WO2014118877A1

WO2014118877A1 - Local image / map information collecting and providing system

Info

Publication number: WO2014118877A1
Application number: PCT/JP2013/051851
Authority: WO
Inventors: 利雄梶山
Original assignee: Kajiyama Toshio
Priority date: 2013-01-29
Filing date: 2013-01-29
Publication date: 2014-08-07

Abstract

The present invention provides a map information collecting and providing system that is capable of efficiently collecting local images and map information while being capable of reducing costs. An information input means (32) that is capable of inputting change information is provided in a user terminal (14). A map information update means (54) is provided in a data center (18). In the case where change information received from the user terminal (14) is information showing that there is a change, the map information update means (54) receives a user image and user image pickup position information that are associated with the change information, from the user terminal (14); replaces a data center image associated with data center image pickup position information that has position information identical to the user image pickup position information, with the received user image; and stores the same in a storage means (52).

Description

Local image / map information collection system

The present invention relates to a local image / map information collecting and providing system capable of efficiently collecting local images and map information of various places.

Conventionally, as a method of collecting local images and map information in various places, a method of collecting local images and map information manually by running a vehicle equipped with equipment such as a camera is widely known. Patent Document 1 discloses a traffic information providing system that collects a movement locus (probe information) of a travel position of a vehicle, creates traffic information from the probe information, and transmits the traffic information to a navigation device.

JP 2010-236996 A

However, the conventional collection method has a problem that a lot of vehicles and manpower are required to collect local images and map information of each place, and a great cost is required. In addition, since the number of vehicles and manpower that can be deployed in each place is limited, there is a limit in the frequency of image acquisition and update of map information.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described conventional problems, and is capable of efficiently collecting local images and map information while being able to reduce costs. It aims to provide information collection and provision systems to society.

The present invention is a local image / map information collection and provision system configured to include a plurality of user terminals and one or a plurality of data centers, wherein the user terminals determine the movement distance of the user terminals. A moving distance detecting means for detecting and capturing a user image based on the moving distance information, and associating the user image with user image capturing position information including position information at the time of capturing the user image Information that can be input to at least change information and user information, and that is stored in the first storage means in association with the change information and user information to the user image. Input means; display means capable of displaying an image; and at least the user image, the user image capturing position information, the change information, and the user information as the data Data center image position information including at least a data center image including position information at the time of imaging of the data center image. Map information update for updating the data center image based on the user image, the user image capturing position information, and the change information received from the user terminal And at least second communication means capable of transmitting the data center image to the user terminal, and the display means of the user terminal is stored in the first storage means. And the data associated with the data center imaging position information having the same position information as the user image imaging position information of the user image. A center image can be displayed simultaneously, and the change information input by the information input means of the user terminal is information indicating a difference between the user image associated with the same position information and the data center image. And the map information updating means of the data center, when the change information received from the user terminal indicates different information, the user image associated with the change information and the user image capturing Position information is received from the user terminal, and the data center image associated with the data center imaging position information having the same position information as the received user image imaging position information is replaced with the received user image. An on-site image / map information collection and provision system characterized in that it can be stored in the second storage means.

The system for collecting and providing local image / map information according to the present invention can efficiently collect local images and map information while being able to reduce costs. In addition, a large number of people can use a wide range and the latest local images and map information updated frequently.

It is the figure which showed an example of the whole structure of the local image and map information collection provision system 10 which concerns on this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the detail of the user terminal 14 and data center 18 which concern on this embodiment. (A) It is the figure which showed an example of change information. (B) It is the figure which showed an example of road information.

Hereinafter, the local image / map information collection and provision system 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<Overall configuration>
First, the overall configuration of the local image / map information collection and provision system 10 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the figure is a figure which showed an example of the whole structure of the local image and map information collection provision system 10 which concerns on this embodiment.

A local image / map information collection and provision system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of user terminals 14 that can receive GPS information from a GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite 12, and the user terminals 14 and the Internet 16. And one (or a plurality) of data centers 18 capable of communication. The type of the line of the Internet 16 is not particularly limited, and for example, a wired or wireless telephone line, optical line, power line, dedicated line, etc. can be applied.

<User terminal>
Next, the user terminal 14 will be described in detail. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing details of the user terminal 14 and the data center 18 according to the present embodiment.

