Radio wave image providing device and radio wave image acquisition and utilization device

Abstract

The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device (150) includes: a request location information acquisition unit (110) for acquiring request location information representing a requested location; a transmission unit (105) for sending a radio wave image request containing the request location information to a radio wave image providing device (250); a receiving unit (106) for receiving a radio wave image response, the radio wave image response including: the probability of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the request location information, i.e., the connection probability; the minimum guaranteed speed and estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probability; an unstable region determination unit (111) for determining whether the reference location is an unstable region based on the connection probability; and a communication control unit (113) for controlling the wireless communication between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-207129, filed on December 14, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to apparatuses related to radio charts, namely radio chart providing apparatuses mainly implemented by servers, radio chart acquisition and utilization apparatuses implemented by mobile bodies or distribution servers and utilizing radio charts provided by radio chart providing apparatuses, methods performed by these apparatuses, and programs that these apparatuses can execute. Background Technology

[0004] With the widespread adoption of wireless communication, opportunities for wireless communication in various locations are increasing. Particularly in mobile vehicles such as automobiles, technologies like V2X (vehicle-to-everything) using high-capacity cellular communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and road-to-road (Road-to-Road) communication are gaining attention for driver assistance and autonomous driving control. Consequently, vehicles are acquiring communication capabilities, and the so-called vehicle connectivity is continuously developing.

[0005] When using high-capacity cellular communication, the terminal device mounted on the mobile body communicates wirelessly with the base station device. However, when the mobile body is located near the boundary of two base station devices, there are frequent handovers between the two base station devices.

[0006] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for suppressing the handover of a base station device that establishes wireless communication with a terminal device.

[0007] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-216645.

[0008] Here, the inventors have discovered the following issues as a result of detailed research.

[0009] While the technology in Patent Document 1 can reduce the frequency of base station device handover, it cannot prevent the handover itself. Furthermore, the continued communication of a terminal device mounted on a mobile device requires the presence of a base station device that performs wireless communication during mobile handover, a process known as handover. This necessitates communication control that assumes communication instability during base station device handover. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide information as a radio waveform as needed to determine whether the location for wireless communication is an unstable area that may cause the switching of base station devices.

[0011] In addition, the purpose of this disclosure is to use radio wave diagrams to determine whether the location of wireless communication is an unstable area that may cause the base station device to switch, and to perform appropriate communication control accordingly.

[0012] One aspect of the present disclosure is a radio chart providing apparatus that receives a radio chart request from a radio chart acquisition and utilization apparatus and sends the required information, comprising:

[0013] The radio wave image storage unit stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and multiple external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the multiple external communication devices, i.e., connection probability.

[0014] The receiving unit receives the aforementioned radio waveform request, which includes requested location information indicating the requested location.

[0015] The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and the connection probability mentioned above.

[0016] The speed estimation calculation unit calculates the estimated speed at the reference location based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability; and

[0017] The transmitting unit transmits a radio waveform response that includes the connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed, and the estimated speed at the reference position corresponding to the required position information.

[0018] Other methods of radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus disclosed herein include:

[0019] The location information acquisition unit is required to acquire the requested location information indicating the requested location.

[0020] The transmitting unit sends a radio wave map request containing the aforementioned requested location information to the radio wave map providing device;

[0021] The receiving unit receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information, i.e., the connection probability; the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probability; and the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and the connection probability.

[0022] The unstable region determination unit determines whether the above-mentioned reference position is an unstable region based on the above-mentioned connection probability.

[0023] The communication control unit, based on the determination result of the aforementioned unstable region determination unit, controls the wireless communication between itself and each of the aforementioned external communication devices; and

[0024] The wireless communication unit transmits data by wirelessly communicating with multiple external communication devices.

[0025] Other methods of providing radio charts disclosed herein are radio chart providing methods performed by a radio chart providing device that receives a radio chart request from a radio chart acquisition and utilization device and sends the required information.

[0026] The aforementioned radio wave image providing device includes a radio wave image storage unit that stores reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and various external communication devices; and radio wave images representing the probabilities, i.e., connection probabilities, of wireless communication between the reference position and the various external communication devices.

[0027] Receive the aforementioned radio waveform request containing requested location information indicating the requested location.

[0028] Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated.

[0029] Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the estimated speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated.

[0030] Send a radio waveform response containing the connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed, and the estimated speed at the reference location corresponding to the required location information.

[0031] Other methods of acquiring and utilizing radio waveforms disclosed herein are radio waveform acquisition and utilization methods performed by a radio waveform acquisition and utilization device.

[0032] Retrieve the required location information representing the requested location.

[0033] The radio wave map request, containing the aforementioned required location information, is sent to the radio wave map providing device.

[0034] The radio wave map is received from the aforementioned radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information; a minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probabilities; and an estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds and the connection probabilities.

[0035] Based on the aforementioned connectivity probabilities, it is determined whether the aforementioned reference location is an unstable region.

[0036] Based on the above determination results, wireless communication control is performed between the device and each of the aforementioned external communication devices.

[0037] Data is transmitted by wireless communication with multiple external communication devices mentioned above.

[0038] Other radio chart providing procedures disclosed herein are radio chart providing procedures that can be executed by a radio chart providing device that receives a radio chart request from a radio chart acquisition and utilization device and sends the required information.

[0039] The aforementioned radio wave image providing device includes a radio wave image storage unit that stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and various external communication devices; and the probability, i.e., connection probability, of wireless communication between the reference position and the various external communication devices.

[0040] Receive the aforementioned radio waveform request containing requested location information indicating the requested location.

[0041] Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated.

[0042] Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the estimated speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated.

[0043] Send a radio waveform response containing the connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed, and the estimated speed at the reference location corresponding to the required location information.

[0044] Other radio waveform acquisition and utilization procedures disclosed herein are radio waveform acquisition and utilization procedures that can be executed by a radio waveform acquisition and utilization device.

[0045] Retrieve the required location information representing the requested location.

[0046] The radio wave map request, containing the aforementioned required location information, is sent to the radio wave map providing device.

[0047] The radio wave map is received from the aforementioned radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information; a minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probabilities; and an estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds and the connection probabilities.

[0048] Based on the aforementioned connectivity probabilities, it is determined whether the aforementioned reference location is an unstable region.

[0049] Based on the above determination results, wireless communication control is performed between the device and each of the aforementioned external communication devices.

[0050] Data is transmitted by wireless communication with multiple external communication devices mentioned above.

[0051] Furthermore, the numbers in parentheses attached to the constituent elements of the invention described in the claims indicate the correspondence between the invention and the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0052] With the above-described configuration, the radio wave diagram can provide the information needed to determine unstable regions.

[0053] Furthermore, with the configuration described above, it is possible to use radio wave diagrams to determine whether an area is unstable and to perform appropriate communication control. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is an overall configuration diagram showing the devices used in various embodiments of this disclosure and their interrelationships.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the vehicle-mounted device, namely the detection information transmitting device and the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device, according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the determination method of the unstable region determination section of this disclosure.

[0057] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the radio wave image server apparatus, i.e., the radio wave image generation apparatus and the radio wave image providing apparatus, according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0058] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the radio wave pattern generated through Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0059] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the radio wave pattern provided through Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0060] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the detection information transmitting device and the radio wave pattern generating device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0061] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus and the radio wave image providing apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0062] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of wireless communication control of the radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0063] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a vehicle-mounted device, namely a detection information transmitting device and a radio wave map acquisition and utilization device, as a variation of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0064] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a radio waveform server device, i.e., a radio waveform generation device and a radio waveform providing device, according to a variation of Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a vehicle-mounted device, namely a detection information transmitting device and a radio wave map acquisition and utilization device, as a variation of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0066] Figure 13 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a radio waveform server device, i.e., a radio waveform generation device and a radio waveform providing device, according to a variation 2 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0067] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a vehicle-mounted device, namely a detection information transmitting device and a radio wave map acquisition and utilization device, according to a variation of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0068] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a radio waveform server device, i.e., a radio waveform generation device and a radio waveform providing device, according to a variation of Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 16 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information distribution server apparatus, i.e., the radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus, according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure.

[0070] Figure 17 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between the vehicle-mounted device, i.e., the radio wave acquisition and utilization device, of Embodiment 3 of this disclosure and other vehicle-mounted devices. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0072] Furthermore, the invention described below refers to the invention as set forth in the claims and is not limited to the embodiments described below. Additionally, at least the statements enclosed in quotation marks refer to the statements set forth in the claims and are similarly not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0073] The configurations and methods described in the dependent claims are any configurations and methods of the invention described in the independent claims. The configurations and methods of embodiments corresponding to the configurations and methods described in the dependent claims, and configurations and methods not described in the claims but only described in the embodiments, are arbitrary configurations and methods in this invention. Configurations and methods described in embodiments where the scope of the claims is broader than that of the embodiments are also examples of the configurations and methods of this invention, and in this sense, are arbitrary configurations and methods in this invention. In all cases, the configurations and methods that are essential to this invention are those described in the independent claims.

