JP4497763B2 - Map data providing device, map data installing terminal device, and communication type navigation device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention belongs to the technical field of communication-type navigation devices, and particularly relates to pre-installation processing of map data performed at the initial setting of the navigation device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in navigation devices, map data stored in a map data recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory) or a DVD-ROM (DVD-Read Only Memory) has been used. That is, the navigation apparatus includes a drive unit for a map data recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM, reads map data near the current position of the vehicle from the map data recording medium in accordance with the movement of the vehicle, and It was displayed on a liquid crystal monitor attached nearby.
[0003]
However, when the map data supply source is such a recording medium, there arises a problem that the map data cannot be updated frequently. Map data is updated according to the development of a new road network such as an expressway. In addition to road data, the map data used in the navigation device includes information on nearby facilities and stores (for example, convenience stores and gas stations). Recently, there is a tendency that new stores are created relatively frequently or old stores are lost, so if you always want to get the latest information, you must frequently replace the map data recording medium. It will be a burden for me. In addition, since a new version of the map data recording medium is released every certain period, for example, half a year or one year, even if the latest version is purchased every time, it is often difficult to keep up with the actual store update.
[0004]
In addition, recently, with the enhancement of functionality of navigation devices, there is a tendency that data of incidental data other than road data included in map data is increased and complicated. For example, for performing advanced route search and route guidance It becomes necessary to install a microprocessor capable of high-speed processing in the navigation device. This leads to an increase in apparatus scale and cost.
[0005]
In order to solve such a problem, a communication type navigation system has been recently proposed. In this communication type navigation system, two-way wireless communication is used between a navigation device mounted on a vehicle and a map data providing center on a communication network, and map data is transferred from the map data providing center to the navigation device on the vehicle. Send. The navigation device stores the received map data on a storage medium such as a hard disk, and performs map display, route guidance, etc. using the map data. Examples of such communication type navigation devices are described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 7-262495 and 10-96664.
[0006]
According to such a communication type navigation system, if the map database on the map data providing center side is updated, the user can always use the latest map data by communication.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, communication costs are incurred when communicating with the map data providing center to acquire map data, which is usually a burden on the user side. Therefore, if all the map data used by the user in the communication type navigation device is acquired by communication, the cost may be a considerable burden on the user.
[0008]
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for efficiently installing map data in a necessary range for each user in the navigation device in the communication navigation device as described above.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In one aspect of the present invention, in a map data providing device configured to be able to communicate with a map data installation terminal device for a communication type navigation device via a communication means, a reference indicating a reference point from the map data installation terminal. Receiving means for receiving point data; area determining means for determining an installation area based on the reference point data; map data acquiring means for acquiring map data corresponding to the installation area; and Transmitting means for transmitting to the map data installation terminal, and when the receiving means receives a plurality of reference point data, the map data acquisition means, the plurality of reference points,A length of a distance between the plurality of reference points, and a predetermined amount of data installable by the map data installation terminal device;The installation area is determined based on the above.
[0010]
  The map data providing apparatus is configured to be able to communicate with a map data installation terminal apparatus installed at a store or the like. The user of the communication type navigation device visits a store or the like and performs map data installation processing. When data of a reference point designated by the user is transmitted from the map data installation terminal device, the map data providing device determines an installation area based on the reference point. The installation area indicates a range where map data is installed in the communication navigation device. If there are multiple reference points specified by the user, these multiple reference points,The length of the distance between a plurality of reference points and the amount of data that can be installed by a predetermined map data installation terminal deviceThe installation area is determined based on the above. When the installation area is determined in this way, the corresponding map data is acquired from a map database or the like and transmitted to the installation terminal device. In a store or the like, the map data acquired from the map data providing device is installed in the communication type navigation device.
[0013]
In another aspect of the map data providing device, the area determining means determines the preinstalled area as a set of individual areas within a predetermined range centered on each of the plurality of reference points.
[0014]
According to this aspect, the map data of the surrounding area of each of the plurality of reference points designated by the user is preinstalled.
[0015]
In still another aspect of the map data providing device, the predetermined range may be a circular shape or a rectangular shape.
[0016]
In this aspect, the map data around the reference point can be preinstalled without any bias.
