delivery data 433 that includes the standard data 411 but does not include the additional data 412.

Referring back to FIG. 12, step S106 will be described.
In step S106, the distribution unit 214 distributes standard distribution data.
Specifically, the distribution unit 214 transmits the standard distribution data to the on-vehicle apparatus 300 via the communication unit 222.

A navigation method by the on-vehicle apparatus 300 will be described based on FIG.
In step S111, the request unit 311 transmits a distribution request.
Specifically, the request unit 311 transmits a distribution request to the map server device 200 via the communication unit 322.

The procedure of step S111 will be described.
The driver (user) selects a destination by operating the navigation system.
The receiving unit 323 receives the selected destination.
The navigation system determines a travel route based on the current location of the vehicle 110 and the selected destination.
The request unit 311 generates a distribution request including the user identifier and the travel route.
Then, the request unit 311 transmits a distribution request to the map server device 200 via the communication unit 322.

In step S112, the acquisition unit 312 acquires distribution data.
Specifically, the acquisition unit 312 receives distribution data of each applicable area from the map server device 200 via the communication unit 322. The storage unit 321 stores distribution data of each corresponding area.

  In step S113, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the distribution data.

  Specifically, the generation unit 313 selects distribution data of the corresponding area including the current position of the vehicle 110, and generates a navigation image based on the selected distribution data.

  When the distribution data of each corresponding area is the additional distribution data 431 (see FIG. 13), the generation unit 313 extracts the standard data 411 and the additional data 412 from the additional distribution data 431. Next, the generation unit 313 combines the standard data 411 and the additional data 412 to generate combined data 413. Then, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the composite data 413. For example, the generation unit 313 generates a composite image 423 (see FIG. 11).

  When the distribution data of each corresponding area is the additional distribution data 432 (see FIG. 14), the generation unit 313 extracts the combined data 413 from the additional distribution data 432. Then, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the composite data 413. For example, the generation unit 313 generates a composite image 423 (see FIG. 11).

  When the delivery data of each corresponding area is the standard delivery data 433 (see FIG. 15), the generation unit 313 extracts the standard delivery data 433 to 411. Then, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the standard data 411. For example, the generation unit 313 generates a standard image 421 (see FIG. 9).

In step S114, the navigation unit 314 displays a navigation image.
Specifically, the navigation unit 314 displays a navigation image on the navigation screen via the display unit 324. The navigation screen is a display of the navigation system.
For example, the navigation unit 314 displays the composite image 423 (see FIG. 11) or the standard image 421 (see FIG. 9) on the navigation screen.

A navigation method by the map distribution system 100 will be described based on FIG.
In step S <b> 121, the on-vehicle apparatus 300 transmits a distribution request to the map server apparatus 200.
Specifically, the request unit 311 generates a distribution request, and the communication unit 322 transmits the distribution request to the map server device 200.

In step S122, the map server device 200 receives a distribution request.
Specifically, the reception unit 211 receives the distribution request via the communication unit 222.

In step S123, the map server device 200 determines whether the navigation image includes the additional element.
Specifically, the determination unit 212 performs the determination based on the distribution request.

In step S124, the map server device 200 generates distribution data.
When the navigation image includes the additional element, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data of each corresponding area.
When the navigation image does not include the additional element, the preparation unit 213 generates standard distribution data of each corresponding area.

In step S125, the map server device 200 distributes the distribution data to the in-vehicle device 300.
Specifically, the distribution unit 214 transmits the distribution data of each applicable area to the on-vehicle apparatus 300 via the communication unit 222.

In step S126, the in-vehicle device 300 acquires distribution data.
Specifically, the acquisition unit 312 receives the distribution data of each corresponding area via the communication unit 322. The storage unit 321 stores distribution data of each corresponding area.

In step S127, the in-vehicle device 300 generates a navigation image.
Specifically, the generation unit 313 selects distribution data of the corresponding area including the current position of the vehicle 110, and generates a navigation image based on the selected distribution data.

In step S128, the in-vehicle device 300 displays a navigation image.
Specifically, the navigation unit 314 displays a navigation image on the navigation screen via the display unit 324.

  Steps S127 and S128 are repeated until the vehicle 110 arrives at the destination.

