JP5616533B1 - Road guidance system, road guidance method, road guidance program, and information recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

Image storage means for storing a plurality of captured images at a plurality of points on the route to the destination, map storage means for storing a map including the destination, and the plurality of captured images on the route to the destination Target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying in accordance with the order of the above, and map display control means for reflecting the route connecting the plurality of points on the map and displaying them in association with the plurality of captured images. Yes.

Description

  The present invention relates to a road guidance system, a road guidance method, a road guidance program, and an information recording medium.

  Conventionally, a route guidance method for guiding a user to a destination by displaying a route from the current location to the destination on a map of the user terminal has been proposed.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of enlarging and displaying the vicinity of a point when a point that becomes a mark such as an intersection is approached on a map displayed on a display unit of a user terminal.

  Also, in recent route guidance methods, an image of the intersection is displayed on the display unit when approaching a corner intersection while the route displayed on the map is in progress so that it can be easily compared with the actual scenery. It has been proposed (Non-Patent Document 1).

JP 2003-097966 A

Google Maps Navigation "http://www.google.com/intl/en_uk/mobile/navigation/"

  However, in any of the above-mentioned route guidance methods, since the enlarged display or image display of the landmark is not performed unless it is close to the landmark such as an intersection, the user may overlook the landmark and travel on the wrong road. There is. Further, since the user cannot visually recognize the mark until it approaches the mark, for example, the user cannot move the mark from a place where the mark cannot be visually recognized.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a user with an easily understandable mark on the route to the destination so that the user can be reliably guided to the destination. It is to provide a guidance system, a road guidance method, a road guidance program, and an information recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the road guidance system according to the present invention stores an image storage unit that stores a plurality of captured images obtained by capturing scenes of a plurality of points existing on a route to a destination. Map storage means for storing a map including the ground; target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage means according to the order on the route to the destination; Map display control means for reflecting a route connecting each of the plurality of points on the map stored in the map storage means and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images. It is characterized by.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the route guidance method according to the present invention includes a plurality of image storage means storing a plurality of captured images obtained by capturing scenes of a plurality of points existing on a route to a destination. From the map storage means for storing the map including the destination, sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images according to the order on the route to the destination, Acquiring the map including the destination, and reflecting the route connecting each of the plurality of points on the acquired map and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images. It is characterized by that.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the road guide program according to the present invention is an image storage unit that stores a plurality of captured images obtained by capturing images of scenes of a plurality of points existing on a route to a destination. Captured image acquisition means for acquiring the plurality of captured images from, a target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images according to the order on the route to the destination, and a map including the destination Map acquisition means for acquiring the map including the destination, and a route connecting each of the plurality of points is reflected in the acquired map from the map storage means for storing the plurality of captured images. Is a program for functioning as a map display control means to be displayed in association with each other.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the information recording medium according to the present invention is an image storage unit in which a plurality of captured images obtained by capturing images of scenes of a plurality of points existing on a route to a destination are stored. Captured image acquisition means for acquiring the plurality of captured images from, a target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images according to the order on the route to the destination, and a map including the destination Map acquisition means for acquiring the map including the destination, and a route connecting each of the plurality of points is reflected in the acquired map from the map storage means for storing the plurality of captured images. A road guide program for functioning as a map display control means to be displayed in association with is recorded.

  According to the present invention, the user can be reliably guided to the destination by presenting the user with a mark on the route to the destination in an easy-to-understand manner.

It is a figure which shows an example of schematic structure of the road guidance system which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a road guide registration process in the road guide device according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the map containing a path | route. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a road guidance method according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows the display content of the display part of a user terminal. It is a figure which shows an example of schematic structure of the road guidance system which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a road guidance registration process in the road guidance device according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an image replacement process in the road guidance apparatus according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of schematic structure of the road guidance system which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG.

[Embodiment 1]
Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a road guidance system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the road guidance system includes a road guidance device 100 and a plurality of user terminals 200 (user terminals) connected to the road guidance device 100 via a network such as the Internet. In the following, a user who registers road guidance information using the road guidance device 100 is referred to as a registrant, and a user who uses road guidance using a user terminal is referred to as a user.

  The route guidance device 100 includes a current location acquisition unit 1, an imaging unit 2, an image processing unit 3, a map acquisition unit 4, a storage unit 5, a route generation unit 6, a display control unit 7, a communication unit 8, a display unit 9, and a determination unit. 10 is provided.

  The current location acquisition unit 1 acquires current location information (latitude, longitude) of the road guide device 100. Specifically, the current location acquisition unit 1 may acquire the latitude / longitude of the current location of the route guidance device 100 using GPS (Global Positioning System), or a point selected by the registrant on the map. You may acquire as the latitude and longitude of the present location of the guidance apparatus 100. FIG.

  The imaging unit 2 is a camera or the like, and images a landscape of the current location (each point) by an operation of a registrant. In addition, it is preferable that the said scenery is a characteristic building, a signboard, etc. so that the present location can be specified.

  Based on the current location information acquired by the current location acquisition unit, the image processing unit 3 uses the current location information acquired by the current location acquisition unit to acquire position information (latitude, longitude) and time information of the captured image. Correspond (imaging date). A captured image associated with various types of information is stored in the storage unit 5. Note that the captured image may be stored in an external server via a network.

  The map acquisition unit 4 acquires a map image for road guidance (hereinafter referred to as a map) based on the current location information. The map may be stored in the storage unit 5 or may be acquired from the outside via a network.