[0017]
In still another aspect of the map data providing device, the area determining means includes the preinstalled area inside a polygon formed by connecting the plurality of reference points when there are three or more reference points. Include in
[0018]
According to this aspect, map data inside a polygon formed by connecting a plurality of reference points can also be preinstalled.
[0019]
In still another aspect of the map data providing device, the area determining means includes a pre-installed area having a predetermined area along a straight line connecting two adjacent reference points among the plurality of reference points. Include in
[0020]
According to this aspect, map data is preinstalled along a straight line connecting adjacent reference points, so that the user automatically preinstalls map data of an area that passes when moving between specified reference points. can do.
[0025]
In still another aspect of the map data providing apparatus, the area determining means stops selecting meshes when the number of selected meshes reaches a predetermined number, and means for selecting meshes constituting the map data And means for determining the pre-installation area based on the mesh selected so far.
[0026]
According to this aspect, the preinstall area is efficiently determined within a predetermined number of meshes.
[0029]
In yet another aspect of the map data providing apparatus, the area determining means selects a mesh constituting the map data, and the total data amount of the map data corresponding to the selected mesh is a predetermined data amount. Means for stopping the selection of the mesh when reaching the above and determining the pre-installation area based on the mesh selected so far.
[0030]
According to this aspect, the preinstall area is efficiently determined within a predetermined data amount range.
[0033]
  In another aspect of the present invention, a map data installation terminal configured to be able to communicate with the above map data providing deviceapparatusAnd means for transmitting the reference point data to the map data providing device, and means for storing the map data received from the map data providing device in a storage medium attachable to the navigation device.
[0034]
  The above map data installation terminalapparatusAccordingly, the reference point data is transmitted to the map data providing device, and the map data corresponding to the installation area determined based on the reference point data can be acquired in the form of a storage medium. The user can install the map data in the installation area by inserting the storage medium containing the map data into the communication navigation device.
[0035]
  In still another aspect of the present invention, a map data installation terminal configured to be able to communicate with the above map data providing deviceapparatusAnd means for transmitting the reference point data to the map data providing device, and means for transmitting the map data received from the map data providing device to the navigation device through communication means.
[0036]
  The above map data installation terminalapparatusAccording to the present invention, the reference point data is transmitted to the map data providing device, the map data corresponding to the installation area determined based on the reference point data is received, and this is installed in the communication type navigation device by communication. it can.
[0037]
In still another aspect of the present invention, a data storage unit for storing map data, means for storing map data provided from the map data providing device in the data storage unit as preinstalled map data, a map, Means for acquiring map data and storing it in the data storage unit by communicating with a data providing device.
[0038]
According to the communication type navigation device, the map data provided from the map data providing device is stored in the data storage unit as preinstalled map data. Moreover, the map data acquired by communication during the movement of the mobile body is sequentially stored in the data storage unit. Therefore, map data in a certain range is pre-installed at the time of introduction of the device, and thereafter map data is acquired by communication as necessary, so communication data can be saved efficiently and map data can be acquired efficiently Can do.
[0039]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the communication type navigation device, the map data is basically acquired by communication. However, when the device is introduced, it is necessary to prepare a relatively large amount of data. The burden of communication costs increases. Therefore, in the present invention, a certain amount of basic map data is first stored in advance in a map data storage medium on the apparatus side (hereinafter, this process is also referred to as “pre-installation”), and thereafter as necessary. Then, an efficient method of acquiring necessary map data by connecting to the map data providing center is adopted.
[0040]
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following description shows an example in which the present invention is applied to a communication navigation device for vehicles (hereinafter simply referred to as “navigation device”).
[0041]
[1] Navigation device
FIG. 1 schematically shows a use situation of a navigation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the navigation device 7 is mounted on a vehicle 5. The navigation device 7 measures the position of the vehicle by receiving radio waves from the plurality of satellites 4. The navigation device 7 connects to the map data providing center 6 using a communication function, downloads the map data, and stores it in the internal map data storage unit. By acquiring necessary map data from the map data providing center 6 as the vehicle advances, functions such as route guidance and route guidance can be executed.
[0042]
FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the navigation device 7. As shown in FIG. 2, the navigation device 7 includes a self-supporting positioning device 10, a GPS receiver 18, a system controller 20, a CD-ROM drive 31, a DVD-ROM drive 32, a data storage unit 36, a communication interface 37, and a communication device. 38, a display unit 40, an audio output unit 50, and an input device 60.