[0074] The effects described in the embodiments are effects under the configuration of embodiments that serve as examples of the present invention, and are not necessarily effects of the present invention.

[0075] In the case of multiple implementations, the configurations disclosed in each implementation are not limited to that specific implementation, but can be combined across implementations. For example, the configurations disclosed in one implementation can be combined with those in other implementations. Alternatively, the configurations disclosed in multiple implementations can be combined in a centralized manner.

[0076] The subject matter described in this disclosure is not a known subject matter, but a subject matter discovered independently by the inventor, and together with the structure and method of this disclosure, it affirms the inventiveness of the invention.

[0077] 1. Interrelationships of related equipment in each implementation method

[0078] First use Figure 1 The overall configuration of the equipment used in each implementation method and their interrelationships will be explained.

[0079] The vehicle-mounted device 1, which is "mounted" on a vehicle that is a "mobile body", is equivalent to the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of Embodiment 1, and sends various data to the information storage server device 3 via the base station device 4.

[0080] In addition, the vehicle-mounted device 1 is equivalent to the detection information transmitting device 100, which sends detection information to the radio wave image server device 5.

[0081] Here, "moving body" refers to an object capable of movement at any speed. It also includes situations where the moving body is stationary. Examples include, but are not limited to, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, ships, airplanes, and the goods carried on them.

[0082] In addition, "mounted" includes not only cases where it is directly fixed to a moving body, but also cases where it moves with the moving body even though it is not fixed to it. For example, cases where it is carried by a person riding on the moving body, or cases where it is mounted on goods placed on the moving body.

[0083] The information distribution server device 2 is equivalent to the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 160 in embodiment 2, and sends various data to the vehicle-mounted device 1 via the base station device 4.

[0084] The base station device 4 (equivalent to an "external communication device") is a device that performs wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 1. In various embodiments, multiple base station devices 4 are assumed, and these base station devices are described as such as base station device 4A, base station device 4B, etc., when they are distinguished.

[0085] The radio wave image server device 5 is equivalent to the radio wave image providing device 250 in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, and sends the radio wave image to the vehicle-mounted device 1 or the information distribution server device 2.

[0086] In addition, the radio wave map server device 5 is equivalent to the radio wave map generation device 200, which receives detection information from the vehicle-mounted device 1 and generates radio wave maps.

[0087] The wireless communication between the base station device 4 and the vehicle-mounted device 1 can utilize, for example, IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi, registered trademark), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX, registered trademark), W-CDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), HSPA (High Speed ​​Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution Advanced), 4G, 5G, etc. Alternatively, it can utilize DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication).

[0088] The communication methods between the information distribution server device 2 and the base station device 4, and between the information storage server device 3 and the base station device 4, can be wired communication, wireless communication, or any combination of both. For example, if the wireless communication method between the base station device 4 and the vehicle-mounted device 1 is 4G, the base station device 4 is equivalent to an eNB, so the line in front of the eNB is usually the wired line of the communication service operator. However, if the wireless communication method between the base station device 4 and the vehicle-mounted device 1 is Wi-Fi, the base station device 4 is equivalent to an access point (AP), so the communication method from the access point to the router can be either wireless or wired.

[0089] Radio wave image server device 5 stores the "radio wave image" and sends it to the requested destination. For example, radio wave image server device 5 sends radio wave images to vehicle-mounted device 1 or information distribution server device 2 based on radio wave image requests or periodically. The communication network used for transmitting the radio wave image can be either wired or wireless communication. Furthermore, although in Figure 1 In the case of transmitting radio waves from the radio wave server device 5 to the vehicle-mounted device 1, a communication network that does not pass through the base station device 4 can be used, but a communication network that passes through the base station device 4 can also be used.

[0090] Here, a "radio wave map" refers to a set of states or estimates of radio wave propagation paths at a specific location, such as a map that maps RSSI or transmit bit rate to each grid point. In the implementation described later, communication speeds such as transmit bit rate are used as indicators of the state or estimates of radio wave propagation paths.

[0091] exist Figure 1 In this system, the radio wave map server device 5 stores the state or estimation results of the radio wave propagation path provided by the wireless communication method of the base station device 4 and makes them available for use. The radio wave propagation path has an uplink and a downlink, so it is preferable that the radio wave map server device 5 stores the radio wave maps of both of them.

[0092] For the radio wave map used for downlink, information used to evaluate the downlink reception status can be correlated with location information. For example, a reception radio wave map can be generated by measuring the reception strength when the probe vehicle receives a reference signal transmitted by the base station device 4 and collecting that reception strength. For example, the RSSI, RSRP, or RSRQ of the reference signal are equivalent to this. Alternatively, a transmission radio wave map can be generated by collecting the average transmission bit rate (bits / s) when the information distribution server device 2 transmits data, along with the location information of the probe vehicle.

[0093] For uplink radio waveforms, information used to evaluate uplink reception status is correlated with location information. For example, a reception waveform can be generated by measuring the reception strength of a reference signal received by base station device 4 when it receives the signal from a probe vehicle, and collecting this reception strength along with the location information of the probe vehicle. For example, the RSSI, RSRP, or RSRQ of the reference signal can be used in this context. Alternatively, a transmission waveform can be generated by collecting the average transmission bit rate (bits / s) when the probe vehicle transmits data, along with the location information of the probe vehicle.

[0094] In principle, the evaluation of the uplink wave propagation path uses the uplink wave diagram, and the evaluation of the downlink wave propagation path uses the downlink wave diagram. Embodiment 1 describes the case where the vehicle-mounted device 1 uses the uplink line to transmit data, therefore the uplink wave diagram is used. Embodiment 2 describes the case where the information distribution server device 2 uses the downlink line to transmit data, therefore the downlink wave diagram is used.

[0095] Of course, when the propagation environment of the uplink and downlink can be assessed as the same, the uplink evaluation can also use the downlink radio wave diagram, and vice versa. For example, cases where the uplink and downlink use the same frequency band in TDD mode can be listed. As another example, cases where the propagation environment is predicted to be the same in both the uplink and downlink due to obstructions such as tall buildings can be listed.

[0096] GNSS satellite 6 is a satellite that transmits positioning signals, such as GPS and differential GPS. The vehicle-mounted device 1 receives the positioning signals and, as needed, uses gyroscopes and radar sensors to obtain current position information indicating the vehicle's current location.

[0097] Furthermore, although the information distribution server device 2, the information storage server device 3, and the radio wave image server device 5 are different devices, at least two of these functions can be implemented through the same server device.

[0098] In addition, although Figure 1 The information distribution server device 2 is assumed to remain stationary, but it is also possible to mount the information distribution server device 2 in a vehicle different from the vehicle carrying the vehicle-mounted device 1, and transmit data to the vehicle-mounted device 1 via the base station device 4. This will be explained in Embodiment 3.

[0099] Furthermore, although an example has been described in which the vehicle-mounted device 1 has the functions of both the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 and the detection information transmission device 100, it is also possible that the vehicle-mounted device 1 has only the function of one of them.

[0100] Furthermore, although an example of radio wave image server device 5 having the functions of both radio wave image generation device 200 and radio wave image providing device 250 has been described, these functions can also be set separately in different server devices.

[0101] 2. Implementation Method 1

[0102] (1) Composition of vehicle-mounted device 1 (detection information transmission device 100, radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150)

[0103] use Figure 2 The configuration of the vehicle-mounted device 1 in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the vehicle-mounted device 1 is configured to perform the functions of both the detection information transmitting device 100 and the radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization device 150.

[0104] The vehicle-mounted device 1 includes a location information acquisition unit 101, a wireless communication unit 102, a propagation environment information acquisition unit 103, a control unit 104, a transmission unit 105, a receiving unit 106, an application unit 107, and a storage unit 108.

[0105] The on-board unit 1 can include a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), volatile memory such as RAM, non-volatile memory such as ROM, flash memory or hard disk, various interfaces, and internal buses connecting them. Furthermore, it can be configured to execute software on this hardware to enable… Figure 2 The functions of each functional block are described below. Figure 4 The same applies to the radio wave image server device 5 shown.

[0106] Of course, in-vehicle devices can also be implemented using dedicated hardware such as LSI.

[0107] In this embodiment, the vehicle-mounted device 1 is assumed to be in the form of an electronic control unit (ECU, hereinafter referred to as ECU) as a semi-finished product, but it is not limited to this. For example, as a component, it can be a semiconductor circuit or a semiconductor module; as a finished product, it can be a personal computer (PC), a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a navigation system.