  The storage unit 5 includes an image storage unit 51 and a map storage unit 52. The image storage unit 51 stores captured images, and the map storage unit 52 stores a map. The storage unit 5 may be provided in an external server. Note that the image storage unit 51 stores a series of captured images captured at each point existing on the route from the start point to the destination, grouped in order on the route.

  The route generation unit 6 generates a route for route guidance based on the captured image stored in the image storage unit 51 and the map acquired by the map acquisition unit 4. Specifically, the route generation unit 6 connects each imaging location (point) with a straight line on the map based on the position information of each of the captured images arranged in the order on the route (for example, chronological order). Generate a route. Moreover, the path | route production | generation part 6 may calculate the distance between points based on the positional information on each captured image.

  The display control unit 7 includes a target image display control unit 71 and a map display control unit 72. The target image display control unit 71 generates image display control data for sequentially switching the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage unit 51 in accordance with the order on the route to the destination and displaying them on the user terminal 200. The image display control data includes a plurality of grouped captured images. The map display control unit 72 reflects a route connecting each of a plurality of points on a map stored in the map storage unit 52, and displays it on a user terminal in association with a plurality of captured images. Generate data. Further, the map display control unit 72 embeds an electronic tag (a mark such as a pin) at each position of the captured image on the map. The map display control data includes a map in which routes and pins are reflected. The display control unit 7 transmits route guidance information including image display control data and map display control data to the user terminal 200 via the communication unit 8. In addition, the display control unit 7 stores the route guidance information in the storage unit 5. The storage unit 5 stores a plurality of route guidance information.

  The communication unit 8 is a communication interface, and communicates with the user terminal 200 via a network.

  The display unit 9 includes a display panel, and displays a map, an image, a message, and the like for a registrant.

  The determination unit 10 determines whether or not to finish the route guidance registration process. Specifically, the display unit 9 displays a message asking the setter whether or not to end the route guidance registration process, and the determination unit 10 makes a determination based on the registrant's response to this message. A specific example of the determination unit 10 will be described later.

<Route registration process>
Next, the route guidance registration process in the route guidance device 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a route guidance registration process in the route guidance device 100. Here, a case where the registrant of the road guidance apparatus 100 registers the road guidance from the point A to the point B is taken as an example. When registering the route guidance, the registrant brings the route guidance device 100 and moves from the start point (here, point A) to the destination (here, point B). The registrant may or may not know the route from point A to point B (for example, the shortest route). However, if the registrant knows the route from point A to point B, for example, route guidance information based on the shortest route, an easy-to-understand route, etc. can be registered.

  First, in step (hereinafter referred to as “S”) 11, when the registrant starts the route guidance registration process, the current location acquisition unit 1 uses GPS to obtain the current location information (location of the point A) of the registrant (road guidance device 100). Information).

  Next, the map acquisition part 4 acquires a map from the map memory | storage part 52 based on the positional information on the point A acquired by the present location acquisition part 1 (S12). The map acquired from the map storage unit 52 is a map of a predetermined area including the destination.

  Next, the imaging unit 2 captures the scenery of the start point (point A) based on the operation of the registrant, and the image processing unit 3 includes position information (latitude and longitude of the point A) in the captured image (image 1). ) And time information (imaging time) are associated (S13). The imaging unit 2 stores the captured image (image 1) of the point A in the image storage unit 51. The display unit 9 may display a message that prompts the registrant to perform an imaging operation. Further, the display unit 9 may display a message asking the registrant whether or not the captured image is appropriate. In this case, when the captured image is inappropriate, the imaging unit 2 may be configured to perform the imaging process again based on the operation of the registrant.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds a pin P1 (electronic tag) at the start point A on the map (S14).

  Next, the registrant moves along a desired route (for example, the shortest route that he / she knows), and takes an image of a landscape as a landmark at a desired location (point a), for example, a corner or an intersection (see FIG. S15). The image processing unit 3 associates position information (latitude and longitude of the point a) and time information (imaging time) with the captured image (image 2) (S15). The imaging unit 2 stores the captured image (image 2) at the point a in the image storage unit 51.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds the pin P2 at the point a on the map based on the position information of the image 2 or the position information of the registrant (S16).

  Next, the route generation unit 6 connects the route from the pin P1 embedded immediately before to the pin P2 embedded this time with a line on the map (S17). The display unit 9 displays the pin P1, the pin P2, and a line (path 12) connecting them on the map. Hereinafter, a line connecting two points (pins) adjacent to each other in the order on the route is also referred to as a partial route.

  Next, the determination unit 10 determines whether or not to finish the route guidance registration process (S18). Specifically, the display unit 9 displays a message asking the registrant whether or not to end the route guidance registration process, and the determination unit 10 determines based on the registrant's response to this message. The message may be, for example, a content for selecting “End” or “Continue”.

  If the registrant selects not to finish the route guidance registration process ("continuation") (NO in S18), the process returns to S15 and repeats the processes of S15 to S17. Here, the registrant moves a desired route from the point a, and captures a scene that is a landmark of the point b at the desired location (point b) by the imaging unit 2 (S15). The image processing unit 3 associates position information (latitude and longitude of the point b) and time information (imaging time) with the captured image (image 3) (S15). The imaging unit 2 stores the captured image (image 3) at the point b in the image storage unit 51.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds a pin P3 at the point b on the map based on the position information of the image 3 or the position information of the registrant (S16).