[0043]
The self-supporting positioning device 10 includes an acceleration sensor 11, an angular velocity sensor 12, and a distance sensor 13. The acceleration sensor 11 is made of, for example, a piezoelectric element, detects vehicle acceleration, and outputs acceleration data. The angular velocity sensor 12 is composed of, for example, a vibrating gyroscope, detects the angular velocity of the vehicle when the direction of the vehicle is changed, and outputs angular velocity data and relative azimuth data.
[0044]
The distance sensor 13 measures a vehicle speed pulse that is a pulse signal generated with the rotation of the axle of the vehicle.
[0045]
The GPS receiver 18 receives a radio wave 19 that carries downlink data including positioning data from a plurality of GPS satellites to be used for detecting the absolute position of the vehicle from latitude and longitude information. It is.
[0046]
The system controller 20 includes an interface 21, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 22, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 23, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 24, and is configured to control the entire navigation device 7. .
[0047]
The interface 21 performs an interface operation with the acceleration sensor 11, the angular velocity sensor 12, the distance sensor 13, and the GPS receiver 18. From these, acceleration data, relative azimuth data, angular velocity data, GPS positioning data, absolute azimuth data and the like are input to the system controller 20 in addition to the vehicle speed pulse. The CPU 22 controls the entire system controller 20. The ROM 23 includes a nonvolatile memory (not shown) in which a control program for controlling the system controller 20 is stored. The RAM 24 stores various data such as route data preset by the user via the input device 60 so as to be readable, and provides a working area to the CPU 22.
[0048]
The system controller 20, the CD-ROM drive 31, the DVD-ROM drive 32, the data storage unit 36, the communication interface 37, the display unit 40, the audio output unit 50 and the input device 60 are connected to each other via the bus line 30. ing.
[0049]
The CD-ROM drive 31 and the DVD-ROM drive 32 read out and output content data such as music data and video data and control programs corresponding to each processing described later from the CD 33 and DVD 34 under the control of the system controller 20, respectively. To do. Note that either one of the CD-ROM drive 31 and the DVD-ROM drive 32 may be provided, or a CD and DVD compatible drive may be provided.
[0050]
In the present invention, the map data used in principle is pre-installed as described later or acquired from the map data providing center 6 by communication. However, the map data stored in the CD-ROM 33 and the DVD-ROM 34 are used. The data can be read and used. In particular, when using discs of special projects other than general map data (for example, golf course maps, ski resort maps, sightseeing tour guides, etc.), CD-ROM drive 31 or DVD-ROM The drive 32 can be preferably used.
[0051]
The data storage unit 36 is a unit that mainly stores map data. The map data is acquired by a pre-installation process described later, and is acquired from the map data providing center 6 as necessary while the vehicle is running and stored in the data storage unit 36. The data storage unit 36 can also store audio data and video data read from the CD-ROM drive 31 or the DVD-ROM drive 32 and map data of the above-mentioned disc of the project as necessary. .
[0052]
The communication device 38 is composed of, for example, a mobile phone, and is configured so that map data can be downloaded from the map data providing center 6 via a communication interface 37 constituting a modem or the like.
[0053]
The display unit 40 displays various display data under the control of the system controller 20. The display unit 40 includes a graphic controller 41 that controls the entire display unit 40 based on control data sent from the CPU 22 via the bus line 30 and image information that can be displayed immediately, such as a VRAM (Video RAM). A buffer memory 42 that temporarily stores, a display control unit 43 that controls display of a display 44 such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) based on image data output from the graphic controller 41, and a display 44 are provided. Configured. The display 44 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display device having a diagonal of about 5 to 10 inches, and is mounted near the front panel in the vehicle.
[0054]
The audio output unit 50 performs D / A (Digital to Analog) conversion of audio digital data sent from the CD-ROM drive 31, DVD-ROM 32, RAM 24, or the like via the bus line 30 under the control of the system controller 20. A D / A converter 51 to perform, an amplifier (AMP) 52 that amplifies the audio analog signal output from the D / A converter 51, and a speaker 53 that converts the amplified audio analog signal into sound and outputs the sound into the vehicle. It is prepared for.
[0055]
The input device 60 includes keys, switches, buttons, a remote controller, a voice input device, and the like for inputting various commands and data. The input device 60 is disposed around the front panel and the display 44 of the main body of the in-vehicle electronic system mounted in the vehicle.
