JP6405267B2 - Route search device, alert device, and computer program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for assisting a user's movement toward a destination.

  Conventionally, when the current time is within 1 hour before sunset time and within 30 minutes after sunset and the vehicle is traveling west, voice guidance such as “intersection name”, “turning direction”, “distance”, etc. There is a technique in which the frequency increases from that in the normal operation mode.

JP 2002-181554 A

  However, even if the frequency of occurrence of voice guidance increases from that in the normal operation mode, the glare felt by the user due to the sunset is not reduced. And it is not that the user can take measures on the spot or in advance so that the sunset is not dazzled.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms.

(1) According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for searching for a route from a departure place to a target position is provided. The route search apparatus includes: an input unit that acquires a destination, a departure point, and a departure time or arrival time; a route search unit that searches for a route from the departure point to the destination; A first determination unit that determines, based on a route and the departure time or arrival time, whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view at a plurality of points included in the searched route A second determination unit that determines whether the sunset is blocked by a building at a point where the direction of the sunset is included in the user's field of view; and a point where the direction of the sunset is included in the field of view of the user And when there is a point where the sunset is not obstructed by the building, there is provided an output unit capable of performing an output to alert the user under a predetermined condition.
If it is set as such an aspect, the user can know that the sunset enters the field of view during the route search. Therefore, when the sunset actually enters the field of view when actually moving along the route, the possibility that the user will be surprised can be reduced. In addition, the user can prepare a countermeasure before actually moving the route.

(2) In the route search device, the first determination unit includes: (a) latitude, longitude, and altitude of the point; and (b) a traveling direction including an azimuth and an inclination angle in a horizontal plane at the point; (C) Based on the month and day included in the departure time or arrival time, it is possible to determine whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view.
With such an aspect, whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view can be appropriately determined based on the inclination angle and the sunset time on the day of departure.

(3) In the route search device, the second determination unit determines whether the sunset is blocked by a building, including at least one of a tunnel and a multi-level road as the building. It can be set as an aspect.

(4) In the route search device, the input unit can further receive an instruction to search for a route in which sunset does not enter the sight; the route search device further includes the destination and the route Forbidden in the time zone in which the selection of a route should be restricted based on the sunset time at a point determined based on at least one of the departure point, the destination, and the departure point A prohibition direction determination unit that determines a traveling direction; and when the instruction is received, the route search unit is a route from the departure place to the destination, and is prohibited in the time zone. It is possible to adopt a mode in which a route that does not include a section to be moved in the traveling direction is searched.
With such an aspect, the user can obtain a route in which the sunset does not enter the field of view.

(5) According to another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus that alerts a user who is moving along a route is provided. This caution ventilator: a first route that determines whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view after a predetermined time based on a predetermined route that includes the current position and the current time. A second determination unit that determines whether or not the sunset is obstructed by a building when the direction of sunset is included in the user's field of view after the predetermined time, based on the route and the current time; An output unit for performing an output for calling attention on the sunset under a predetermined condition when the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view and the sunset is not obstructed by the building after the predetermined time; .
With such an aspect, the user can know in advance that the sunset can enter the field of view. For this reason, there is little possibility of surprise when the sunset actually enters sight. In addition, the user can prepare countermeasures before reaching the point where the sunset actually enters the field of view after a predetermined time.

(6) In the above alert device, the first determination unit includes: (a) latitude, longitude, and altitude of a point that will be located after the predetermined time; and (b) an azimuth in a horizontal plane at the point and Based on the traveling direction including the inclination angle; and (c) the month and day included in the current time, it is possible to determine whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view. .
With such an aspect, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view after a predetermined time based on the inclination angle and the sunset time of the day.

(7) In the above alert device, the output unit may further include a condition that at least one of the weather at the current position and the weather at the position after the predetermined time is not cloudy or raining as the predetermined condition. When it is satisfied, it is possible to provide an aspect in which an output for calling attention to the sunset is performed.
With such an embodiment, it is possible to prevent the user from being bothered by unnecessary attention when the sunset does not become dazzling due to cloudy or rainy weather.

(8) In the above alert device, the second determination unit determines whether or not the sunset is blocked by a building, including at least one of a tunnel and a multi-level road as the building. It can be set as an aspect.

(9) In the above alert device, the output unit may further include a case in which the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view after the predetermined time, and the sunset is blocked by the building. When the time during which the building is blocked by the building is less than or equal to a predetermined value, an output for urging attention that the sunset will shine after passing through the building under a predetermined condition may be performed.
In this manner, in addition to the case where the sunset is not blocked by the building, the user can be alerted to the sunset even when the sunset is blocked by the building.

(10) In the above attention drawing device, when the output unit further performs an output for calling attention regarding the sunset, the signal is within a predetermined range in the traveling direction from the position after the predetermined time. In another aspect, an output for calling attention to the signal is performed.
With such an embodiment, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user will be distracted by the sunset and notice the signal or miss the signal.

(11) According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program for searching for a route from a departure place to a target position using a computer. The computer program includes: a function of obtaining a destination, a departure place, and a departure time or arrival time; a function of searching for a route from the departure place to the destination; the searched route and the departure A function for determining whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's view at a plurality of points included in the searched route based on the time; and the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's view A function for determining whether or not the sunset is obstructed by a building at a point where the sunset is blocked; and when the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view and there is a point where the sunset is not obstructed by the building In addition, it is possible to cause the computer to realize a function of performing an output to alert the user under a predetermined condition.

(12) According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program for alerting a user who is moving along a route using a computer. This computer program has a function of determining whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view after a predetermined time based on a predetermined route that includes the current position and the current time. A function for determining, based on the route and the current time, whether or not the sunset is obstructed by the building when the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view after the predetermined time; When the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view and the sunset is not obstructed by the building, the computer is realized with a function of performing an output for calling attention on the sunset under a predetermined condition.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms other than the apparatus. For example, the present invention can be realized in the form of a route guidance device, a route guidance method, a route search method, a warning method, a computer program that realizes these methods, a non-temporary recording medium that records the computer program, and the like.

