JP5911589B2 - Navigation device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a navigation device that displays a direction guidance sign for a branch road (hereinafter referred to as a navigation display direction guidance sign) on a navigation screen.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a navigation device that can change the frequency of generating guidance information for route guidance.

JP 2003-156348 A

  The conventional technique represented by Patent Document 1 changes the frequency of generating guidance information such as voice guidance, but it has not been considered to control the frequency of displaying a navigation display direction guidance signboard on the navigation screen. . For this reason, conventionally, it is not displayed when the user (driver) wants to refer to the navigation display direction guidance signboard, and conversely, frequently when traveling in an area where it is not necessary to refer to the navigation display direction guidance signage. There is a problem that the navigation display direction guide signboard is not displayed at an appropriate frequency that is easy to use for the user (driver).

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and provides a navigation device capable of displaying a navigation display direction guide signboard at an appropriate frequency that is easy for a user (driver or passenger) to use. The purpose is to obtain.

The navigation device according to the present invention includes a direction guide signboard generating unit for generating a navigation display direction guide sign for a branch road, and a display control for displaying the navigation display direction guide sign generated by the direction guide sign generating unit on the display unit. and parts, characterized the position of the road on which the moving body moves, based on the utilization form status of the road positional relationship and the moving body and the branch destination of the facility and the mobile moves, the display control unit is a navigation display direction signboard A display frequency control unit that controls a display frequency displayed on the display unit.

  According to this invention, there is an effect that it is possible to display the navigation display direction guide signboard at an appropriate frequency that is easy for the user to use.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the navigation apparatus concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control part of the navigation apparatus concerning this invention. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation of the navigation device according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of the frequency which displays the direction guidance signboard for navigation displays in Embodiment 1. FIG. In Embodiment 1, it is a figure which shows an example of the navigation screen on which the direction guidance signboard for navigation displays was displayed. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the navigation apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of the display frequency about the display content of the direction guidance signboard for navigation displays in Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the navigation apparatus concerning Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the navigation apparatus concerning Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement (Example 1) of the navigation apparatus concerning Embodiment 5 of this invention. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 2) of the navigation device according to the fifth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement (Example 1) of the navigation apparatus concerning Embodiment 6 of this invention. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 2) of the navigation device according to the sixth embodiment. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 3) of the navigation device according to the sixth embodiment.

Hereinafter, in order to describe the present invention in more detail, modes for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a navigation apparatus according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the navigation device 1 is mounted on a mobile body (for example, a vehicle), and includes a communication processing unit 2, a traffic information receiving unit 3, a gyro sensor 4, a vehicle speed signal processing unit 5, a GPS signal reception processing unit 6, A control unit 7, an input processing unit 8, a display 9, an amplifier 10 and a storage unit 11 are provided. In addition to the vehicle, the moving body includes a person who carries the navigation device 1 and moves.
In the following description, it is assumed that the moving body is a vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the own vehicle).

The navigation device 1 according to the present invention not only provides route guidance to the driver of the vehicle based on the position of the vehicle and the map data, but also displays a navigation display of a branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle. Display the direction signboard.
In the following, it is assumed that the navigation device 1 displays on the screen a navigation display direction guide sign that guides the facility name of the facility at the branch destination of the branch path according to the user's preference.

The communication processing unit 2 performs data communication with an external information center (not shown) or the like via a network such as the Internet using a wireless communication unit of the mobile communication terminal 12 such as a smartphone. Through this data communication, the communication processing unit 2 acquires facility information, popular facility ranking information, weather information, and the like according to the attributes of the user (driver or passenger).
The traffic information receiving unit 3 is provided with VICS information such as traffic information supplied from a VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System; registered trademark, hereinafter omitted) information center (not shown) and vacancy information of a facility parking lot. Road traffic information) is received and output to the control unit 7.

The gyro sensor 4 is an orientation sensor that detects the traveling direction of the host vehicle as a relative orientation.
The vehicle speed signal processing unit 5 receives a vehicle speed signal from an ECU (electronic control unit; not shown) of the host vehicle and detects the speed of the host vehicle. For example, a vehicle speed pulse signal is input as a vehicle speed signal, and it is determined from the change in the vehicle speed pulse signal whether the host vehicle is traveling and the vehicle speed.
A GPS (Global Positioning System) signal reception processing unit 6 is a processing unit that analyzes GPS radio waves received from GPS satellites via the in-vehicle GPS antenna 6a and acquires position information of the own vehicle.

  The control unit 7 is a control unit that generates a navigation display direction guide sign that guides the facility name that matches the preference category and displays it on the display 9. In addition, the control unit 7 displays the display contents of the navigation display direction guidance signboard based on the Internet information (for example, facility information according to user attributes, popular facility ranking information, weather information, etc.) acquired by the communication processing unit 2. To change. In addition, the control unit 7 can provide a navigation display direction guidance based on any one of the characteristic position of the road on which the host vehicle is traveling, the positional relationship between the branch destination facility and the host vehicle, and the use situation of the road on which the host vehicle is traveling. The frequency with which the signboard is displayed on the display 9 is controlled.

  The input processing unit 8 is a processing unit that accepts an input operation by a user, and includes, for example, input hardware such as operation keys, operation buttons, and a touch panel, and software that outputs an input signal input thereto to the control unit 7. Composed. Note that the user's preference category can be registered in the storage unit 11 via the input processing unit 8 or the preference category registered in the storage unit 11 can be changed or added.

The display 9 is a display unit whose display processing is controlled by the control unit 7 and displays, for example, a road map in the vicinity of the vehicle position as a navigation screen or a navigation display direction guide sign on the screen.
The amplifier 10 amplifies voice data for instructing various input operations to the user or voice data for route guidance and outputs the amplified data to the speaker 10a. The speaker 10a outputs the audio data amplified by the amplifier 10 to the outside.

The storage unit 11 includes map data including at least facility information and road information, an installation position database in which installation position information of a road upper surface guide signboard on a road specified by the road information is registered, and a user (driver or passenger) It is a storage unit for storing a preference category database in which preference categories are registered. The storage unit 11 may also store information acquired by the communication processing unit 2 (for example, facility information according to user attributes, popular facility ranking information, weather information, etc.).
The map data may be downloaded from an external map data server by the communication processing unit 2. The storage unit 11 may be a hard disk device, an SD card, a USB memory, or the like, for example.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit of the navigation device according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 7 includes a direction guide sign generation unit 13, a position / direction detection unit 14, a display control unit 15, a display frequency control unit 16, and a route guide unit 17 as functional configurations.
The direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 includes a preference category input by the user (driver or passenger) or the preference category input using the input processing unit 8, the vehicle position detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and a storage unit 11, a navigation display direction guide sign for a branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle is generated.
The position / direction detection unit 14 detects the current position of the vehicle using information acquired by the gyro sensor 4, the vehicle speed signal processing unit 5, and the GPS signal reception processing unit 6.
The display control unit 15 is a functional block that controls display processing on the display 9 and displays, for example, a road map in the vicinity of the vehicle position and a navigation display direction guide sign on the screen of the display 9.