The user terminal 14 according to the present embodiment includes a GPS receiving unit 20 for receiving GPS information from the GPS satellite 12, a positioning information generating unit 22 for generating various positioning information based on the GPS information, and a user terminal 14 via a movement distance detection means 24 for detecting a movement distance of 14, an imaging means 30 for picking up an image based on information on the movement distance, an information input means 32 for inputting information, and the Internet 16. Communication means 34 for performing mutual communication with the outside, storage means 36 for storing images and various information, display means 38 for performing image and various display, and control for controlling the entire user terminal 14 And means 40.

As such a user terminal 14, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a mobile phone, a drive recorder, a notebook PC, or the like can be applied. The user terminal 14 may be installed on a moving body such as a car, a motorcycle, or a bicycle, or a person may carry it around with a holder.

<User terminal / GPS receiving means>
The GPS receiving unit 20 is a unit for receiving GPS information transmitted from one (or a plurality) of GPS satellites 12, such as a GPS circuit having a GPS antenna, an RF block, a baseband IC, and the like. Hardware and software such as a control program for controlling reception of GPS information are applicable.

The GPS receiving unit 20 according to the present embodiment periodically acquires GPS information from the GPS satellite 12 via a GPS circuit (GPS antenna, RF block, baseband IC, etc.), and stores the acquired GPS information in the storage unit 36. Remember. Here, the GPS information received by the GPS receiving means 20 includes time information from an atomic clock mounted on the GPS satellite 12, information on the satellite ephemeris (orbit), and the like.

Although not shown, the base station information is acquired from the base station of the communication company via the communication means 34, and the position information (latitude and longitude) included in the base station information is replaced with (or added to) the GPS information. And may be configured to be stored in the storage means 36. Further, the GPS information may be corrected by the position information acquired from the base station, or the position information acquired from the base station may be used only when the GPS information cannot be acquired.

Also, in places where it is difficult to obtain GPS information (tunnels, underground parking lots, indoors, etc.), based on information from the travel distance detection means 24 (for example, a vehicle speed sensor, an acceleration sensor) described later, and the latest traveling speed. The position information may be corrected or generated.

<User terminal / positioning information generating means>
The positioning information generating means 22 is means for generating various positioning information based on the GPS information received by the GPS receiving means 20, for example, performing various operations on time information included in the GPS information. For example, a control program (software) for generating Here, the positioning information generated by the positioning information generating means 22 includes latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time information, and the like.

The positioning information generating unit 22 according to the present embodiment periodically acquires GPS information stored in the storage unit 36, generates date / time information from the time information included in the GPS information, and stores it in the storage unit 36. . In addition, the positioning information generation unit 22 periodically acquires GPS information stored in the storage unit 36, and the time information included in the GPS information and the time information held by the user terminal 14 (for example, from the base station) The distance from the GPS satellite 12 to the user terminal 14 is calculated by comparing the received time information), and the latitude, longitude, altitude, and direction are calculated based on the calculated distance and stored in the storage unit 36.

In addition, when acquiring positional information from the base station of a communication company via the communication means 34 as described above, positioning information may be generated based on this positional information, or the positional information and GPS information Positioning information may be generated based on both. In addition, when only the position information acquired from the base station is used instead of the positioning information, the GPS receiving means 20 and the positioning information generating means 22 may not be provided.

<User terminal / movement distance detection means>
The movement distance detection means 24 is a means for detecting the movement distance of the user terminal 14. As such a movement distance detection means 24, for example, hardware such as an acceleration sensor mounted on the user terminal 14, a vehicle speed sensor connected to an external input terminal of the user terminal 14, or hardware such as a pedometer Or a control program (software) for calculating a moving distance based on acceleration information detected by an acceleration sensor, a control program (software) for calculating a moving distance based on vehicle speed pulses detected by a vehicle speed sensor, This corresponds to a control program (software) that calculates a moving distance based on the number of steps detected by the meter.

When the vehicle speed pulse is input from the external input terminal (when the vehicle speed sensor is connected to the external input terminal), the moving distance detection unit 24 according to the present embodiment is based on the vehicle speed pulse and the user terminal 14. And the calculated moving distance is stored in the storage means 36. Further, the moving distance detecting means 24 is configured to detect acceleration information input from the acceleration sensor or a pedometer when no vehicle speed pulse is input from the external input terminal (when no vehicle speed sensor is connected to the external input terminal). The moving distance of the user terminal 14 is calculated on the basis of the number of steps detected by the step, and the calculated moving distance is stored in the storage unit 36. In addition, even when a vehicle speed pulse is input from the external input terminal (when a vehicle speed sensor is connected to the external input terminal), instead of (or in addition to) the acceleration information input from the acceleration sensor The movement distance of the user terminal 14 may be calculated based on the above.

