JP4591307B2 - Map information distribution system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention, in the map information delivery system for updating based on the map information stored in the navigation device has been updated information distributed from the map information distribution center, in particular, the map information only on relevant areas for a Subscriber The present invention relates to a map information distribution system that can be updated.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a navigation device is often mounted on a vehicle that provides vehicle travel guidance so that a driver can easily arrive at a desired destination. Here, the navigation device detects the current position of the vehicle with a GPS receiver or the like, acquires map data corresponding to the current position through a recording medium such as a DVD-ROM or HDD, or a network, and displays it on a liquid crystal monitor. It is a device that can do. Then, map data including the current position of the vehicle is read from a recording medium or the like, a map image around the current position of the vehicle is drawn based on the map data and displayed on the display device, and the vehicle position mark (location) is displayed on the map. You can see at a glance where the vehicle is currently traveling by displaying it superimposed on the image and scrolling the map image as the vehicle moves, or fixing the map image to the screen and moving the vehicle position mark. To make it clear.

  Here, new roads (new roads) are installed every year in Japan. Along with this, the existing road disappears or the shape of the existing road is changed. Therefore, it is necessary to update the map data stored in the navigation device at a certain time interval. Here, the update of the map data is performed by purchasing a new DVD and exchanging it with an old DVD, or rewriting the contents of the HDD based on the map data distributed from the map information distribution center or the like. At that time, especially when the contents of the HDD are rewritten, it is generally performed when new map data is created in the map information distribution center or after a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous update (for example, JP 2004-108834 A).

However, if the area updated in the update of the map data is an area that has nothing to do with the user, or if the update content is only a slight change, there is no need for the user to update the map data. Absent. Even in such a case, uniform updating would increase the work burden and financial burden on the user.
Therefore, as a method for updating only the necessary area for the user and updating the map data, for example, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-121371, the user's running history is checked and the area that is running more than a certain number of times is updated. It describes a vehicle map data providing system that is set as an area and updates only map information corresponding to the set update area.
JP 2004-108834 A (page 4 to page 6, FIGS. 2 to 7) JP 2000-121371 A (pages 5 to 9, FIGS. 10 to 33)

  However, in the above-described vehicle map data providing system described in Patent Document 2, since an update area for updating map information is set based on a travel history of a user travel, simply to travel to a destination Users who have only passed through have been updated to areas that originally do not require updating of map information. Therefore, with the conventional map data update method, it is not possible to specify and update only the areas that need to be updated for the user, and the work burden and financial burden on the user can be reduced sufficiently. There wasn't.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and updates only areas that are highly relevant to the user at appropriate timings among the map information stored in the navigation device. It is possible to provide a map information distribution system that can improve user convenience.

In order to achieve the object, a map information distribution system according to claim 1 of the present application includes a navigation device (2), and is stored in the navigation device based on update information distributed from a map information distribution center (3). In the map information distribution system (1) for updating the map information, the navigation device searches the map information storage means (37) for storing the map information and the facility information in the map information based on the map information. The facility search means (23), the search storage means (60) for storing the information of the facility searched by the facility search means, and the facility information stored in the search storage means are transmitted to the map information distribution center. Based on the update information distributed from the search transmission means (27) and the map information distribution center, the application stored in the search storage means among the map information. Or a search map information updating means (23) for updating map information of a peripheral area of the facility, wherein the map information distribution center transmits the map information in the facility or the peripheral area of the facility transmitted by the search transmission means. Update update determination means (10) for determining whether or not to update the facility, and update for updating the navigation device and the map information of the surrounding area of the facility based on the determination result of the search update determination means And search update information distribution means (16) for distributing information.

The map information distribution system according to claim 2 is the map information distribution system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the search storage means accumulates and stores a plurality of information of the searched facilities. It is characterized by that.

Moreover, the map information delivery system which concerns on Claim 3 has a navigation apparatus (2), and updates the map information memorize | stored in the said navigation apparatus based on the update information delivered from a map information delivery center (3). In the map information distribution system (1), the navigation device includes a map information storage means (37) for storing map information, a traffic jam storage means (70) for storing a traffic jam point encountered by the own vehicle, and the traffic jam storage means. A traffic jam transmitting means (27) for transmitting the traffic jam points stored in the map information distribution center, and the map information among the map information based on the update information distributed from the map information distribution center. Traffic map information updating means (23) for updating the map information of the surrounding area of the traffic congestion point, and the map information distribution center uses the traffic jam transmission means. Congestion point determines congestion update determination means for determining whether to update the map information in the vicinity of the transmitted congestion point (10), to the navigation apparatus based on the determination result of the congestion update deciding section Te And a traffic jam update information distribution means (16) for distributing update information for updating the map information of the surrounding area.

A map information distribution system according to claim 4 includes a navigation device (2), and updates the map information stored in the navigation device based on update information distributed from the map information distribution center (3). In the map information distribution system (1), the navigation device includes a map information storage means (37) for storing map information, and a facility search means (23) for searching for facility information in the map information based on the map information. A genre storage unit (80) for storing the genre of the facility whose information is searched by the facility search unit, and a genre transmission unit (27) for transmitting the genre stored in the genre storage unit to the map information distribution center. Of the map information based on the update information distributed from the map information distribution center and stored in the genre storage means. Genre map information updating means (23) for updating the map information of the facility associated with the facility or the surrounding area of the facility, and the map information distribution center is associated with the genre transmitted by the genre transmitting means. A genre is associated with the navigation device based on the determination result of the genre update determination means (10) for determining whether or not to update the map information in the facility or the surrounding area of the facility. And genre update information distribution means (16) for distributing update information for updating the map information of the facility or the surrounding area of the facility.
Here, “facility genre” is a classification of facilities based on the types of products sold at the facilities, the types of services provided, and the like, such as hotels, convenience stores, and ski resorts.

A map information distribution system according to claim 5 is the map information distribution system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the map information distribution center (3) includes the search update. Update content transmission means (16) for transmitting the update content of the map information when it is determined by the determination means (10), the traffic jam update determination means (10) or the genre update determination means (10) that the map information is updated. The navigation device (2) includes update content display means (25) for displaying the update contents of the map information transmitted by the update content transmission means (16) .

Further, the map information distribution system according to claim 6 is the map information distribution system (1) according to claim 5 , wherein the navigation device (2) is stored in the navigation device based on a user's operation. Update selection means (24) for selecting whether or not to update the map information, the search update information distribution means (16), the traffic jam update information distribution means (16) or the genre update information distribution means ( 16) The update information is distributed to the navigation device when update of the map information is selected by the update selection means .

In the map information distribution system according to claim 1 having the above-described configuration, whether or not to update the map information in the peripheral area of the facility where the information is searched using the navigation device among the map information stored in the navigation device. The map information stored in the navigation device is updated based on the update information distributed based on the determination result, so that only the area where the user has recently traveled and the area where the user plans to travel in the future are targeted. It becomes possible to update to the new map information. Therefore, in an area where the user plans to travel, it is possible to search for a route and guide travel based on the latest map information, and to reduce the burden on the user and unnecessary communication with the map information distribution center. Can do.

Also, in the map information distribution system according to claim 2, it is possible to perform update of only the area that will a Subscriber is traveling recently traveled areas and future to the new map information targeted.

  In the map information distribution system according to claim 3, it is determined whether or not the map information stored in the navigation device is to be updated in the surrounding area of the traffic congestion point where the vehicle has encountered, and the determination result The map information stored in the navigation device is updated based on the update information distributed based on the information, so it is possible to update to new map information only for areas where the user has encountered a traffic jam It becomes. Therefore, after the update, the navigation device can search for a detour to avoid traffic congestion based on the latest map information, and the user's workload in updating the map information and unnecessary for the map information distribution center Communication can be reduced.