The display frequency control unit 16 controls the display frequency at which the display control unit 15 displays the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. For example, the display control unit 15 is controlled so that a navigation guidance direction signboard for a branch road is displayed on the display 9 every time the vehicle reaches a feature position on the road in front of the branch road. Note that the characteristic position is a road sign, road marking, or a specific position on the road requested by the user, which can be recognized by the user (driver) before the branch road.
The display frequency control unit 16 according to the first embodiment pays attention to the road upper surface guide sign in front of the branch road, and the navigation display direction of the branch road for each position where the road upper surface guide sign is installed. A signboard is displayed.

The route guidance unit 17 searches for a recommended route based on the destination set and input by the input processing unit 8, the vehicle position information detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and the map data stored in the storage unit 11, Provides route guidance for recommended routes.
Although not shown, a notification unit that notifies the user that the navigation display direction guide signboard is displayed on the display 9 by the display control unit 15 may be provided. For example, by outputting a notification sound to the speaker 10a via the amplifier 10, or by instructing the display control unit 15 to temporarily flash or highlight the screen of the display 9 or the navigation display direction guide signboard, Notifies that the navigation display direction guide sign has been displayed. Moreover, you may alert | report by making LED for notification (not shown) provided separately light-emit.

Next, the operation will be described.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the navigation device according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the display frequency control unit 16 sets the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guidance sign for each installation position of the road upper direction guidance sign in front of the branch road.
First, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 refers to the storage contents of the storage unit 11 to confirm whether or not the preference data of the user (driver or passenger) has been registered in the storage unit 11, and the storage unit If the preference data is registered in 11, it is confirmed whether or not the preference data needs to be corrected (step ST1).

  For example, the user's preference data is registered in the storage unit 11 in association with the information for identifying the user, and the direction guide sign generation unit 13 stores the contents stored in the storage unit 11 based on the information for identifying the user. To check whether the user's preference data has already been registered. In addition, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the preference data registered in the storage unit 11 on the display 9 and accepts correction using the input processing unit 8 (HMI). I will provide a.

When the user preference data is not registered in the storage unit 11 or when the preference data registered in the storage unit 11 needs to be corrected (step ST1; NO), the user uses the input processing unit 8. Preference data is input (step ST2).
The preference data input using the input processing unit 8 is registered in the storage unit 11 via the direction guidance sign generation unit 13.

  On the other hand, when the user's preference data is registered in the storage unit 11 and the preference data does not need to be corrected (step ST1; YES), or when the process of step ST2 is completed, the position / direction detection unit 14 detects the current position and traveling direction of the host vehicle (step ST3). Next, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 detects a branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle from the map data in the storage unit 11 based on the current position and traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14. (Step ST4). Subsequently, the direction guidance sign generation unit 13 identifies the shape of the branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle detected from the map data (step ST5), and the navigation display direction guidance according to the identified shape of the branch road. A signboard arrow figure is selected (step ST6).

  Next, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 detects the facilities existing in each direction branched by the branch road from the map data in the storage unit 11. Thereafter, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 extracts a facility name that matches the user's preference category from the facility names of the facility of the detection result, and sets the facility name of the detection result and the facility name of the extraction result in step ST6. A navigation display direction guide sign is generated by compositing the selected arrow graphic (step ST7).

Here, the position / direction detection unit 14 detects the current position of the vehicle again (step ST8).
The display frequency control unit 16 searches the installation position database stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and guides the upper surface of the next branch road. It is determined whether or not the signboard installation position (characteristic position) has been reached (step ST9). At this time, if the current position of the own vehicle is not the installation position of the road upper surface signboard (step ST9; NO), the current position is detected and the own vehicle is on the road until the own vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper surface information signboard. The determination whether or not the position guide sign installation position has been reached is repeated.

  When the own vehicle has reached the installation position of the road upper surface guide sign (step ST9; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation guide direction guide sign for the branch road on the display 9. To instruct. In this way, the display control unit 15 displays the navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road indicated by the road upper surface guide sign each time the host vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper surface guide sign (step 9). ST10).

Further, the position / direction detection unit 14 detects the current position of the host vehicle (step ST11).
The display frequency control unit 16 refers to the map data stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, so that the host vehicle has passed the branch road. Is determined (step ST12). Here, when the own vehicle has not passed the branch road (step ST12; NO), detection of the current position and determination of whether the own vehicle has passed the branch road until the own vehicle passes the branch road. repeat.

  On the other hand, when the own vehicle passes through the branch road (step ST12; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to end the display of the navigation display direction signboard on the branch road that has passed. To do. The display control unit 15 ends the display of the navigation display direction guide sign on the screen of the display 9 according to the instruction of the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST13). Thereafter, while the vehicle is traveling, the processes from step ST3 to step ST13 are repeated.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an overview of the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the first embodiment. An intersection (branch road) A1 shown in FIG. 4 (a) shows an intersection where a road upper surface guide sign B is installed on the road in front of the road, and an intersection (branch road) A2 shown in FIG. It shows an intersection where no road signboard is installed.
At the intersection A1, the road upper surface signboard B is installed at a recommended position within a predetermined range from the center position according to the purpose, such as the advance guidance or the intersection guidance as described above.
Therefore, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, every time the vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper surface guide sign B, the navigation display direction guide sign at the intersection A1 is displayed on the display 9. indicate.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4B, the navigation display direction guide sign is not displayed at the intersection A2 where the road upper guide sign is not installed, even if it is a branch road.
Such a branch road can be said to be a branch road without a feature position identified from road features visible to the user (driver). Therefore, since the feature position cannot be associated with the display of the navigation display direction guidance signboard, the navigation display direction guidance signage is unilaterally displayed from the navigation device side. In this case, the user is often not ready to determine the course with reference to the navigation display direction guide signboard, and is not likely to be used for the course determination. Thus, the navigation display direction guidance sign is not displayed at the intersection A2 where the road upper direction guidance sign is not installed.