It is a figure which shows the hardware constitutions of the route guidance system which is an Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of performing a route search using a route guidance system. It is a figure which shows an example of the warning screen in step S30 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the process of the control part 184 of the solar server 180 in FIG.2 S25. It is a flowchart which shows the alerting process performed during route guidance. It is a figure which shows an example of the warning screen in step S330 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the warning screen in step S340 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process for performing the warning regarding a traffic signal when determination of step S325 or S335 of FIG. 5 is No. It is a flowchart for showing the process in 3rd Example.

A. First embodiment:
A1. overall structure:
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a route guidance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The route guidance system of the embodiment includes a route search server 100, a map server 150, a solar server 180, and a mobile phone 200.

  For example, the mobile phone 200 is fixed in a position where it can be seen by a driver in an automobile used by a user. The mobile phone 200 includes a GPS unit 201, a display panel 202, an audio output unit 203, a vibration mechanism 204, a communication unit 205, a command input unit 206, a brightness sensor 209, a main control unit 210, and call control. Part 220.

  The GPS unit 201 is a unit including an antenna for receiving radio waves from a satellite of GPS (Global Positioning System / Global Positioning System). Based on the radio wave received by the GPS antenna, the GPS unit 201 can generate position information indicating the current position of the mobile phone 200. Further, the GPS unit 201 can generate time information representing the current time based on radio waves from the satellite.

  The display panel 202 is a liquid crystal display that can display an image. The display panel 202 includes a touch panel 206a that can receive an instruction from the user by touching a part of the panel according to a displayed image. Specifically, the display panel 202 is configured by overlaying a transparent touch panel 206a on a liquid crystal display. For example, the user can perform an operation for controlling the display of an image by pressing the surface of the display panel 202 with a finger or moving the finger in contact with the surface of the display panel 202. In this specification, “image” is a concept that includes characters, symbols, and the like in addition to narrowly defined images.

  The voice output unit 203 is a device that includes a speaker, and is a device that can output a message to a user such as route guidance, a melody, and the like by voice. The vibration mechanism 204 is a device that can prompt the user's attention with a predetermined pattern of vibration.

  The command input unit 206 includes the touch panel 206a and cursor keys 206b as hardware. The user can input information to the mobile phone 200 not only by touching the touch panel 206a but also by pressing the peripheral part of the cursor key 206b to move the cursor and pressing the center part of the cursor key 206b to perform an ON operation. .

  The communication unit 205 can communicate with the route search server 100, the map server 150, and the solar server 180 via the Internet INT as a communication network to transmit and receive information. In addition to the Internet, the communication network includes a LAN, a WAN, a public line, and the like.

  The brightness sensor 209 detects ambient brightness and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the brightness. The call control unit 220 is a circuit that performs an incoming call for a call, a voice / electrical signal conversion, and the like.

  The main control unit 210 is a control unit for controlling each unit of the mobile phone 200. The main control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a RAM 212, and a ROM 213 that are used for these controls. The main control unit 210 controls each unit such as the display panel 202, the audio output unit 203, and the vibration mechanism 204 of the mobile phone 200 by executing application software on the CPU. For example, the main control unit 210 can transmit data in a predetermined format including the position information generated by the GPS unit 201 to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 205. The main control unit 210 can display the route on the display panel 202 based on the route data received from the route search server 100 via the communication unit 205.

  The route search server 100 includes a communication unit 102, a control unit 104, and a storage unit 106. The communication unit 102 can communicate with the map server 150, the solar server 180, and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT.

  The storage unit 106 stores route network data for route search. Storage unit 106 further stores data received from map server 150, solar server 180, and mobile phone 200, and data generated based on the data.

  The route network data includes node information, intersection and station attribute information, and arc information. The node information is data representing points such as an intersection, a point where the number of lanes changes on the road, a place where an approach road to the toll road branches, a start point and an end point of a curve, and a station on the route.

  The arc information is information regarding arcs that are roads or route sections between nodes. Each arc is assigned a unique ID. Each arc information includes data of latitude, longitude, and altitude of a number of points included in each arc. That is, roads and route sections for which a route can be set can be represented as a point sequence of those points. Each arc information includes information on whether or not each arc is a toll road, information on an inclination angle, and the number of lanes in addition to the ID and point sequence information.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 refers to the route network data stored in the storage unit 106, and searches for a route based on information on the departure point, the destination, the waypoint, and other search conditions. Then, the control unit 104 generates route data representing a route from the departure point to the destination, and transmits the route data to the mobile phone 200. The route data includes node information, arc information, intersection and station attribute information, and the like.

  The map server 150 includes a communication unit 152, a control unit 154, and a map database 156. The communication unit 152 can communicate with the route search server 100 and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT.

  The map database 156 stores map image data as image data to be transmitted to the mobile phone 200. The control unit 154 specifies map image data representing a map of a partial area requested by the mobile phone 200 based on the data received from the mobile phone 200 and transmits the map image data to the mobile phone 200 via the communication unit 152.

  The solar server 180 includes a communication unit 182, a control unit 184, and a solar database 186. The communication unit 182 can communicate with the route search server 100 and the mobile phone 200 via the Internet INT. The sun database 186 associates the combination of the latitude and longitude with the information of the date and time, information on the direction of the sun shining at the point specified by the latitude and longitude, for example, the azimuth and elevation angle in the horizontal plane It is stored as a value that represents. The sun database 186 stores sunset times in association with combinations of latitude and longitude and month and day information.