Here, as an example, information that can be detected by an acceleration sensor built in a smartphone (user terminal 14) will be described. For example, when a smartphone is placed on the dashboard of a car and its front (display screen) is directed straight behind the car, the left-right direction of the smartphone (hereinafter referred to as the X direction) substantially matches the left-right direction of the car. The vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the Y direction) of the smartphone substantially matches the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the thickness direction of the smartphone (hereinafter referred to as the Z direction) substantially matches the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

In addition, when a person carries a smartphone and the front (display screen) faces straight to himself / herself, the left / right direction (X direction) of the smartphone substantially matches the left / right direction of the person, and the up / down direction (Y direction) of the smartphone. However, the thickness direction of the smartphone (hereinafter referred to as the Z direction) substantially matches the front-rear direction of the person.

Therefore, if the acceleration sensor detects acceleration in the left-right direction (X direction), it can detect the left-right weighting of the car or human. For this reason, when a smartphone is mounted on a vehicle, it is possible to determine whether the vehicle is turning right or left based on the information of the acceleration sensor in a place where acquisition of GPS information is difficult (such as a tunnel or an underground parking lot). In addition, when a person carries a smartphone, it is possible to determine whether the person has turned right or left based on the information of the acceleration sensor in a place where it is difficult to acquire GPS information (such as indoors).

Also, if acceleration in the vertical direction (Y direction) is detected by an acceleration sensor, vertical vibrations of a car or a person can be detected. For this reason, when a smartphone is mounted on a car, it is possible to acquire the uneven state of the road surface and the like, and it is possible to determine and adjust the imaging timing of the image by the imaging unit 30 based on the road surface state. When the vehicle is traveling on the road and the vertical movement is intense, the imaging may be temporarily interrupted. When a smartphone is carried by a person, the number of steps of the person can be acquired, a distance per step is calculated based on the number of steps and GPS information, and an image is captured by the imaging unit 30 based on the distance. When the timing is determined and adjusted, or GPS information cannot be obtained, it can be used as information supplementing the GPS information.

In addition, if the acceleration sensor detects acceleration in the front-rear direction (Z direction), it is possible to detect the front-rear weight of a car or a person. For this reason, when a smartphone is mounted on a car, a change in moving speed can be acquired even when GPS information cannot be obtained, and the imaging timing of the image by the imaging means 30 is determined based on the change in moving speed. For example, the imaging interval may be shortened when the moving speed is fast, and the imaging interval may be lengthened when the moving speed is slow. In addition, when a person carries a smartphone, it is possible to acquire a change in the movement speed of the person even when GPS information cannot be obtained, and determine the timing of image capturing by the imaging means 30 based on the change in the movement speed. It is possible to adjust, for example, the imaging interval may be shortened when the walking speed is fast, and the imaging interval may be lengthened when the walking speed is slow.
Further, the movement distance detection means 24 is not limited to an acceleration sensor, a vehicle speed line sensor, and a pedometer. For example, the positioning information generation means 22 uses the longitude and latitude of the first position and the longitude and latitude of the second position. And the movement distance may be detected (calculated) by calculating the difference between the longitude and latitude of the first position and the longitude and latitude of the second position.

<User terminal / imaging means>
The imaging unit 30 captures still images and moving images based on the movement distance information stored in the storage unit 36 by the moving distance detection unit 24, and uses the positioning information (latitude) when capturing these still images and moving images. , Longitude, altitude, azimuth, date and time) and position information (latitude, longitude) in association with the storage means 36. As such an imaging unit 30, for example, hardware such as a digital camera, a control program (software) for adjusting resolution, focus, zoom, and the like, or a control program for starting or ending imaging based on information on a moving distance (Software)

The imaging unit 30 according to the present embodiment periodically acquires information on the movement distance stored in the storage unit 36, images a still image for each predetermined movement distance, and captures the still image as an image of the still image. The information is stored in the storage means 36 in association with the positioning information and position information at the time. The timing of capturing the still image is not particularly limited. For example, when a vehicle speed pulse is input from the external input terminal (when a vehicle speed sensor is connected to the external input terminal), it is determined that the vehicle is moving, and the movement When the speed is less than 70 km / h, still images are taken every moving distance of 5 m, and when the moving speed is 70 km / h or more, still images are taken every moving distance of 10 m. Note that the relationship between the moving speed and the moving distance is not particularly limited, and for example, a still image may be taken every fixed moving distance (for example, 10 m) regardless of the moving speed.