Further, in the process of FIG. 3, whether or not the vehicle has reached the installation position of the road upper surface guide signboard from the result of searching the installation position database of the road upper surface guide signboard in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle. Was judged. In this case, it is not possible to determine the arrival at the installation position for a road upper surface guide sign not registered in the installation position database.
Therefore, when a road upper surface signboard is detected by a camera mounted on the own vehicle, it may be determined that the vehicle has reached the installation position of the road upper surface signboard.
For example, when a camera mounted on a vehicle captures the outside of the vehicle and a camera image analysis unit (not shown) analyzes the captured image and detects a pattern that can be regarded as a road upper surface signboard, the display frequency control unit 16 determines that the vehicle has reached the installation position of the road upper surface signboard.
In this case, the display frequency control unit 16 may register the position at which the video is captured by the camera in the installation position database as the installation position of the road upper surface signboard.

In the above description, the display frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guide sign whenever the vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper direction signboard is shown. The display frequency may be displayed every time the vehicle reaches the position.
Here, the predetermined position in front of the installation position of the road upper surface guide signboard refers to the road upper surface guide sign board from the front view of the user (driver) before the vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper surface guide signboard. The position which can be visually recognized is shown, and it becomes a position away by a predetermined distance or a predetermined time that the user can visually recognize before the installation position.
For example, the user displays the navigation display direction guide sign when the vehicle reaches the position where the outline of the road upper direction guide sign is visible but the display content is not visible.
By doing in this way, it becomes possible to make a course decision using the navigation display direction guide signboard with a margin more than when displaying at the installation position of the road upper face signboard.

  Furthermore, in the above description, the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed every time the own vehicle reaches the installation position of the road upper surface guidance signboard or a predetermined position in front of the installation position. Each time the vehicle reaches a predetermined position in front of the left turn lane, a navigation display direction guide sign may be displayed. The predetermined position in front of the right / left turn lane is a position where the right / left turn lane can be visually recognized from the front view of the user (driver). For example, a predetermined distance or a predetermined time away from which the user can visually recognize the right / left turn lane from the start position of the right / left turn lane. Even in this case, the user can recognize that the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed every time the right / left turn lane is visually recognized, and thus the navigation display direction guidance signboard is easily used.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a navigation screen on which a navigation display direction guide sign is displayed in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the navigation device 1 displays a navigation display direction guide signboard 20 with the navigation screen 19 displayed on the display 9, and excludes the navigation display direction guide signboard 20 on the navigation screen 19. The vehicle mark 21 is displayed in the approximate center of the area.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 5, when the user's preference category is “historic building” and “nature”, “Rose Park” in the left direction from the intersection (branch road) 22 and “Museum a” in the straight direction. , “◇◇ Onsen” is displayed on the right.
Note that two or more facility names may be displayed only in the straight direction. For example, when there are a plurality of facilities corresponding to each direction, a rule such as displaying up to two closest locations from the own vehicle may be set and displayed.

Further, in the example of FIG. 5, in the actual map, the OO department store is closer to the own vehicle than the temple a. However, the distance from the intersection 22 may be displayed at the same time, for example, “Temple a; 2 km”, “XX department store; 1 km”.
In addition, when three or more facilities are to be displayed on the navigation display direction guide signboard, an icon indicating that there is a continuation is displayed, and the continuation of the facility can be viewed by touching the icon. You may be made to do.

In this way, as you approach the fork, you can see what facilities are in the vicinity by displaying nearby recommended facilities according to the driver's or passenger's preference using the navigation display direction signboard You can visit the appropriate facilities without having to do so.
In addition, there is no need to regret that “it was good to stop by at that time” because there is no passing nearby without realizing that there was a facility that suits your taste nearby.

Further, the generation and display of the navigation display direction guide sign may be executed only when the destination is not set in the navigation device 1.
As a result, even if you are traveling without setting a destination, if you approach the fork road, you will be shown nearby recommended facilities according to the driver's or passenger's preference. You can visit a facility that suits your tastes without having to set it or check what kind of facilities are nearby. In addition, it is possible to prevent the user from passing by without noticing that there is a facility that suits his / her preferences near the vehicle.

  In addition, when the destination is set, the name of the facility set as the destination is displayed at the top, blinked, or a character display color different from other facility names on the navigation display direction guide sign It is also possible to perform highlighting such as making it non-highlighted for other surrounding recommended facilities. This makes it easier to determine which destination to set in advance and other recommended facilities in the surrounding area should be visited first, and time can be used effectively.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 that generates the navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road, and the navigation display direction guide sign generated by the direction guide sign generation unit 13. Is displayed on the display 9 and display frequency control is performed so that the display control unit 15 controls the display frequency of the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 based on the characteristic position of the road on which the vehicle travels. Part 16.
By comprising in this way, it becomes possible to display the navigation display direction guidance signboard with the appropriate frequency which a user can use easily. That is, every time the vehicle reaches a feature position on the road that is recognizable by the user in front of the branch road, a navigation display direction guide sign is displayed at the feature position. Can be recognized, it becomes easier to use the navigation display direction guide signboard.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 at the display frequency for each position where the road upper face guide sign of the branch road is installed. The control unit 15 is controlled. By doing in this way, the user can recognize that the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed on the road upper direction guide sign in front of the branch road as the characteristic position, and thus it is easy to use the navigation display direction guide sign Become.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the navigation device according to the second embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 controls the generation of the navigation display direction guidance signboard by the direction guidance sign generation unit 13 to display the display contents of the navigation display direction guidance signboard. Control display frequency. Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the navigation device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In FIG. 6, the process from step ST1a to step ST6a is the same as the process from step ST1 to step ST6 of FIG.
Hereinafter, it is assumed that the display frequency control unit 16 sets the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide sign for the next branch road in the traveling direction every time the vehicle passes the branch road.

In step ST <b> 7 a, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 detects, from the map data in the storage unit 11, facilities existing in each direction that branches at the next branch road in the traveling direction of the host vehicle.
Thereafter, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 extracts a facility name that matches the user's preference category from the facility names of the facilities as the detection result.

Next, the display frequency control unit 16 searches the road information of the map data stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position and the traveling direction of the own vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and from the own vehicle. It is determined whether or not the distance to the facility in the traveling direction that meets the user's preference (hereinafter referred to as a recommended facility) is greater than or equal to a predetermined Nm (step ST8a).
At this time, when the current position of the own vehicle is a position of Nm or more to the recommended facility (step ST8a; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation for every a branch path existing up to the recommended facility. A display frequency for displaying the facility name of the recommended facility on the direction guide sign is selected (step ST9a).