Further, in the map information distribution system according to claim 4, the map information in the peripheral area of the facility associated with the same genre as the facility searched for by the navigation device is updated. It is possible to update to new map information only for the peripheral area of the facility of the same genre as the facility. Therefore, it is possible to make the latest map information an area where the user is likely to travel in the future, and to reduce the work burden on the user and unnecessary communication with the map information distribution center.

Further, in the map information distribution system according to claim 5, since the updated content of the map information is displayed in the navigation device, the user can refer to the displayed updated content, and the map before and after the update before updating. It is possible to easily grasp how much the information changes by displaying a specific map.

Further, in the map information distribution system according to claim 6, it is selected whether or not to update the map information stored in the navigation device based on the user's operation, and the map information is updated based on the selection result. Since the update information is distributed, the map information stored in the navigation device can be updated at an appropriate timing for the user. Therefore, unnecessary communication and payment of charges to the map information distribution center are not required, and user convenience can be further improved.

  Hereinafter, a map information distribution system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings based on first to fourth embodiments embodied.

(First embodiment)
First, a schematic configuration of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a navigation device 2, a map information distribution center 3 that distributes update information for updating map information to the navigation device 2, and a network. 4 is basically composed. The navigation device 2 and the map information distribution center 3 are configured to be able to transmit and receive various types of information via the network 4. The configuration of the navigation device 2 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the map information distribution center 3 includes a server (point update determination means, search update determination means, traffic jam update determination means, genre update determination means) 10, and a center as an information recording unit connected to the server 10. Side map information DB 14, navigation update history information DB 15, and center side communication device (point update information distribution means, search update information distribution means, traffic jam update information distribution means, genre update information distribution means, update content transmission means) 16 Prepare. In addition, the server 10 is based on requests from the navigation device 2 and the arithmetic unit that controls the entire server 10 and the CPU 11 as the control unit, the RAM 12 that is used as a working memory when the CPU 11 performs various arithmetic processes. Of the map information stored in the navigation device 2, the update information for updating the map information of the predetermined area to the new version of the map information is extracted from the center side map information DB 14 and distributed to the navigation device 2. An internal storage device such as a ROM 13 in which various control programs for performing information update processing (see FIG. 5) are recorded is provided. An MPU or the like can be used instead of the CPU 11.

  In the center-side map information DB 14, update map information 17, which is basic map information for updating the map information created in the map information distribution center 3 and stored in the navigation device 2, is classified for each version. Has been remembered. Furthermore, update information for updating part or all of the map information stored in the current navigation device 2 to the update map information 17 is also stored. Here, the version is creation time information for identifying the time when the map information is created, and the time when the map information is created can be identified by referring to the version.

  The update map information 17 stored in the center-side map information DB 14 stores various information necessary for route guidance and map display by the navigation device 2, for example, for displaying a map. Map display data, intersection data relating to each intersection, node data relating to node points, link data relating to roads (links) as a kind of facility, search data for searching for a route, POIs such as stores that are a kind of facility, etc. Store data related to (Interest), search data for searching for points, and the like.

  Here, in particular, the map display data is divided into 4 (length 1/2), 16 (1/4), and 64 (1/8) based on a secondary mesh partitioned by 10 km × 10 km. Each unit is configured so that the data amount of each unit is approximately the same level. The smallest 64 division size unit is about 1.25 km square.

  Node data includes actual road branch points (including intersections, T-junctions, etc.), node point coordinates (positions) set for each road according to the radius of curvature, etc., nodes Node attribute indicating whether or not is a node corresponding to an intersection, connection link number list that is a list of link numbers of links connected to the node, adjacent node that is a list of node numbers of nodes adjacent to the node via the link Data relating to the number list, the height (altitude) of each node point, and the like are recorded.

  The link data includes the width of the road to which the link belongs, the gradient, the cant, the bank, the road surface condition, the number of lanes on the road, the number of lanes decreasing, and the width of the link data. The data representing the location, railroad crossing, etc. is the radius of curvature, the intersection, the T-junction, the entrance and exit of the corner, etc. In addition to roads such as national roads, prefectural roads, and narrow streets, data representing toll roads such as national highways, urban highways, general toll roads, and toll bridges are recorded. Furthermore, regarding toll roads, data relating to entrance roads (rampways), toll gates (interchanges) and the like of toll roads are recorded.

  In addition, as search data, data used for searching and displaying a route to a set destination is recorded, and costs for passing through a node (hereinafter referred to as node cost) and roads are configured. Cost data used for calculating a search cost including a cost of a link to be performed (hereinafter referred to as a link cost), route display data for displaying a route selected by the route search on a map of the liquid crystal display 25, and the like. Has been.

  Further, as store data, data on POIs such as hotels, hospitals, gas stations, parking lots, and tourist facilities in each region are recorded together with IDs that identify the POIs. The center-side map information DB 14 also records voice output data for outputting predetermined information by the speaker 26 of the navigation device 2.

  As will be described later, the map information distribution center 3 updates the update map stored in the center map information DB 14 when a new version of the update map information 17 is created or every predetermined period (for example, six months). Of the information 17, the map information stored in the navigation device 2 is updated with the newest update map information 17 of the latest version. Specifically, in the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment, the update contents when the map information stored in the navigation device 2 is first updated to the update map information 17 (for example, changes in road shape, new roads, etc.) And the POI arrangement) are transmitted to the navigation device 2. When the user who has referred to the update content transmitted to the navigation device 2 selects to update, the map information distribution center 3 updates the map information to the latest version of the update map information 17. Updating is performed by distributing update information to the navigation device 2. Here, as the update information transmitted to the navigation device 2, it is possible to transmit all the information of the newest update map information 17 of the latest version, or the most from the map information stored in the current navigation device. It is also possible to transmit the minimum necessary information (only the information of the updated portion) for updating to the new version of the update map information 17.

  On the other hand, in the navigation update history information DB 15, information related to the update history in which the map information stored in the navigation device 2 has been updated so far is stored together with the navigation identification ID that identifies the navigation device 2. As the update history, which version of map information is used for each link data or node data that specifically constitutes map information is stored, and new information is updated every time the map information of the navigation device 2 is updated. Rewritten to update history.

  The map information distribution center 3 may be operated by any one of an individual, a company, a group, a local government, a government-related organization, or the like, or may be operated by a VICS (registered trademark: Vehicle Information and Communication System) center.

  The network 4 includes, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), an intranet, a mobile phone network, a telephone network, a public communication network, a dedicated communication network, a communication network such as the Internet, and the like. Can be used. A communication system using CS broadcasting, BS broadcasting, terrestrial digital television broadcasting, FM multiplex broadcasting, or the like by a broadcasting satellite can also be used. Furthermore, a communication system such as a non-stop automatic fee payment system (ETC) or a narrow area communication system (DSRC) used in an intelligent road traffic system (ITS) can also be used.