[0056]
[2] Pre-install system
Next, a system for pre-installing map data will be described. In principle, map data is acquired from the map data providing center 6 by communication in the communication type navigation device 7 of the present invention. However, when the navigation device 7 is introduced, for example, a region that will be used relatively frequently, such as near the home. Pre-install map data. This eliminates the need to download a large amount of map data by communication when the navigation device 7 starts to be used.
[0057]
FIG. 3 schematically shows the configuration of a system for executing the preinstall process. As shown in FIG. 3, the store 8 and the map data providing center 6 are connected via a communication network 103. The sales store 8 is a navigation device sales store, for example, a car dealer or a car supplies store.
[0058]
  The map data providing center 6 includes a map server 101 and a map database (hereinafter referred to as “DB”) 104. The map DB 104 stores map data. In response to a request from the store 8, the map server 101 acquires necessary map data from the map DB 104 and transmits it to the store 8 through the communication network 103.The map data providing center 6 corresponds to the map data providing device of the present invention.
[0059]
  In the store 8, a preinstall terminal 102 connected to the communication network 103 is installed. The preinstalled terminal 102 transmits a request for map data to be preinstalled in the user's navigation device 7 to the map data providing center 6, receives the corresponding map data, and temporarily stores it in an internal memory or the like. Then, the map data is stored in the data storage unit 36 of the navigation device 7.The preinstall terminal 102 corresponds to the map data install terminal device of the present invention.
[0060]
There are several methods for storing map data from the pre-installed terminal 102 to the data storage unit 36 of the navigation device 7. One method is that the preinstall terminal 102 temporarily stores map data in a storage medium such as a DVD-RAM, a semiconductor memory, or a card-type storage medium, and inserts it into the drive device of the navigation device 7 to insert the data storage unit. 36.
[0061]
In addition, when the data storage unit 36 is configured by a removable medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk, the map data is stored in such a medium from the preinstalled terminal 102 and then the medium is provided to the user. You can also. The user simply installs the medium in his / her navigation device 7 and the pre-installation of the map data is completed. In addition, according to this method, it is possible to eliminate the need for the user to visit the store 8 for pre-installation by providing the user with a storage medium storing the pre-install map data by means such as mail. It becomes.
In addition, map data is stored in the data storage unit 36 by using the communication function of the navigation device 7 to wirelessly communicate with the preinstalled terminal 102 by, for example, infrared rays, or by connecting data lines to perform data communication. Can do.
[0062]
[3] Map data
Next, the structure of map data will be described. The map data is created in units obtained by dividing a predetermined geographical area into a plurality of sections having a predetermined area. This unit is called “mesh”, and the map data corresponding to one mesh is called “mesh data”. Therefore, the map data is a set of mesh data.
[0063]
FIG. 4 schematically shows a state where a map of an area along the sea is divided into a plurality of meshes. In FIG. 4, a line 111 indicates a coastline, the right side of which is a water area (sea) and the left side is land. The upper left area in FIG. 4 is a mountain. A line 110 indicates a road.
[0064]
This area is divided into a plurality of meshes M defined in a grid pattern as map data. In FIG. 4, the identification numbers (M11 to M55) are shown inside each mesh M. The mesh data is prepared for each mesh shown in FIG. The x and y coordinates in FIG. 4 correspond to longitude and latitude, respectively.
[0065]
Further, the map shown in FIG. 4 is of a specific scale, and mesh data is created for each of a plurality of scales. The map of Japan has been created in a plurality of scales, but the map is divided into a plurality of meshes for each scale, and mesh data is prepared.
[0066]
FIG. 5 shows the contents of the mesh data. The mesh data roughly includes road data, background data, and annotation data. The road data is vector data indicating roads on the map. The background data is data indicating other than roads in the area displayed as a map. In the map displayed on the navigation device 7, the vicinity of the road is shown in addition to the road. For example, if there is a pond along the road, an image showing the pond is displayed, and if it is a city map, a geographical section is displayed. These are included as background data.
[0067]
The annotation data is data corresponding to characters, symbols, marks, etc. displayed on the map, and includes character data, facility map signs, and logo marks. In the map displayed by the navigation device, place names, addresses, intersection names, station names, and the like are displayed in characters. Character data is data of these characters. On the map, for example, facilities such as schools, hospitals, and post offices may be displayed as map symbols, and these are included in the data indicating the facility's map sign. Further, marks indicating stores such as convenience stores and gas stations are displayed, and these logo marks are also included in the note data.