When the current position of the vehicle is a position less than Nm to the recommended facility (step ST8a; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 is in the traveling direction from the vehicle and the distance to the recommended facility is a predetermined M. It is determined whether or not (<N) m or more (step ST10a).
At this time, when the current position of the vehicle is a position equal to or greater than Mm to the recommended facility (step ST10a; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 makes every other branch b (<a) existing until the recommended facility. The display frequency for displaying the facility name of the recommended facility is selected on the navigation display direction guide sign (No. ST11a).

  On the other hand, when the current position of the vehicle is a position less than Mm up to the recommended facility (step ST10a; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 is for navigation display of all the branch roads existing up to the recommended facility. A display frequency for displaying the name of the recommended facility on the direction guide sign is selected (step ST12a).

Next, the direction guidance signboard generation part 13 detects the facility which exists in each direction branched by the next branch road in the advancing direction of the own vehicle from the map data of the memory | storage part 11. FIG.
Thereafter, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 extracts the facility name of the recommended facility from the facility names of the detected facility according to the display frequency selected by the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST13a).

Next, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 combines the facility names of the facilities existing in each direction that branches at the next branch road in the traveling direction of the host vehicle into the arrow graphic selected in step ST6a, thereby displaying the navigation. A usage direction signboard is generated (step ST14a).
In addition, about the facility name of a recommended facility, the direction guidance sign generation part 13 extracts with the display frequency selected by the display frequency control part 16, and synthesize | combines it with the arrow figure of the direction guidance signboard for navigation displays.

When the navigation display direction guide sign is generated in this manner, the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST15a).
The subsequent processing from step ST16a to step ST18a is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG. When the process of step ST18a is completed, the process returns to the process of step ST4a, and the above-described process is repeated until the host vehicle is stopped (engine off).

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an outline of the display frequency for the display contents of the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the second embodiment. Here, FIG. 7 (a) is a diagram showing the progress of the vehicle on the map, and FIG. 7 (b) shows a navigation display direction guide sign at each point in FIG. 7 (a). .
Also in FIG. 7, the display frequency control unit 16 sets the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide sign for the next branch road in the traveling direction every time the vehicle passes the branch road. And In addition, the example illustrated in FIG. 7 illustrates a case where the user preference categories are “hot spring”, “historic building”, “entertainment”, and “nature”. Further, the host vehicle travels along a route 23 that passes from point (1) to point (4).

As shown in FIG. 7B, the navigation display direction guide sign 20 displayed at the point (1) displays “exercise park” and “shopping center” at the branch destination in the direction of the own vehicle. In the direction of the right turn, “Theme Park” and “◇◇ Hot Spring”, which are recommended facilities (indicated by a broken line in the figure), are displayed.
As an aid to the explanation, an arrow indicating the traveling direction of the own vehicle and the own vehicle mark 21 are described in the navigation display direction guide sign in FIG. 7B, but the actual navigation display direction guide sign is shown. These shall not be indicated.

It is assumed that the vehicle turns right at the branch road ahead of the point (1) and the host vehicle reaches the point (2). This point (2) is assumed to be a position where the distance to the “theme park” which is a recommended facility is Nm or more. For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 selects the display frequency for displaying the facility name “theme park” on the navigation display direction guidance sign for every 3 (= a) branch roads existing up to “theme park”. Yes.
On the other hand, for the recommended facility “◇◇ Onsen”, the distance from point (2) to “◇◇ Onsen” shall be less than Mm. For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 selects a display frequency for displaying the facility name “◇◇ hot spring” on the navigation display direction guidance signboard of all the branch roads existing up to “◇◇ hot spring”.
As a result, if there is a “theme park” and “◇◇ hot spring” at the branch destination of the next branch road in the direction of travel of the vehicle from point (2), as shown in FIG. “◇◇ Hot spring” is displayed on the navigation sign for navigating, but “Theme park” is not displayed.

It is assumed that the vehicle has reached the point (3) by going straight on the branch road ahead of the point (2). Also in this point (3), it is assumed that the distance to the “theme park” is Nm or more. For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 selects a display frequency for displaying the facility name “theme park” on the navigation display direction guide sign for every a branching path (for example, three) existing before “theme park”. doing.
On the other hand, for the recommended facilities “◇◇ hot spring” and “shrine a”, the distance from the point (3) is less than Mm. For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 displays the facility names “◇◇ Onsen” and “Shrine a” on the navigation display direction signboards for all branches existing before “◇◇ Onsen” and “Shrine a”. The display frequency to be selected is selected.
As a result, when “theme park”, “◇◇ hot spring”, and “shrine a” are at the branch destination of the next branch road in the direction of travel of the vehicle from point (3), as shown in FIG. In addition, “◇◇ Onsen” and “Shrine a” are displayed on the navigation display signboard for this branch road, but “Theme Park” is not displayed.

It is assumed that the vehicle has reached the point (4) by going straight on the branch road ahead of the point (3). This point (4) is assumed that the distance to the “theme park” is Mm or more. For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 selects a display frequency for displaying the facility name “theme park” on the navigation display direction guide sign for every b (for example, two) branch roads existing up to “theme park”. doing.
In addition, as for the recommended facilities “◇◇ Hot Spring” and “Shrine a”, since the vehicle passes through the branch road, it is displayed on the navigation sign for the navigation display at the branch road ahead of point (4). Not extracted as.
On the other hand, it is assumed that the recommended facility “Rose Park” is less than Mm from the point (3). For this reason, the display frequency control unit 16 selects the display frequency for displaying the facility name “Rose Park” on the navigation display direction guide signs for all the branches existing before “Rose Park”.
As a result, when “theme park” and “rose park” exist at the branch destination of the next branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle from the point (4), as shown in FIG. “Theme park” and “Rose park” are displayed on the navigation display signboard.