[0108] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may include multiple ECUs in addition to a single ECU. For example, a communication ECU may be responsible for communication with the outside world. Alternatively, different ECUs may be used to form the detection information transmission device 100 and the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150.

[0109] Figure 2Each block of the vehicle-mounted device 1 includes a block specifically used by the detection information transmitting device 100, a block specifically used by the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150, and a block used by both the detection information transmitting device 100 and the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150. Hereinafter, the block used by the detection information transmitting device 100 will be described first, and the block used by the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150 will be described next.

[0110] First, the blocks used by the detection information transmitting device 100 will be explained.

[0111] The location information acquisition unit 101 acquires location information indicating the current location of the vehicle. The location information acquisition unit 101 mainly consists of a positioning receiver from a satellite positioning (GNSS) device. Only a positioning receiver compatible with the satellite system being used needs to be installed.

[0112] In addition to the positioning receiver, the location information acquisition unit 101 also includes a device for providing correction information used to correct the location information. For example, inertial sensors such as gyroscopes or accelerometers, laser sensors, and map information databases can also be acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101.

[0113] The positioning accuracy of location information varies depending on the positioning method of the satellite system used, the type of data used for correction, and the result of the positioning calculation. For example, in the case of standalone positioning methods like GPS, there is always an error of 1m to 10m. In contrast, there are also positioning methods such as relative positioning, DGPS (Differential GPS), RTK (Real-Time Kinematic)-GPS positioning, and network-based RTK-GPS positioning, with errors less than 1m or less than 10cm. For errors less than 10cm, there are RTK-GNSS / PPP-AR (quasi-zenith satellite MADOCA) and PPP-RTK (quasi-zenith satellite CLAS). It is also possible to improve the positioning accuracy of standalone positioning methods to less than 1m or less than 10cm by using gyroscope navigation and laser sensors. For errors less than 1m, there is SLAS (Sub-meter Alignment Service) that uses correction data. Furthermore, in positioning calculations, when solving for the FIX solution, it is possible to obtain positioning accuracy of less than 1 meter or less than 10 cm, even when the accuracy of the positioning method used is relatively low. Similarly, when solving for the FLOAT solution, if the accuracy of the positioning method used is high, it is possible to obtain positioning accuracy of less than 1 meter. Moreover, the existence of FIX and FLOAT solutions in positioning calculations is achieved through Ambiguity Resolution (AR).

[0114] Furthermore, in the following descriptions, the error ranges are respectively described as more than 1m, 10cm to 1m, less than 10cm, less than 10m, less than 1m, and less than 10cm.

[0115] The wireless communication unit 102 communicates wirelessly with external communication devices, specifically with the base station device 4 in this embodiment, to transmit and receive necessary data. In this embodiment, the external communication device is assumed to be a base station device such as an eNB (eNB) using cellular communication, but it could also be an access point (AP) in the case of Wi-Fi, or other vehicles or roadside units in the case of V2X. Of course, it can also support multiple communication methods.

[0116] The propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires "propagation environment information" of the radio wave propagation path used by the wireless communication unit 102, based on the current position of the vehicle acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101. For example, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 can use a device that measures the radio wave strength of a reference signal. Alternatively, it can use a device that measures the bit rate of data transmitted from the wireless communication unit 102.

[0117] Here, "propagation environment information" refers to the state or estimation result of the radio wave propagation path. As indicators representing this information, such as RSSI, RSRP, RSRQ, SNR, SIR, BER, propagation function, propagation path matrix, average bit rate per unit time (bits / s), etc.

[0118] In addition, "acquisition" includes situations where information about the propagation environment is acquired from external communication devices or the like, and situations where the information is acquired by generating the propagation environment information itself through the detection information transmitting device.

[0119] In order to obtain information for evaluating the reception quality of the downlink, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires information related to the reception status in the frequency band allocated to the downlink. For example, the RSSI, RSRP, and RSRQ of the reference signal correspond to this information. By using this information, the radio wave map generation apparatus 200 can generate or update the received radio wave map at a specific location on the map.

[0120] Furthermore, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires information related to the transmission status in the frequency band allocated to the uplink in order to obtain information for evaluating the reception quality of the uplink. For example, the average transmission bit rate (bits / s) per unit time corresponds to this information. Alternatively, it can receive the RSSI, RSRP, and RSRQ of the reference signal measured at the base station from the base station. By using this information, the radio wave map generation apparatus 200 can generate or update the transmission radio wave map at a specific location on the map.

[0121] In addition to propagation environment information, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 also acquires external communication device identification information that identifies the base station device 4. This external communication device identification information is, for example, a base station ID assigned to each base station device 4. When decrypting data packets sent from the base station device 4, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires the base station ID contained in the data packets.

[0122] Here, "acquisition" includes both acquiring external communication device identification information from external communication devices and acquiring it by generating external communication device identification information itself through the detection information sending device.

[0123] The propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 can further acquire frequency band information indicating the frequency band of the radio wave propagation path used for wireless communication. For example, in the case of LTE wireless communication, the frequency band information is distinguished by numbers such as frequency band 1 and frequency band 2, based on the frequency band and duplex mode. The frequency band information contained in the data packet is also acquired when decrypting data packets sent from the base station.

[0124] If the frequency band changes, the characteristics of the radio wave propagation path also change. Therefore, by generating a radio wave diagram that includes frequency band information, the state of the radio wave propagation path can be represented more accurately.

[0125] The propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 described above can also be wholly or partially used as the wireless communication unit 102.

[0126] Alternatively, the propagation environment information acquired and output by the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 may not be the absolute value of each measurement result, but rather a standardized relative value. For example, the maximum speed extracted under ideal communication conditions without radio interference may be set to 100, and the minimum speed may be set to 0.

[0127] The control unit 104 controls the operation of the location information acquisition unit 101, the wireless communication unit 102, the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103, the transmission unit 105, the receiving unit 106, the application unit 107, and the storage unit 108. Furthermore, the control unit 104 itself implements the detection information generation unit 109, the requested location information acquisition unit 110, the unstable area determination unit 111, the data type detection unit 112, and the communication control unit 113.

[0128] The detection information generation unit 109 generates detection information that includes location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101, propagation environment information acquired by the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103, and external communication device identification information. If frequency band information is acquired by the propagation environment information acquisition unit 103, the detection information may also include that frequency band information.

[0129] The transmitting unit 105 transmits the detection information generated by the detection information generation unit 109 to the radio wave pattern generation device 200.

[0130] For example, in this embodiment, the following information is sent as probe information.

[0131] (Detection information)

[0132] [Example of a waveform diagram for a downlink line]

[0133] Timestamp: The moment the probe information was generated (UTC)

[0134] Location information: Coordinates obtained via GNSS positioning, latitude, longitude, and altitude (WGS-84), and any one of the IDs representing grid points on the map.

[0135] Positioning accuracy information: Positioning accuracy level [above 1m / 10cm~1m / less than 10cm]

[0136] Communication System ID: Base Station ID, Frequency Band Information

[0137] Propagation environment information: Relative value of received radio signal strength (RSSI)

[0138] [Example of using a waveform diagram for an uplink line]

[0139] Timestamp: The moment the probe information was generated (UTC)

[0140] Location information: Coordinates obtained via GNSS positioning, latitude, longitude, and altitude (WGS-84), and any one of the IDs representing grid points on the map.

[0141] Positioning accuracy information: Positioning accuracy level [above 1m / 10cm~1m / less than 10cm]

[0142] Communication System ID: Base Station ID, Frequency Band Information

[0143] Propagation environment information: Transmission bit rate (bits / s)

[0144] In addition, other information can also be sent as probe information.

[0145] In addition to the control unit 104, information can also be generated and sent as probe information through specific blocks.

[0146] According to the detection information transmitting device 100 of this embodiment, since it transmits external communication device identification information that identifies an external communication device, the radio wave pattern generating device 200 that receives the information can generate a radio wave pattern that identifies the external communication device.

[0147] Next, the modules used in the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 will be explained.

[0148] The location information acquisition unit 110 determines the physical location via wireless communication using the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150, which is a vehicle-mounted device 1, and selects the desired location to "acquire" "required location information." The desired location can be, for example, the current location or a location planned for future travel based on a travel plan. When using a travel plan, one or more locations that can be reached within a constant time based on the current vehicle speed can also be selected as the desired location. In the case of multiple locations, locations at constant intervals or at constant distances can be selected, for example.

[0149] In this embodiment, the required location information is obtained by generating the required location information itself using the driving plan through the required location information acquisition unit 110. However, it can also be obtained by receiving the required location information from other devices. For example, as an example of obtaining the information from inside the vehicle-mounted device 1, it is possible to obtain the information by receiving the location information from the location information acquisition unit 101. As an example of obtaining the information from outside the vehicle-mounted device 1, it is possible to obtain the information by receiving it from an external server device that manages the driving plan via the wireless communication unit 102.