  Next, a schematic configuration of the navigation device 2 configuring the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the navigation device 2 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the navigation device 2 according to the first embodiment includes a current location detection processing unit 21 that detects the current position of the vehicle, a data recording unit 22 that records various data, and input information. Based on the navigation control unit (point map information update unit, search map information update unit, traffic jam map information update unit, genre map information update unit) 23 that performs various arithmetic processing, and an operation unit that receives operations from the operator ( Update selection means) 24, a liquid crystal display 25 for displaying information such as a map to the operator, a speaker 26 for outputting voice guidance regarding route guidance, an information center such as a traffic information center and a map information distribution center 3, and the like. And a communication device (point transmission means, search transmission means, traffic jam transmission means, genre transmission means) 27 for performing communication between them. The navigation control unit 23 is connected to a vehicle speed sensor 28 that detects the traveling speed of the host vehicle.

  The components constituting the navigation device 2 will be described below. The current location detection processing unit 21 includes a GPS 31, a geomagnetic sensor 32, a distance sensor 33, a steering sensor 34, a gyro sensor 35 as an orientation detection unit, and an altimeter (not shown). Etc.), and it is possible to detect the current position, direction, distance to a target (for example, an intersection), and the like.

  Specifically, the GPS 31 detects the current location and current time of the vehicle on the earth by receiving radio waves generated by artificial satellites, and the geomagnetic sensor 32 measures the direction of the vehicle by measuring the geomagnetism. The distance sensor 33 detects a distance between predetermined positions on the road. Here, as the distance sensor 33, for example, the rotational speed of a wheel (not shown) of the vehicle is measured, a sensor that detects the distance based on the measured rotational speed, the acceleration is measured, and the measured acceleration is 2 A sensor that integrates the times and detects the distance can be used.

  The steering sensor 34 detects the rudder angle of the host vehicle. Here, as the steering sensor 34, for example, an optical rotation sensor attached to a rotating portion of a steering wheel (not shown), a rotation resistance sensor, an angle sensor attached to a wheel, or the like is used.

  And the gyro sensor 35 detects the turning angle of the own vehicle. Here, as the gyro sensor 35, for example, a gas rate gyro, a vibration gyro, or the like is used. Further, by integrating the turning angle detected by the gyro sensor 35, the vehicle direction can be detected.

  The data recording unit 22 includes an external storage device and a hard disk (not shown) as a recording medium, a history information DB (point storage means) 36 recorded on the hard disk, and a navigation side map information DB (map information storage means). 37, and a recording head (not shown) which is a driver for reading a predetermined program and the like and writing predetermined data to the hard disk. In the first embodiment, a hard disk is used as the external storage device and storage medium of the data recording unit 22, but a magnetic disk such as a flexible disk can be used as the external storage device in addition to the hard disk. Also, a memory card, magnetic tape, magnetic drum, CD, MD, DVD, optical disk, MO, IC card, optical card, etc. can be used as an external storage device.

  Here, the history information DB 36 accumulates and stores the stopping points where the vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or longer (for example, 10 minutes or longer). FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a storage area of the history information DB 36 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the history information DB 36, the coordinates of the stop point where the own vehicle stopped for a predetermined time or more as the stop point and the name of the facility located at the stop point (that is, the POI where the own vehicle stopped) stopped. It is remembered with the date. Here, the procedure for storing the stop point will be described. First, when the ignition of the vehicle is turned from ON to OFF, the coordinates at which the vehicle stops based on the vehicle position detected by the GPS 31 and the navigation map information 38 are described. It detects on a map, and specifies the facility located in the said coordinate from the shop data of the navigation map information 38 mentioned later after that. When the ignition is switched from OFF to ON after a predetermined time or more has elapsed, the detected coordinates and the name of the facility are stored in the history information DB 36 as drop-in points.

For example, in the history information DB 36 shown in FIG. 3, it is stored that “Square” was stopped on “September 3, 2005” and “XX company” was stopped on “September 5, 2005”. Has been.
Note that only the coordinates of the point where the host vehicle stops may be stored as the stop point stored in the history information DB 36.

On the other hand, the navigation-side map information DB 37 stores navigation map information 38 that is currently used for travel guidance and route search of the navigation device 2 and that is to be updated by the map information distribution center 3. Here, various information necessary for route guidance and map display of the navigation device 2 is recorded in the navigation map information 38 in the same manner as the update map information 17, for example, map display data for displaying a map, Search for intersection data regarding each intersection, node data regarding node points, link data regarding roads (links) as a type of facility, search data for searching for routes, store data regarding POIs such as stores as types of facilities, and points It consists of search data and so on. Since details of each data have already been described, details thereof are omitted here.
The contents of the navigation side map information DB 37 are updated by downloading update information distributed from the map information distribution center 3 via the communication device 27.

The update procedure of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation side map information DB 37 of the navigation device 2 will be described below with reference to FIG. 4. First, the navigation device 2 stores the history information DB 36 in the map information distribution center 3. The information regarding the visited stop point and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation are transmitted. After that, the map information distribution center 3 uses the latest version (Ver. 5 in FIG. 4) of the map information stored as the update map information 17 and receives the peripheral area (specifically, the received stop point). (5 km around the stopping point) is extracted, and the updated navigation map information 38 is stored as the current navigation map information 38 with reference to the received navigation identification ID and the navigation update history information DB 15. The content display information is created, and the updated content display information is transmitted to the navigation device 2.
Thereafter, the transmitted update content display information is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 of the navigation device 2, and the user determines whether to update the navigation map information 38 based on the displayed update content display information. As a result, when the map information is updated, billing information including the user's personal information and credit card number is transmitted to the map information distribution center 3, and the map information distribution center 3 responds accordingly with the navigation map information. Update information for updating only the peripheral area of the stop point 38 to the map information of the latest version of the update map information 17 (Ver. 5 in FIG. 4) is distributed to the navigation device 2. Thereby, the navigation map information 38 of the navigation device 2 is updated to new map information.

  Further, the navigation control unit 23 constituting the navigation device 2 is used as a working memory when the CPU 41 as an arithmetic device and a control device for controlling the entire navigation device 2 and the CPU 41 perform various arithmetic processes. In addition to the RAM 42 for storing route data when a route is searched, a control program, a facility information search processing program for searching facility information in the map information based on the navigation map information 38, the user A map information update processing program (see FIG. 5) is displayed that displays the updated contents of the surrounding area of the stop-by point where the user visited and updated the navigation map information 38 based on the update information distributed from the map information distribution center 3. ROM 43 and a program for recording the program read from the ROM 43. It includes an internal storage device of Sshumemori 44 or the like. As the RAM 42, ROM 43, flash memory 44, etc., a semiconductor memory, a magnetic core or the like is used. As the arithmetic device and the control device, an MPU or the like can be used instead of the CPU 41.

  In the first embodiment, various programs are recorded in the ROM 43, and various data are recorded in the data recording unit 22. However, the programs, data, and the like are stored in the same external storage device, memory, and the like. It is also possible to read a program, data, etc. from a card or the like and write it into the flash memory 44. Further, the program, data, etc. can be updated by exchanging a memory card or the like.

  Furthermore, the navigation control unit 23 is electrically connected to peripheral devices (actuators) of the operation unit 24, the liquid crystal display 25, the speaker 26, and the communication device 27.

  The operation unit 24 is operated when correcting the current location at the start of travel, inputting a departure point as a guidance start point and a destination as a guidance end point, or searching for information about facilities, and the like. , And a plurality of operation switches (not shown) such as buttons. In particular, in the first embodiment, it is used when selecting whether or not to update the map information on the update content display screen 51 (see FIG. 6) displayed on the liquid crystal display 25. Then, the navigation control unit 23 performs control to execute various corresponding operations based on switch signals output by pressing the switches. As the operation unit 24, a keyboard, a mouse, a barcode reader, a remote control device for remote operation, a joystick, a light pen, a stylus pen, or the like can be used. Furthermore, it can also be configured by a touch panel provided on the front surface of the liquid crystal display 25.