Also, when no vehicle speed pulse is input from the external input terminal (when no vehicle speed sensor is connected to the external input terminal), it is determined that the movement is by walking, and a still image is taken every 3 m of movement distance. The determination of whether the vehicle is moving or walking is performed based on the presence / absence of a vehicle speed pulse input from the external input terminal, the presence / absence of a detection signal from the acceleration sensor, or the moving speed, which will be described later. This may be done by allowing the user of the user terminal 14 to input the type of the moving body (vehicle or walking) via the information input means 32.

Also, in an environment where position information and travel distance cannot be acquired (or difficult to acquire) (for example, locations with large positioning errors, tunnels, underground parking lots, indoors, etc.), a virtual space between the latest position information and the destination It is also possible to draw a straight line (or a curve) and to determine the imaging timing according to this virtual straight line (or curve).

<User terminal / information input means>
The information input unit 32 is a unit for inputting information to the user terminal 14. Examples of the information input unit 32 include hardware such as a touch panel, buttons, and a stylus pen, and applications (software) such as a browser and a software keyboard.

The information input unit 32 (for example, an application) according to the present embodiment has a plurality of still images stored in the storage unit 36 (still images captured by the user of the user terminal 14 with the imaging unit 30. Hereinafter, “user stationary One (or a plurality) of “images” may be displayed on the display means 36.

Next, the information input means 32 receives from the data center 18 a still image (hereinafter, also referred to as “data center still image”) having the same position information (latitude, longitude) as the still image being displayed. In addition, a transmission request for “latest map information” is sent to the data center 18.

Here, “latest map information” includes background map images, road information (for example, information on expressways, national / prefectural roads / major local roads, alleys, etc.), facility information (for example, information on traffic lights, signs, intersections, etc.) , Feature (immovable plan) information (for example, information on stores, buildings, facilities, etc.) and information composed of still images. The respective images and information are associated with each other (linked) by the position information and stored in the storage means 52 of the data center 18. Therefore, if the position information is specified, the background map image, road information, road related information, feature related information, and still image associated with the position information can be extracted from the storage means 52 of the data center 18. It has become a structure.

Next, the information input unit 32 uses the display unit 36 to display the user still image and the data center still image associated with the same position information (latitude, longitude) side by side. Thereby, the user of the user terminal 14 can easily compare the still image captured by the user terminal 14 with the latest still image stored in the data center 18.

Next, the information input unit 32 causes the user of the user terminal 14 to input “change information” and “user information” using a touch panel or the like, and then stores the information in association with the user still image. Store in means 36. Here, as shown in FIG. 3A, there are three types of “change information”: 0 (normal), 1 (change 1), 2 (change 2), and the user of the user terminal 14 inputs information. Information input by means 32.

For example, the user of the user terminal 14 may have roads (highways, national / prefectural roads / main local roads, alleys, etc.), equipment (traffic lights, signs, intersections, etc.), features (stores, buildings, etc.) , Facilities, etc.) appear in the data center still image, that is, if the road, equipment, and feature in the user still image exist as the latest map information, 0 (normal) is set as the change information. input. Note that this case corresponds to a case where the latest map information of the data center 18 does not need to be updated, and the information input unit 32 may not be requested to input change information.

In addition, the user of the user terminal 14 determines that the road, facility, and feature that are reflected in the user still image are not reflected in the data center still image, that is, the road, facility, and feature that are reflected in the user still image. Is not present as the latest map information, 1 (change 1) is input as change information.

In addition, when the road, facility, and feature that are reflected in the data center still image are not reflected in the user still image, that is, when the road, facility, and feature that exist as the latest map information do not exist, the change information 2 (change 2) is input.

Finally, the information input unit 32 stores the input change information in the storage unit 36 in association with the user still image. The map information updating unit 54 of the data center 18 described later receives this change information from the user terminal 14 and updates the data center still image when the received change information is 1 (change 1) or 2 (change 2). (Details will be described later).