A2. Route search process:
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a process when performing a route search using the route guidance system. In step S <b> 10, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 receives information about the destination, the departure place, and the departure time or arrival time from the user via the command input unit 206. The command input unit 206 can receive, for example, an input of a facility name and an address as input of destination information. Further, the command input unit 206 can receive designation of one point on the map displayed on the display panel 202 via the touch panel 206a as input of destination information.

  The main control unit 210 can also acquire the current position obtained via the GPS unit 201 as the departure place, instead of the input by the user. In addition, the main control unit 210 can acquire the current time obtained via the GPS unit 201 as the departure time.

  When receiving an instruction “confirm input information” from the user via the command input unit 206, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 controls the communication unit 205 to store the input information in the route search server 100. Send to. A function unit of the main control unit 210 that performs the process of step S10 is shown as an “input unit 231” in FIG.

  In step S20 of FIG. 2, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 searches for a route from the departure point to the destination based on the information received from the mobile phone 200 in step S10. More specifically, there is a route that can leave the departure place at the input departure time and reach the destination, or a route that can leave the departure place and reach the destination at the input arrival time. Explored. The route information, which is information specified as a result of the route search, includes (i) information on the position (latitude and longitude and altitude) of each point included in the route, and (ii) the traveling direction of each point included in the route. Information on the azimuth in the horizontal plane, (iii) information on the inclination angle (vertical angle) of the traveling direction at each point included in the route, and (iv) the scheduled passage time at each point included in the route . A functional unit of the control unit 104 that performs the process of step S20 is illustrated as a “route search unit 111” in FIG.

  In step S25 of FIG. 2, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines whether or not a “sunset-required section”, which is a section where the sunset enters the user's field of view, is in the searched route. More specifically, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits the location information of each point included in the route information and the scheduled passage time including the date to the solar server 180 via the communication unit 152. And inquires whether there is a sunset sensitive section. Then, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 obtains an answer from the solar server 180 as to whether or not there is a “sunset-required section” that is a section where the sunset enters the user's field of view.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 performs a predetermined process in response to an answer about the presence / absence of “a section requiring attention for sunset” obtained from the solar server 180. That is, as a result of the process in step S25 of FIG. 2, if there is no sunset sensitive section in the route, the process proceeds to step S60.

  In step S <b> 60, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits the route information to the mobile phone 200 through the communication unit 102 together with information indicating that there is no sunset sensitive section in the route. The main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 separately acquires map image data in a range including the route represented by the route information from the map server 150 via the communication unit 205. Then, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 displays an image for displaying the route on the map on the display panel 202 based on the map image data and the route information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the process of step S25 in FIG. 2, if a sunset-required section exists in the route, the process proceeds to step S30. In step S30, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits, via the communication unit 102, data indicating that there is a sunset required section in the route and data to be output from the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203. To the mobile phone 200.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the warning screen in step S30 of FIG. Based on the data received from the route search server 100, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 displays a warning that the sunset is in the middle of the route and a display that prompts a countermeasure (preparation of sunglasses). On the display panel 202. At the same time, the main control unit 210 displays a display on the display panel 202 that prompts the user to input an instruction as to whether or not to search for a route in which the sunset does not enter the field of view ("Yes" and "No" in the lower part of FIG. 3). ”Button).

  The functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 that performs the process of step S30 is illustrated as an “output unit 113” in FIG. A functional unit of the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 that performs the process of step S30 is shown as an “output unit 232” in FIG.

  By performing such processing, the user can know that the sunset can enter the field of view before actually moving the route (see FIG. 3). For this reason, it is unlikely that the user will be surprised if the sunset is actually seen when moving along the route. In addition, the user can prepare measures in advance so that the sunset does not dazzle when actually moving along the route at the stage of route search.

  If the “No” button in the lower part of FIG. 3 is pressed after the display in step S30 in FIG. 2, that is, if an instruction to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view is not input, The process proceeds to step S40 via step S35 in FIG. In step S40, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 displays an image for displaying the route on the map on the display panel 202 by the same process as in step S60 (see FIG. 3). However, in step S60, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 simultaneously displays a warning that the sunset is in the middle of the route (for example, a display such as “There is a section where the sunset looks dazzling”) at the same time. 202.

  If the “Yes” button in the lower part of FIG. 3 is pressed after the display of step S30, that is, if an instruction to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view is input, After S35, the process proceeds to step S50. The input unit 231 serving as a function unit of the main control unit 210 has a function of receiving an instruction to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view.

  In step S50 of FIG. 2, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 transmits an instruction to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 205 to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view. The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines a reference point based on the position of the sunset-required section of the route obtained in step S20. The reference point can be, for example, an intermediate point in the sunset sensitive section. If there are multiple sections requiring attention at sunset, the reference point is the intermediate point along the route between the point closest to the departure point and the point closest to the destination among the points included in the sections requiring attention at sunset. It can be a point.

  Then, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits the date and time included in the departure time or arrival time received from the mobile phone 200 and the position information of the reference point to the solar server 180, and the date at the reference point is transmitted. Inquires about the time limit equivalent to the sunset time from 30 minutes before the sunset time and the direction in which the sun shines at the reference point during the time limit. Then, the solar server 180 refers to the solar database 186 and specifies the sunset time at the reference point based on the departure time or arrival time including the month and day and the position information of the reference point. Then, the solar server 180 identifies the time limit from 30 minutes before the sunset time to the sunset time, and the direction in which the sun shines at the reference point during the time limit, and searches for a route via the communication unit 182. Send to server 100. The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 sets the time limit and the direction in which the sun shines at the reference point during the time limit as the constraint conditions for the route search. Then, the process returns to step S20.

  A functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 that performs the process of step S50 is illustrated as a “prohibited direction determination unit 114” in FIG. A functional unit of the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 that performs the process of step S50 is illustrated as a “prohibited direction determination unit 189” in FIG.