  The liquid crystal display 25 has an update content display screen 51 showing the update content of the map information, operation guidance, operation menu, key guidance, guidance route from the current location to the destination, guidance information along the guidance route, Traffic information, news, weather forecast, time, mail, TV program, etc. are displayed. Instead of the liquid crystal display 25, it is also possible to use a CRT display, a plasma display, or the like, or a hologram device that projects a hologram on the windshield of a vehicle.

  In addition, the speaker 26 outputs voice guidance for guiding traveling along the guidance route based on an instruction from the navigation control unit 23. Here, examples of the voice guidance to be guided include “200m ahead, turn right at XX intersection”, “Now, the next national road XX is congested”. Note that as the sound output from the speaker 26, in addition to the synthesized sound, various sound effects and various guidance information recorded in advance on a tape, a memory or the like can be output.

  And the communication apparatus 27 is a communication means which communicates with the map information delivery center 3, and as shown in FIG. 4, history information, navigation identification ID, billing information, update content display information between the map information delivery center 3 is shown. , Update information and the like are transmitted and received. Further, in addition to the map information distribution center 3, for example, traffic information including information such as traffic jam information, regulation information, parking lot information, traffic accident information, and service area congestion status transmitted from the VICS center or the like is received. It is also possible.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 and the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 in the map information distribution system 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the map information update processing program according to the first embodiment. Here, the map information update processing program updates update information for updating the map information in a predetermined area to the new version of the map information among the map information stored in the navigation device 2 based on the request from the navigation device 2. Is extracted from the center-side map information DB 14 and distributed to the navigation device 2 and the map information stored in the navigation device 2 is updated. The program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 below is stored in the RAM 42 or ROM 43 provided in the navigation device 2 or the RAM 12 or ROM 13 provided in the map information distribution center 3 and is executed by the CPU 41 or CPU 11. The

  First, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. In step (hereinafter abbreviated as S) 1, the CPU 41 receives a map update execution inquiry from the map information distribution center 3. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Next, in S <b> 2, the CPU 41 transmits the information regarding the stop point to the map information distribution center 3 performed during the previous execution of the map information update processing program among the information regarding the stop point accumulated and stored in the history information DB 36. The information about the stop point newly stored from time is acquired.

  Thereafter, in S <b> 3, the CPU 41 transmits to the map information distribution center 3 information related to the stop point acquired in S <b> 2 and a navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. Thereafter, in S4, the update content display information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3 is received. Here, the update content display information is the update content of the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km from the stop point acquired in S2, as will be described later. For example, information indicating a change in road shape, installation of a new road or POI).

  Next, in S5, the CPU 41 displays, on the liquid crystal display 25, the update content in the update of the current map information in accordance with the update content display information received in S4. Here, FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the update content display screen 51 when the update content of the map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 in the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6, the update content display screen 51 displays map information updated in the update target area 53 within a radius of 5 km from the stop point on the screen displaying a map of the surrounding area of the stop point GS 52. These are shown separately. For example, in FIG. 6, roads (links) 54 that are added by updating in the update target area 53 and convenience stores 55 that are also POIs that are added are displayed in a different color (for example, red) from other roads and POIs. .
In addition, an update execution button 56 that is pressed when the user executes the update and an update cancel button 57 that is pressed when the user cancels the update are provided at the lower edge of the update content display screen 51. ing.

  Then, the user refers to the map displayed on the update content display screen 51, so that the map information of the update target area 53 among the map information currently recorded in the navigation device 2 is sent to the map information distribution center 3. It is possible to accurately determine whether or not to update to the latest stored version of map information. Then, whether or not to update is selected by pressing the update execution button 56 or the update cancel button 57.

  Subsequently, in S6, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the user has selected to execute the update, that is, whether or not the update execution button 56 has been selected on the update content display screen 51, based on the operation information of the operation unit 24. Judgment. As a result, when it is determined that the update is not selected (S6: NO), that is, when it is determined that the update cancel button 57 is selected on the update content display screen 51, the map information is updated. The map information update processing program is terminated without performing it.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has selected to perform the update (S6: YES), the billing information is transmitted to the map information distribution center 3 as a selection result of selecting to perform the update. (S7). Here, the billing information is made up of the user's personal information, credit card number, etc., and the map information distribution center 3 can collect the fee for map information update from the user's account by acquiring the billing information. Become.

  Next, in S8, the CPU 41 receives the update information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3. In S9, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation side map information DB 37 is updated based on the update information received in S8. Specifically, the latest version (for example, Ver. 5) of the map information (road display data, node data, link data, etc.) in the update target area 53 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the center side map information DB 14 is stored. To update map information 17). The process of S9 corresponds to the process of the point map information update unit.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in S <b> 101, the CPU 11 transmits a map update execution query to the navigation device 2. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Thereafter, in S102, the CPU 11 receives the information on the stop point transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S3 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. In S103, the map information before and after the update is compared in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the received stop point. Specifically, first, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is identified from the received navigation identification ID and the navigation update history information DB 15, and the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the stop point Similarly, the map information to be updated is detected by comparing the latest version of the updated map information 17 in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the stop point.

  Next, in S104, the CPU 11 determines whether there is map information to be updated in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the stop point based on the comparison result in S103. As a result, when it is determined that there is no map information to be updated (S104: NO), the navigation apparatus 2 is notified that there is no information to be updated (S105). And the said map information update process program is complete | finished, without updating the map information of the navigation apparatus 2. FIG. The process of S104 corresponds to the process of the point update determination unit.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that there is map information to be updated (S104: YES), update content display information is created (S106). Here, the updated content display information is the updated content of the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 (for example, the road shape) in the surrounding area (update target area 53) within a radius of 5 km from the stop point compared in S103. Change, new road or POI installation) (see FIG. 6). Thereafter, in S107, the created update content display information is transmitted to the navigation device 2.

  Subsequently, in S108, the CPU 11 receives the billing information transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S7. In S109, update information for updating to the latest version of the map information using the map information of the update target area 53 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 as a comparison is distributed to the navigation device 2. To do.

As described above in detail, in the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment, the navigation map information 38 currently stored in the navigation device 2, particularly within a radius of 5 km from the stop point where the host vehicle stopped in the past. In the update target area 53, the update contents when updating to the update map information 17 stored in the map information distribution center 3 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 (S5), and the user performs the update. Is selected (S6: YES), the update target area 53 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is updated (S9), so the user's work place and the vicinity of the store used for shopping It is possible to update to new map information only for areas where users frequently travel. Accordingly, in an area where the user frequently travels, route search and travel guidance can be performed based on the latest map information, and the work burden on the user and unnecessary communication with the map information distribution center 3 can be reduced. be able to.
In addition, by referring to the displayed update content, the user can easily grasp how much the map information changes before and after the update by displaying a specific map. . Accordingly, the map information stored in the navigation device 2 can be updated at an appropriate timing for the user, and unnecessary communication and fee payment to the map information distribution center 3 is not required, and the convenience of the user is further improved. Can be improved.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a map information distribution system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, the same reference numerals as those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are the same as or equivalent to those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Is shown.

The schematic configuration of the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as that of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Various control processes are also substantially the same as the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.
However, the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment updates the map information on the map information in the area around the stop point where the own vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or more, among the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2. In the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2, in particular, the vehicle uses the navigation device to find information such as the location. The map information distribution system according to the first embodiment is different from the map information distribution system according to the first embodiment in that the map information of the surrounding area of the facility (in particular, the POI in the second embodiment) is used as the update target area for updating the map information.