Further, the “user information” input by the information input means 32 is information for identifying the user of the user terminal 14 and corresponds to, for example, a name, ID, e-mail address, member number, and the like. This user information is information that the user of the user terminal 14 inputs using the information input means 32.

<User terminal / communication means, storage means, display means, control means>
The communication unit 34 is a unit for performing mutual communication with the data center 18 or a communication company base station via the Internet 16 and controls, for example, hardware such as a wireless communication I / F and wireless communication. This includes control programs (software).

When the change information stored in the storage unit 36 is 1 (change 1) or 2 (change 2), the communication unit 34 according to the present embodiment includes the change information and the movement log associated with the change information. (Latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information) is transmitted to the data center 18 via the Internet 16. Further, when there is a user still image transmission request from the data center 18, the user still image is transmitted to the data center 18 via the Internet 16.

Note that various information and still images to be transmitted to the data center 18 may be transmitted from the user terminal 14 in real time, may be transmitted after the user terminal 14 is detached from the moving means, etc. Various information and still images stored in the storage unit 36 may be moved to another medium (for example, HDD of a personal computer) and transmitted via the other medium. That is, the transmission timing and transmission method of various information and still images by the user terminal 14 are not particularly limited.

Further, the communication unit 34 makes a transmission request to the data center 18 via the Internet 16 to receive the latest map information, map coverage, and point information from the data center 18 and store these information. 36. Map coverage and point information will be described later.

The storage means 36 is a means for storing various information and still images, and corresponds to, for example, ROM, RAM, HDD, and the like. The display means 38 is a means for performing display, for example, a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL, an LED, or the like, for example, displaying the latest map based on the updated map information received from the data center 18. Or the map coverage and point information received from the data center 18 are displayed. The control means 40 is means for controlling the entire user terminal 14, and corresponds to, for example, a CPU.

<Data center>
The data center 18 according to the present embodiment includes a communication unit 50 for mutual communication with the outside via the Internet 16, a storage unit 52 for storing images and various information, and a map information update. The map information updating means 54, the point giving means 56 for generating and giving point information, and the control means 58 for controlling the entire data center are configured. As such a data center 18, for example, a server or a PC can be applied.

<Data center / communication means, storage means, control means>
The communication unit 50 is a unit for performing mutual communication with the user terminal 14 and a base station of a communication company via the Internet 16. For example, the communication unit 50 controls hardware such as wireless communication I / F and wireless communication. This includes control programs (software).

The communication unit 50 according to the present embodiment receives change information and a movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information) associated with the change information from the user terminal 14 via the Internet 16, The received change information and the movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information) are stored in the storage unit 52 in association with each other. Further, when there is a transmission request from the user terminal 14, the communication unit 50 transmits the latest map information, map coverage, and point information stored in the storage unit 52 to the user terminal 14 via the Internet 16.

Further, the storage means 52 is means for storing various information and still images, and corresponds to, for example, ROM, RAM, HDD and the like. The storage unit 52 according to the present embodiment stores the latest map information nationwide. The control means 58 is a means for controlling the entire data center 18, and corresponds to a CPU, for example.

<Data center / map information update means>
The map information update unit 54 is a unit for updating the map information based on the received information received from the user terminal 14, and corresponds to, for example, an application (software) for realizing the unit.

The map information update unit 54 according to the present embodiment acquires unprocessed change information and a movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information) stored in the storage unit 52, and the acquired change information is In the case of 1 (change 1) or 2 (change 2) (when the data center still image needs to be updated), the movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information associated with the change information) ) To determine the validity of the user still image and prepare to provide the latest map information synchronized with the movement log.

Specifically, based on the movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, direction, date and time, user information), it is acquired in the bright daytime in the daytime according to the area where the image was acquired, or to ensure good image quality By checking whether the weather is sunny or cloudy, the validity of the user still image (whether it is a still image having an image quality suitable as a data center still image) is confirmed.

If the user still image is valid, it is determined whether the user still image has already been acquired. If the user still image has not been acquired, the movement log (latitude, longitude, (Altitude, azimuth, date and time, user information) is acquired, and a transmission request including information of the movement log (latitude, longitude, altitude, azimuth, date and time, user information) is transmitted to the user terminal 14. As described above, when there is a user still image transmission request from the data center 18, the user terminal 14 transmits the user still image associated with the position information (latitude and longitude) included in the transmission request via the Internet 16. To the data center 18. On the other hand, if the user still image has been acquired, information indicating that the user still image has been acquired is transmitted to the user terminal 14.