*** Effect of Embodiment 1 ***
The amount of information included in the navigation image can be changed.
For example, it is possible to present to a pay user a navigation image including both standard elements and additional elements. In addition, it is possible to present a navigation image including standard elements without additional elements to free users.

Therefore, the following effects are achieved.
It is possible to present a driver who is a pay user of a navigation image that matches the actual landscape, that is, a three-dimensional map closer to reality.
On the other hand, a driver who is a free user can be presented with a general navigation image, that is, a three-dimensional map specialized for navigation.

*** Other configuration ***
The preparation unit 213 may change the type of undistributed distribution data from the additional distribution data to standard distribution data based on the data amount of the distributed distribution data. The types of undelivered distribution data are changed as follows.
The preparation unit 213 compares the data amount of the distributed distribution data with the reference amount. The reference amount is a predetermined data amount.
When the data amount of the distributed distribution data exceeds the reference amount, the preparation unit 213 generates standard distribution data instead of the additional distribution data.

The distribution unit 214 may determine the communication speed of undistributed distribution data based on the data amount of the distributed distribution data. The distribution unit 214 transmits the undistributed distribution data at the determined communication speed. The communication speed of undelivered distribution data is determined as follows.
The distribution unit 214 compares the data amount of the distributed distribution data with the reference amount.
If the data amount of the distributed distribution data exceeds the reference amount, the distribution unit 214 sets the communication speed of the undistributed distribution data as the speed limit. The speed limit is a predetermined communication speed and is slower than the communication speed of the delivered data (normal communication speed).

The map server device 200 may include a charging unit.
The charging unit carries out a charging process for distribution data.
Specifically, the charging unit charges the user for the fee of the distribution data. The user is identified by the user identifier included in the distribution request.

The charging unit may perform the charging process for the additional distribution data without performing the charging process for the standard distribution data.
When the additional distribution data is distributed, the charging unit performs charging processing.
When the standard distribution data is distributed, the charging unit does not perform the charging process.

The charge amount is calculated based on the data amount of the distribution data. The larger the amount of data of distribution data, the higher the billing amount. The billing amount is calculated as follows.
User management data is stored in advance in the storage unit 221. The user management data includes a contract type for each user identifier. The contract type indicates either a pay-as-you-go system or a flat-rate system.
The charging unit determines the contract type of the user based on the user management data. Specifically, the charging unit 215 acquires the user identifier from the distribution request, selects the contract type of the acquired user identifier from the user management data, and refers to the selected contract type.
If the contract type of the user indicates a pay-as-you-go system, the charging unit 215 calculates the charging amount using the data amount of the distribution data (additional distribution data).
If the contract type of the user indicates a flat-rate system, the charging unit 215 calculates the excess amount of distribution data (additional distribution data), and calculates the charging amount using the excess amount. The excess amount is the amount of data exceeding the reference amount.

  The charging unit may give points to the user according to the data amount of the additional delivery data in the past, and may subtract the amount corresponding to the user's points from the charging amount.

The vehicle 110 may be an automatic driving vehicle, and the on-vehicle device 300 may be an automatic driving device. The on-vehicle apparatus 300, which is an automatic driving apparatus, includes an automatic driving unit.
The automatic driving unit performs automatic driving of the vehicle 110 based on the distribution data.
A vehicle 110 which is an autonomous vehicle includes sensors such as a camera and a laser scanner.
The automatic driving unit of the in-vehicle apparatus 300 generates feature shape data based on the additional distribution data. Feature shape data indicates the shape of each feature. Further, the automatic driving unit generates feature shape data based on the measurement data acquired by the sensor. Then, the automatic driving unit compares feature shape data with each other, and recognizes the environment around the vehicle based on the comparison result. Specifically, the automatic operation unit detects a feature common to both feature shape data based on the comparison result. Then, the automatic driving unit detects the position of the vehicle 110 based on the detected position of the feature.

Second Embodiment
A mode in which the in-vehicle apparatus 300 determines whether to include an additional element in the navigation image will be mainly described on the points different from the first embodiment based on FIG. 18 to FIG.

*** Description of the configuration ***
The configuration of the map distribution system 100 is the same as the configuration in the first embodiment (see FIG. 1).