  First, a history information DB (search storage means) 60 provided in the navigation device 2 of the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment will be described. Here, in the history information DB 60 of the navigation device 2 according to the second embodiment, information related to facilities searched for various information such as place, name, service content, business hours, etc. by the navigation device 2 is accumulated and stored. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a storage area of the history information DB 60 according to the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the history information DB 60 according to the second embodiment, facilities searched for various information such as place, name, service content, business hours, etc. using the operation unit 24 as a search target facility (second embodiment) In particular, the name of POI) and the coordinates on the map where the facility is located are stored together with the date of the search. Here, the procedure for storing the search target facility will be described. First, based on the condition input by the operation unit 24 on the predetermined facility search screen of the navigation device 2, the navigation control unit 23 sets the navigation map information 38. The information on the corresponding facility is searched from the store data. When the corresponding facility exists, the information on the corresponding facility is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25, and the name and coordinates of the corresponding facility are detected and stored in the history information DB 60.

For example, in the history information DB 60 shown in FIG. 7, a search is performed for a facility “XX Super” on “September 2, 2005”, and a facility “□□ convenience store” is displayed on “September 12, 2005”. It is remembered that the search is being performed.
Note that only the facility coordinates may be stored as the search target facility. Also. Instead of the name of the facility, a facility ID that identifies the facility may be stored.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 and the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 in the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the map information update processing program according to the second embodiment. The program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 below is stored in the RAM 42 or ROM 43 provided in the navigation device 2 or the RAM 12 or ROM 13 provided in the map information distribution center 3 and is executed by the CPU 41 or CPU 11. The

  First, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. In S <b> 201, the CPU 41 receives a map update execution inquiry from the map information distribution center 3. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Next, in S202, the CPU 41 stores information related to the search target facility to the map information distribution center 3 performed at the time of the previous execution of the map information update processing program among the information related to the search target facility accumulated and stored in the history information DB 60. Information on the search target facility newly stored from the time of transmission processing is acquired.

  Thereafter, in S203, the CPU 41 transmits the information related to the search target facility acquired in S202 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2 to the map information distribution center 3. Thereafter, in S204, the update content display information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3 is received. Here, the updated content display information is the updated content of the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 in the map information, particularly in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km from the search target facility acquired in S202, as will be described later. (For example, information indicating a change in road shape, installation of a new road or POI).

  Next, in S205, the CPU 41 displays, on the liquid crystal display 25, the updated content of the current map information update according to the updated content display information received in S204. Here, FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the update content display screen 61 when the update content of the map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 in the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 9, the update content display screen 61 is a screen that displays a map of the surrounding area of the search target facility GS62, and in particular, the map information that is updated within the update target area 63 within a radius of 5 km from the search target facility. Are shown separately. For example, in FIG. 9, a road (link) 64 that is added by updating in the update target area 63 and a convenience store 65 that is also a POI to be added are displayed in a different color (for example, red) from other roads and POIs. .
In addition, an update execution button 66 that is pressed when the user executes update and an update cancel button 67 that is pressed when the user stops updating are provided at the lower edge of the update content display screen 61. ing.

  Then, the user refers to the map displayed on the update content display screen 61, so that the map information of the update target area 63 among the map information currently recorded in the navigation device 2 is sent to the map information distribution center 3. It is possible to accurately determine whether or not to update to the latest stored version of map information. Then, whether or not to update is selected by pressing the update execution button 66 or the update cancel button 67.

  Subsequently, in S206, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the user has selected to execute the update, that is, whether or not the update execution button 66 has been selected on the update content display screen 61, based on the operation information of the operation unit 24. Judgment. As a result, when it is determined that the update is not selected (S206: NO), that is, when it is determined that the update cancel button 67 is selected on the update content display screen 61, the map information is updated. The map information update processing program is terminated without performing it.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has selected to perform the update (S206: YES), the billing information is transmitted to the map information distribution center 3 as a selection result of selecting to perform the update. (S207). Here, the billing information is made up of the user's personal information, credit card number, etc., and the map information distribution center 3 can collect the fee for map information update from the user's account by acquiring the billing information. Become.

  Next, in S208, the CPU 41 receives the update information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3. In S209, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation side map information DB 37 is updated based on the update information received in S208. Specifically, the latest version (for example, Ver. 5) of the map information (road display data, node data, link data, etc.) in the update target area 63 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the center side map information DB 14 is stored. To update map information 17). The process of S209 corresponds to the process of the search map information update unit.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in S <b> 301, the CPU 11 transmits a map update execution query to the navigation device 2. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Thereafter, in S302, the CPU 11 receives the information related to the search target facility transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S203 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. In S303, the map information before and after the update is compared in the surrounding area within the radius of 5 km of the received facility to be searched. Specifically, first, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is identified from the received navigation identification ID and the navigation update history information DB 15, and the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the search target facility. Similarly, the map information to be updated is detected by comparing the latest version of the update map information 17 in the surrounding area within the radius of 5 km of the search target facility.

  Next, in S304, the CPU 11 determines whether there is map information to be updated in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the search target facility based on the comparison result in S303. As a result, when it is determined that there is no map information to be updated (S304: NO), the navigation apparatus 2 is notified that there is no information to be updated (S305). And the said map information update process program is complete | finished, without updating the map information of the navigation apparatus 2. FIG. The process of S304 corresponds to the process of the search update determination unit.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that there is map information to be updated (S304: YES), update content display information is created (S306). Here, the update content display information is the update content of the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 (for example, roads) in the surrounding area (update target area 63) within a radius of 5 km from the search target facility compared in S303. This is information indicating a change in shape, installation of a new road or POI) (see FIG. 9). Thereafter, in S307, the created update content display information is transmitted to the navigation device 2.

  Subsequently, in S308, the CPU 11 receives the billing information transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S207. In S309, update information for updating to the latest version of map information using the map information in the update target area 63 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 as a comparison is distributed to the navigation device 2. To do.

As described above in detail, in the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment, the navigation map information 38 currently stored in the navigation device 2 and, in particular, a radius of 5 km from the facility searched using the navigation device 2. In the update target area 63 within, the update contents when updating to the update map information 17 stored in the map information distribution center 3 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 (S205), and the user updates. If this is selected (S206: YES), the update target area 63 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is updated (S209), so the area where the user has recently traveled and the future travel schedule It is possible to update to new map information only for the area. Therefore, in an area where the user plans to travel, it is possible to search for a route and guide travel based on the latest map information, and to reduce the work burden on the user and unnecessary communication with the map information distribution center 3. be able to.
In addition, by referring to the displayed update content, the user can easily grasp how much the map information changes before and after the update by displaying a specific map. . Accordingly, the map information stored in the navigation device 2 can be updated at an appropriate timing for the user, and unnecessary communication and fee payment to the map information distribution center 3 is not required, and the convenience of the user is further improved. Can be improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a map information distribution system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, the same reference numerals as those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are the same as or equivalent to those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Is shown.

The schematic configuration of the map information distribution system according to the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Various control processes are also substantially the same as the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.
However, the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment updates the map information on the map information in the area around the stop point where the own vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or more, among the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2. In the map information distribution system according to the third embodiment, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2, in particular, the map of the area around the traffic congestion point where the host vehicle has encountered. This is different from the map information distribution system according to the first embodiment in that information is an update target area for updating map information.