  When the process of step S20 is performed through step S50, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 performs a predetermined range including the traveling direction (for example, 60 degrees vertically upward) at a point in the route during the time limit. The route is determined so as not to include the direction in which the sun shines within 70 degrees vertically downward and 100 degrees horizontally.

  In step S20 of FIG. 2, if there is no route that does not include the direction of the sun in the predetermined range including the traveling direction during the time limit, an indication that there is no route that does not allow the sunset to enter the field of view. The process proceeds to step S40. In FIG. 2, in order to facilitate understanding of the process, the display of the process flow that proceeds from step S20 to step S40 is omitted.

  By performing the processing of steps S35 and S50 in FIG. 2, it is possible to provide a route where the sunset is not visible to the user who prefers a route where the sunset is not visible even if it is not the shortest distance or the shortest time. .

A3. Judgment process of whether or not there is a sunset sensitive section:
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing details of processing of the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 in step S25 of FIG. In step S210, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 refers to the solar database 186, and based on the location information of each point included in the route information and the date and time included in the scheduled passage time, Get the sunset time.

  In step S215, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 determines the time Ts (from the sunset time at each point based on the scheduled passage time of each point included in the route information and the sunset time obtained in step S210. It is determined whether or not the scheduled passage time of each point is included in the time zone from the previous time (Ts is a positive number) to the sunset time. The time Ts can be, for example, 30 minutes. If there is no point where the scheduled passage time is included in the time zone from the sunset time before the time Ts to the sunset time, the process proceeds to step S240.

  In step S <b> 240, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 transmits a response indicating that there is no sunset sensitive section to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 182. By performing the process of step S215, it is possible to reduce the frequency of performing the process of specifying the direction in which the sun shines at each point (see step S220 described later). For this reason, it is possible to reduce the load of the determination process as to whether or not there is a sunset requiring attention section.

  In step S250, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines that there is no sunset required section based on the answer from the solar server 180 (see step S25 in FIG. 2).

  On the other hand, in step S215 in FIG. 4, if the scheduled time of passing is included in the route from the sunset time to the sunset time by the time Ts before the sunset time, the process proceeds to step S220. move on. In step S220, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 causes the sun to shine at each point included in the time zone from the sunset time to the sunset time when the scheduled passage time is from the sunset time to the sunset time (the direction in the horizontal plane). Elevation angle) is specified.

  In step S225, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 refers to the solar database 186, and for each point whose passage time is included in the time zone from the sunset time to the sunset time by the time Ts in the horizontal plane. A predetermined angle range centering on the traveling direction specified by the azimuth and the inclination angle is specified. The predetermined angle range centered on this traveling direction is the range of the user's field of view. The predetermined angle range centering on the traveling direction is, for example, 60 degrees vertically upward with respect to the traveling direction, 70 degrees vertically downward with respect to the traveling direction, 100 degrees to the right with respect to the traveling direction, and in the traveling direction. On the other hand, the range can be 100 degrees to the left.

  And the control part 184 of the solar server 180 is a predetermined angle range centering on the advancing direction about each point in which the passage time is included in the time zone from the sunset time to the sunset time by the time Ts (that is, It is determined whether or not the direction in which the sun shines is included in the range of the user's field of view. And the control part 184 of the solar server 180 is one or more “candidates” of a set of one or more points including the direction in which the sun shines within a predetermined angle range centered on the traveling direction. It is specified as “section”.

  If no candidate section exists in step S225, the process proceeds to step S240. If there is a candidate section in step S225, the process proceeds to step S230. The function unit of the control unit 184 that performs the process of determining whether or not the sunset is in the user's field of view at each point in step S225 is shown as “first determination unit 187” in FIG.

  By performing the processing of step S225, in addition to the relationship between the azimuth of each point in the horizontal plane and the azimuth of the sun, the inclination angle of each point and the elevation angle of the sun are also taken into consideration, so that the direction in which the sun shines in the user's field of view Whether it is included can be determined. For this reason, for example, when the sun is at an angle that should not enter the field of view if the user is facing in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane, and the sun enters the field of view because the point is on the way uphill Can be extracted as a “candidate section”.

  In step S <b> 230 of FIG. 4, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 returns the candidate section information to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 182. The information on the candidate section includes position information on each point included in the candidate section and information on the direction in which the sunset shines at each point included in the candidate section.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines whether there is a building, a mountain, or the like in the direction in which the sunset shines from each point included in the candidate section. The building includes a building, a monument, a tunnel, a highway, and an upper layer structure for a travel route on a multi-level road such as a two-story highway. The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 excludes points where buildings or mountains exist in the direction in which the sunset shines from the candidate sections.

  In step S235, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines whether there are any points included in the candidate section. If no such point exists, the process proceeds to step S250. If a point included in the candidate section remains, the process proceeds to step S260. The functional unit of the control unit 104 that performs the processes of steps S230 and 235 is illustrated as a “second determination unit 112” in FIG.

  By performing the processing of steps S230 and S235, it is possible to prevent a situation in which a point in the tunnel, a point that is behind a mountain, a point that is behind a highway, or the like is extracted as a sunset-required section. .

  In step S260 in FIG. 2, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines that a sunset-required section exists (see step S25 in FIG. 2).

A4. Processing during route guidance:
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an alerting process executed during route guidance. The route guidance process is based on data obtained as a result of processing route information by the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100, and the control unit 184 of the solar server 180. This is realized by outputting sound and images via the display panel 202 of the mobile phone 200 and the sound output unit 203. Note that the route on which route guidance is performed is determined in advance by the process of step S20 in FIG.