  Next, the route generation unit 6 connects the route from the pin P2 embedded immediately before to the pin P3 embedded this time with a line on the map (S17). The display unit 9 displays the pin P2, the pin P3, and the partial route (route 23) connecting them on the map.

  Similarly, the registrant moves from point c, point d and point e to point B (destination) while capturing the scenery of each point (image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7). To do. FIG. 3 shows a route composed of partial routes (route R12, route R23, route R34, route R45, route R56, route R67) displayed on the map when the registrant moves from point A to point B. Pins (pins P1 to P7) are shown. The image storage unit 51 stores images 1 to 7 grouped in this order. Moreover, in the memory | storage part 5, each pin P1-P7 and the images 1-7 are matched, respectively.

  When the registrant reaches point B, the registrant gives an answer (“END”) to end the route guidance registration process (YES in S18), and proceeds to S19.

  In S19, the route generation unit 6 stores the route guidance information X1 including the map and the images (images 1 to 7) shown in FIG. 3 in the storage unit 5, and then the route guidance registration process ends.

  In addition to the route guidance information X1 registered by the route guidance registration process, the storage unit 5 stores a plurality of route guidance information X2, X3,. In addition to the route guidance information X1, X2,... Registered by the registrant, the storage unit 5 may store route guidance information Y1, Y2,.

<How to guide>
Next, a road guidance method (road guidance process) based on the road guidance information X1 registered by the road guidance device 100 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the route guidance method. Here, as an example, a user moves from a point A to a destination point B based on the route guidance information X1 using a general mobile terminal (user terminal).

  First, in S21, the user terminal 200 acquires the route guidance information X1 from the point A to the point B from the route guidance device 100. Specifically, when the user terminal 200 is connected to the route guidance device 100 via a network, and the request for the route guidance information X1 is transmitted from the user terminal 200 to the route guidance device 100, the route guidance device 100. Transmits the route guidance information X1 to the user terminal 200 via the communication unit 8. The user terminal 200 receives the route guidance information X1 from the route guidance device 100 via the communication unit 22.

  When the user terminal 200 receives the route guidance information X1 and the user executes the route guidance process, first, the map (route guidance route) shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200 (S22). ). Thereby, the user can recognize the route from point A to point B (destination).

  Next, when the user presses the “next” button (accepting means) displayed on the display unit 21, an enlarged region including the start point A (pin P <b> 1) is displayed in the lower region (display lower region) of the display unit 21. Then, in the upper area (display upper area) of the display unit 21, the first image 1 of the start point A (pin P1) in the order on the route (the oldest in time series order) is displayed (S23). FIG. 5 shows a state of the image 1 and the enlarged map of the start point A (pin P1) displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200.

  Next, the user terminal 200 receives a guidance instruction for the next route from the user (S24). The user compares the actual scenery actually viewed with the image 1 displayed in the display area of the display unit 21 and confirms whether or not they match (or are similar). When the actual scene matches the image 1, that is, when the user is located at the point A, the user is in an appropriate position. In this case, the user presses the “next” button on the display unit in order to start moving toward the point B (destination).

  On the other hand, if the actual scenery does not match the image 1, that is, if the user is not located at the point A, the user is not in an appropriate position. In this case, the user moves to an appropriate position where the same scenery as the image 1 can be confirmed. When the user moves to a position where the same scenery as that of image 1 can be confirmed, the user presses the “next” button to start moving toward the point B (destination).

  When the user presses the “next” button and the user terminal 200 receives a guidance instruction for the next route, a point A (pin P1) and a point a (pin P2) are displayed in the display lower area of the display unit 21. In addition to displaying the enlarged area, the route R12 (partial route) from the pin P1 (point A) to the pin P2 (point a) is highlighted on the map (shown in bold in FIG. 6) (S25). . In the display area of the display unit 21, the image 1 of the pin P1 is switched to the image 2 next to the image 1 in the order on the route (in time series order) (S25). FIG. 6 shows the state of the image 2 and the route R12 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200.

  Thereafter, the processes of S24 and S25 are repeated until the image 7 of the destination (point B) is displayed.

  That is, the user searches for the same scenery as the image 2 displayed in the upper display area of the display unit 21 while moving along the route 12 displayed in the lower display area of the display unit 21. Then, when the user moves to a place (pin P2) where the actual scenery actually viewed and the image 2 displayed on the display area of the display unit 21 coincide with each other, “next” on the display unit 21 is displayed again. The button is pressed (S24).

  When the user presses the “next” button, an enlarged area including the point a (pin P2) and the point b (pin P3) is displayed in the lower display area of the display unit 21, and from the pin P1 on the map. The highlighted display of the route 12 to the pin P2 is restored, and the route 23 from the pin P2 to the pin P3 (point b) is emphasized. In the display area of the display unit 21, the image 2 of the pin P2 is switched to the image 3 next to the image 2 in the order on the route (in time series order) (S25). FIG. 7 shows the state of the image 3 and the route R23 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200.

  Subsequently, the user searches for the same scenery as the image 3 displayed in the upper display area of the display unit 21 while moving along the route 23 displayed in the lower display area of the display unit 21. Then, when the user moves to a place (pin P3) where the actual scenery actually viewed matches the image 3 displayed on the display area of the display unit 21, the “next” of the display unit 21 is displayed again. The button is pressed (S24).