  First, a history information DB (congestion storage unit) 70 provided in the navigation device 2 of the map information distribution system according to the third embodiment will be described. Here, in the history information DB 70 of the navigation device 2 according to the third embodiment, information related to a traffic jam point (particularly a link in the third embodiment) encountered while the vehicle is traveling is accumulated. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a storage area of the history information DB 70 according to the third embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the history information DB 70 according to the third embodiment includes a travel history including a traffic jam point encountered by the own vehicle (specifically, a link number for identifying a link, a travel start time and a travel end time of the link). And various information relating to whether or not a traffic jam has been encountered when traveling on the link). Here, the procedure for storing the travel history including the traffic congestion point encountered by the vehicle will be described. First, when passing through the node that is the start point of the link, the passage time is detected by the GPS 31, and the travel with the link number is performed. Store the start time. Further, when passing through a node that is the end point of the link, the passing time is detected by the GPS 31, and stored as the travel end time of the link. Then, it was detected from the traffic information obtained from the VICS via the communication device 27 whether or not there was a traffic jam on the link within the passing time of the link's own vehicle, and the traffic jam was detected. In some cases, the fact that a traffic jam has been encountered is also recorded. As a result, a link that is a traffic jam point encountered while the vehicle is traveling is specified.

For example, in the history information DB 70 shown in FIG. 10, a link “YY3” is running between “17:15 to 17:22 on September 12, 2005”, and the vehicle is congested on that link. It is remembered that I was encountering.
In addition to the method of determining whether or not the vehicle has encountered a traffic jam based on the traffic jam information received from the VICS, the vehicle speed sensor 28 detects the average travel speed on the link of the vehicle, and the predetermined speed ( For example, when it is 10 km or less, it may be determined that a traffic jam has been encountered.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 and the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 in the map information distribution system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the map information update processing program according to the third embodiment. The program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 below is stored in the RAM 42 or ROM 43 provided in the navigation device 2 or the RAM 12 or ROM 13 provided in the map information distribution center 3 and is executed by the CPU 41 or CPU 11. The

  First, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. In step S <b> 401, the CPU 41 receives a map update execution inquiry from the map information distribution center 3. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Next, in S402, the CPU 41 executes the previous map information update processing program execution in the information related to the traffic congestion points accumulated in the history information DB 70 (specifically, the link number where the vehicle has encountered traffic congestion). The newly stored information on the traffic jam point is acquired from the time of the transmission processing of the information on the traffic jam point to the map information distribution center 3.

  Thereafter, in S403, the CPU 41 transmits to the map information distribution center 3 information related to the traffic congestion point acquired in S402 and a navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. Thereafter, in S404, the update content display information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3 is received. Here, as described later, the update content display information is the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 in the map information, particularly in the surrounding area within 5 km from the link that is the traffic congestion point acquired in S402. This is information indicating update contents (for example, change of road shape, installation of a new road or POI).

  Next, in S405, the CPU 41 displays on the liquid crystal display 25 the updated content in the update of the current map information in accordance with the updated content display information received in S404. Here, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the update content display screen 71 when the update content of the map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 in the map information distribution system according to the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the update content display screen 71 is a screen displaying a map of the surrounding area of the link 72 that is a traffic jam point, and is updated especially within the update target area 73 within 5 km from the link 72 that is a traffic jam point. Map information is shown separately. For example, in FIG. 12, roads (links) 74 that are added by updating in the update target area 73 and convenience stores 75 that are POIs that are also added are displayed in a different color (for example, red) from other roads and POIs. .
In addition, an update execution button 76 that is pressed when the user executes update and an update cancel button 77 that is pressed when the user stops updating are provided at the lower edge of the update content display screen 71. ing.

  Then, the user refers to the map displayed on the update content display screen 71, so that the map information of the update target area 73 among the map information currently recorded in the navigation device 2 is sent to the map information distribution center 3. It is possible to accurately determine whether or not to update to the latest stored version of map information. Then, whether or not to update is selected by pressing the update execution button 76 or the update cancel button 77.

  Subsequently, in S406, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the user has selected to execute the update, that is, whether or not the update execution button 76 has been selected on the update content display screen 61, based on the operation information of the operation unit 24. Judgment. As a result, when it is determined that the update is not selected (S406: NO), that is, when it is determined that the update cancel button 77 is selected on the update content display screen 71, the map information is updated. The map information update processing program is terminated without performing it.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has selected to perform the update (S406: YES), the billing information is transmitted to the map information distribution center 3 as a selection result of selecting to perform the update. (S407). Here, the billing information is made up of the user's personal information, credit card number, etc., and the map information distribution center 3 can collect the fee for map information update from the user's account by acquiring the billing information. Become.

  Next, in S408, the CPU 41 receives the update information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3. In S409, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation side map information DB 37 is updated based on the update information received in S408. Specifically, the latest version (for example, Ver. 5) of the map information (road display data, node data, link data, etc.) in the update target area 73 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the center side map information DB 14 is stored. To update map information 17). The process of S409 corresponds to the process of the search map information update unit.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in step S <b> 501, the CPU 11 transmits a map update execution query to the navigation device 2. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Thereafter, in S502, the CPU 11 receives the information regarding the traffic jam point transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S403 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. In S503, the map information before and after the update is compared in the surrounding area within 5 km around the link that is the received traffic congestion point. Specifically, first, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is identified from the received navigation identification ID and the navigation update history information DB 15, and the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area within 5 km around the congestion point Similarly, the map information to be updated is detected by comparing the latest version of the update map information 17 in the surrounding area within 5 km around the traffic congestion point.

  Next, in S504, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is map information to be updated in the surrounding area within 5 km around the link that is a traffic jam point based on the comparison result in S503. As a result, when it is determined that there is no map information to be updated (S504: NO), the navigation apparatus 2 is notified that there is no information to be updated (S505). And the said map information update process program is complete | finished, without updating the map information of the navigation apparatus 2. FIG. Note that the process of S504 corresponds to the process of the traffic jam update determination unit.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that there is map information to be updated (S504: YES), update content display information is created (S506). Here, the update content display information is the update content (for example, road shape) of the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area (update target area 73) within 5 km around the traffic congestion point compared in S503. Change, new road and POI installation) (see FIG. 12). Thereafter, in S507, the created update content display information is transmitted to the navigation device 2.

  Subsequently, in S508, the CPU 11 receives the billing information transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S507. In S509, update information for updating to the latest version of map information using the map information of the update target area 73 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 as a comparison is distributed to the navigation device 2. To do.

As described above in detail, in the map information distribution system according to the third embodiment, the navigation map information 38 currently stored in the navigation device 2, particularly within 5 km from the traffic congestion point encountered while the vehicle is traveling. In the update target area 73, the update contents when updating to the update map information 17 stored in the map information distribution center 3 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 (S405), and the user performs the update. Is selected (S406: YES), the update target area 73 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is updated (S409), so that only the peripheral area where the user has encountered a traffic jam is targeted. It becomes possible to update to the new map information. Therefore, after the update, the navigation device 2 can search for a detour to avoid traffic congestion based on the latest map information, and the user's workload in updating the map information and the map information distribution center 3 Unnecessary communication can be reduced.
In addition, by referring to the displayed update content, the user can easily grasp how much the map information changes before and after the update by displaying a specific map. . Accordingly, the map information stored in the navigation device 2 can be updated at an appropriate timing for the user, and unnecessary communication and fee payment to the map information distribution center 3 is not required, and the convenience of the user is further improved. Can be improved.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, the same reference numerals as those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are the same as or equivalent to those of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Is shown.