[0150] Here, "required location information" simply refers to information that specifies the required location. Besides representing the location as a point or set of points, it can also be represented as a line, a surface, or a three-dimensional representation of a surface with height. Furthermore, the location can be either the current location or the future location. And, in addition to directly showing the location, it can also be information that indirectly indicates the location, such as speed or time.

[0151] In addition, “acquiring” includes not only receiving and acquiring from other devices, but also generating and acquiring by the device itself.

[0152] The transmitting unit 105 sends a radio wave map request containing the requested location information generated and acquired by the requested location information acquisition unit 110 to the radio wave map providing device 250.

[0153] For example, in this embodiment, the following information is sent as a radio wave diagram request. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the request is for transmission control purposes when sending data from the vehicle-mounted device 1 to the information storage server device 3, therefore a radio wave diagram for the uplink line is requested.

[0154] (Radio waveform request)

[0155] Location information required: latitude, longitude, and altitude (WGS-84) or ID representing a grid point on the map.

[0156] The radio map providing device 250, having received the radio map request, selects information of the radio map to be sent based on the requested location information contained in the radio map request, and sends it as a radio map response to the radio map acquisition and utilization device 150. Details of the operation of the radio map providing device 250 will be described later.

[0157] The receiving unit 106 receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250. Specifically, it receives a radio wave map response that includes reference location information representing a reference location "corresponding to the requested location information", the probability of wireless communication with each base station device 4 (equivalent to "each of the multiple external communication devices") at the reference location, i.e., the connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and connection probability with each base station device 4 at the reference location, and the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and connection probability.

[0158] The configuration and operation of the radio wave diagram providing device 250 are explained in detail to provide information on communication speed and connection probability.

[0159] Furthermore, the received reference location information and connection probability are part of the radio wave map selected by the radio wave map providing device 250, so they are sometimes referred to as radio wave maps.

[0160] For example, in this embodiment, the following information is received as a radio waveform response.

[0161] Here, "corresponding to the required location information" means that the location is the same as or near the location shown in the required location information.

[0162] (Radio waveform response)

[0163] Timestamp: The time (UTC) when the radio waveform was generated.

[0164] Reference location information: latitude, longitude, and altitude (WGS-84) or ID representing a grid point on the map.

[0165] Expected connected base stations: Base station IDs of base station devices with connection potential at the reference location, and the connection probability for each base station ID.

[0166] Minimum guaranteed speed: Minimum guaranteed speed (bits / s)

[0167] Estimated speed: Estimated speed (bits / s)

[0168] The storage unit 108 stores the received radio wave map response. The set of reference location information, base station ID, connection probability, minimum guaranteed speed, and estimated speed stored in the storage unit 108 is part of the radio wave map stored in the radio wave map providing device 250, so it can be said that the storage unit 108 stores a copy of the radio wave map. By storing the copy of the radio wave map in the storage unit 108 for a constant period, the chances of accessing the radio wave map providing device 250 due to radio wave map requests can be reduced. In addition, an expiration period can be preset, and information that has expired can be discarded. Thus, the freshness of the copy of the radio wave map can be kept at a constant level.

[0169] The unstable region determination unit 111 determines whether the reference position is an unstable region based on the connection probability received by the receiving unit 106.

[0170] use Figure 3 The method for determining unstable regions is explained.

[0171] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the connection probabilities of the vehicle-mounted device 1 connecting to base station devices 4A and 4B. Initially, the vehicle carrying the vehicle-mounted device 1 travels towards the location of base station device 4A, so the connection probability with base station device 4A is approximately 100%. However, as the vehicle passes near and moves away from base station device 4A, the connection probability with base station device 4A decreases, while the connection probability with base station device 4B, located on the travel direction side, increases. Finally, the connection probability with base station device 4A becomes zero, and the connection probability with base station device 4B becomes 100%.

[0172] In areas where connections to both base station device 4A and base station device 4B are possible, handover processing occurs between base station device 4A and base station device 4B, causing the connection to become unstable. Such unstable connections are defined as unstable regions. For example, an unstable region is defined as a region where the maximum connection probability to each base station device 4A and base station device 4B—that is, the connection probability of the larger one in this example—is "below" a "prescribed threshold" TH1. For example, TH1 could be approximately 0.8.

[0173] Alternatively, for example, the region where the difference between the connection probability with base station device 4A and the connection probability with base station device 4B is below a predetermined threshold TH2 can be defined as an unstable region. For example, TH2 can be approximately 0.6.

[0174] In addition, data other than connection probability can be used to determine unstable regions.

[0175] In addition, the same operation can be performed when there are more than three base station devices 4.

[0176] Here, the "prescribed threshold" can be a constant value or a value determined by specific conditions.

[0177] In addition, "below" includes cases where the specified threshold is not included, as well as cases where the specified threshold is not included.

[0178] Application 107 is an application utilizing the wireless communication unit 102. Examples include programs for transmitting image data from vehicle-mounted cameras for use with a vehicle remote monitoring system, programs for receiving map data used by a navigation system, or application update data.

[0179] The data type detection unit 112 detects the characteristics, i.e., the data type, of the data transmitted by the wireless communication unit 102. The data transmitted by the wireless communication unit 102 is data that is processed in the application 107. For example, if the application 107 is a terminal-side program of a vehicle remote monitoring system, it is image data from an onboard camera.

[0180] Data type detection unit 112 detects, for example, the following data types.

[0181] When the data transmitted by the wireless communication unit 102 is urgent data that requires information transmission, the data type detection unit 112 detects that the data type is emergency data. Emergency data is data that needs to be transmitted with priority over other communications. Examples of emergency data include data transmitted by emergency vehicles such as ambulances, i.e., emergency vehicle data, and collision avoidance notification data transmitted by roadside vehicles at intersections to avoid collisions.

[0182] If the data transmitted by the wireless communication unit 102 is data that allows for communication delay, the data type detection unit 112 detects that the data type is communication delay-allowed data. Communication delay-allowed data refers to data with communication delay requirements ranging from a few seconds to more than a day. Examples of communication delay-allowed data include, for example, map data used by a navigation system and application update data.

[0183] When the data transmitted by the wireless communication unit 102 is data that needs to be transmitted in real time, the data type detection unit 112 detects that the data type is real-time data. Real-time data is data that is real-time and allows almost no communication delay. Examples of real-time data include image data from vehicle cameras and various streaming data.

[0184] The data type detection unit 112 can detect the data type by reading the data type identifier contained in the data. For example, when the data type identifier is a two-bit information, 00 is determined in advance as urgent data, 01 as communication delay allowed data, 10 as real-time data, and 11 as other data, and the data type identifier is included in the data when the data is generated.

[0185] The following are examples of other data detection methods.

[0186] The data type detection unit 112 can detect that the data type is urgent data by reading the priority flag in the IP protocol.

[0187] When data is sent to a specific server, the data type detection unit 112 can detect the data type based on the purpose and use of that specific server. For example, when data is sent to a server device of a vehicle remote monitoring system, it can detect that the data type is real-time data.

[0188] The data type detection unit 112 can detect the data type by determining the extension when the data has a specific extension. For example, if the extension indicates an update program used by a specific OS, the data type can be detected as communication delay-allowed data.

[0189] Based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, the communication control unit 113 controls the wireless communication with each base station device 4. For example, it stops communication in unstable regions or reduces the bit rate for communication in unstable regions.

[0190] In this embodiment, in addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, the wireless communication control with each base station device 4 is also performed based on the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112. That is, in unstable regions, the wireless communication control with the base station device 4 is performed according to the data type.

[0191] For example, if the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112 is communication delay-allowed data, the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to stop transmitting the communication delay-allowed data. Through this control, wireless communication is only performed in locations with good communication conditions, thus shortening the communication time required.

[0192] If the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112 is real-time data, the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to transmit the real-time data based on the minimum guaranteed speed contained in the radio wave response. For example, the transmission rate is reduced to the minimum guaranteed speed to transmit the real-time data, or a compression rate, resolution, or modulation method that will not compromise real-time performance even when transmitting at the minimum guaranteed speed is used. Through this control, communication can continue while maintaining real-time performance.

[0193] If the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112 is emergency data, the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to transmit the emergency data based on the estimated speed contained in the radio wave response. Through this control, emergency data can be transmitted with priority compared to other communications.

[0194] The wireless communication unit 102 transmits data by wirelessly communicating with each base station device 4 under the control of the communication control unit 113.

[0195] According to the radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization device 150 of this embodiment, wireless communication control between the device and the base station device 4 is performed based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, so the impact on communication in the unstable region can be minimized.

[0196] In addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, the wireless communication control between the unit and the base station device 4 is also based on the type of data transmitted, so the wireless communication control in the unstable region can be appropriately changed according to the type of data.