[0068]
As described above, the mesh data basically includes road data, background data, and annotation data. However, each data may not exist depending on the area to which the mesh corresponds. For example, the mesh M55 shown in FIG. 4 is a completely sea area, and there are no roads, facilities, stores, or the like. Therefore, the mesh data of the mesh M55 does not include road data and annotation data, but includes only background data. In the case of the mesh M55, since the entire area is displayed in blue indicating that it is the sea as the map display, only background data for that is included.
[0069]
As understood from this, the data amount of each mesh data is different for each mesh. For example, meshes M43 and M34 in FIG. 4 include a plurality of roads and further include a coastline, so that the amount of data included in the mesh data is large. On the other hand, the mesh data M55, which is a completely sea area, and the mesh M11, which is a completely mountain area (no road), has a small amount of mesh data.
[0070]
As described above, since the map data is created as a plurality of mesh data for each scale, the preinstall process is also performed in units of mesh data. That is, pre-installation is performed by storing a plurality of mesh data in the data storage unit 36 of the navigation device 7.
[0071]
[4] Pre-installation method
Next, a specific preinstall process will be described. In the following example, in the system shown in FIG. 3, the user who purchased the navigation device 7 visits the store 8, and the store clerk obtains necessary information from the user and operates the preinstall terminal 102 to perform preinstall processing. Shall be executed.
[0072]
The preinstall terminal 102 can be a terminal device such as a personal computer having a communication function via a communication network, and operates as a preinstall terminal by executing a preinstall program. Similarly, the map server 101 also performs a preinstall process by executing a preinstall program that executes the steps described below.
[0073]
(1) First embodiment
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the first embodiment of the preinstallation method. Referring to FIG. 6, first, the store clerk operates pre-installed terminal 102 to input a reference point designated by the user (step S1). Here, the “reference point” refers to a geographical location serving as a reference for determining the range of map data to be preinstalled (hereinafter also referred to as “preinstall area”). The reference point can be an arbitrary location desired by the user, and usually the user often sets a home, work place, etc. where the vehicle is frequently used as a reference point. In the present invention, the user can designate a plurality of reference points. As a reference point input method, for example, a store clerk can input an address designated by the user as a reference point in a preinstall program.
[0074]
The reference point information set in this way is transmitted to the map data providing center 6 through the communication network 103. The map server 101 of the map data providing center 6 determines a preinstall area by a method described later based on the reference point (step S2).
[0075]
When the preinstall area is determined based on the reference point in this way, the map server 101 acquires mesh data of the mesh corresponding to the determined preinstall area from the map DB 104 (step S3). Then, the map server 101 transmits the acquired mesh data to the preinstall terminal 102 through the communication network 103 (step S4).
[0076]
The preinstall terminal 102 receives the mesh data (step S5) and installs it in the data storage unit 36 of the navigation device 7 (step S6). As described above, various methods can be used for the installation. Thus, preinstallation is completed.
[0077]
Next, a method for determining the preinstall area in step S2 will be described.
[0078]
First, when the user sets one reference point in step S1, the preinstall area can be an area of a predetermined distance with the reference point as the center. For example, an area defined by a circle having a radius of a predetermined distance with the reference point as the center can be set as a pre-installation area. As another example, a square area or a rectangular area with a predetermined distance on one side centered on the reference point can be used as a preinstalled area.
[0079]
On the other hand, when the user sets a plurality of reference points in step S1, the preinstall area can be determined by the following various methods. FIGS. 7A to 7D schematically show first to fourth methods for determining a pre-installation area based on a plurality of reference points, respectively. 7A to 7D show an example in which the user sets three reference points A to C.
[0080]
The first method shown in FIG. 7A is a method for determining one continuous area 200 including all of a plurality of reference points set by the user as a preinstalled area. In FIG. 7A, the area 200 is a rectangular area, but an area having another shape such as a circle, an ellipse, or a triangle including a plurality of reference points may be used as a preinstalled area. Further, if there is a margin in the data amount, meshes are sequentially selected so as to surround the rectangular area 200, and the preinstalled area is expanded.