The schematic configuration of the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. Various control processes are also substantially the same as the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.
However, the map information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment updates the map information on the map information in the area around the stop point where the own vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or more, among the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2. In the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is located at a stop point where the own vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or more. The first is that the map information of the surrounding area of the facility (eg, POI in the fourth embodiment) of the same genre (for example, hotel, convenience store, ski resort, etc.) as the facility to be updated is the update target area for updating the map information. This is different from the map information distribution system according to the embodiment.

  First, the history information DB (genre storage means) 80 provided in the navigation device 2 of the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Here, in the history information DB 80, points where the vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or longer (for example, 10 minutes or longer) are accumulated and stored together with the genre of the facility located at the point. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a storage area of the history information DB 80 according to the fourth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the history information DB 80 includes the coordinates of the stop point where the vehicle has stopped for a predetermined time or more as the stop point, and the name and facility of the facility located at the stop point (that is, the POI where the host vehicle stopped). The genre to which it belongs is stored together with the date when it stopped. Here, the procedure for storing the stop point and the genre of the facility will be described. First, when the ignition of the own vehicle is turned off, the coordinates at which the own vehicle stops based on the own vehicle position detected by the GPS 31 and the navigation map information 38. Is detected on the map, and then the name of the facility located at the coordinates and the genre of the facility are specified from the store data of the navigation map information 38 described later. When the ignition is turned on again after a predetermined time or more has elapsed, the detected coordinates, facility name, and facility genre are stored in the history information DB 80 as drop-in points. The genre to which the facility belongs is a category in which the type of facility is classified based on the type of products sold in the facility, the type of service to be provided, and the like, such as hotels, convenience stores, ski resorts, and the like.

For example, in the history information DB 80 shown in FIG. 13, a stop is made at “□□ convenience store (genre: convenience store)” on “September 3, 2005”, and “XX company (genre: It is remembered that they are visiting the company.
In addition, as a stop point memorize | stored in log | history information DB80, it is good also as memorize | stores only the genre of the facility which the own vehicle stopped.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 and the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 in the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the map information update processing program according to the fourth embodiment. 14 is stored in the RAM 42 and ROM 43 provided in the navigation device 2 or the RAM 12 and ROM 13 provided in the map information distribution center 3, and is executed by the CPU 41 or CPU 11. The

  First, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 41 of the navigation device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. In step S <b> 601, the CPU 41 receives a map update execution inquiry from the map information distribution center 3. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Next, in S602, the CPU 41 relates to the genre of the stop point to the map information distribution center 3 performed at the time of the previous execution of the map information update processing program among the information related to the genre of the stop point accumulated and stored in the history information DB 80. The information on the genre of the stop point newly stored from the information transmission process is acquired.

  Thereafter, in S603, the CPU 41 transmits to the map information distribution center 3 the information regarding the genre of the stop point acquired in S602 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. Thereafter, in S604, the update content display information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3 is received. Here, as will be described later, the update content display information is the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km from the facility of the same genre as the stop point genre acquired in S602 (especially POI in the fourth embodiment) in the map information as will be described later. In FIG. 3, the map information is updated from the navigation map information 38 (for example, a road shape change, a new road or POI installation).

  Next, in S605, the CPU 41 displays on the liquid crystal display 25 the update content in the update of the current map information in accordance with the update content display information received in S604. Here, FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the update content display screen 81 when the update content of the map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 in the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, the update content display screen 81 is a screen that displays a map of the surrounding area of the GS 82 that is a stop point, and in the update target area 83 within a radius of 5 km from the stop point and the same genre as the stop point The map information to be updated in the update target area 85 within a radius of 5 km from the facility associated with (GS84 whose genre is associated with the gas station in FIG. 15) is shown separately. For example, in FIG. 15, roads (links) 86 that are added by updating in the update target area 83 and convenience stores 87 that are POIs that are also added are displayed in a color (for example, red) different from other roads and POIs. . In addition, the parking lot 88 which is a POI added by updating in the update target area 85 is displayed in a color (for example, red) different from other POIs.
Furthermore, an update execution button 89 that is pressed when the user executes an update and an update cancel button 90 that is pressed when the user cancels the update are provided at the lower edge of the update content display screen 81. ing.

  Then, the user refers to the map displayed on the update content display screen 81, so that the map information of the update target areas 83 and 85 among the map information currently recorded in the navigation device 2 is displayed in the map information distribution center. It is possible to accurately determine whether or not to update to the latest version of the map information stored in 3. Then, whether or not to update is selected by pressing the update execution button 89 or the update cancel button 90.

  Subsequently, in S606, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the user has selected to execute the update, that is, whether or not the update execution button 89 has been selected on the update content display screen 81, based on the operation information of the operation unit 24. Judgment. As a result, when it is determined that the update is not selected (S606: NO), that is, when it is determined that the update cancel button 90 is selected on the update content display screen 81, the map information is updated. The map information update processing program is terminated without performing it.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has selected to perform the update (S606: YES), billing information is transmitted to the map information distribution center 3 as a selection result of selecting to perform the update. (S607). Here, the billing information is made up of the user's personal information, credit card number, etc., and the map information distribution center 3 can collect the fee for map information update from the user's account by acquiring the billing information. Become.

  Next, in S <b> 608, the CPU 41 receives the update information transmitted from the map information distribution center 3. In S609, the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation side map information DB 37 is updated based on the update information received in S608. Specifically, the latest version (for example, Ver) of the map information (road display data, node data, link data, etc.) in the update target areas 83 and 85 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the center-side map information DB 14 is stored. .5) to update map information 17. The process of S609 corresponds to the process of the genre map information update unit.

  Next, a map information update processing program executed by the CPU 11 of the map information distribution center 3 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in step S <b> 701, the CPU 11 transmits a map update execution query to the navigation device 2. The map update execution inquiry is transmitted when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry.

  Thereafter, in S702, the CPU 11 receives the information on the stop point transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S3 and the navigation identification ID for identifying the navigation device 2. In S703, the map information before and after the update is compared in the surrounding area within the radius of 5 km of the facility associated with the received genre of the stop point and the same genre. Specifically, first, the navigation map ID 38 stored in the navigation device 2 is identified from the received navigation identification ID and the navigation update history information DB 15, and in a peripheral area within a radius of 5 km to which facilities of the same genre are associated. The map information to be updated is detected by comparing the navigation map information 38 with the latest version of the update map information 17 in the surrounding area within the radius of 5 km of the facility that is also associated with the same genre.

  Next, in S <b> 704, the CPU 11 determines whether there is map information to be updated in the surrounding area within a radius of 5 km of the facility associated with the same genre based on the comparison result in S <b> 703. As a result, when it is determined that there is no map information to be updated (S704: NO), the navigation apparatus 2 is notified that there is no information to be updated (S705). And the said map information update process program is complete | finished, without updating the map information of the navigation apparatus 2. FIG. The process of S704 corresponds to the process of the genre update determination unit.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that there is map information to be updated (S704: YES), update content display information is created (S706). Here, the update content display information is the map information updated from the navigation map information 38 in the surrounding area (update target areas 83 and 85) within a radius of 5 km of the facility associated with the same genre compared in S703. This is information indicating update contents (for example, change of road shape, installation of a new road or POI) (see FIG. 15). Thereafter, in S707, the created update content display information is transmitted to the navigation device 2.

  Subsequently, in S708, the CPU 11 receives the billing information transmitted from the navigation device 2 in S7. In step S709, the navigation apparatus 2 is updated with update information for updating the map information of the update target areas 83 and 85 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation apparatus 2 to the latest version of map information. And deliver.