[0197] (2) Composition of radio wave image server device 5 (radio wave image generation device 200, radio wave image providing device 250)

[0198] use Figure 4 The configuration of the radio wave image server device 5 in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, an example will be described of the radio wave image server device 5 being configured to perform the functions of both the radio wave image generation device 200 and the radio wave image providing device 250.

[0199] The radio wave image server device 5 includes a receiving unit 201, a detection information storage unit 202, a control unit 203, a radio wave image storage unit 204, and a transmitting unit 205.

[0200] In this embodiment, the radio wave image server device 5 is assumed to be a finished server device, but it is not limited to this. For example, as a component, semiconductor circuits and semiconductor modules can be listed; as a semi-finished product, ECUs can be listed; and as a finished product, personal computers (PCs), workstations, smartphones, and mobile phones can be listed.

[0201] Alternatively, the radio wave map server device 5 can also be mounted on a mobile vehicle. When the radio wave map server device 5 is mounted on a mobile vehicle, it enables vehicle-to-vehicle communication where vehicles communicate directly with each other, and vehicle-to-vehicle communication where vehicles communicate indirectly via base station devices, etc.

[0202] Figure 4 The radio wave image server device 5 includes modules specifically used by the radio wave image generation device 200, modules specifically used by the radio wave image providing device 250, and modules used by both the radio wave image generation device 200 and the radio wave image providing device 250. Hereinafter, the modules used by the radio wave image generation device 200 will be described first, followed by the modules used by the radio wave image providing device 250.

[0203] First, the modules used by the radio wave diagram generation device 200 will be explained.

[0204] The receiving unit 201 receives multiple detection information, including location information indicating the position of the vehicle as a moving body, propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path used for wireless communication between the vehicle at that position and the base station device 4 as an external communication device, and identification information of the external communication device identifying the base station device 4. Furthermore, while multiple detection information can be received from the same vehicle, it is preferable to receive it from many vehicles. The detection information used in this embodiment is the same as that described in (1).

[0205] The detection information storage unit 202 stores the detection information received by the receiving unit 201. The detection information storage unit 202 retains all previously received detection information as long as it does not delete the information.

[0206] The control unit 203 controls the operation of the receiving unit 201, the detection information storage unit 202, the radio wave pattern storage unit 204, and the transmitting unit 205. Furthermore, the control unit 203 itself implements the communication speed calculation unit 206, the connection probability calculation unit 207, the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208, and the estimated speed calculation unit 209.

[0207] Here, using Figure 5 (a) Referring to the radio wave diagram generated in this embodiment, the functions of the communication speed calculation unit 206, the connection probability calculation unit 207, and the radio wave diagram storage unit 204 will be explained. Figure 5(a) is a diagram showing the radio wave diagram of this embodiment stored in the radio wave diagram storage unit 204.

[0208] The communication speed calculation unit 206 reads the detection information stored in the detection information storage unit 202 and calculates the communication speed based on the propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path between the unit and the base station device 4. Here, in this embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown in (a), it is assumed that the base station devices 4 connected even in the same location are different. Therefore, in this embodiment, even when the base station devices 4 are different in the same location, the communication speed is calculated independently. In other words, if there are base station A and base station B as base station devices 4 for wireless communication in the same location, the communication speed calculation unit 206 calculates the communication speed based on the propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path between the base station A and the base station B.

[0209] As a specific example of a method for calculating communication speed, it is possible to list pre-prepared... Figure 5 A table showing the relationship between radio wave intensity (RSRP) as propagation environment information and communication speed, as shown in (b), is used to calculate the downlink and uplink communication speeds corresponding to the range of radio wave intensity (RSRP) of each detection information.

[0210] In this example, RSRP is used as the radio wave strength, but other propagation environment information, such as SINR or RSSI, can also be used.

[0211] In addition to using tables, communication speed can also be calculated through prescribed operations.

[0212] If the propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path contained in the detection information is the transmission bit rate, the value of the transmission bit rate can also be directly used as the communication speed.

[0213] Here, when there are multiple detection data points at the same location and from the same base station, the communication speed is statistically processed and aggregated into a single data point for each specific location and base station. Methods for this statistical processing include calculating the mean, median, and variance, but are not limited to these. Figure 5 In (a), when there are seven samples connected to base station A at location p, the average communication speed of the seven samples is taken as the communication speed of location p and base station A (1.5 Mbps). In addition, when there are three samples connected to base station B at location p, the average communication speed of the three samples is taken as the communication speed of location p and base station B (0.9 Mbps).

[0214] Alternatively, one could perform statistical processing on the propagation environment information before determining the communication speed, and then calculate the communication speed based on the results of the statistical processing.

[0215] Furthermore, the term "same location" doesn't mean exactly the same location, as long as it's within a constant range centered on a reference location. In this embodiment, detection information within a constant range centered on grid points on a map, determined based on map information and pre-determined positioning accuracy, is used as the detection information for the same location. For example, if the positioning accuracy is above 1m, the grid point interval is 10m; if the positioning accuracy is between 10cm and 1m, the grid point interval is 1m. Moreover, in this embodiment, the grid points are used as the reference location. That is, Figure 5 The position shown in (a) is equivalent to the reference position.

[0216] The connection probability calculation unit 207 reads the detection information stored in the detection information storage unit 202 and calculates the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wirelessly communicating with each base station device 4 at a specific location. The connection probability calculation unit 207 also calculates the connection probability for each base station device 4. In other words, at the same location, it calculates the probability of wirelessly communicating with base station A and the probability of wirelessly communicating with base station B.

[0217] For example, in Figure 5 In (a), there are ten samples connected to base station device 4 at position p, of which seven samples are connected to base station A and three samples are connected to base station B. The connection probability of base station A is 0.7 and the connection probability of base station B is 0.3.

[0218] The radio wave pattern storage unit 204 stores the detection information read from the detection information storage unit 202 and the results calculated by the communication speed calculation unit 206 and the connection probability calculation unit 207 as a radio wave pattern. Figure 5 In example (a), the location (equivalent to "baseline location information"), time period, connected base station, communication speed, and probability of connection to the base station are stored.

[0219] The detection information can be read from the detection information storage unit 202 and statistically processed, and the processing frequency for calculating communication speed and connection probability can be appropriately determined. For example, if processing is performed every other day, the detection information received on that day can be read from the detection information storage unit 202 at a predetermined time each day and processed to generate a radio wave map. If updates are performed over a relatively long span, such as every other day, the coexistence of old and new radio wave maps spanning the update time can be prevented on the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150, which is the user of the radio wave map.

[0220] Of course, it is also possible to process the detection information whenever it is received at the receiving unit 201.

[0221] While the radio wave images stored in the radio wave image storage unit 204 can be regenerated by deleting existing radio wave images according to the processing frequency, it can also be processed to update the radio wave images and generate new ones, including data from existing radio wave images. In other words, although the statement "generate" is used in this embodiment, "generate" includes the concept of updating.

[0222] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, such as Figure 5 The radio wave map can be generated by determining the frequency band information to the same base station as in (a), but it can also be generated by further determining the frequency band information to the same base station. Therefore, correct information can be generated at the level of frequency band information units.

[0223] Furthermore, although the above description addresses the case where the connected base station device 4 consists of two base stations, base station A and base station B, in... Figure 5 The same process is performed when the location (a) is able to connect to more than three base stations at the same location.

[0224] According to the radio wave pattern generation apparatus 200 of this embodiment, radio wave patterns are generated by receiving external communication device identification information of external communication devices, so that radio wave patterns with correct information can be generated at the level of the connected base station device unit.

[0225] Furthermore, according to the radio wave pattern generation apparatus 200 of this embodiment, since communication speed and connection probability are calculated, the minimum guaranteed value and estimated value of communication speed at a specific location can be easily calculated.

[0226] Next, the modules used by the radio wave diagram providing device 250 will be described.

[0227] As described in the radio wave diagram generation apparatus 200, the radio wave diagram storage unit 204 stores radio wave diagrams containing reference locations, communication speeds, and connection probabilities at the level of base station devices 4.

[0228] The receiving unit 201 receives a radio wave map request from the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150, which includes "requested location information" indicating the requested location. The radio wave map request used in this embodiment is the same as that described in (1).

[0229] Here, "required location information" simply refers to information that specifies the required location. Besides representing the location as a point or set of points, it can also be represented as a line, a surface, or a three-dimensional representation of a surface with height. Furthermore, the location can be either the current location or the future location. And, in addition to directly showing the location, it can also be information that indirectly indicates the location, such as speed or time.

[0230] use Figure 5 (a) and Figure 6 Explanation of the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 and the estimated speed calculation unit 209. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the radio wave diagram provided by the radio wave diagram providing device 250.