  When the user presses the “next” button, an enlarged area including the point b (pin P3) and the point c (pin P4) is displayed in the display lower area of the display unit 21, and from the pin P2 on the map. The highlighted display of the path 23 to the pin P3 is restored, and the path 34 from the pin P3 to the pin P4 is highlighted. In the display area of the display unit 21, the image 3 of the pin P3 is switched to the next image 4 of the image 3 in the order on the route (in time series order) (S25). FIG. 8 shows the state of the image 4 and the route R34 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200.

  Similarly, the user checks the scenery and the image 4 at the pin P4 (point c) through the route 34, checks the scenery and the image 5 at the pin P5 (the point d) through the route 45, and passes the route 56. The scenery and the image 6 are confirmed at the pin P6 (point e) through, and the scenery and the image 7 are confirmed at the pin P7 (point B (destination)) through the route 67. 9 shows the state of the image 5 and the route R45 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200, and FIG. 10 shows the image 6 and the route R56 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200. It shows a state. FIG. 11 shows the state of the image 7 and the route R67 displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200.

  When the user confirms the image 7 (final image) of the destination (point B) and presses the “end” button on the display unit 21, the route guidance process is terminated (S26). Thereby, the user can move from the point A to the destination point B.

  As described above, in the road guidance method, the road generated based on the position information (latitude / longitude) of the road guidance device 100, the image obtained by capturing the scenery at the position, and the order information on the route of the image. Based on the guidance information, the route to the destination is displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200 of the user who desires the route guidance, and each image corresponding to a point serving as a landmark on the route is displayed on the route. According to the order (time series order), it is displayed while being switched continuously without interruption.

  According to the route guidance method, the route to the destination is displayed, and the image of the point that is the next target that the user should aim at is always displayed. Therefore, for example, even if the user is in a place where a building or the like at a target point cannot be visually recognized, the user can always move along the route using the image of the building as a clue, and thus can guide the route reliably. That is, it is possible to provide a road guidance method (road guidance system) that is easy for the user to understand.

  Further, according to the route guidance method, if the user terminal 200 acquires the route guidance information, the user of the user terminal 200 can be designated as a destination even when the user terminal 200 is in an offline environment. Can be guided to. Therefore, for example, even when the user passes through an underground mall or a narrow alley where communication with the outside is not possible, the user can be appropriately guided to the destination.

  Here, in the route guidance device 100, the route guidance information X1 is stored in the storage unit 5 inside the route guidance device 100. However, the route guidance device 100 of the present invention is not limited to this, for example, a memory The unit 5 may be provided in a server connected to the route guidance apparatus 100 via a network. And the memory | storage part of a server can be set as the structure by which several route guidance information X1, 2, 3, ... is memorize | stored. A plurality of route guidance devices are connected to the server via a network, and a plurality of route guidance information registered by the plurality of route guidance devices is stored in the storage unit of the server via the network. In this configuration, when a request for a desired route guidance is transmitted from a terminal (user terminal) of a user who desires route guidance, route guidance information corresponding to the request stored in the server is transmitted to the user terminal. Sent.

  Further, when the user makes a request for a plurality of route guidance to the route guidance device 100, a plurality of route guidance information may be stored in the storage unit 20 of the user terminal 200. Then, a route guidance list corresponding to each route guidance information is displayed on the display unit 21 of the user terminal 200, and the user selects desired route guidance information from the route guidance list, so that the selected route guidance process is performed. Can be configured to be executed.

  Moreover, in the said route guidance method, although one captured image is displayed on the display area of the display part 21 for every point, this invention is not limited to this, For example, a some captured image for every point May be displayed in the display upper area of the display unit 21. In this configuration, the image storage unit 51 stores a plurality of captured images for each point. For example, the image storage unit 51 stores, for each point, an image for daytime, an image for nighttime, an image with a different imaging direction, and the like. And in a route guidance process, it can be set as the structure which arranges and displays three captured images from which an imaging direction differs, for example for every point. In this configuration, the image storage unit 51 stores one or a plurality of captured images associated with each point, grouped in order on the route.

[Embodiment 2]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in Embodiment 1 are given the same reference numerals, and explanation thereof is omitted. In addition, the terms defined in Embodiment 1 are used in accordance with the definitions in this embodiment unless otherwise specified.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the road guidance system according to the second embodiment. The road guide device 101 is further provided with an image determination acquisition unit 11 and an image replacement unit 12 in the road guide device 100 shown in the first embodiment.

  The current location acquisition unit 1 acquires current location information and direction (vector) information of the route guidance device 101 by GPS (or selection on a map by a registrant), a compass, and the like.

  Based on the current location information and the direction information acquired by the current location acquisition unit 1, the image processing unit 3 uses the captured image captured by the imaging unit 2 to acquire position information (latitude, longitude) and time information of the captured image. (Imaging date and time) and direction information are associated.

  The image storage unit 51 of the storage unit 5 stores one or a plurality of captured images for each point. Specifically, a daytime captured image and a nighttime captured image are stored for each point. Further, images taken from a plurality of directions are stored for each point. Thereby, for example, for the point a, a total of eight captured images of the image picked up in the daytime and the image picked up at night from the direction of east, west, south, and north are stored for the point a. One captured image is stored. Each captured image is associated with direction information, for example, information of “east → west” direction and “south → north” direction by the image processing unit 3.

  The captured image may be an image captured by the imaging unit 2 of the route guidance apparatus 101 or an image acquired from the outside via a network.

  When the image guidance acquisition unit 11 receives, for example, a request for route guidance information X1 from a user terminal (user terminal 200) for which the route guidance device 101 desires route guidance, the time information (reception date and time) of the request, Based on the time information of each captured image included in the route guidance information X1 stored in the storage unit 5, the suitability of each captured image of the route guidance information X1 is determined. An appropriate captured image is acquired from 51.