Subsequently, the map information update unit 54 updates the road information, road related information, and feature related information included in the latest map information based on the acquired change information, and also transmits the data center still image from the user terminal 14. The latest map information is updated by replacing with the received user still image. The map information updating unit 54 associates the updated latest map information with the date and time, change information, and user information associated with the user still image, and stores them in the storage unit 52.

Subsequently, the map information update unit 54 acquires a plurality of latest map information corresponding to a predetermined area (for example, the whole country, the Kanto region, a specific municipality, etc.), and among the plurality of latest map information, predetermined user information After calculating the sum of the latest map information (information updated by a predetermined user) associated with the latest map information (information not updated by the predetermined user) not associated with the predetermined user information The ratio of the latest map information (information updated by the predetermined user) associated with the predetermined user information to the total sum (map coverage, the degree of information updated by the predetermined user) is calculated. The map coverage is stored in the storage means 52 in association with predetermined user information.

For example, when 1000 still images of A town are stored in the storage means 52 of the data center 18, and 50 of them are still images updated by Mr. B, Mr. B's map coverage is 50 sheets / 1000 sheets × 100 = 5%. Therefore, a numerical value corresponding to 5% is stored in the storage means 52 in association with Mr. B's user information.

Subsequently, the map information updating unit 54 acquires road information based on the replaced user still image, and stores the road information in the storage unit 52 in association with the user information. Here, as shown in FIG. 3B, there are three types of “road information”: “highway”, “national road / prefectural road / main local road”, and “alley”.

<Data center / point grant means>
The point granting unit 56 is a unit for generating and managing point information based on the received information received from the user terminal 14 and the various types of information generated by the map information updating unit 54. For example, the point granting unit is realized. Applicable applications (software).
In addition, this point provision means may be comprised so that point information can be provided with respect to the other database (for example, database of a partner company) connected to the internet 16, for example.
With such a configuration, the points acquired by the local image / map information collection and provision system 10 can be used for other purposes, and the incentive for the user to update the local image and map information is dramatically increased. be able to.
Here, the point information refers to information having a monetary value, or any privilege that has no monetary value (for example, eligibility for participation in a draw, application for a sweepstakes, local image / map information collection and provision system 10 Information that can be used to obtain discounts on usage fees, discounts on usage fees for user terminals, receipt of prizes, etc., and is used not only for information that can be used worldwide and for each country, but also in specific regions (for example, municipalities). Information that can be included.

The point giving means 56 according to the present embodiment generates point information based on the change information stored in the storage means 52, and stores the generated point information in association with the user information in the storage means 52. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 3A, when the change information is 0 (normal), the numerical value 1 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 1 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage unit 52. . When the change information is 1 (change 1), the numerical value 3 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 3 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage unit 52. When the change information is 2 (change 2), the numerical value 5 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 5 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage unit 52. Needless to say, the numerical value of the point information is not limited to this example (the same applies hereinafter).

Subsequently, the point giving means 56 generates point information based on the road information stored in the storage means 52, and stores the generated point information in association with the user information in the storage means 52. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 3B, when the road information is “highway”, the numerical value 1 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 1 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage unit 52. . When the road information is “national road / prefectural road / main local road”, the numerical value 3 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 3 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage means 52. When the road information is “alley”, the numerical value 5 is acquired as the point information, and the numerical value 5 is associated with the user information and stored in the storage unit 52.

Subsequently, the point assigning means 56 generates point information based on the map coverage stored in the storage means 52, and stores the generated point information in association with the user information in the storage means 52. For example, when the map coverage reaches 10%, a numerical value of 50 is stored as the point information in association with the user information and stored in the storage means 52, and when the map coverage reaches 20%, the numerical value is set as the point information. 75 is stored in the storage means 52 in association with the user information. When the map coverage reaches 30%, the numerical value 100 is stored in the storage means 52 in association with the user information as point information.