In this way, the display frequency of the facility name on the navigation display direction guide sign is changed according to the distance to the recommended facility. In particular, by increasing the display frequency of the facility name of the facility close to the host vehicle, it is possible to provide a navigation display direction guide sign that makes it difficult for the user (driver) to overlook the recommended facility. Thereby, it can prevent that a user goes too much without noticing.
On the other hand, the farther away from the host vehicle, the more branch destination facilities are to be displayed. If all these are displayed, the navigation display direction guide signboard becomes complicated. Therefore, by reducing the display frequency of the facility names of facilities far from the vehicle, the number of facility names to be displayed on the navigation display direction guide signboard can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 displays the facility name displayed on the navigation guidance signboard based on the positional relationship between the branch destination facility and the host vehicle. To control. In particular, as the distance from the vehicle to the facility becomes shorter, the displayed facility is overlooked by increasing the display frequency of displaying the facility on the navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road that reaches the facility. It is possible to provide a difficult navigation display direction signboard.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the third embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guidance signboard according to the distance from the user's home that indirectly indicates the usage status of the road on which the vehicle is traveling. Control display frequency.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the navigation apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. In FIG. 8, the process from step ST1b to step ST8b is the same as the process from step ST1 to step ST8 of FIG.
In step ST9b, the display frequency control unit 16 searches the map data stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, so that the host vehicle is currently positioned. It is determined whether or not the route to be performed is more than Lkm away from the preset home position.

  At this time, if the route on which the vehicle is located is within the range of less than Lkm from the home position (step ST9b; NO), the navigation vehicle is not displayed and the vehicle is not more than Lkm away from the home position. The detection of the current position and the determination as to whether or not the route on which the vehicle is located are at least Lkm away from the home position are repeated.

  On the other hand, when the route on which the vehicle is located is more than Lkm away from the preset home position (step ST9b; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 performs display control to display the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. The unit 15 is instructed. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST10b). The subsequent processing from step ST11b to step ST13b is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG.

  In FIG. 8, when the route on which the vehicle is located is within the range of less than Lkm from the home position, the navigation display direction guidance signboard is not displayed, but the display frequency is made lower than a predetermined value. You may control as follows. For example, when there are a plurality of branch roads on the route to the home, a navigation display direction guide sign is displayed every other branch road.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 lowers or does not display the navigation display direction guidance signboard for the branch road within a predetermined distance from the user's home. It is possible to prevent a facility that is likely to be known by the user within a predetermined distance from the home from being displayed unnecessarily on the navigation display direction guide signboard.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In the navigation apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 controls the display frequency of the navigation display direction guidance signboard depending on whether the road used by the vehicle is a regular road. To do. Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the navigation device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In FIG. 9, the process from step ST1c to step ST8c is the same as the process from step ST1 to step ST8 of FIG.
In the storage unit 11, it is assumed that routes that are regularly used by the user (driver) are registered in advance. For example, the travel history information may be stored in the storage unit 11 each time the host vehicle travels, and a route in which the number of travels exceeds a predetermined value may be used as a regular route.

  In step ST9c, the display frequency control unit 16 searches the map data stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, so that the host vehicle is currently positioned. It is determined whether the route to be used is a regular route. At this time, if the route on which the vehicle is located is a regular route (step ST9c; YES), the current position is detected and the vehicle is kept until the vehicle leaves the regular route without displaying the navigation display direction guide sign. The determination whether or not is on the regular route is repeated.

On the other hand, when the route on which the vehicle is located is not the regular route (step ST9c; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guidance signboard on the display 9. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST10c).
The subsequent processing from step ST11c to step ST13c is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG.

  In FIG. 9, when the route on which the vehicle is located is a regular route, the navigation display direction guide sign is not displayed, but the display frequency may be controlled to be lower than a predetermined value. For example, when there are a plurality of branch roads on the regular route, a navigation display direction guide sign is displayed every other branch road.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 lowers or does not display the navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road on the service road, so the user knows it. It is possible to prevent unnecessary facilities from being displayed on the navigation information direction signboards around the frequently used route.

Embodiment 5 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the fifth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 uses the display frequency specified by the user, that is, every time the vehicle reaches the display point (the road feature position) specified by the user. Control to display a signboard.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation (Example 1) of the navigation device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. First, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 refers to the stored contents of the storage unit 11 and obtains the preference data of the user (driver or passenger) or the display frequency information of the navigation display direction guidance signboard desired by the user. It is confirmed whether or not the data has been registered in the storage unit 11. If these data are registered in the storage unit 11, it is confirmed whether or not these data need to be corrected (step ST1d). The details of this process are the same as step ST1 in FIG.

When the user preference data or the display frequency information of the navigation display direction signboard desired by the user is not registered in the storage unit 11, or the preference data in the storage unit 11 or the display frequency information needs to be corrected (Step ST1d; NO), the user uses the input processing unit 8 to input preference data that has not been registered or modified or the display frequency information (step ST2d).
The preference data input using the input processing unit 8 is registered in the storage unit 11 via the direction guidance sign generation unit 13. In addition, the display frequency information input using the input processing unit 8 is set in the display frequency control unit 16.

  On the other hand, when the user's preference data and the display frequency information are registered in the storage unit 11 and the preference data and the display frequency information need not be corrected (step ST1d; YES), or the process of step ST2d is performed. If completed, the position / direction detector 14 detects the current position and traveling direction of the host vehicle (step ST3d).

Next, the display frequency control unit 16 refers to the map data stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, thereby determining the current position of the host vehicle. Then, it is determined whether or not the point (characteristic position) is designated by the display frequency information set by the user (step ST4d).
At this time, if the current position of the host vehicle is not the above point (step ST4d; NO), detection of the current position and determination of whether or not the host vehicle has reached the point until the host vehicle reaches the point. repeat.

On the other hand, when the current position of the own vehicle is the above point (step ST4d; YES), the direction guidance signboard generating unit 13 is based on the current position and the traveling direction of the own vehicle detected by the position / direction detecting unit 14. A branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle is detected from the map data in the storage unit 11 (step ST5d).
Subsequently, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 specifies the shape of the branch road in the traveling direction of the vehicle detected from the map data (step ST6d), and the navigation display direction guidance according to the specified shape of the branch road. A signboard arrow figure is selected (step ST7d).

Next, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 detects the facilities existing in each direction branched by the branch road from the map data in the storage unit 11.
Thereafter, the direction guidance signboard generation unit 13 extracts the facility name that matches the user's preference category from the facility names of the facility as a detection result, and combines it with the arrow graphic selected in step ST7d. A display direction guide sign is generated (step ST8d).

The display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guidance sign for the next branch road in the traveling direction of the host vehicle generated by the direction guidance sign generation unit 13. . The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST9d).
The subsequent processing from step ST10d to step ST12d is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG.
By doing in this way, since the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed for each point (characteristic position) set by the user, it is possible to appropriately determine the course using the navigation display direction guidance signboard.