[0081]
In the second method shown in FIG. 7B, for a plurality of reference points set by the user, individual areas 201 of a predetermined size are set around each reference point, and a preinstalled area is configured as a set of these. It is a method to do. Therefore, the space between the individual areas 201 is not defined as a preinstalled area, and map data is not preinstalled. Note that the shape of each individual area 201 is not limited to the circle shown in FIG. 7B, and may be various shapes such as an ellipse and a triangle.
[0082]
In the third method shown in FIG. 7C, first, similarly to the second method, an individual area 201 having a predetermined size is defined around each reference point, and in addition, each reference point is connected. The inside of the polygon to be formed is included in the pre-installation area. That is, in the example of FIG. 7C, three individual areas 201 corresponding to the respective reference points A to C and a polygonal (triangular) internal area 202 formed by connecting the reference points A to C are defined as preinstalled areas. To do.
[0083]
In the fourth method shown in FIG. 7 (d), first, similarly to the second method, an individual area 201 having a predetermined size is defined around each reference point, and further, a predetermined width for connecting the vicinity of each reference point is defined. The connection area 203 is included in the pre-installation area. The width 204 of the connection area 203 is determined in advance as a predetermined distance. In the example of FIG. 7D, in addition to the three individual areas 201 corresponding to the respective reference points A to C, three connection areas 203 that connect the vicinity of each reference point are included in the preinstall area.
[0084]
Regardless of which of the first to fourth methods is used, map data near a plurality of reference points set by the user is preinstalled. In addition, in the first method shown in FIG. 7A, since a continuous area including three reference points is preinstalled, map data between areas around and around each reference point Can be pre-installed.
[0085]
However, if the distance between the reference points set by the user is long, the first method may not be adopted because of the relationship with the data amount of map data that can be preinstalled. In that case, first, as in the second method shown in FIG. 7B, at least a predetermined range around each reference point is included in the preinstallation area, and there is a margin in the amount of data that can be preinstalled. For example, the interior of the polygon formed by each reference point is included in the preinstall area as in the third method shown in FIG. 7C, or as in the fourth method shown in FIG. A connection area having a predetermined width connecting the reference points can be included in the pre-installation area. When the user sets a plurality of reference points, the user naturally moves between the plurality of reference points, so the user sets the reference points as in the methods shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D. It is useful for the user to include the area between the reference points in the pre-installation area.
[0086]
(2) Second embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the preinstall process according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the first embodiment described above, the amount of map data that can be preinstalled (hereinafter referred to as “preinstalled data amount”) is not limited, or within the range of the preinstalled data amount, FIG. This is an example where the methods shown in (a) to (d) can be applied. On the other hand, 2nd Embodiment is about the process in the case of pre-installing map data suitably under the restriction | limiting of the amount of pre-install data.
[0087]
In the following example, a case where the amount of preinstalled data is limited by the number of meshes constituting the preinstalled area will be described. In other words, when the number of meshes selected as the pre-installation area reaches a predetermined number, the selection of further meshes should be stopped and the map data corresponding to the meshes selected so far should be pre-installed. Map data.
[0088]
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of preinstall processing according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 8, first, the user sets a reference point (step S11). Also in this case, the user can set a plurality of reference points. This reference point data is transmitted to the map server 101 in the map data providing center 6.
[0089]
Based on the received reference point data, the map server 101 selects one mesh according to any one of the methods illustrated in FIGS. 7A to 7D (step S12). Then, the map server 101 determines whether or not the total number of meshes selected so far has reached a predetermined number (step S13). In this way, the map server 101 continues to select meshes by any of the methods shown in FIGS. 7A to 7D until a predetermined number of meshes are selected.
[0090]
When the meshes selected so far reach a predetermined number (step S13; Yes), the map server 101 acquires map data corresponding to the meshes from the map DB 104 and transmits the map data to the preinstall terminal 102 (step S13). S14). The pre-install terminal 102 receives the map data (step S15), and installs the map data into the navigation device by any of the methods described above (step S16).
[0091]
In the above example, the case where the preinstalled data amount is determined to be the map data amount corresponding to the predetermined number of meshes has been described. Instead, it corresponds to a plurality of meshes regardless of the number of meshes. It is also possible to determine the data amount to be preinstalled so that the total data amount of the map data becomes a predetermined data amount. In that case, in step S13, it is not whether or not the selected mesh has reached the predetermined number, but whether or not the total data amount of the map data corresponding to the mesh selected so far has reached the predetermined data amount. Will be judged. The other processes are the same as when the preinstalled data amount is determined by the number of meshes.