As described above, the local image / map information collection and provision system (for example, the local image / map information collection and provision system 10) according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of user terminals (for example, the user terminal 14) and one or And a local image / map information collection / providing system including a plurality of data centers (for example, the data center 18), wherein the user terminal detects a movement distance of the user terminal. A user image (for example, a user still image) is imaged based on the detection unit (for example, movement distance detection unit 24) and the information on the movement distance, and position information (for example, the user image at the time of imaging) is captured on the user image. Imaging means (for example, storage means 36) associated with user image imaging position information (for example, movement log) including latitude and longitude) and stored in the first storage means (for example, storage means 36). For example, it is possible to input the imaging means 30), at least change information (for example, change information shown in FIG. 3A) and user information (for example, a name or a membership number), and the user image has the change. Information input means (for example, information input means 32) for associating information and user information and storing them in the first storage means, display means (for example, display means 38) capable of displaying an image, and at least the above-mentioned A first communication means (for example, communication means 34) capable of transmitting the user image, the user image capturing position information, the change information, and the user information to the data center, The data center includes at least the position information (for example, latitude and longitude) at the time of capturing the data center image in the data center image (for example, data center still image). Second storage means (for example, storage means 52) capable of storing data center image position information in association with each other, and the user image, the user image capturing position information, and the change information received from the user terminal. Map information update means (for example, map information update means 54) for updating the data center image and at least second communication means (for example, communication means 50) capable of transmitting the data center image to the user terminal. And the display means of the user terminal includes the user image stored in the first storage means and the same position information as the user image capturing position information of the user image. And the data center image associated with the data center imaging position information of the user terminal can be displayed at the same time by the information input means of the user terminal. The change information input is information indicating a difference between the user image and the data center image associated with the same position information (for example, 0 (normal), 1 (change 1), 2 (change 2). )), And the map information updating means of the data center indicates that the change information received from the user terminal indicates different information (for example, 1 (change 1), 2 (change 2)). In addition, the user image and the user image capturing position information associated with the change information are received from the user terminal, and associated with data center image capturing position information having the same position information as the received user image capturing position information. The local image / map information collecting / providing system characterized in that the data center image can be stored in the second storage means in place of the received user image. It is.

According to the local image / map information collection and provision system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to increase the number of users who own user terminals without increasing the number of vehicles and specialized staff as in the conventional collection method. It becomes possible to increase the number of providers of images and map information. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently collect local images and map information at various locations at low cost, and based on the collected information, it is possible to update old images held by the data center to new images. In addition, since it is possible to leave the determination of whether the image has changed to a user who is familiar with the local site, it may be possible to make a determination with higher accuracy than the determination made by the specialist staff. The load can be suppressed. In addition, a large number of people can use a wide range and the latest local images and map information updated frequently. In addition, a function that allows you to search the collected images by range designation, route designation, designated facility lap (clockwise / counterclockwise), etc., is added, and it is possible to conduct a survey, travel, visit, facility, real estate inspection, virtual trip, etc. It is possible to contribute to increasing the insight of many people.

In addition, the data center includes point grant means (for example, point grant means 56) that associates point information with the user information received from the user terminal and stores the information in the second storage means. The map information update unit is a map coverage degree indicating a ratio of the user images associated with predetermined user information among the plurality of user images and the data center images stored in the second storage unit The point granting unit of the data center may increase the numerical value of the point information associated with the predetermined user information as the map coverage is higher.

With such a configuration, the user's incentive for capturing / transmitting user images can be increased, and local images and map information in various locations can be collected more efficiently.

Further, the user image stored in the second storage means includes road information indicating the type of road (for example, expressway, national road / prefectural road / main local road, alley), and equipment installed on the road ( For example, road facility information indicating (traffic lights, signs, intersections) and feature information indicating the type of real estate (for example, store, building, facility) are stored in association with each other, and the point giving means of the data center Determining the numerical value of the point information associated with the predetermined user information based on the change information, the road information, the road facility information, or the feature information associated with the user image. Good.

With such a configuration, for example, by assigning high points to roads, road facilities, and real estate that provide few images, it is possible to more efficiently collect images that are difficult to gather information.

Further, the map information updating means of the data center determines whether or not the user image satisfies a predetermined condition based on the user image capturing position information (for example, latitude, longitude, date and time) received from the user terminal ( For example, it is determined whether the image is captured in a bright daytime, whether the weather is sunny or cloudy to ensure good image quality, and the user image is satisfied only when the predetermined condition is satisfied. May be received from the user terminal. In addition, information necessary to determine whether the image was taken in the bright daytime or whether the weather was sunny or cloudy to ensure good image quality (time of sunrise / sunset in the area, The information such as the weather in the corresponding area) may be acquired by the data center via the Internet based on information such as latitude, longitude, date and time.