The configuration of the map server device 200 will be described based on FIG.
The map server device 200 does not include the determination unit 212.

The configuration of the in-vehicle apparatus 300 will be described based on FIG.
The on-vehicle apparatus 300 further includes a determination unit 315.
The in-vehicle program further causes the computer to function as the determination unit 315.

*** Description of operation ***
A map distribution method by the map server device 200 will be described based on FIG.
In step S201, the reception unit 211 receives a distribution request.
Step S201 is the same as step S101 (see FIG. 12) in the first embodiment.

In step S202, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data based on the distribution request.
Step S202 corresponds to step S103 in the first embodiment. However, the additional distribution data to be generated is not the additional distribution data 432 (see FIG. 14) but the additional distribution data 431 (see FIG. 13).

In step S203, the distribution unit 214 distributes additional distribution data.
Step S203 is the same as step S104 in the first embodiment.

A navigation method by the on-vehicle apparatus 300 will be described based on FIG.
In step S211, the request unit 311 transmits a distribution request.
Step S211 is the same as step S111 in the first embodiment.

In step S212, the acquisition unit 312 acquires distribution data.
Step S212 corresponds to step S112 in the first embodiment. However, the distribution data acquired is the additional distribution data 431 (see FIG. 13).

In step S213, the determination unit 315 determines whether the navigation image includes an additional element.
Specifically, the user type is stored in advance in the storage unit 321. Then, the determination unit 315 determines which of the special user and the general user the user type indicates.
When the user type indicates a special user, the navigation image includes an additional element.
When the user type indicates a general user, the navigation image does not include additional elements.

If the navigation image includes the additional element, the process proceeds to step S214.
If the navigation image does not include the additional element, the process proceeds to step S215.

  In step S214, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image using the standard data 411 and the additional data 412.

The navigation image is generated as follows.
First, the generation unit 313 selects distribution data of a corresponding area including the current position of the vehicle 110.
Next, the generation unit 313 extracts the standard data 411 and the additional data 412 from the selected distribution data.
Next, the generation unit 313 combines the standard data 411 and the additional data 412 to generate combined data 413.
Then, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the composite data 413. For example, the generation unit 313 generates a composite image 423 (see FIG. 11).

  In step S215, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image using the standard data 411 without using the additional data 412.

The navigation image is generated as follows.
First, the generation unit 313 selects distribution data of a corresponding area including the current position of the vehicle 110.
Next, the generation unit 313 extracts standard data 411 from the selected distribution data.
Then, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image based on the standard data 411. For example, the generation unit 313 generates a standard image 421 (see FIG. 9).

In step S216, the navigation unit 314 displays a navigation image.
Step S216 is the same as step S114 in the first embodiment.

A navigation method by the map distribution system 100 will be described based on FIG.
In step S221, the in-vehicle device 300 transmits a distribution request.
Step S221 is the same as step S121 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment.

In step S222, the map server device 200 receives a distribution request.
Step S222 is the same as step S122 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment.

In step S223, the map server device 200 generates distribution data.
Step S223 corresponds to step S124 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment. However, the distribution data generated is the additional distribution data 431 (see FIG. 13).

In step S224, the map server device 200 distributes distribution data.
Step S224 is the same as step S125 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment.

In step S225, the in-vehicle device 300 acquires distribution data.
Step S225 is the same as step S126 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment.

In step S226, the in-vehicle device 300 determines whether the navigation image includes an additional element.
Specifically, the determination unit 315 performs the determination based on the user type.

In step S227, the in-vehicle device 300 generates a navigation image.
When the navigation image includes the additional element, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image using the standard data 411 and the additional data 412.
When an additional element is not included in the navigation image, the generation unit 313 generates a navigation image using the standard data 411 without using the additional data 412.

In step S228, the in-vehicle device 300 displays a navigation image.
Step S228 is the same as step S128 (see FIG. 17) in the first embodiment.

  Steps S227 and S228 are repeated until the vehicle 110 arrives at the destination.

*** Effect of Embodiment 2 ***
By determining whether the in-vehicle device 300 includes the additional element in the navigation image, the determination and combination by the map server device 200 become unnecessary. Therefore, the load on the map server device 200 can be reduced.