[0092]
Next, when there is a limit on the amount of preinstalled data as described above, how to select meshes according to the first to fourth methods illustrated in FIGS. Will be described. As described above, when the amount of preinstalled data is limited, the mesh may not be selected to the end according to the first to fourth methods.
[0093]
In the first method shown in FIG. 7A, first, a mesh included in a triangle formed by connecting the reference points A to C is selected. If the mesh can be further selected, the mesh is sequentially selected up to a predetermined range outside the mesh. If the amount of preinstalled data is sufficient, all rectangular areas 200 can be used as preinstalled areas as shown in FIG.
[0094]
In the second method shown in FIG. 7B, for example, first, each individual mesh within a predetermined range (for example, 5 km) from each reference point is selected to define the individual area 201. Further, when mesh selection is possible, A mesh within a predetermined range (for example, 10 km) is further selected from each reference point to expand the individual area 201. If further acquisition is possible, a mesh within a predetermined range (for example, 15 km) is further selected to further select the individual area 201. In the method of enlarging, select as many meshes as possible within the limits of the amount of preinstalled data.
[0095]
In the second method, as another method, priorities are set for the reference points A to C (in this case, the user also designates the priorities of the respective reference points in step S11 in FIG. 8), and according to the priorities. There is also a method of selecting a mesh. For example, if the priority order of the reference points A to C is A, B, and C in this order, first, a predetermined range of mesh is acquired from the reference point A, and if there is a margin, a predetermined range of mesh is acquired from the reference point B. If there is a further margin, a mesh in a predetermined range may be acquired from the reference point C, and so on.
[0096]
Moreover, if the priority order is attached to the reference point, the individual areas 201 can be expanded according to the priority order even by the method of expanding the individual areas 201 in the order described above.
[0097]
In the case of the third method shown in FIG. 7C, first, as in the case of the second method, a mesh in a predetermined range around each reference point is acquired, and if there is a margin, the reference points are connected. You can select the mesh inside the polygon that can be done in order. In that case, if the mesh is selected in order from the vertex of the polygon (that is, the reference point) toward the inside of the polygon, the map data of the area connecting the reference points is preferentially pre-prepared. Can be installed.
[0098]
In the case of the fourth method shown in FIG. 7D, first, as in the case of the second method, a predetermined range of meshes around each reference point is acquired. What is necessary is just to select a mesh in order so that the connection area 203 of the predetermined width | variety 204 to connect may be comprised.
[0099]
(3) Third embodiment
Next, a pre-installation method according to the third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments described above, when only one reference point is set, an area in a predetermined range centered on the reference point is simply set as a preinstalled area. In the third embodiment, In addition to one reference point, the preinstall area is determined in consideration of the direction designated by the user.
[0100]
FIG. 9A schematically shows a method for determining a pre-installation area according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 9A, in addition to the reference point A, the user sets the direction of the area to be preinstalled. This is set when the user designates a direction in addition to the reference point in step S1 of FIG. 6 or step S11 of FIG.
[0101]
The map server 101 selects a mesh over a predetermined distance in the direction specified by the user using the reference point specified by the user as a reference, and sets this as a preinstalled area. According to the third embodiment, when the area where the user acts tends to be biased in a specific direction, the map data of the necessary area can be pre-installed efficiently.
[0102]
Note that the method of the third embodiment may be combined with the method of the first or second embodiment described above. That is, in the method of the first or second embodiment, the user can specify the direction from the reference point when setting the reference point, and when the direction is specified, the number of meshes to be selected in the direction is increased. The map data of the area desired by the user can be preinstalled.
[0103]
(4) Fourth embodiment
Next, a pre-installation method according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is a method of selecting a mesh including a main road passing near a reference point in addition to a predetermined distance around a reference point.
[0104]
FIG. 9B schematically shows this method. In the figure, first, a predetermined range of mesh 212 is selected around a reference point A designated by the user. The mesh 212 is composed of a set of a plurality of meshes. Since there is a main road 213 passing near the reference point, the mesh 214 is selected along the main road 213 from the vicinity of the reference point over a predetermined distance.
[0105]
According to this method, map data in the vicinity of the main road connected to the reference point selected by the user can be automatically preinstalled.