  For example, when the user makes a request for the road guidance information X1 at night, and each captured image included in the road guidance information X1 is a daytime captured image, the time information of the request (nighttime) ) And the time information (daytime) of each captured image of the route guidance information X1 are different from each other, the image determination acquisition unit 11 acquires a captured image for night corresponding to each point from the image storage unit 51. The image determination acquisition unit 11 selects and acquires a captured image corresponding to each point from the image storage unit 51 based on the position information, time information, and direction information of the captured image of the route guidance information X1. For example, the position information of the captured image (image 2) at the point a of the route guidance information X1 is “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, the time information is “daytime”, and the direction information is “west → east”. In this case, the image determination acquisition unit 11 receives from the image storage unit 51 a captured image (image: “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, time information “night”, and direction information “west → east”). 2 ′).

  It should be noted that the determination of day or night is preferably performed by adding the season (month and day) to the time information because the bright time zone and the dark time zone differ depending on the season. As a result, an image close to a real scene can be displayed.

  Moreover, when the image determination acquisition part 11 contains the image of the same time slot | zone in one point, it is preferable to acquire the image with the newest imaging date based on the time information of an image. For example, if the image at the point a includes an image that was taken one year ago and an image that was several days ago, the current scenery may have changed from the scenery one year ago due to the rebuilding of the building, etc. Get an image a few days ago. As a result, an image close to a real scene can be displayed.

  The image replacement unit 12 replaces the captured image included in the road guidance information X1 with the captured image acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 11. In the above example, the image replacement unit 12 replaces the image 2 at the point a with the image 2 ′ acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 11.

<Route registration process>
Next, the route guidance registration process in the route guidance device 101 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a route guidance registration process in the route guidance device 101. As in the first embodiment, a case where the registrant of the road guidance apparatus 101 registers the road guidance from the point A to the point B is taken as an example.

  First, in S31, when the registrant starts the route guidance registration process, the current location acquisition unit 1 uses the GPS and the compass to present location information (location information of the point A) and direction information of the registrant (the route guidance device 101). To get.

  Next, the map acquisition part 4 acquires a map from the map memory | storage part 52 based on the positional information on the point A acquired by the present location acquisition part 1 (S32).

  Next, the imaging unit 2 captures the scenery of the point A based on the operation of the registrant, and the image processing unit 3 includes position information (latitude and longitude of the point A) and time information in the captured image (image 1). (Shooting time) and direction information (for example, “South → North” direction) are associated (S33). The imaging unit 2 stores the image 1 at the point A in the image storage unit 51.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds a pin P1 (electronic tag) at the point A on the map (S34).

  Next, the registrant moves along a desired route, and captures a scene as a landmark at the desired location (point a) by the imaging unit 2 (S35). The image processing unit 3 associates position information (latitude and longitude of the point a), time information (imaging time), and direction information (for example, “west → east” direction) with the captured image (image 2) (S35). . In addition, it is preferable that the said direction information corresponds with the advancing direction which goes to the point a from the point A. This makes it easier for a user to be guided to find a landmark scene. The imaging unit 2 stores the captured image (image 2) at the point a in the image storage unit 51.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds the pin P2 at the point a on the map based on the position information of the image 2 or the position information of the registrant (S36).

  Next, the route generation unit 6 connects the route from the pin P1 embedded immediately before to the pin P2 embedded this time with a line on the map (S37). The display unit 9 displays the pin P1, the pin P2, and a partial route (route 12) connecting them on the map.

  Next, the determination unit 10 determines whether or not to finish the route guidance registration process (S38). Specifically, the display unit 9 displays a message (“End” or “Continue”) asking the registrant whether or not to end the route guidance registration process, and the determination unit 10 responds to this message. Judgment is based on the registrant's response.

  If the registrant selects not to finish the route guidance registration process ("continuation") (NO in S38), the process returns to S35 and repeats the processes of S35 to S37. Here, the registrant moves a desired route from the point a, and captures a scene that is a landmark of the point b at the desired location (point b) by the imaging unit 2 (S35). The image processing unit 3 associates position information (latitude and longitude of the point b), time information (imaging time), and direction information (“north → south” direction) with the captured image (image 3) (S35). The imaging unit 2 stores the captured image (image 3) at the point b in the storage unit.

  Next, the route generation unit 6 embeds the pin P3 at the point b on the map based on the position information of the image 3 or the position information of the registrant (S36).

  Next, the route generation unit 6 connects the route from the pin P2 embedded immediately before to the pin P3 embedded this time with a line on the map (S37). The display unit 9 displays the pin P2, the pin P3, and the partial route (route 23) connecting them on the map.

  Similarly, the registrant moves from point c, point d and point e to point B (destination) while capturing the scenery of each point (image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7). To do. The drawing showing the partial route (route 12, route 23, route 34, route 45, route 56, route 67) and pins (pins P1 to P7) is the same as FIG. The image storage unit 51 stores images 1 to 7 grouped in this order. In the storage unit 5, the pins P1 to P7 and the images 1 to 7 are stored in association with each other.

  When the registrant reaches point B, the registrant gives a reply ("end") to end the route guidance registration process (NO in S38), and proceeds to S39.

  In S39, the route generation unit 6 stores the route guidance information X1 including the map and images (images 1 to 7) shown in FIG. 3 in the storage unit 5, and then the route guidance registration process ends.