  In step S <b> 315 of FIG. 5, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 transmits information on the current position and current time acquired via the GPS unit 201 to the route search server 100 via the communication unit 205. The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines a point to pass after time Td (Td is a positive number) when traveling along the route searched in step S20 of FIG. The time Td can be set to 15 minutes, for example. And the control part 104 transmits the positional information on the point, and the information of passage time to the solar server 180 via the communication part 102. FIG. Based on the received position information and time information, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 determines whether or not sunset enters the user's field of view. The determination process of the control unit 184 is the same as the processes of steps S215, S220, and S225 of FIG.

  If “No” is determined in the process corresponding to steps S215 and S225 in the process of step S315 in FIG. 5, it is assumed that the sunset does not enter the user's field of view at a point that passes after time Td (S315: No). ), The process of step S315 is repeated after a predetermined time. If “Yes” is determined in the process corresponding to step S225, it is assumed that sunset can enter the user's field of view at a point that passes after time Td (S315: Yes), and the process proceeds to step S325. In step S315, the first determination unit 187 serving as a functional unit of the control unit 184 performs the function of determining whether or not sunset is in the user's field of view.

  In step S325, the control unit 184 of the solar server 180, via the communication unit 182, informs that the sunset can enter the user's field of view at a point that passes after the time Td and the sunset at the point that passes after the time Td. Information on the shooting direction is transmitted to the route search server 100.

  The control unit 104 of the route search server 100 determines whether there is a building, a mountain, or the like in the direction in which the sunset shines from a point that passes after the time Td. If there are no buildings or mountains in the direction in which the sunset shines, the process proceeds to step S330. If there are buildings or mountains in the direction in which the sunset shines, the process proceeds to step S335. In addition, it is the 2nd determination part 112 as a function part of the control part 104 which plays a function which determines whether a building, a mountain, etc. exist in step S325.

  In step S330, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits, to the mobile phone 200, information indicating that the sunset enters the field of view after time Td, together with data for output to be performed from the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203. .

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the warning screen in step S330 of FIG. In step S330, based on the information received from the route search server 100, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 indicates that the sunset looks dazzling after the time Td on the display panel 202 and the countermeasure (here, the visor is lowered). )) Is displayed. Then, the sound output unit 203 outputs that the sunset looks dazzling after time Td and prompts the countermeasure (here, lowering the visor). Note that the output unit 113 as a functional unit of the control unit 104 and the output unit 232 as a functional unit of the main control unit 210 perform the function of S330.

  By performing such processing, the user can know that the sunset can enter the field of view prior to passing the point where the sunset enters the field of view. For this reason, even if the sunset looks in the eyes when actually passing through the point, the user is less likely to be surprised. In addition, the user can prepare measures in advance so that the sunset does not dazzle when actually passing the spot.

  On the other hand, if there is a building or a mountain in the direction in which the sunset shines in step S325 of FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step S335. In step S335, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 assumes a moving speed at which a building or a mountain exists in the direction in which the sunset shines, that is, a point where the sunset is blocked by the building or the mountain. It is determined whether or not it continues for time t0 (t0 is a positive number) continuously. In addition, the assumed moving speed can be made into the standard moving speed in the road area containing the said point, for example. Also, t0 can be set to 10 seconds, for example. When the point where the sunset is blocked continues for more than time t0 (S335: Yes), the process returns to step S315 after waiting for the assumed duration. On the other hand, if the point where the sunset is blocked does not continue for more than time t0 in step S335 (S335: No), the process proceeds to step S340.

  In step S340, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 transmits information indicating that the sunset enters the field of view after time Td to the mobile phone 200 together with data for output to be performed from the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203. .

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a warning screen in step S340 of FIG. In step S340, based on the information received from the route search server 100, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 blocks the sunset after the time Td, but the sunset shines after passing through the building. The display panel 202 displays a notice to that effect (here, specifically, a notice that the sunset flickers) and a prompt to take countermeasures (here, to lower the visor). Then, after the time Td, the sunset is blocked by the building, but after passing through the building, the sunset will shine (specifically, the sunset will flicker) and countermeasures ( The voice output unit 203 outputs a message that prompts the user to lower the visor. Thereafter, the processing proceeds to step S345. The functions of S335 and S340 are performed by the output unit 113 as a functional unit of the control unit 104 and the output unit 232 as a functional unit of the main control unit 210.

  By performing such processing, the user is notified in advance of a situation in which the sunset is shot or blocked from behind the building, which is more troublesome than the sunset continues to enter the field of view. Therefore, the user can know that such a situation can occur prior to passing through a point where the situation where the sunset enters the sight and the situation where the sunset does not enter are repeated. For this reason, there is a low possibility that the user will be surprised when actually passing through the point. In addition, the user can prepare measures in advance so that the sunset does not dazzle when actually passing the spot.

  In step S345 of FIG. 5, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 determines whether or not the current position is in the vicinity of the destination (for example, within a circle having a radius of 10 m centered on the destination). If the current position is in the vicinity of the destination, the process ends. If the current position is not near the destination, the process proceeds to step S355.

  In step S355, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 determines whether or not sunset is in the user's field of view at this time. Specifically, the main control unit 210 executes the process of step S330 or S340 within the past time Td, and when the brightness sensor 209 detects brightness of a predetermined value or more at the present time, It is determined that sunset is in the user's field of view. When sunset does not enter the user's field of view, the process returns to step S315. When sunset is in the user's field of view, the process of step S355 is repeated after a predetermined time (for example, t0).

  By performing the process of step S355, it is possible to avoid a situation where a warning is given that the sunset will be in the future when the sunset is actually in the future. When the sunset is actually in sight, it is highly likely that the user is taking countermeasures or is driving without worrying about the sunset entering the sight. In such a case, it is troublesome to receive a warning that the sunset will be in view in the future. By performing the process of step S355, such user complications can be reduced.