[0231] The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 calculates the minimum guaranteed speed for the row at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location. For example, the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 uses the minimum value where the connection probability is "above" TH3 (a "prescribed threshold") and the communication speed is the lowest possible value. For example, if TH3 is 0.2, then... Figure 5 In the case of position p (a), the minimum communication speed is 0.9 Mbps, and its connection probability is 0.3, thus satisfying the condition that the connection probability is above 0.2. Therefore, the minimum guaranteed speed at position p is 0.9 Mbps.

[0232] Here, the "prescribed threshold" can be a constant value or a value determined by specific conditions.

[0233] In addition, "above" includes cases where the specified threshold is not included, as well as cases where the specified threshold is not included.

[0234] As another method for determining the minimum guaranteed speed, for example, a specified threshold may not be set, and the slowest communication speed of each base station device 4 may be used as the minimum guaranteed speed.

[0235] The minimum guaranteed speed signifies the minimum communication speed guaranteed at a specific location. In other words, using the minimum guaranteed speed allows communication plans to be established under the premise of the worst-case scenario.

[0236] The speed estimation calculation unit 209 calculates the estimated speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location. For example, the speed estimation calculation unit 209 uses the communication speed with the base station device 4, which has the highest connection probability, as the estimated speed. For example, in Figure 5 In the case of location p (a), the highest connection probability is with base station A, which has a connection probability of 0.7, and the communication speed with base station A is 1.5 Mbps. Therefore, the estimated speed at location p is 1.5 Mbps.

[0237] As another method for estimating velocity, one can calculate the expected value and use it as the estimated velocity. For example, in Figure 5 In the case of position p in (a), if the communication speed and connection probability with base station A and the communication speed and connection probability with base station B are used, the expected value is 1.5Mbps×0.7+0.9Mbps×0.3=1.3Mbps.

[0238] Estimated speed has the meaning of the communication speed that is usually assumed at a specific location. That is, if estimated speed is used, communication plans can be established using the communication speeds that are usually available.

[0239] In addition, Figure 5 In the radio wave diagram of (a), if there is only one base station connected as in position o and position q, since the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 and the estimated speed calculation unit 209 calculate the same value as the communication speed at position o and position q, the minimum guaranteed speed and the estimated speed can be directly output as the communication speed at that location.

[0240] In addition, Figure 5 In the radio wave diagram of (a), if there are more than three base station devices 4 connected as at position r, all base station devices 4 can be calculated as objects.

[0241] Sending Unit 205 Figure 6 As shown, a radio waveform response is transmitted, which includes the connection probability, minimum guaranteed speed, and estimated speed at the reference position "corresponding to the required location information". The radio waveform response used in this embodiment is the same as that described in (1).

[0242] According to the radio wave map providing device 250 of this embodiment, since the minimum guaranteed speed and estimated speed for radio wave map request transmission are based on the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150, wireless communication control corresponding to the type of data can be performed.

[0243] Furthermore, according to the radio wave map providing device 250 of this embodiment, since the connection probability of each base station device 4 at the transmission reference position is known, unstable regions can be determined on the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150 side.

[0244] (3) Operation of the detection information transmitting device 100 and the radio wave image generating device 200 in the radio wave image generation process

[0245] Both the detection information transmitting device 100 and the radio wave pattern generating device 200 participate in the generation of the radio wave pattern. Hereinafter, using... Figure 7 The flowchart describes the operation of the detection information transmitting device 100 and the radio wave image generating device 200 in the radio wave image generation process of this embodiment.

[0246] Furthermore, the following actions not only illustrate the detection information transmission method performed by the detection information transmission device 100, but also the processing sequence of the detection information transmission procedure that can be performed by the detection information transmission device 100. Additionally, the following actions not only illustrate the radio wave map generation and update method performed by the radio wave map generation device 200, but also the processing sequence of the radio wave map generation and update procedure that can be performed by the radio wave map generation device 200.

[0247] Moreover, these treatments are not limited to Figure 7 The order shown in the figure. That is, the order can be changed as long as there are no constraints such as the relationship between a step and the result of the previous step.

[0248] The location information acquisition unit 101 of the detection information transmission device 100 acquires location information indicating the current location of the vehicle (S101).

[0249] The propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path used for wireless communication with external communication devices at the current location (S102).

[0250] The propagation environment information acquisition unit 103 acquires external communication device identification information (S103) to identify external communication devices.

[0251] Then, the transmitting unit 105 transmits the location information acquired in S101, the propagation environment information acquired in S102, and the external communication device identification information acquired in S103 as detection information to the radio wave pattern generating device 200 (S104).

[0252] The receiving unit 201 of the radio wave pattern generating device 200 receives multiple detection information including location information indicating the vehicle's position, propagation environment information of the radio wave propagation path used for wireless communication between the vehicle and an external communication device at the position indicated by the location information, and external communication device identification information for identifying the external communication device, and stores them in the detection information storage unit 202 (S201).

[0253] The communication speed calculation unit 206 calculates the communication speed for wireless communication with each external communication device at the location shown in the location information based on multiple detection information (S202).

[0254] The connection probability calculation unit 207 calculates the probability of wireless communication with each external communication device at the location shown in the location information, i.e., the connection probability (S203).

[0255] Then, the radio wave image storage unit 204 stores the location information received in S201, the external communication device identification information, the communication speed calculated in S202, and the connection probability calculated in S203 (S204).

[0256] (4) Operation of radio wave image providing device 250 and radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 in the radio wave image utilization process

[0257] Both the radio wave image providing device 250 and the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 participate in the utilization of the radio wave image. Hereinafter, the use of... Figure 8 The flowchart describes the operation of the radio wave image providing device 250 and the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 in the radio wave image utilization process of this embodiment.

[0258] Furthermore, the following operations illustrate not only the radio image providing method executed by the radio image providing device 250, but also the processing sequence of the radio image providing procedure that can be executed by the radio image providing device 250. Additionally, the following operations illustrate not only the radio image acquisition and utilization method executed by the radio image acquisition and utilization device 150, but also the processing sequence of the radio image acquisition and utilization procedure that can be executed by the radio image acquisition and utilization device 150.

[0259] Moreover, these treatments are not limited to Figure 8 The order shown. That is, as long as there are no constraints such as a relationship where a step utilizes the result of a previous step, the order can be changed.

[0260] The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 determines the required location information acquisition unit 110 to acquire the required location information (S151).

[0261] The transmitting unit 105 sends the radio wave map request containing the requested location information generated in S151 to the radio wave map providing device 250 (S152).

[0262] The receiving unit 201 of the radio wave map providing device 250 receives a radio wave map request containing request location information indicating the requested location (S251).

[0263] The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location (S252).

[0264] The speed estimation calculation unit 209 calculates the estimated speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location (S253).

[0265] Then, the transmitting unit 205 transmits a radio waveform response (S254) containing the connection probability at the reference position corresponding to the requested position information, the minimum guaranteed speed calculated in S252, and the estimated speed calculated in S253.

[0266] The receiving unit 106 of the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150 receives the radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250 (S153).

[0267] The unstable region determination unit 111 determines whether the reference position is an unstable region based on the connection probability received in S153 (S154).

[0268] Based on the determination result of S154, the communication control unit 113 controls the wireless communication with each base station device 4 (S155). Figure 9 The control content of wireless communication in S154 and S155 is explained as a sub-process.

[0269] Then, the wireless communication unit 102 transmits data by wirelessly communicating with each base station device 4 (S156). For example, application 107 is executed to transmit vehicle information collected by the vehicle to an external communication device.

[0270] use Figure 9 ,right Figure 8 The specific actions of wireless communication control shown in S154 and S155 will be explained.

[0271] The unstable region determination unit 111 determines whether the maximum value of the connection probability of the connected base station device at the reference location is below a predetermined threshold (S301, S154). If it is below the predetermined threshold (S301: Yes), the process is moved to S303. If it is above the predetermined threshold (S301: No), the process is moved to S302.

[0272] The communication control unit 113 sets the reference position to a stable region and instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to immediately transmit the data that should be transmitted based on the estimated speed contained in the radio wave response (S302).

[0273] If the data type detection unit 112 detects that the data type is urgent data (S303: Yes), the reference position is in an unstable area but the urgency is high, so the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to immediately transmit the urgent data based on the estimated speed contained in the radio wave response (S302). If the data type detection unit 112 detects that the data type is not urgent data (S303: No), the processing is moved to S304.

[0274] If the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112 is real-time data (S304: Yes), the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to immediately transmit the real-time data based on the minimum guaranteed speed included in the radio wave response (S305).

[0275] If the data type detected by the data type detection unit 112 is not real-time data (S304: No), the communication control unit 113 instructs the wireless communication unit 102 to stop transmitting data (S306).

[0276] 3. Variation 1 of Implementation Method 1

[0277] In Implementation 1, the minimum guaranteed speed and the estimated speed are determined by the radio wave image server device 5 and sent to the vehicle-mounted device 1. In this variant, the difference lies in the fact that the minimum guaranteed speed and the estimated speed are determined by the vehicle-mounted device 1.