  In addition to the route guidance information X1 registered by the route guidance registration process, the storage unit 5 stores a plurality of route guidance information 2, 3,... Registered by the registrant using the route guidance device.

<Image replacement process>
Next, the image replacement process in the route guidance apparatus 101 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of image replacement processing in the route guidance apparatus 101. Here, a case where the user moves from point A to point B (destination) at night using a general portable terminal (user terminal) is taken as an example. The storage unit 5 stores road guidance information X1 from the point A to the point B, and the captured image included in the road guidance information X1 is an image for daytime.

  First, in S41, the road guidance apparatus 101 receives a request for the road guidance information X1 from the point A to the point B from the user terminal 200.

  Next, the image determination acquisition unit 11 captures each of the captured images (images 1 to 7) included in the request time information (request reception date and time) and the route guidance information X1 stored in the image storage unit 51. The suitability of each captured image is determined based on the time information (imaging date and time) (S42). For example, the reception date / time of the request (daytime or nighttime) and the time information (daytime or nighttime) of each image are compared to determine whether or not they match.

  If the request reception date and time information match each image (YES in S42), the route guidance apparatus 101 transmits the route guidance information X1 to the user terminal 200 via the communication unit 8 for processing. The process ends (S43).

  On the other hand, when the request reception date and time information of each image is different (NO in S42), the image determination acquisition unit 11 acquires an appropriate captured image from the image storage unit 51 (S44). Here, since the reception date and time of the request is “nighttime”, since the images 1 to 7 are captured images for daytime, the image determination acquisition unit 11 receives the image 1 for nighttime from the image storage unit 51. 'To 7' are acquired. Moreover, the image determination acquisition part 11 acquires the image in which direction information corresponds with the original image among several night images in each point. For example, the original image 2 of the point a included in the route guidance information X1 has position information “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, time information “daytime”, and direction information “west → east”. Therefore, the image determination acquisition unit 11 receives from the image storage unit 51 an image 2 with position information “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, time information “night”, and direction information “west → east”. Get ´. Similarly, the original image 3 of the point b included in the route guidance information X1 has position information “latitude: x3 °, longitude: y3 °”, time information “daytime”, and direction information “north → south”. Therefore, the image determination acquisition unit 11 receives from the image storage unit 51 an image with position information “latitude: x3 °, longitude: y3 °”, time information “night”, and direction information “north → south”. 3 'is acquired.

  Next, the image replacement unit 12 replaces the captured image included in the route guidance information X1 with the captured image acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 11 (S45). Here, the image replacement unit 12 replaces the images 1 to 7 included in the route guidance information X1 with the images 1 ′ to 7 ′ acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 11. The route guidance information X1 ′ replaced with the images 1 ′ to 7 ′ is stored in the storage unit 5. Thereafter, the road guidance apparatus 101 transmits the road guidance information X1 ′ to the user terminal 200 via the communication unit 8 and ends the processing (S46).

  Since the route guidance method based on the route guidance information registered by the route guidance device 101 according to the second embodiment is the same as the route guidance method according to the route guidance device according to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  Here, when a plurality of route guidance information generated by images having different imaging dates and times are stored in the storage unit 5, the route guidance device 101 includes time information on a user request among the plurality of route guidance information. It is good also as a structure which transmits to the user terminal 200 the route guidance information which corresponds to. For example, when the storage unit 5 stores the route guidance information Y1 generated from the daytime image and the route guidance information Y1 ′ generated from the nighttime image regarding the point A to the point B, When the user makes a road guidance request from point A to point B at night, the road guidance device 101 transmits the night road guidance information Y1 ′ stored in the storage unit 5 to the user terminal 200. .

[Embodiment 3]
Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in Embodiments 1 and 2 are given the same reference numerals, and explanation thereof is omitted. Further, the terms defined in the first and second embodiments are used in accordance with the definition in the present embodiment unless otherwise specified.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the road guidance system according to the third embodiment. The route guidance device 100 is the same as the route guidance device 100 shown in the first embodiment, and the user terminal 201 further includes a current location acquisition unit 23, an image determination in the user terminal 200 shown in the first embodiment. An acquisition unit 24 and an image replacement unit 25 are provided. In the road guidance system according to Embodiment 3, the road guidance device 100 and the user terminal 201 are in an environment where the Internet and GPS can be used.

  When the user terminal 201 receives the route guidance information X1 from the route guidance device 100 in response to a user request, the image determination acquisition unit 24 receives the time information of the request and each imaging included in the route guidance information X1. Appropriateness of each captured image of the route guidance information X1 is determined based on the time information of the image, and if it is inappropriate, an appropriate captured image is acquired from the image storage unit 51 of the route guidance device 100 via the network.

  For example, when the user makes a request for the road guidance information X1 at night, and each captured image included in the road guidance information X1 is a daytime captured image, the time information of the request (nighttime) ) And the time information (daytime) of each captured image included in the route guidance information X1 is different from the image storage unit 51 of the route guidance device 100 for the night time corresponding to each point. The captured image is acquired. Note that the image determination acquisition unit 24 acquires a captured image corresponding to each point from the image storage unit 51 of the road guide device 100 based on the position information, time information, and direction information of the captured image of the road guide information X1. To do. For example, the position information of the captured image (image 2) at the point a of the route guidance information X1 is “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, the time information is “daytime”, and the direction information is “west → east”. In this case, the image determination / acquisition unit 24 receives from the image storage unit 51 a captured image (image: “latitude: x2 °, longitude: y2 °”, time information “night”, direction information “west → east”). 2 ′).