Although Example 1 mentioned above showed the case where a navigation display direction guidance signboard was displayed for every point which a user set up, a navigation display direction guidance signboard may be displayed in the position where a display request from a user was made. (Example 2).
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 2) of the navigation device according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 11, the process from step ST1e to step ST8e is the same as the process from step ST1 to step ST8 in FIG.

When the process of step ST7e is completed, the input processing unit 8 determines whether or not there is a display request for the navigation display direction guide signboard from the user (step ST9e).
If there is no display request for the navigation display direction guide sign from the user (step ST9e; NO), the determination of the user operation is repeated until there is a display request for the navigation display direction guide sign.

On the other hand, when the display request for the navigation display direction guidance signboard is received from the user (step ST9e; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 is the next in the traveling direction of the own vehicle generated by the direction guidance sign generation unit 13. The display control unit 15 is instructed to display a navigation display direction guide sign for the branch road on the display 9. In accordance with the instruction from the display frequency control unit 16, the display control unit 15 displays the navigation display direction guidance signboard on the branch road on the display 9 (step ST10e). The subsequent processing from step ST11e to step ST13e is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG.
By doing in this way, since the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed at the position requested by the user, it is possible to appropriately determine the course using the navigation display direction guidance signboard.
For example, the user can display a navigation display direction guide sign for the next branch road at a favorite timing during a break when the own vehicle is stopped or during a traffic jam in which the own vehicle is stuck.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 causes the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guide signboard on the display 9 at the display frequency requested by the user. Therefore, the navigation display direction guide sign can be displayed at a frequency desired by the user, and the navigation display direction guide sign can be used at an appropriate frequency that is easy for the user to use.

Embodiment 6 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the sixth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 determines the usage status of the road on which the vehicle has traveled according to the number of travels and / or travel time of the road on which the vehicle has traveled in the past. The display frequency of the navigation display direction guidance signboard on the branch road existing on the road is controlled. Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation (Example 1) of the navigation device according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. In FIG. 12, the process from step ST1f to step ST7f is the same as the process from step ST1a to step ST7a in FIG.
It is assumed that the storage unit 11 stores the number of times of travel and the time of travel for each travel route of the vehicle as travel history information.

  In step ST8f, the display frequency control unit 16 refers to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position and the traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, so that the current Then, it is determined whether or not the number of times of traveling on the road where the vehicle is located is P or more. At this time, when the number of times of traveling on the road on which the vehicle is located is P or more (step ST8f; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation every c branch roads existing in the traveling direction of the vehicle. The display frequency for displaying the direction guidance sign is selected (step ST9f).

When the number of times of traveling on the road where the host vehicle is located is less than P times (step ST8f; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 is based on the current position and the traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14. Then, by referring to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11, it is determined whether or not the road on which the vehicle is currently traveling is the first traveled road (step ST10f).
At this time, if the road on which the vehicle is located is not the first road to travel (step ST10f; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation every every branch road d (<c) existing in the traveling direction of the vehicle. The display frequency for displaying the user direction signboard is selected (step ST11f).

  When the road on which the own vehicle is located is the first road to travel (step ST10f; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guide signs for all the branch roads existing in the traveling direction of the own vehicle. A display frequency to be displayed is selected (step ST12f).

Next, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 displays the navigation display by synthesizing the facility name of the facility existing in each direction that branches on the next branch road in the traveling direction of the host vehicle into the arrow graphic selected in step ST6f. A usage direction signboard is generated (step ST13f).
Next, the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST14f).
The subsequent processing from step ST15f to step ST17f is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG. When the process of step ST17f is completed, the process returns to the process of step ST4f, and the above-described process is repeated until the host vehicle is stopped (engine off).
Thus, since the navigation display direction guide signboard is displayed at a frequency corresponding to the number of times the host vehicle has traveled, it is possible to determine an appropriate display frequency in consideration of the user's (driver's) familiarity and unfamiliarity. .

The above-described example 1 shows the case where the display frequency of the navigation display direction guide sign is determined according to the number of times of travel, but the display frequency of the navigation display direction guide sign is determined according to the last travel time. (Example 2).
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 2) of the navigation device according to the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 13, the process from step ST1g to step ST7g is the same as the process from step ST1f to step ST7f in FIG.
Also in FIG. 13, it is assumed that the storage unit 11 stores the number of times of travel and the time of travel as travel history information for each travel route of the host vehicle.

  In step ST8g, the display frequency control unit 16 refers to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position and the traveling direction of the vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, so that the current Then, it is determined whether or not the last driving time on the road where the vehicle is located is before Q months. At this time, when the time when the vehicle last traveled on the road where the vehicle is located is before Q months (step ST8g; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 makes every c branches that exist in the traveling direction of the vehicle. A display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide sign is selected (step ST9g).

  When the last travel time on the road on which the host vehicle is located is after Q months (step ST8g; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 detects the current position and the traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14. Based on the above, it is determined whether or not the road on which the vehicle is currently traveling is the first road by referring to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11 (step ST10g). At this time, when the road on which the vehicle is located is not the first road to travel (step ST10g; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation every every branch road d (<c) existing in the traveling direction of the vehicle. The display frequency for displaying the direction guide sign is selected (step ST11g).

  When the road on which the host vehicle is located is the first road to travel (step ST10g; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guide signs for all the branch roads existing in the traveling direction of the host vehicle. A display frequency to be displayed is selected (step ST12g).

Next, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 displays the navigation by combining the facility name of the facility existing in each direction that branches on the next branch road in the traveling direction of the own vehicle into the arrow graphic selected in step ST6g. A usage direction signboard is generated (step ST13g).
Next, the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST14g).
The subsequent processing from step ST15g to step ST17g is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG. When the process of step ST17g is completed, the process returns to the process of step ST4g, and the above-described process is repeated until the host vehicle is stopped (engine off).
Thus, since the navigation display direction guide signboard is displayed at a frequency according to the time when the host vehicle last traveled, it is possible to determine an appropriate display frequency in consideration of the memory status of the user (driver). it can.

Examples 1 and 2 described above show a case where the display frequency of the navigation display direction guide signboard is determined according to the number of times of travel and the time of last travel, but the direction of navigation display according to the combination of these conditions. You may determine the display frequency of a guidance signboard (example 3).
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation (example 3) of the navigation device according to the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 14, the processing from step ST1h to step ST7h is the same as the processing from step ST1f to step ST7f in FIG.
Also in FIG. 14, it is assumed that the storage unit 11 stores the number of times of travel and the time of travel as travel history information for each travel route of the vehicle.