  According to the present embodiment, the user can know that the sunset enters the field of view during the route search. Therefore, when the sunset actually enters the field of view when actually moving along the route, the possibility that the user will be surprised can be reduced. In addition, the user can prepare measures such as preparing sunglasses and confirming the function of the visor of the automobile before actually moving the route.

  In addition, the “output unit 113” as a functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 and the “output unit 232” as a functional unit of the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 in the present embodiment [ It corresponds to an “output unit” in [Means for Solving]. The “prohibited direction determination unit 114” as a functional unit of the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 and the “prohibited direction determination unit 189” as a functional unit of the control unit 184 of the solar server 180 [solve the problem. Corresponds to the “prohibited direction determination unit”.

B. Second embodiment:
In the first embodiment, when a warning is given that sunset will enter the user's field of view after time Td (see steps S330 and S340 in FIG. 5), an additional warning may be given to the user. In the second embodiment, the process in the case where the determination in step S325 or S335 in FIG. 5 is No is different from the first embodiment. The other points of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process for giving a warning regarding a traffic light when the determination in step S325 or S335 in FIG. 5 is No. Here, in order to facilitate understanding of the technique, a process when the determination result of Step S325 of FIG. 5 is No, a process when the determination result of Step S335 of FIG. 5 is No, Are displayed together. If it is determined in step S325 or S335 in FIG. 5 that sunset is in the user's field of view (S325: No, S335: No), the process proceeds to step S365.

  In step S365, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 is within a predetermined range with respect to the traveling direction along the route from the position after the time Td, for example, a distance D along the route (D is a positive number. For example, 100m. ) To determine whether or not there is a signal. When there is no signal within the predetermined range (S365: No), the processes of steps S330 and S340 are performed as in the process of FIG. If there is a signal within the predetermined range (S365: Yes), the process proceeds to step S370.

  In step S370, the data transmitted from the route search server 100 to the mobile phone 200 in steps S330 and S340 of FIG. 5 are similarly transmitted from the route search server 100 to the mobile phone 200, respectively. Further, in step S370, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 indicates that there is a traffic signal within a distance D from the point after Td, and the contents to be output from the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203 regarding the traffic signal. Data is transmitted to the mobile phone 200 via the communication unit 102.

  Based on the data received from the route search server 100, the main control unit 210 of the mobile phone 200 outputs via the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203 that there is a traffic signal within a distance D from the point after Td. I do. In Steps S330 and S340, the output (warning that the sunset enters the field of view) performed from the display panel 202 and the audio output unit 203 is performed in the same manner. Thereafter, the processing proceeds to step S345. The functions of S365 and S370 are performed by the output unit 113 as a functional unit of the control unit 104 and the output unit 232 as a functional unit of the main control unit 210.

  In this manner, the user can know that the sunset can enter the field of view and that there is a traffic light ahead of the point where the sunset enters the field of view. For this reason, even if the sunset is actually seen when passing through the spot, the user is less likely to overlook the traffic light.

C. Third embodiment:
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for showing processing in the third embodiment. In the said 1st Example, it can also be set as the aspect which does not consider whether sunset is interrupted (refer FIG.5 S325-S340) in a predetermined case. In the third embodiment, prior to the processing in step S325 in FIG. 5, the determination based on the weather in step S337 and the processing branch are performed. The other points of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  In step S337, the control unit 104 of the route search server 100 accesses a predetermined server that provides weather information via the communication unit 102 and the Internet, and obtains the weather at a point that passes after time Td. If the weather at the point that passes after time Td is cloudy or rainy, the process returns to step S315 after a predetermined time. If the weather at the point that passes after time Td is not cloudy or rainy, the process proceeds to step S325 in FIG.

  The functional unit of the control unit 104 that performs the process of step S337 is shown as “weather determination unit 115” in FIG. When the determination by the weather determination unit 115 is Yes (cloudy or rainy), the output unit as the function unit of the control unit 104 and the “output unit 232” as the function unit of the main control unit 210 The warning about the point (steps S330 and S340 in FIG. 5) is not performed.

  With such an aspect, when the sunset does not become dazzling when entering the user's field of view, it is possible to omit the processing after step S325 in FIG. 5. For this reason, the processing load can be reduced.

D. Variation:
D1. Modification 1:
In the above embodiment, the route network data also holds information on the inclination angle for each point. However, the route network data itself may be in a form in which information on the inclination angle is not held for each point. In such an aspect, the inclination angle of a certain point can be obtained from the altitude information of the point and the altitude information of one or more points located before or after the point in the route.

D2. Modification 2:
In the above embodiment, the solar database 186 stores information on the direction in which the sun shines at a point specified by latitude and longitude. The sun database 186 stores sunset times in association with combinations of latitude and longitude and month and day information. Information on the direction in which the sun shines and information on sunset time stored in the solar database can be only for representative points (for example, points of intersection of grids in units of 5 km on the map). In such an aspect, when obtaining information on the direction in which the sun at a point in the route shines or information on sunset time, information on the direction in which the sun at the representative point closest to that point shines, or sunset time Can be used.

  The sun database 186 may store the sunset time in association with the combination including the year information in addition to the latitude and longitude, and the date information. With such an aspect, it is possible to store more accurate information about the direction of the sun and the sunset time, and more accurate information about the direction of the sun, The information of sunset time can be output.

D3. Modification 3:
In the above embodiment, the date information is input or acquired from a GPS satellite. However, for example, the input information can be used for the date information, and the year information can be acquired from the GPS. The input information can be used for the day information, and the year and month information can be acquired from the GPS.