  The image replacement unit 25 replaces the captured image included in the road guidance information X1 with the captured image acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 24. In the above example, the image replacement unit 25 replaces the image 2 at the point a with the image 2 ′ acquired by the image determination acquisition unit 24.

  Since the road guidance method based on the road guidance information X1 registered by the road guidance device 100 according to the third embodiment is the same as the road guidance method in the road guidance device 100 according to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  Here, in the above-described configuration, whether or not each captured image included in the route guidance information X1 is appropriate is determined based on time information of a user request and time information of each captured image included in the route guidance information X1. However, as another configuration, when the route guidance process is being performed (during the route guidance), it may be configured to determine whether each captured image is appropriate. Thereby, even when the acquisition time of the route guidance information X1 and the execution time of the route guidance are different, the route guidance can be performed using a more appropriate captured image.

  The outline of the route guidance system described above is shown below.

  The route guidance system includes: an image storage unit that stores a plurality of captured images obtained by capturing scenes of a plurality of points existing on a route to a destination; a map storage unit that stores a map including the destination; Target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage means according to the order on the route to the destination, and a route connecting each of the plurality of points, Map display control means for reflecting on the map stored in the map storage means and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images.

  In the route guidance system, when a plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point are stored in the image storage means, and the respective imaging times of the plurality of captured images are different from each other, the target image display control is performed. The means may be configured to display a captured image close to the current time as a display image corresponding to the point.

  In the route guidance system, when a plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point are stored in the image storage means, and the respective imaging directions of the plurality of captured images are different from each other, the target image display control is performed. The means may be configured to display a captured image captured in a direction from the point immediately before the point toward the point as a display image corresponding to the point.

  The route guidance system is configured such that when the image storage unit stores a plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point, the target image display control unit displays a plurality of the captured images corresponding to the point. It is good.

  In the road guidance system, the route to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two adjacent points on the route, and the target image display control means includes the plurality of partial routes. Among them, a partial path connecting a point where the currently displayed captured image is captured and a point immediately before the point may be displayed in a highlighted manner.

  The route guidance system further includes a receiving unit that receives a user instruction, and the target image display control unit sequentially switches the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage unit based on the user instruction. May be configured to be displayed.

  In the road guidance system, the target image display control means is that the reception means has reached a point far from the destination from the user for two points adjacent to each other on the route reflected in the map. When the instruction is received, a captured image corresponding to a point closer to the destination that the user should aim next may be displayed.

  Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and those skilled in the art have appropriately changed the embodiment from the above embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It goes without saying that the form is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Present location acquisition part, 2 Imaging part, 3 Image processing part, 4 Map acquisition part, 5 Storage part, 51 Image storage part, 52 Map storage part, 6 Route generation part, 7 Display control part, 71 Target image display control part, 72 Map display control unit, 8 communication unit, 9 display unit, 10 determination unit, 11/24 image determination acquisition unit, 12/25 image replacement unit, 20 storage unit, 21 display unit, 22 communication unit, 100/101 road Guide device, 200/201 user terminal.

Claims (8)