As explained in detail above, in the map information distribution system according to the fourth embodiment, among the navigation map information 38 currently stored in the navigation device 2, in particular, facilities of the same genre as the stop point where the own vehicle stopped in the past In the update target areas 83 and 85 within a radius of 5 km from the update information displayed on the liquid crystal display 25 when updating to the update map information 17 stored in the map information distribution center 3 is displayed (S605). When the user chooses to update (S606: YES), the update target areas 83 and 85 of the navigation map information 38 stored in the navigation device 2 are updated (S609), so the user stopped by It becomes possible to update to new map information only for the peripheral area of the facility of the same genre as the facility. Accordingly, it is possible to set the area where the user is likely to travel in the future as the latest map information, and to reduce the work burden on the user and unnecessary communication with the map information distribution center 3.
In addition, by referring to the displayed update content, the user can easily grasp how much the map information changes before and after the update by displaying a specific map. . Accordingly, the map information stored in the navigation device 2 can be updated at an appropriate timing for the user, and unnecessary communication and fee payment to the map information distribution center 3 is not required, and the convenience of the user is further improved. Can be improved.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
For example, in the second embodiment, the map information in the surrounding area of the facility that is the search target is updated, but the map information of only the facility that is the search target may be updated. Similarly, in the fourth embodiment, the map information is updated in the surrounding area of the facility associated with the same genre as the place where the user visited, but the map information of only the facility associated with the same genre is updated. It's also good.

  In the third embodiment, the navigation device 2 is used to identify the traffic congestion point (link) where the vehicle has encountered a traffic jam. However, the map information distribution center 3 displays the travel history and traffic information of the vehicle. The traffic information may be transmitted to the map information distribution center 3 and the traffic congestion point (link) where the vehicle has encountered traffic congestion may be specified.

  In the fourth embodiment, the map information in the surrounding area of the facility of the same genre as the point where the own vehicle stopped for a predetermined time or more is updated, but the facility associated with the same genre as the facility searched by the navigation device 2 is used. It is good also as updating the map information in the surrounding area. As a result, it becomes possible for the user to use the latest map information for the surrounding area of the facility that is likely to be the destination in the future, and route search and travel guidance based on the latest map information are possible.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the update of the map information stored in the navigation device 2 is performed by updating an area of 5 km from the point where the stop is visited, the searched facility, the traffic congestion point, and the facility associated with the same genre. Although it is configured so as to be updated as the target area, a secondary mesh that includes a stop point, a searched facility, a traffic jam point, and a facility associated with the same genre may be updated as the update target area.

  Further, in the first to fourth embodiments, the map update execution inquiry is made when a new version of map information is created in the map information distribution center 3 and when a predetermined period (for example, six months) has passed since the previous inquiry. Although it is configured to be transmitted, the navigation apparatus 2 may be configured to transmit a query for executing a map update when a user performs a predetermined request operation.

It is the block diagram which showed the map information delivery system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is the block diagram which showed the navigation apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the storage area of log | history information DB which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the update procedure of the navigation map information stored in navigation side map information DB of a navigation apparatus. It is a flowchart of the map information update process program which the map information delivery system which concerns on 1st Embodiment performs. It is the figure which showed an example of the update content display screen at the time of the update content of map information being displayed on the liquid crystal display in the map information delivery system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the storage area of log | history information DB which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the map information update process program which the map information delivery system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment performs. It is the figure which showed an example of the update content display screen at the time of the update content of map information being displayed on the liquid crystal display in the map information delivery system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the storage area of log | history information DB which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the map information update process program which the map information delivery system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment performs. It is the figure which showed an example of the update content display screen when the update content of map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display in the map information delivery system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the storage area of log | history information DB which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the map information update process program which the map information delivery system which concerns on 4th Embodiment performs. It is the figure which showed an example of the update content display screen when the update content of map information is displayed on the liquid crystal display in the map information delivery system which concerns on 4th Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Map information delivery system 2 Navigation apparatus 3 Map information delivery center 4 Network 10 Server 11 CPU
12 RAM
13 ROM
14 Center side map information DB
16 Center side communication device 17 Update map information 23 Navigation control unit 24 Operation unit 25 Liquid crystal display 27 Communication device 36, 60, 70, 80 History information DB
37 Navi side map information DB
38 Navi Map Information 41 CPU
42 RAM
43 ROM

Claims (6)

In a map information distribution system having a navigation device and updating map information stored in the navigation device based on update information distributed from a map information distribution center,
The navigation device
Map information storage means for storing map information;
Facility search means for searching for facility information in map information based on the map information;
Search storage means for storing facility information searched by the facility search means;
Search transmission means for transmitting facility information stored in the search storage means to the map information distribution center;
Search map information update means for updating the map information of the facility or the surrounding area of the facility stored in the search storage means among the map information based on the update information distributed from the map information distribution center;
Have
The map information distribution center
Search update determination means for determining whether to update the map information in the facility or the peripheral area of the facility transmitted by the search transmission means;
Search update information distribution means for distributing update information for updating the map information of the facility or the surrounding area of the facility based on the determination result of the search update determination means;
The map information distribution system, comprising a. The map information distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the search storage unit accumulates and stores a plurality of pieces of information of the searched facilities . In a map information distribution system having a navigation device and updating map information stored in the navigation device based on update information distributed from a map information distribution center,
The navigation device
Map information storage means for storing map information;
A traffic jam storage means for memorizing the traffic jam points encountered by the vehicle,
A traffic jam transmitting means for transmitting the traffic jam point stored in the traffic jam storage means to the map information distribution center;
A traffic jam map information update unit that updates map information of a surrounding area of a traffic jam point stored in the traffic jam storage unit among the map information based on update information delivered from the map information delivery center;
Have
The map information distribution center
A traffic jam update judging means for judging whether or not to update the map information in the surrounding area of the traffic jam point transmitted by the traffic jam sending means;
Traffic update information distribution means for distributing update information for updating the map information of the surrounding area of the traffic congestion point to the navigation device based on the determination result of the traffic congestion update determination means ;
A map information distribution system comprising: In a map information distribution system having a navigation device and updating map information stored in the navigation device based on update information distributed from a map information distribution center,
The navigation device
Map information storage means for storing map information;
Facility search means for searching for facility information in map information based on the map information;
Genre storage means for storing the genre of the facility whose information is searched by the facility search means ;
Genre transmission means for transmitting the genre stored in the genre storage means to the map information distribution center;
Genre map information updating means for updating the map information of the facility associated with the genre stored in the genre storage means or the surrounding area of the facility based on the update information distributed from the map information distribution center. When,
Have
The map information distribution center
Genre update determination means for determining whether to update the map information in the facility associated with the genre transmitted by the genre transmission means or the surrounding area of the facility;
A genre update information distribution unit that distributes update information for updating map information of a facility associated with a genre or a surrounding area of the facility based on a determination result of the genre update determination unit;
A map information distribution system comprising: The map information distribution center
An update content transmission means for transmitting the update content of the map information when it is determined by the search update determination means, the traffic jam update determination means or the genre update determination means to update the map information;
The navigation device
5. The map information distribution system according to claim 1, further comprising an update content display unit that displays update content of the map information transmitted by the update content transmission unit . The navigation device
Update selection means for selecting whether to update the map information stored in the navigation device based on the user's operation,
The search update information distribution unit, the traffic jam update information distribution unit, or the genre update information distribution unit distributes update information to the navigation device when the update selection unit selects to update the map information. map information distribution system according to claim 5, characterized in that to perform.

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