With such a configuration, even when the number of user terminals increases, the load on the data center can be suppressed, and the quality level of images held in the data center can be maintained above a certain level.

Further, the second communication unit of the data center may transmit information indicating that the map information update unit has replaced the data center image with the user image to the user terminal.

With such a configuration, it is possible to update the map information to the latest information in the user terminal in synchronization with the data center, to improve the convenience for the user, and to capture and transmit the user image. The incentive of the user to can be increased.

Note that the map information collection system of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Therefore, for example, the image captured by the imaging unit 30 of the user terminal 14 is not limited to a still image and may be a moving image. In addition, the “location information at the time of capturing a user image” includes the position information of the location where the imaging unit is located at the time of capturing the user image, as well as the position of the imaging target area that is the imaging target of the imaging unit at the time of capturing the user image. Information is also included.
Similarly, the “position information at the time of imaging the data center image” includes “position information at the time of imaging the data center image” and the location information of the location where the imaging means is located at the time of imaging the data center image. The position information of the imaging target location that is the imaging target of the imaging unit when the center image is captured is also included.

The map information collecting / providing system of the present invention can be widely used as a method of collecting map information of various locations.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Local image / map information collection provision system 12 GPS satellite 14 User terminal 16 Internet 18 Data center 20 GPS receiving means 22 Positioning information generation means 24 Moving distance detection means 30 Imaging means 32 Information input means 34, 50 Communication means 36, 52 Storage Means 38 Display means 40, 58 Control means 54 Map information updating means 56 Point giving means

Claims

A system for collecting and providing local image / map information comprising a plurality of user terminals and one or a plurality of data centers,
The user terminal is
A moving distance detecting means for detecting a moving distance of the user terminal;
An imaging unit that captures a user image based on the information on the moving distance, associates the user image with user image capturing position information including position information at the time of capturing the user image, and stores the user image in the first storage unit; ,
At least change information and user information can be input, and information input means for associating the change information and user information with the user image and storing them in the first storage means;
Display means capable of displaying images;
And at least a first communication unit capable of transmitting the user image, the user image capturing position information, the change information, and the user information to the data center,
The data center is
A second storage means capable of storing data center image position information including position information at the time of imaging of the data center image in association with at least the data center image;
Map information updating means for updating the data center image based on the user image, the user image capturing position information, and the change information received from the user terminal;
At least a second communication means capable of transmitting the data center image to the user terminal,
The display means of the user terminal is
Simultaneously displaying the user image stored in the first storage means and the data center image associated with the data center imaging position information having the same position information as the user image imaging position information of the user image Is possible,
The change information input by the information input means of the user terminal is:
Information indicating a difference between the user image and the data center image associated with the same position information;
The map information updating means of the data center is
When the change information received from the user terminal indicates different information, the user image and the user image capturing position information associated with the change information are received from the user terminal, and the received user The data center image associated with the data center imaging position information having the same position information as the image imaging position information can be replaced with the received user image and stored in the second storage means.
A system for collecting and providing local image and map information.
The local image / map information collection and provision system according to claim 1,
The data center is
Point grant means for associating point information with the user information received from the user terminal and storing it in the second storage means;
The map information updating means of the data center is
Calculating a degree of map coverage indicating a proportion of the plurality of user images and the data center image stored in the second storage unit occupied by the user images associated with predetermined user information;
The point giving means of the data center is:
Increasing the numerical value of the point information associated with the predetermined user information as the map coverage is higher,
A local image / map information collection and provision system characterized by
The local image / map information collection and provision system according to claim 2,
In the user image stored in the second storage means,
Road information indicating the type of road, road facility information indicating equipment installed on the road, and feature information indicating the type of real estate are stored in association with each other,
The point giving means of the data center is:
Determining the numerical value of the point information associated with the predetermined user information based on the change information, the road information, the road facility information, or the feature information associated with the user image;
A local image / map information collection and provision system characterized by
The local image / map information collection and provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The map information updating means of the data center is
Based on the user image capturing position information received from the user terminal, it is determined whether or not the user image satisfies a predetermined condition, and the user image is received from the user terminal only when the predetermined condition is satisfied. ,
A system for collecting and providing local image and map information.
The local image / map information collection and provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The second communication means of the data center is
Transmitting information indicating that the map information updating means has replaced the data center image to the user image, to the user terminal;
A system for collecting and providing local image and map information.