[0106]
Note that the method of the fourth embodiment can be applied in combination with the first, second, or third embodiment. That is, after selecting a predetermined range of meshes near each reference point as shown in FIG. 7 (b), if there is a sufficient amount of data that can be preinstalled, each reference is performed in the manner shown in FIG. 9 (b). Meshes can be selected along the main road passing near the point.
[0107]
Further, in the method of FIG. 7D, instead of selecting the mesh of the connection area 203 connecting the reference points, if there is a main road connecting the reference points, the mesh is selected along the main road. Can continue. This is the case, for example, when there is no main road in the connection area 203 that linearly connects the reference points A and C in FIG. 7D, and the main road connecting the reference points A and C is largely detoured. Is effective because map data can be pre-installed along the main road. The main roads here include arterial roads, national roads, toll roads, highways and the like.
[0108]
[5] Modification
The above embodiment is a case where the present invention is applied to a vehicle navigation device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to a communication type navigation device for other moving bodies such as ships and airplanes. Is possible. Further, the present invention can be applied to a portable navigation device carried by a human.
[0109]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, necessary map data can be efficiently preinstalled for each user. Also, when a user designates a plurality of reference points, a preferable preinstall area can be determined in consideration of them.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a usage state of a communication type navigation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the communication type navigation device shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 3 schematically shows the configuration of a system for executing preinstallation processing.
FIG. 4 schematically shows a state where an area is divided into a plurality of meshes.
FIG. 5 shows the structure of map data (mesh data).
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a pre-installation method according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating a method for determining a pre-installation area based on a plurality of reference points.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a pre-installation method according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a pre-installation area determination method according to the third and fourth embodiments.
[Explanation of symbols]
4 satellites
5 Vehicle
6 Map data provision center
7 Communication type navigation device
10 Independent positioning device
18 GPS receiver
20 System controller
31 CD-ROM drive
32 DVD-ROM drive
36 Data storage unit
37 Communication interface
38 Communication equipment
40 display units
50 audio output unit
60 input devices
101 Map server
102 Pre-installed terminal
103 Communication network
104 Map database

Claims (10)

In the map data providing device configured to be able to communicate with the map data installation terminal device for the communication type navigation device via the communication means,
Receiving means for receiving reference point data indicating a reference point from the map data installation terminal device ;
Area determining means for determining an installation area based on the reference point data;
Map data acquisition means for acquiring map data corresponding to the installation area;
Transmission means for transmitting the acquired map data to the map data installation terminal device ,
When the receiving unit receives a plurality of reference point data, the map data acquisition unit includes the plurality of reference points, the length of the distance between the plurality of reference points, and the predetermined map data installation terminal. An apparatus for providing map data, wherein the installation area is determined based on a data amount installable by the apparatus.   The map data providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the area determining unit determines the installation area as a set of individual areas within a predetermined range centered on each of the plurality of reference points. The map data providing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined range has a circular or rectangular shape. The area determination unit, when the reference point is more than two, according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that inclusion of internal polygon formed by connecting the plurality of reference points in the installation area Map data providing device. It said area determination means, among the plurality of reference points, according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in the inclusion of coupling area having a predetermined width along a line connecting the two reference points adjacent to the installation area Map data providing device. The area determining means includes
Means for selecting a mesh constituting the map data;
When the number of selected meshes reaches the predetermined number, stop selecting meshes,
Means for determining the installation area according to the mesh selected so far;
The map data providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , further comprising: The area determining means includes
Means for selecting a mesh constituting the map data;
Means for stopping selection of a mesh when the total data amount of the map data corresponding to the selected mesh reaches a predetermined data amount, and determining the installation area by the mesh selected so far;
The map data providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , further comprising: In the map data installation terminal device configured to be able to communicate with the map data providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
Means for transmitting the reference point data to the map data providing device;
Means for storing map data received from the map data providing device in a storage medium that can be attached to the navigation device. In the map data installation terminal device configured to be able to communicate with the map data providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
Means for transmitting the reference point data to the map data providing device;
Means for transmitting the map data received from the map data providing device to the navigation device through a communication means; A data storage unit for storing map data;
Means for storing the map data provided from the map data providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 in the data storage unit as installation map data;
Means for acquiring map data by communicating with a map data providing device and storing it in the data storage unit.

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