D4. Modification 4:
In the above embodiment, it is determined whether or not the sunset can enter the field of view for each point included in the route (see S210 to S235 in FIG. 2). However, it is possible to determine whether the sunset can enter the field of view only for representative points among points included in the route. For example, it is also possible to determine whether the sunset can enter the field of view only at a point corresponding to the end point of the arc. In addition, for a section in which the change in the direction of the route is equal to or less than a predetermined angle range, it is possible to adopt a mode in which it is not determined whether the sunset can enter the field of view except for the points at both ends. With such an embodiment, the processing load and processing time can be reduced.

D5. Modification 5:
In the above embodiment, the predetermined range including the traveling direction as the user's field of view is set to 60 degrees vertically above, 70 degrees vertically below, and 100 degrees horizontally. However, the predetermined range including the traveling direction as the user's field of view can be determined by other methods. For example, the numerical value of the angle range can be another value. Moreover, the range of the elliptical cone having an elliptical cross section with the traveling direction as the midpoint of the two focal points can be set as a predetermined range including the traveling direction as the user's field of view.

D6. Modification 6:
In the above embodiment, the departure time (current time) or arrival time is acquired (see S10 in FIG. 2), and each process is performed based on the acquired departure time or arrival time. Here, for example, for the processing performed based on the passing time at each point (see, for example, S215 in FIG. 4), the passing time at each point is determined based on the input departure time or arrival time. From the above, it can be understood that it is indirectly performed based on the departure time or arrival time.

D7. Modification 7:
In the above embodiment, when an instruction to search for a route where sunset does not enter the field of view is input, the route is re-searched by setting the time limit and the prohibited direction in advance (FIG. 2). S50, S20). However, in the route re-search when an instruction to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the sight is input, the route search is performed with reference to a database having information on sunset time and the direction of the sun, It is also possible to adopt a mode in which a route search is recommended under the constraint that the sunset does not enter the field of view.

D8. Modification 8:
In the above embodiment, when searching for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view (see S50 in FIG. 2), the reference point for determining the reference sunset time is, for example, the midpoint of the sunset requiring attention section. is there. However, the reference point for determining the reference sunset time may be another point. For example, it may be a point closer to the destination or departure point in the sunset warning section.

D9. Modification 9:
In the above embodiment, in the route search, when the sunset enters the field of view, a display for prompting a re-search is performed (see step S35 in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3). However, in the route guidance, similarly, when the setting sun enters the field of view in the future (S330 and S340 in FIG. 5), it is also possible to confirm the re-search instruction and perform a display prompting the re-search instruction.

D10. Modification 10:
In the second embodiment, the range in which the traffic signal exists is further within a range of a distance D (for example, 100 m) from a point passing after time Td. However, the range for checking whether there is a traffic light and giving a warning can also be determined based on other criteria. For example, a range from a point passing after time Td to a point passing further after time Td2 (Td2 is a positive number) may be used.

D11. Modification 11:
In the above-described embodiment, the countermeasure urged when the sunset enters the field of view is to prepare sunglasses and to lower the visor. However, other measures may be taken such as preparing a hat or wearing a hat deeply when the sunset enters the field of view.

D12. Modification 12:
In the second embodiment, the alert that is made with the warning that the sunset enters the field of view relates to the traffic light. However, the alert that is made with the warning that the sunset is in sight may have other contents. For example, it is possible to give a warning that the area through which the sunset enters view is near a nursery school, kindergarten, elementary, junior high, or high school, or alert that it is in a residential area.

D13. Modification 13:
In the third embodiment, when the weather forecast at the passing point after time Td is rainy or cloudy, it is not determined whether or not the sunset is blocked, and as a result, a warning that the sunset enters the field of view. Is not performed (see S337 in FIG. 9). However, the condition for warning that the sunset is in sight can be other conditions. For example, when the weather at the current position is rainy or cloudy, a warning that the sunset is in the field of view can be omitted. In such an embodiment, information on the raindrop sensor installed in the automobile can be obtained via communication means such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), and the weather can be determined. In addition, based on the current time or the lightness detected by the lightness sensor 209, when the lightness is lower than a predetermined standard corresponding to the current time, a warning that the sunset is in the field of view may not be performed. it can. Also, when the setting is made to warn about the sunset, a warning is given that the sunset is in view, and when it is not set to warn about the sunset, the warning that the sunset is into view is not performed It can also be.

D14. Modification 14:
The specific values of the times Ts, Td, and t0 shown in the above embodiment are merely examples. Therefore, the time Ts before the sunset time used in step S215, the time Td used when determining the presence or absence of the future sunset glare in the processing after step S315, and the time when the sunset is blocked in step S335. The time t0 used for this determination can be set according to user's preference, an arbitrary body parameter such as a car body shape and a visor shape.

D15. Modification 15:
Map image data as image data stored in the map database 156 of the server 150 may be stored as raster data or may be stored as vector data. The map image data transmitted to the mobile phone 200 as a terminal device carried by the user may be raster data or vector data. Further, one of the map image data in the map database 156 and the map image data transmitted to the terminal device can be vector data and the other can be raster data.

D16. Modification 16:
In the above embodiment, the mode of using the GPS has been described. However, the generation of the current position information is performed using a satellite navigation system other than GPS, such as GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), Galileo, or the like. For example, the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) may be used. Further, for example, the generation of position information in the mobile terminal may be performed based only on the base station of the mobile phone. In such an aspect, the mobile terminal may be an aspect that does not include a receiver for a global navigation satellite system. Furthermore, the component which produces | generates position information in a mobile terminal can also be set as the aspect which uses together the system using a several system, for example, the system using a satellite positioning system, and the base station of a mobile telephone.

  In other words, the component that generates location information in the mobile terminal can be based on any principle or system operated by any institution as long as the current location information can be specified. Good.