In step ST8h, the display frequency control unit 16 refers to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11 based on the current position and traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and currently It is determined whether or not the road on which the car is located is the first road to travel.
At this time, if the road on which the vehicle is located is not the first road to travel (step ST8h; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 is based on the current position and the traveling direction of the vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14. Then, with reference to the travel history information stored in the storage unit 11, it is determined whether or not the number of times of traveling on the road where the vehicle is currently located is P or more (step ST9h).
At this time, when the number of times of traveling on the road where the own vehicle is located is P times or more (step ST9h; YES), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation every d branch roads existing in the traveling direction of the own vehicle. The display frequency for displaying the direction guidance sign is selected (step ST10h).

  When the number of times of traveling on the road where the host vehicle is located is less than P times (step ST9h; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 is based on the current position and the traveling direction of the host vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14. The travel history information stored in the storage unit 11 is referred to and it is determined whether or not the last travel time on the road on which the vehicle is currently is before Q months (step ST11h). At this time, when the last traveled time on the road on which the host vehicle is located is after Q months (step ST11h; NO), the display frequency control unit 16 determines the branch path c (> d existing in the traveling direction of the host vehicle. ) Select the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard every other step (step ST12h).

  Displayed when the road on which the vehicle is located is the first road to travel (step ST8h; YES), or when the last traveled time on the road on which the vehicle is located is before Q months (step ST11h; YES) The frequency control unit 16 selects a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signs for all the branch roads existing in the traveling direction of the host vehicle (step ST13h).

Next, the direction guide sign generation unit 13 displays the navigation by combining the facility name of the facility existing in each direction that branches at the next branch road in the traveling direction of the host vehicle with the arrow graphic selected in step ST6h. A usage direction signboard is generated (step ST14h).
Next, the display frequency control unit 16 instructs the display control unit 15 to display the navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9. The display control unit 15 displays a navigation display direction guide sign on the display 9 in accordance with an instruction from the display frequency control unit 16 (step ST15h).
The subsequent processing from step ST16h to step ST18h is the same as the processing from step ST11 to step ST13 in FIG. When the process of step ST18h is completed, the process returns to the process of step ST4h, and the above-described process is repeated until the host vehicle is stopped (engine off).
Thus, since the navigation display direction guide signboard is displayed at a frequency according to the number of times the vehicle has traveled and the last traveled time, it is appropriate to consider the user's (driver) familiarity, unfamiliarity, and memory conditions. Display frequency can be determined.

  As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 determines whether or not the branch road existing on the road according to the number of times and / or the time when the vehicle has traveled in the past. Since the display frequency of the navigation display direction guide signboard is controlled, it is possible to determine an appropriate display frequency in consideration of user's (driver's) familiarity, unfamiliarity, or memory condition.

Embodiment 7 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the seventh embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard when the route guidance is set and when the route guidance is not set. Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, if the route guidance is not set, the display frequency control unit 16 reduces the display frequency of the navigation display direction guidance signboard as compared to the case where the route guidance is set.
By doing in this way, when the route guidance is not set, the time required for the navigation display direction guidance signboard to be displayed on the display 9 is reduced. The navigation display direction guide signboard is effective in providing an auxiliary role at that time.

On the other hand, if the route guidance is not set, the display frequency control unit 16 may increase the display frequency of the navigation display direction guidance signboard as compared with the case where the route guidance is set.
Thereby, when the route guidance is not set, the time for which the navigation display direction guidance sign is displayed on the display 9 becomes longer. In this way, it is possible to lengthen the time for determining the course using the navigation display direction guide sign (time for examining the course). Moreover, many facilities suitable for the user's preference can be presented.

  As described above, according to the seventh embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guidance signboard when the route guidance is set and when the route guidance is not set. Since the change is made, it is possible to display the navigation display direction guidance signboard at an appropriate frequency according to whether or not the route guidance is set.

Embodiment 8 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the eighth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency at which the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed according to the road condition of the branch destination road of the branch road.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, when the display frequency control unit 16 is a road whose branch destination road is “less than one lane on one side”, that is, a narrow road that suffers from passing each other, the display frequency of the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed. Lower or do not display.
A specific example will be described.
If the branch road is a narrow road as described above, and if you follow the road, there are facilities that match the preferences of the user (driver or passenger) and there is no other route, or if there is a large detour route Then, the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed.
However, if there is no facility to actively recommend even if you proceed along a narrow branch road, the navigation guidance direction signboard is not displayed.

  As described above, according to the eighth embodiment, since the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the road condition of the branch destination road, the vehicle travels. It is possible to display the navigation display direction guidance signboard at an appropriate frequency according to the road condition of the road to be operated.

Embodiment 9 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the ninth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency at which the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed according to the region where the vehicle is located.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, the display frequency control unit 16 stores the tourist information acquired by the communication processing unit 2 in the area where the vehicle is located, the current position of the vehicle detected by the position / direction detection unit 14, and the storage unit 11. Based on the map data, it is determined whether or not the vehicle is traveling in a sightseeing spot.
When the host vehicle is traveling in a sightseeing spot, the display frequency control unit 16 increases the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard as compared with other areas.
By doing in this way, the time (time which considers a course) which determines a course using a navigation display direction guidance signboard can be taken long. Moreover, many facilities suitable for the user's preference can be presented.

  Further, when the vehicle is traveling in an area where the traffic volume is low (countryside), the display frequency control unit 16 displays the navigation display direction guide signboard more frequently than in an area where the traffic volume is high. May be. Since it is considered that there are few road upper side signboards in the countryside, it is possible to promote the course determination using the navigation display direction guide signboard.

  As described above, according to the ninth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the region where the vehicle is located, so that the host vehicle travels. A navigation display direction signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency according to the region.

Embodiment 10 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the tenth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency of the display contents of the navigation display direction guidance signboard according to the weather situation.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

  For example, the display frequency control unit 16 is based on the weather information around the vehicle acquired by the communication processing unit 2, and the weather around the vehicle is rain, snow, etc., compared with the case where the weather is clear or cloudy. The frequency of displaying indoor facilities in the navigation display direction guide signboard is increased, and the frequency of displaying outdoor facilities is decreased.

  As described above, according to the tenth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency of the display content of the navigation display direction signboard according to the weather condition. The display content of the navigation display direction guidance signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency.