Each from a certain starting point of the plurality of captured images each of views of a plurality of points existing on a route taken by the order of該経path to a destination, position information indicating the position of the point where the captured and imaged Image storage means for storing time information indicating the date and time in association with each other;
Map storage means for storing a map including the start point and the destination;
Accepting means for accepting user instructions;
Based on the position information of each of the plurality of captured images arranged in chronological order based on the time information, each captured point on the map stored in the map storage means is Route generation means for generating a route from the start point to the destination by connecting in sequence order;
Target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage means according to the user's instruction according to the time-series order;
Map display control means for reflecting the route from the start point to the destination on the map stored in the map storage means and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images;
With
The route from the start point to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two points adjacent to each other on the route,
When the receiving unit receives an instruction from the user that the first point has been reached with respect to the partial route connecting the first point farther from the destination and the second point closer to the destination. The target image display control means displays the captured image corresponding to the second point that the user should next aim, and the map display control means starts from the first point in the partial route. The entire range up to the second point is displayed with emphasis over other partial routes.
The partial path to be displayed with emphasis over other partial paths and the captured image to be displayed corresponding to the partial path are sequentially switched according to the time-series order every time an instruction from the user is received.
A route guidance system characterized by this.   When a plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point are stored in the image storage unit and the respective imaging times of the plurality of captured images are different from each other, the target image display control unit The road guidance system according to claim 1, wherein a captured image close to the current time is displayed as a corresponding display image.   In the case where a plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point are stored in the image storage unit and the respective capturing directions of the plurality of captured images are different from each other, the target image display control unit The route guidance system according to claim 1, wherein a captured image captured in a direction from the point immediately before the point toward the point is displayed as a corresponding display image.   The target image display control unit displays a plurality of the captured images corresponding to the point when the plurality of the captured images corresponding to one point are stored in the image storage unit. The road guidance system according to any one of 1 to 3. A route guidance method executed by a computer,
Position information the computer, indicating the respective position of the point where the imaging of a plurality of captured images captured each of views of a plurality of points in order of該経path that exists from one starting point on the route to the destination Acquiring the plurality of captured images from an image storage unit that stores the time information indicating the date and time of imaging in association with each other;
And said computer, from the map storage means for storing a map including the start point and the destination, obtains the map including the start point and the destination,
The computer accepts user instructions;
Based on the position information of each of the plurality of captured images arranged in chronological order based on the time information, the computer connects the captured points on the acquired map in the chronological order. Generating a route from the starting point to the destination;
The computer sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images based on the user's instruction according to the time-series order;
The computer reflects a route from the start point to the destination on the acquired map and displays the route in association with the plurality of captured images;
Including
The route from the start point to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two points adjacent to each other on the route,
When the computer receives an instruction from the user that the first point has been reached for the partial route connecting the first point far from the destination and the second point closer to the destination. , Displaying the captured image corresponding to the second point that the user should target next, and emphasizing the entire range from the first point to the second point in the partial path more than other partial paths Display,
Each time the computer receives an instruction from the user, the partial path to be displayed with emphasis over other partial paths and the captured image to be displayed corresponding to the partial path are displayed in the time series order. Switch sequentially,
A route guidance method characterized by that. Computer
Each from a certain starting point of the plurality of captured images each of views of a plurality of points existing on a route taken by the order of該経path to a destination, position information indicating the position of the point where the captured and imaged Captured image acquisition means for acquiring the plurality of captured images from image storage means for storing time information indicating the date and time in association with each other,
Wherein the start point and the map storage means for storing a map including the destination, the map acquiring means for acquiring the map including the start point and the destination,
Accepting means for accepting user instructions,
Based on each of the position information of the plurality of captured images are arranged in time series order based on the time information, in the obtained on a map, by connecting each of the imaged spot on the time series order, the Route generating means for generating a route from a starting point to the destination;
Target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images according to the user's instruction according to the time-series order; and
Map display control means for reflecting a route from the start point to the destination on the acquired map and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images;
Function as
The route from the start point to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two points adjacent to each other on the route,
When the receiving unit receives an instruction from the user that the first point has been reached with respect to the partial route connecting the first point farther from the destination and the second point closer to the destination. The target image display control means displays the captured image corresponding to the second point that the user should next aim, and the map display control means starts from the first point in the partial route. The entire range up to the second point is displayed with emphasis over other partial routes.
The partial path to be displayed with emphasis over other partial paths and the captured image to be displayed corresponding to the partial path are sequentially switched according to the time-series order every time an instruction from the user is received.
Road guidance program for. Computer
Each from a certain starting point of the plurality of captured images each of views of a plurality of points existing on a route taken by the order of該経path to a destination, position information indicating the position of the point where the captured and imaged Captured image acquisition means for acquiring the plurality of captured images from image storage means for storing time information indicating the date and time in association with each other,
Wherein the start point and the map storage means for storing a map including the destination, the map acquiring means for acquiring the map including the start point and the destination,
Accepting means for accepting user instructions,
Based on each of the position information of the plurality of captured images are arranged in time series order based on the time information, in the obtained on a map, by connecting each of the imaged spot on the time series order, the Route generating means for generating a route from a starting point to the destination;
Target image display control means for sequentially switching and displaying the acquired plurality of captured images according to the user's instruction according to the time-series order; and
Map display control means for reflecting a route from the start point to the destination on the acquired map and displaying the map in association with the plurality of captured images;
Function as
The route from the start point to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two points adjacent to each other on the route,
When the receiving unit receives an instruction from the user that the first point has been reached with respect to the partial route connecting the first point farther from the destination and the second point closer to the destination. The target image display control means displays the captured image corresponding to the second point that the user should next aim, and the map display control means starts from the first point in the partial route. The entire range up to the second point is displayed with emphasis over other partial routes.
The partial path to be displayed with emphasis over other partial paths and the captured image to be displayed corresponding to the partial path are sequentially switched according to the time-series order every time an instruction from the user is received.
An information recording medium on which a route guidance program is recorded. A road guidance system including a road guidance device that generates road guidance information based on an operation of a registrant, and a mobile terminal used by a user that receives provision of the road guidance information from the road guidance device,
The road guidance device is
Based on the operation of the registrant, an imaging unit that images the scenery of the point where the registrant is located on a route from a certain start point to the destination in order on the route;
Image storage means for storing each of a plurality of picked-up images picked up by the image pick-up means in association with position information indicating the position of the picked-up point and time information indicating the date and time of pick-up;
Map storage means for storing a map including the start point and the destination;
Based on the position information of each of the plurality of captured images arranged in chronological order based on the time information, each captured point on the map stored in the map storage means is Route generation means for generating a route from the start point to the destination by connecting in sequence order;
Target image display control means for generating image display control data for sequentially switching the plurality of captured images stored in the image storage means according to the user's instruction in accordance with the time-series order and displaying them on the portable terminal When,
Reflecting the route from the start point to the destination on the map stored in the map storage means, and generating map display control data to be displayed on the portable terminal in association with the plurality of captured images Map display control means;
When receiving the request transmitted from the portable terminal, the transmission means for transmitting the route guidance information including the image display control data and the map display control data to the portable terminal;
With
The route from the start point to the destination includes a plurality of partial routes connecting two points adjacent to each other on the route,
The portable terminal includes display means,
Based on the route guidance information received from the route guidance device, the display means for the partial route connecting the first point far from the destination and the second point closer to the destination, When the mobile terminal receives an instruction from the user that the first point has been reached, the captured image corresponding to the second point that the user should target next is displayed, and the partial route The entire range from the first point to the second point is displayed with emphasis over other partial routes,
The partial path to be displayed with emphasis over other partial paths and the captured image to be displayed corresponding to the partial path are sequentially switched according to the time-series order every time an instruction from the user is received.
A route guidance system characterized by this.

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