[0278] The following description describes the parts that differ from Embodiment 1. The same numbers are added to the same components as in Embodiment 1 in the accompanying drawings, and the description of Embodiment 1 is referenced.

[0279] (1) Composition of vehicle-mounted devices (detection information transmission device 100, radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150)

[0280] use Figure 10 The configuration of the vehicle-mounted device 1 in this modified example will be described below. The only difference from Embodiment 1 is the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150, so the configuration of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 in this modified example will be described below.

[0281] The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of this modification is a configuration that adds a minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 114 and an estimated speed calculation unit 115 to the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of Embodiment 1.

[0282] The receiving unit 106 receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250. Specifically, it receives a radio wave map response that includes reference location information representing a reference location "corresponding to the requested location information," communication speed between the reference location and each base station device 4, and the probability of wireless communication with each base station device 4 at the reference location, i.e., the connection probability. Unlike Embodiment 1, the radio wave map response does not include a minimum guaranteed speed or an estimated speed.

[0283] The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 114 calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location. The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 114 has the same configuration and function as the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 in the radio wave map providing device 250 of Embodiment 1.

[0284] The speed estimation calculation unit 115 calculates the estimated speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location. The speed estimation calculation unit 115 has the same configuration and function as the speed estimation calculation unit 209 in the radio wave map providing device 250 of Embodiment 1.

[0285] According to the above, the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150 of this modified example can reduce the burden on the radio wave map server device 5 because the minimum guaranteed speed and the estimated speed are solved on the vehicle-mounted device 1 side.

[0286] (2) Composition of radio wave image server device (radio wave image generation device 200, radio wave image providing device 250)

[0287] use Figure 11 The configuration of the radio wave image server device 5 in this modified example will be described below. The only difference from Embodiment 1 is the radio wave image providing device 250, so the configuration of the radio wave image providing device 250 in this modified example will be described below.

[0288] The radio wave diagram providing device 250 of this modification is the configuration of the radio wave diagram providing device 250 of Embodiment 1 after removing the minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 208 and the estimated speed calculation unit 209.

[0289] The transmitting unit 205 transmits a radio waveform response containing the communication speed and connection probability at the reference position corresponding to the requested location information.

[0290] (3) Other

[0291] In the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150 corresponding to the radio wave map providing device 250 in this modified example, the unstable region determination unit 111 is a necessary component. The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit 114 and the estimated speed calculation unit 115 are optional components.

[0292] According to the radio wave map providing device 250 of this embodiment, since the minimum guaranteed speed and the estimated speed are solved on the vehicle-mounted device 1 side, the burden on the radio wave map server device 5 can be reduced.

[0293] 4. Variation 2 of Implementation Method 1

[0294] In Embodiment 1, the unstable region determination unit 111 is provided in the vehicle-mounted device 1. In this modified example, the unstable region determination unit 210 is not provided in the vehicle-mounted device 1 but in the radio wave image server device 5.

[0295] The following describes the parts that differ from Embodiment 1. The same numbers are added to the same components as in Embodiment 1 in the accompanying drawings, and the description of Embodiment 1 is referenced.

[0296] (1) Composition of vehicle-mounted devices (detection information transmission device 100, radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150)

[0297] use Figure 12The configuration of the vehicle-mounted device 1 in this modified example will be described below. The only difference from Embodiment 1 is the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150, so the configuration of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 in this modified example will be described below.

[0298] The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of this modification is the configuration of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of Embodiment 1 after removing the unstable region determination unit 111.

[0299] The receiving unit 106 receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250. Specifically, it receives a radio wave map response that includes reference location information representing a reference location "corresponding to the requested location information," the probability of wireless communication with each base station device 4 at the reference location, i.e., the connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and connection probability with each base station device 4 at the reference location, the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and connection probability, and information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region calculated based on the connection probability. In other words, unlike Embodiment 1, information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region is added.

[0300] Based on information received by the receiving unit 106 indicating whether the reference position is in an unstable region, the communication control unit 113 controls the wireless communication between itself and each of the multiple base station devices 4.

[0301] (2) Composition of radio wave image server device (radio wave image generation device 200, radio wave image providing device 250)

[0302] use Figure 13 The configuration of the radio wave image server device 5 in this modified example will be described below. The only difference from Embodiment 1 is the radio wave image providing device 250, so the configuration of the radio wave image providing device 250 in this modified example will be described below.

[0303] The radio wave image providing device 250 of this modification is a configuration of the radio wave image providing device 250 of Embodiment 1 with the addition of an unstable region determination unit 210.

[0304] The unstable region determination unit 210 determines whether a reference position is an unstable region based on the connection probability stored in the radio wave image storage unit 204. Then, based on the determination result, it generates information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region.

[0305] The transmitting unit 205 transmits a radio waveform response containing the connection probability, minimum guaranteed speed, estimated speed, and information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region at the reference position corresponding to the required location information.

[0306] 5. Variation 3 of Implementation Method 1

[0307] In a variation of embodiment 1, the unstable region determination unit 111 is provided on the vehicle-mounted device 1. This variation differs in that the unstable region determination unit 210 is provided on the radio wave image server device 5 instead of on the vehicle-mounted device 1.

[0308] The following describes the parts that differ from the modified example 1 of embodiment 1. The same numbers are added to the same components as the modified example 1 of embodiment 1 in the drawings, and the description of embodiment 1 is referenced.

[0309] (1) Composition of vehicle-mounted devices (detection information transmission device 100, radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 150)

[0310] use Figure 14 The configuration of the vehicle-mounted device 1 in this modified example will be described. The only difference from the modified example 1 of embodiment 1 is the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150, so the configuration of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 in this modified example will be described below.

[0311] The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of this modification is the configuration of the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 of the first modification of embodiment 1 after removing the unstable region determination unit 111.

[0312] The receiving unit 106 receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250. Specifically, it receives a radio wave map response that includes reference location information representing a reference location "corresponding to the requested location information," communication speed between the reference location and each base station device 4, the probability of wireless communication between the reference location and each base station device 4, i.e., the connection probability, and information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region, calculated based on the connection probability. In other words, unlike Embodiment 1, information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region is added.

[0313] Based on information received by the receiving unit 106 indicating whether the reference position is in an unstable region, the communication control unit 113 controls the wireless communication between itself and each of the multiple base station devices 4.

[0314] (2) Composition of radio wave image server device (radio wave image generation device 200, radio wave image providing device 250)

[0315] use Figure 15 The configuration of the radio wave image server device 5 in this modified example will be described. The only difference from the modified example 1 of embodiment 1 is the radio wave image providing device 250, so the configuration of the radio wave image providing device 250 in this modified example will be described below.

[0316] The radio wave image providing device 250 of this modification is a configuration of the radio wave image providing device 250 of Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 with the addition of an unstable region determination unit 210.

[0317] The unstable region determination unit 210 determines whether a reference position is an unstable region based on the connection probability stored in the radio wave image storage unit 204. Then, based on the determination result, it generates information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region.

[0318] The transmitting unit 205 transmits a radio waveform response containing communication speed, connection probability, and information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region at the reference location corresponding to the requested location information.

[0319] 6. Implementation Method 2

[0320] Embodiment 1 describes a case where the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 150 is an on-board device 1 mounted on a vehicle that is a mobile body. This embodiment describes a case where the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 160 is an information distribution server device 2.

[0321] Figure 16 The configuration of the radio waveform acquisition and utilization device 160 of this embodiment is shown. It is similar to the one used in the description of Embodiment 1. Figure 2 The difference is that it does not have a configuration equivalent to the detection information transmission device 100.

[0322] Hereinafter, the parts that differ from Embodiment 1 will be described, and the accompanying drawings will be used to illustrate the differences from Embodiment 1. Figure 2 The same components are appended with the same numbers, and the description of Implementation 1 is referenced.

[0323] The location information acquisition unit 110 determines the physical location of the vehicle-mounted device 1, which is the target of communication, and decides it to be the requested location in order to "acquire" "requested location information". Specifically, it receives location information from the vehicle-mounted device 1 and uses it as the requested location information.

[0324] In addition to location information, speed information and direction of travel information can also be received from the vehicle-mounted device 1. Therefore, it is possible to predict the future location of the vehicle-mounted device 1 as the required location information.

[0325] The transmitting unit 105 sends a radio wave map request containing the requested location information generated and acquired by the requested location information acquisition unit 110 to the radio wave map providing device 250.

[0326] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the purpose of sending data from the information distribution server device 2 to the vehicle-mounted device 1 is to request the radio wave diagram for the downlink line.