Embodiment 11 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the eleventh embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency at which the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed according to the number of passengers in the vehicle.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, the display frequency control unit 16 compares the number of passengers of the own vehicle with a predetermined threshold based on the number of passengers of the own vehicle detected by a human sensor or a seat sensor (not shown in FIG. 1). It is determined whether the number of passengers in the vehicle is large.
When the number of occupants in the own vehicle is large, it is necessary to adjust the opinion of route determination, and therefore the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard is increased compared to the case where the number of occupants is small. Thereby, the time for which the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed on the display 9 can be lengthened.
By doing in this way, it is possible to increase the time for determining the course (time for examining the course) using the navigation display direction guide signboard between the passengers.

On the other hand, since there is no need to adjust opinions when the number of occupants in the own vehicle is small, the display frequency control unit 16 reduces the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction signboard as compared to when the number of occupants is large.
Thereby, the time for which the navigation display direction guidance signboard is displayed on the display 9 can be shortened.

  As described above, according to the eleventh embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the number of passengers in the vehicle. The navigation display direction guide signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency.

Embodiment 12 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the twelfth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guide sign according to the time.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

  For example, based on the time information in the GPS signal acquired from the GPS signal reception processing unit 6, the display frequency control unit 16 determines whether or not the time when the host vehicle is traveling is in a predetermined time zone. When driving the vehicle at night, the user may be on the way home and may not visit the recommended facility. Reduce the frequency of displaying signage.

  As described above, according to the twelfth embodiment, since the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the time, it corresponds to the time when the host vehicle travels. The navigation display direction guide signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency.

Embodiment 13 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the thirteenth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction signboard according to the day of the week.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, the display frequency control unit 16 determines whether the day on which the vehicle is traveling is a holiday or a weekday based on the time information in the GPS signal acquired from the GPS signal reception processing unit 6.
When the host vehicle is traveling on a holiday day, the user may travel using the host vehicle, and it is considered that there are many opportunities to make a course decision. Therefore, the display frequency control unit 16 increases the frequency at which the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed as compared with the day of the week. This makes it possible to lengthen the time for determining the course (time for examining the course) using the navigation display direction guide signboard. Moreover, many facilities suitable for the user's preference can be presented.

  As described above, according to the thirteenth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard according to the day of the week. The navigation display direction guide signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency.

Embodiment 14 FIG.
In the navigation device according to the fourteenth embodiment, the display frequency control unit 16 changes the frequency at which the navigation display direction guide sign is displayed according to the traveling speed of the vehicle.
Other configurations and functions are the same as those of the navigation device according to the first embodiment.

For example, the display frequency control unit 16 determines whether or not the traveling speed of the host vehicle is higher than a predetermined threshold based on the traveling speed of the host vehicle detected by the vehicle speed signal processing unit 5.
When the traveling speed of the host vehicle is higher than a predetermined threshold, the user (driver) interprets the display content of the navigation display direction guide signboard in a short time, and thus the load other than driving increases.
Therefore, the display frequency control unit 16 reduces the frequency of displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard as compared with the case where the traveling speed of the host vehicle is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. Thereby, the total load which combined the load which interprets the direction guidance signboard for a navigation display, and the driving | running | working load can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the fourteenth embodiment, since the display frequency control unit 16 changes the display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the vehicle speed of the vehicle, The navigation display direction guide signboard can be displayed at an appropriate frequency.

In the said Embodiment 1-14, although the case where the navigation apparatus which concerns on this invention was a vehicle-mounted navigation apparatus was shown, it is not limited to this.
That is, the navigation device according to the present invention may be used as a navigation device for a mobile object including a person, a vehicle, a railway, a ship, or an aircraft, and is a navigation device that is particularly suitable for being brought into a vehicle or mounted on a vehicle.

  In the present invention, within the scope of the invention, any combination of each embodiment, any component of each embodiment can be modified, or any component can be omitted in each embodiment. .

  Since the navigation apparatus according to the present invention can display the direction guide signboard at an appropriate frequency that is easy for the user to use, the navigation apparatus is suitable, for example, for an in-vehicle navigation apparatus.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Navigation apparatus, 2 Communication processing part, 3 Traffic information receiving part, 4 Gyro sensor, 5 Vehicle speed signal processing part, 6 GPS signal reception processing part, 6a Car-mounted GPS antenna, 7 Control part, 8 Input processing part, 9 Display, 10 Amplifier, 10a Speaker, 11 Storage unit, 12 Portable communication terminal, 13 Direction guide sign generation unit, 14 Position / direction detection unit, 15 Display control unit, 16 Display frequency control unit, 17 Route guidance unit, 19 Navigation screen, 20 Navigation display Use direction signboard, 21 vehicle mark, 22 intersection (branch), 23 routes.

Claims (16)

A navigation device mounted on a moving body,
A direction guide sign generation unit that generates a direction guide sign for navigation display of the branch road,
A display control unit for displaying the navigation guide direction guide sign generated by the direction guide sign generation unit on the display unit;
Wherein the position of a road where the moving body moves, based on the utilization form status of the road positional relationship and the moving body of the moving body and the branch destination of the facility is moved, the display control unit surface guiding said navigation display A navigation apparatus comprising: a display frequency control unit that controls a display frequency for displaying a signboard on the display unit. The display frequency control unit, wherein the controller controls the display control unit to display said navigation display direction signboard display frequency of each feature location street direction signboard outlet line is installed in the display unit The navigation device according to claim 1. The display frequency control unit, the navigation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that not the lower the display frequency of the navigation display face signboard or display the branch path is within a predetermined distance from the user's home. The display frequency control unit, the navigation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the branch path on the regular road not the lower the display frequency of the navigation display face signboard or display.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit displays the navigation display direction guide sign on the display unit when a display request is made to the display control unit by a user.   2. The navigation according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guidance signboard when the route guidance is set and when the route guidance is not set. apparatus.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit causes the display control unit to display the navigation display direction guide signboard at the display frequency requested by a user. .   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to an area where the moving body is located.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to a day of the week. The display frequency control unit, as the distance to the facility from said mobile is reduced, increasing the display frequency of displaying the facility on the navigation display direction signboard outlet line present in up to the facility The navigation device according to claim 1. The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency of display contents of the navigation display direction guide signboard according to weather conditions.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to time. The display frequency control unit, the number of movements or movement time of the road on which the moving body moves in the past, or in response to both control the display frequency of the navigation display direction signboard branch path exists in the road The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein:   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to the number of passengers of the moving body.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide sign according to a road condition of the branch destination road.   The navigation device according to claim 1, wherein the display frequency control unit changes a display frequency for displaying the navigation display direction guide signboard according to a moving speed of the moving body.

Images