D17. Modification 17:
In the said Example, a route guidance system contains the route search server 100, the map server 150, the solar server 180, and the mobile telephone 200 as the component. However, the mobile terminal that is carried by the user and that includes the GPS unit may be provided with functions of other components such as the route search server 100 and the solar server 180. Further, the route search server 100 and the map server 150 may be the same server. The solar server 180 may be the same server as the route search server 100. Note that the mobile terminal may be a so-called feature phone or smartphone, and may be a PDA (Personal Data Assistant) or another computer as a device that does not have a telephone function. In other words, the portable terminal may be any device that can be carried by the user and can identify the current position.

  That is, the route guidance system as a guidance device may be one device in which each component is housed in one housing. The route guidance system can also be configured as two or more devices whose constituent elements are connected to each other via a data communication line. For each function such as a function for generating route data and a function for selecting a specific area, one or more arbitrary functions can be assigned to each device. Each function may be realized by one device, or two or more devices may be realized in cooperation. In an aspect in which two or more components are connected by a communication line, the output unit that outputs information to the user is preferably carried by the user.

D18. Modification 18:
In the above embodiment, a part of the configuration realized by hardware may be replaced with software, and conversely, a part of the configuration realized by software may be replaced by hardware. For example, a part of the function of the application software 212 (FIG. 1) can be executed by the control circuit.

  A computer program that realizes such a function is provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic disk or a CD-ROM. The host computer reads the computer program from the recording medium and transfers it to the internal storage device or the external storage device. Alternatively, the computer program may be supplied from the program supply device to the host computer via a communication path. When realizing the function of the computer program, the computer program stored in the internal storage device is executed by the microprocessor of the host computer. Further, the host computer may directly execute the computer program recorded on the recording medium.

  In this specification, the host computer is a concept including a hardware device and an operation system, and means a hardware device that operates under the control of the operation system. The computer program causes such a host computer to realize the functions of the above-described units. Note that some of the functions described above may be realized by an operation system instead of an application program.

  In the present invention, the “computer-readable recording medium” is not limited to a portable recording medium such as a flexible disk or a CD-ROM, but an internal storage device in a computer such as various RAMs and ROMs, An external storage device fixed to a computer such as a hard disk is also included.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, examples, and modifications, and can be realized with various configurations without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, the technical features in the embodiments, examples, and modifications corresponding to the technical features in each embodiment described in the summary section of the invention are to solve some or all of the above-described problems, or In order to achieve part or all of the above effects, replacement or combination can be performed as appropriate. Further, if the technical feature is not described as essential in the present specification, it can be deleted as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Route search server 102 ... Communication part 104 ... Control part 106 ... Memory | storage part 111 ... Path | route search part 112 ... 2nd determination part 113 ... Output part 114 ... Prohibition direction determination part 115 ... Weather determination part 150 ... Map server 152 ... Communication unit 154 ... Control unit 156 ... Map database 180 ... Solar server 182 ... Communication unit 184 ... Control unit 186 ... Solar database 187 ... First determination unit 200 ... Mobile phone 202 ... Display panel 203 ... Audio output unit 204 ... Vibration mechanism 205 ... Communication unit 206 ... Command input unit 206a ... Touch panel 206b ... Cursor key 209 ... Lightness sensor 210 ... Main control unit 211 ... CPU
212 ... Application software 220 ... Call control unit 231 ... Input unit 232 ... Output unit INT ... Internet

Claims (4)

A device that searches for a route from a starting point to a destination,
An input unit for obtaining a destination, a departure place, and a departure time or arrival time;
A route search unit for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination;
Based on the searched route and the departure time or arrival time, it is determined whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view at a plurality of points included in the searched route. 1 determination unit;
A second determination unit that determines whether the sunset is blocked by a building at a point where the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view;
An output unit capable of performing an output to call the user's attention under a predetermined condition when there is a point where the direction of the sunset is included in the user's field of view and the sunset is not obstructed by the building and, the Bei example,
The input unit can further receive an instruction to search for a route where the sunset does not enter the field of view,
The apparatus further comprises:
A time zone in which selection of a route is to be restricted based on a sunset time at a point determined based on at least one of the destination and the starting point, the destination, and the starting point; and Providing a forbidden direction determination unit that determines the direction of travel prohibited in the time zone,
The route search unit includes a section from the departure place to the destination when the instruction is received after the output, and a section to move in the prohibited traveling direction in the time zone. A route search device that searches for routes that do not exist. The route search device according to claim 1,
The first determination unit includes:
(A) the latitude, longitude and elevation of the point;
(B) a traveling direction including an azimuth and an inclination angle in a horizontal plane at the point;
(C) the month and day included in the departure time or arrival time;
A route search device that determines whether or not the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view. The route search device according to claim 1 or 2,
The route determination device, wherein the second determination unit determines whether or not sunset is blocked by a building including at least one of a tunnel and a multi-level road as the building. A computer program for searching for a route from a departure place to a target position using a main control unit of a computer,
A function to receive an instruction to search for a route that does not allow the sunset to enter view,
A function for obtaining a destination, a departure place, and a departure time or arrival time;
A function of searching for a route from the departure place to the destination;
Based on the searched route and the departure time, a function of determining whether or not the direction of sunset is included in the user's field of view at a plurality of points included in the searched route;
A function for determining whether or not the sunset is blocked by a building at a point where the direction of the sunset is included in the user's field of view;
A function in which the direction in which the sunset shines is included in the user's field of view, and there is a point where the sunset is not obstructed by the building, an output that calls the user under a predetermined condition;
A time zone in which selection of a route is to be restricted based on a sunset time at a point determined based on at least one of the destination and the starting point, the destination, and the starting point; and The ability to determine the direction of travel that is forbidden in the time zone;
Ki De is possible to realize the main control unit of the computer,
The function of searching for the route is a route from the departure place to the destination when the instruction is received after the output, and a section to move in the prohibited traveling direction in the time zone. A computer program including a function for searching for a route not including a path .

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