Third Embodiment
A mode in which the map server device 200 charges for distribution data will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 23, as to differences from the first embodiment.

*** Description of the configuration ***
The configuration of the map distribution system 100 is the same as the configuration in the first embodiment (see FIG. 1).

The configuration of the map server device 200 will be described based on FIG.
The map server device 200 further includes a charging unit 215.
The map server program further causes the computer to function as the charging unit 215.

  The configuration of the in-vehicle apparatus 300 is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 3).

*** Description of operation ***
As described in the first embodiment, the determination unit 212 determines whether to include an additional element in the navigation image. When the navigation image includes the additional element, the preparation unit 213 generates additional distribution data. Further, when the navigation image does not include the additional element, the preparation unit 213 generates standard delivery data.

The preparation unit 213 includes the type identifier in the distribution data to be generated.
The type identifier indicates the type of delivery data.

  The charging unit 215 performs charging processing according to the type of distribution data.

Specifically, the charging unit 215 operates as follows.
The charging unit 215 determines the type of distribution data based on the type identifier included in the distribution data.
When additional distribution data is to be distributed, the charging unit 215 charges the user of the distribution destination for the additional distribution data.
When the standard delivery data is delivered, the charging unit 215 charges the fee of the standard delivery data to the user of the delivery destination.
The distribution destination user is identified by the user identifier included in the distribution request.
Charges are made electronically.

  If both the additional delivery data and the standard delivery data are charged, the fee for the additional delivery data is higher than the fee for the standard delivery data. That is, the charge of standard distribution data is lower than the charge of additional distribution data. However, the charge of the standard distribution data may be higher than the charge of the additional distribution data.

  The standard delivery data may be free and the additional delivery data may be paid. In addition, additional distribution data may be free and standard distribution data may be charged.

In the third embodiment, the following map server apparatus 200 has been described.
The map server device 200 includes a storage unit 221, a preparation unit 213, and a charging unit 215.
The storage unit 221 stores standard data of the feature and additional data of the feature. Standard data of features indicate standard elements included in the map. The additional data indicates additional elements included in the map.
The preparation unit 213 generates either the first distribution data (additional distribution data) or the second distribution data (standard distribution data) when generating distribution data to be used as a navigation image. The first distribution data is generated using standard data and additional data. The second distribution data is generated using standard data without using additional data.
The charging unit 215 associates identification information (type identifier) for charging different for each of the first distribution data and the second distribution data, and based on the identification information, the first distribution data or Charge processing according to the distribution of the second distribution data is performed.

When the first distribution data is distributed, the charging unit 215 charges the receiving user of the first distribution data (the user of the distribution destination) a charge or a first price.
When the second distribution data is distributed, the charging unit 215 charges the receiving user of the second distribution data (the user at the distribution destination) the second value free of charge or lower than the first value. .

*** Effect of Embodiment 3 ***
Charging processing can be performed according to the type of distribution data.

*** Supplement of the embodiment ***
The embodiments are exemplifications of preferred embodiments, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention. The embodiment may be partially implemented or may be implemented in combination with other embodiments. The procedure described using the flowchart and the like may be changed as appropriate.

  100 map distribution system, 101 network, 110 vehicle, 200 map server device, 201 processor, 202 memory, 203 auxiliary storage device, 204 communication device, 211 reception unit, 212 determination unit, 213 preparation unit, 214 distribution unit, 215 charging unit , 221 storage unit, 222 communication unit, 300 in-vehicle device, 301 processor, 302 memory, 303 auxiliary storage device, 304 communication device, 305 input / output interface, 311 request unit, 312 acquisition unit, 313 generation unit, 314 navigation unit, 315 Judgment unit, 321 storage unit, 322 communication unit, 323 reception unit, 324 display unit, 400 map data, 401 map, 402 area, 410 area data, 411 standard data, 412 additional data, 413 combined data, 421 standard Images, 422 additional images, 423 composite images, 431 additional delivery data, 432 additional delivery data, 433 standard delivery data.

Claims (12)

It has a map server device and an in-vehicle device,
The map server device
A storage unit for storing standard data of a feature indicating a standard element included in a map and additional data of a feature indicating an additional element included in the map;
A receiving unit for receiving a distribution request for requesting distribution data for generating a navigation image;
A determination unit that determines whether to include the additional element in the navigation image;
When the navigation image includes the additional element, the distribution data is generated using the standard data and the additional data, and when the navigation image does not include the additional element, the standard is used without the additional data. A preparation unit that generates the delivery data using data;
And a delivery unit for delivering the delivery data to the in-vehicle device.
The in-vehicle device is
A request unit for transmitting the distribution request;
An acquisition unit for acquiring the distribution data;
A generation unit that generates the navigation image based on the delivery data;
A map delivery system comprising: a navigation unit for displaying the navigation image. The preparation unit combines the standard data and the additional data to generate composite data when the navigation image includes the additional element, and generates the distribution data using the composite data. Map distribution system described. The standard element is a symbol or figure representing a standard feature,
The map distribution system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the additional element is visual information representing the appearance of the standard feature or additional feature. A roadway or an item associated with the roadway is the standard feature;
The map distribution system according to claim 3, wherein the thing existing around the roadway is the additional feature. A storage unit for storing standard data of a feature indicating a standard element included in a map and additional data of a feature indicating an additional element included in the map;
A receiving unit for receiving a distribution request for requesting distribution data for generating a navigation image;
A determination unit that determines whether to include the additional element in the navigation image;
When the navigation image includes the additional element, the distribution data is generated using the standard data and the additional data, and when the navigation image does not include the additional element, the standard is used without the additional data. A preparation unit that generates the delivery data using data;
And a distribution unit that distributes the distribution data. It has a map server device and an in-vehicle device,
The map server device
A storage unit for storing standard data of a feature indicating a standard element included in a map and additional data of a feature indicating an additional element included in the map;
A receiving unit for receiving a distribution request for requesting distribution data for generating a navigation image;
A preparation unit that generates the distribution data using the standard data and the additional data;
And a delivery unit for delivering the delivery data to the in-vehicle device.
The in-vehicle device is
A request unit for transmitting the distribution request;
An acquisition unit for acquiring the distribution data;
The navigation image is generated using the standard data and the additional data when the navigation image includes a determination unit that determines whether to include the additional element in the navigation image and the additional element is included in the navigation image, and the navigation image is added to the navigation image. A generation unit that generates the navigation image using the standard data without using the additional data when no element is included;
A map delivery system comprising: a navigation unit for displaying the navigation image. The generation unit generates composite data by combining the standard data and the additional data when including the additional element in the navigation image, and generates the navigation image based on the composite data. Map distribution system described. The standard element is a symbol or figure representing a standard feature,
The map distribution system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the additional element is visual information representing the appearance of the standard feature or additional feature. A roadway or an item associated with the roadway is the standard feature;
The map distribution system according to claim 8, wherein the thing existing around the roadway is the additional feature. A request unit for transmitting a distribution request for requesting distribution data for generating a navigation image;
An acquisition unit for acquiring distribution data including standard data of a feature indicating a standard element included in a map and additional data of a feature indicating an additional element included in the map;
The navigation image is generated using the standard data and the additional data when the navigation image includes a determination unit that determines whether to include the additional element in the navigation image and the additional element is included in the navigation image, and the navigation image is added to the navigation image. A generation unit that generates the navigation image using the standard data without using the additional data when no element is included;
And a navigation unit for displaying the navigation image. A storage unit for storing standard data of a feature indicating a standard element included in a map and additional data of a feature indicating an additional element included in the map;
When generating distribution data to be used as a navigation image, the first distribution data generated using the standard data and the additional data, and the second distribution data generated using the standard data without using the additional data A preparation unit that generates any of the distribution data of
The first distribution data and the second distribution data are associated with identification information to be charged differently, and the distribution of the first distribution data or the second distribution data is made based on the identification information. And a charge unit for performing charge processing according to the above. When the first distribution data is distributed, the charging unit charges a receiving user of the first distribution data for a fee or a first price, and the second distribution data is distributed. The map server device according to claim 11, wherein a user of the second distribution data is charged free of charge or a second price lower than the first price.

Images