[0327] The receiving unit 106 receives the radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device 250. The radio wave map providing device 250 is the same as the radio wave map providing device 250 described in Embodiment 1, so the description of Embodiment 1 is used as a reference.

[0328] Application 107 utilizes the wireless communication unit 102. For example, it can enumerate programs that transmit map data used by the navigation system and application update data.

[0329] According to the radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus 160 of this embodiment, since the control of wireless communication between the base station device 4 and the terminal device 1 is performed based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, the impact on communication in the unstable region can be minimized.

[0330] In addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit 111, the wireless communication control between the base station device 4 and the terminal device 1 is also based on the type of data transmitted, so the wireless communication control in the unstable region can be appropriately changed according to the type of data.

[0331] Furthermore, various modifications of Embodiment 1 can also be applied in Embodiment 2, so various modifications of Embodiment 1 are referred to.

[0332] 7. Implementation Method 3

[0333] The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 160 in Embodiment 2 is implemented by the information distribution server device 2, but the radio wave image acquisition and utilization device 160 can also be mounted on a vehicle as a mobile body and send data to other vehicles.

[0334] exist Figure 17 In this process, the radio wave map acquisition and utilization device 160 mounted on vehicle A transmits data to vehicle B, which is another vehicle, via base station device 4. In this case, it is also possible to use a device with... Figure 16 The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus 160 has the same configuration as Embodiment 2 shown. Furthermore, in this case, since the purpose is transmission control when sending data from base station device 4 to vehicle-mounted device 1, it is sufficient to request the radio wave pattern for the downlink as well. Also, there are cases where data is sent from vehicle A to base station device 4, so the same request for the radio wave pattern for the uplink can be made as in Embodiment 1.

[0335] 8. Other implementation methods

[0336] In Implementation 1, the radio wave image server device 5 generates and provides the radio wave image, while the terminal device 1 generates the detection information and acquires and utilizes the radio wave image. However, these functions can also be integrated. That is, all these functions can be set in the terminal device 1. In this case, it becomes a device that generates, accumulates, and utilizes radio wave images for its own use.

[0337] 9. Summary

[0338] The features of the detection information transmitting device, radio wave image generating device, radio wave image providing device, and radio wave image acquisition and utilization device in the various embodiments of this disclosure have been described above.

[0339] The statements used in each implementation are shown as examples, so they can also be replaced with synonymous statements or statements containing synonymous functions.

[0340] The block diagrams used in the description of the implementation methods categorize and organize the device configuration according to its functions. Each function is represented by a block implemented by any combination of hardware or software. Furthermore, since these block diagrams represent functions, they can also be understood as a disclosure of the invention of the method and the invention of the program for implementing the method.

[0341] The functional blocks described in each embodiment that can be used as processes, flows, and methods can be rearranged in order as long as they are not constrained by the relationship between the results of other steps preceding them in a step.

[0342] The first, second, and even Nth (N is an integer) statements used in the various embodiments and claims are used to distinguish between two or more configurations or methods of the same kind, and do not limit the order or superiority.

[0343] Each embodiment is based on a detection information transmission device and a radio wave image acquisition and utilization device mounted on a vehicle. However, except where specifically defined in the claims, this disclosure also includes dedicated or general-purpose devices other than those for vehicles.

[0344] In each embodiment, the description is based on the premise that the detection information transmitting device and radio wave image acquisition and utilization device disclosed in each embodiment are mounted on a vehicle, but it may also be based on the premise that a pedestrian is carrying them.

[0345] Furthermore, the following examples can be cited as examples of the form of the device disclosed herein.

[0346] As components, examples include semiconductor elements, electronic circuits, modules, and microcomputers.

[0347] As semi-finished products, they can include electronic control units (ECUs) and system boards.

[0348] As finished products, they can be categorized as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, personal computers (PCs), workstations, and servers.

[0349] In addition, this includes devices with communication functions, such as cameras, still cameras, and car navigation systems.

[0350] Additionally, antennas, communication interfaces, and other necessary functions can be added to each device.

[0351] Assume that the radio waveform generation apparatus and radio waveform providing apparatus of this disclosure are used to provide various services. With the provision of such services, the apparatus of this disclosure, the methods of this disclosure, and / or the procedures of this disclosure are used.

[0352] In addition, this disclosure can be implemented not only by dedicated hardware having the configuration and functions described in the various embodiments, but also by a combination of a program for implementing this disclosure recorded on a recording medium such as a memory or hard disk, and general-purpose hardware having a dedicated or general-purpose CPU and memory capable of executing the program.

[0353] Programs stored on non-transferable physical recording media of dedicated or general-purpose hardware (e.g., external storage devices (hard drives, USB drives, CD / BD, etc.) or internal storage devices (RAM, ROM, etc.)) can also be provided to the dedicated or general-purpose hardware via the recording media, or from a server via a communication line without using the recording media. This allows for continuous provision of the latest functionality through program upgrades.

[0354] The detection information transmission device and radio wave image acquisition and utilization device disclosed herein are mainly described as electronic control devices for automobiles, but of course they can also be applied to two-wheeled motorcycles, electric bicycles, railways, and other common mobile bodies such as pedestrians, ships, and airplanes.

[0355] In addition, it can be applied to devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and game consoles for various purposes.

Claims

1. A radio wave image providing device, which receives a radio wave image request from a radio wave image acquisition and utilization device and sends the required information, wherein, have: The radio wave image storage unit stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and multiple external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the multiple external communication devices, i.e., connection probability. The receiving unit receives the aforementioned radio waveform request, which includes requested location information indicating the requested location. The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and the connection probability mentioned above. The speed estimation calculation unit calculates the estimated speed at the reference location based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability; and The transmitting unit transmits a radio waveform response, which includes the connection probability at the reference position corresponding to the requested position information, the minimum guaranteed speed, and the estimated speed. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

2. The radio waveform providing device according to claim 1, wherein, The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit uses the value where the connection probability is above a specified threshold and the communication speed is the minimum guaranteed speed.

3. A radio wave image providing device, wherein a radio wave image acquisition and utilization device receives a radio wave image request and sends required information, wherein, have: The radio wave image storage unit stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and multiple external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the multiple external communication devices, i.e., connection probability. The receiving unit receives the aforementioned radio waveform request, which includes requested location information indicating the requested location; and The transmitting unit transmits a radio waveform response, which includes the communication speed and connection probability at the reference location corresponding to the requested location information. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

4. A radio wave image providing device, wherein a radio wave image acquisition and utilization device receives a radio wave image request and sends required information, wherein, have: The radio wave image storage unit stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and multiple external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the multiple external communication devices, i.e., connection probability. The receiving unit receives the aforementioned radio waveform request, which includes requested location information indicating the requested location. The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the communication speed and the connection probability mentioned above. The speed estimation calculation unit calculates the estimated speed at the reference position based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability. The unstable region determination unit determines, based on the aforementioned connection probability, whether the aforementioned reference position is an unstable region; and The transmitting unit transmits a radio waveform response, which includes: the connection probability at the reference position corresponding to the requested position information; the minimum guaranteed velocity; the estimated velocity; and information indicating whether the reference position is in an unstable region. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

5. The radio waveform providing device according to claim 4, wherein, The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit uses the value where the connection probability is above a specified threshold and the communication speed is the minimum guaranteed speed.

6. A radio wave image providing apparatus, wherein a radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus receives a radio wave image request and sends required information, wherein, have: The radio wave image storage unit stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and multiple external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the multiple external communication devices, i.e., connection probability. The receiving unit receives the aforementioned radio waveform request, which includes requested location information indicating the requested location. The unstable region determination unit determines, based on the aforementioned connection probability, whether the aforementioned reference position is an unstable region; and The transmitting unit transmits a radio waveform response, which includes the communication speed at the reference location corresponding to the requested location information, the connection probability, and information indicating whether the reference location is in an unstable region. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

7. A device for acquiring and utilizing radio waves, wherein, have: The location information acquisition unit is required to acquire the requested location information indicating the requested location. The transmitting unit sends a radio wave map request containing the aforementioned requested location information to the radio wave map providing device; The receiving unit receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information, i.e., the connection probability; the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probability; and the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and the connection probability. The unstable region determination unit determines whether the above-mentioned reference position is an unstable region based on the above-mentioned connection probability. The communication control unit controls wireless communication between itself and each of the aforementioned external communication devices based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit. as well as The wireless communication unit transmits data by wirelessly communicating with multiple external communication devices mentioned above. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

8. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 7, wherein, If the maximum value of the connection probability is below a specified threshold, the aforementioned unstable region determination unit determines that the reference position is an unstable region.

9. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 7, wherein, It also has a data type detection unit that detects data types that are characteristics of the aforementioned data. In addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit or the information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region, the communication control unit also controls wireless communication with each of the multiple external communication devices based on the data type detected by the data type detection unit.

10. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 9, wherein, If the reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the data type detection unit is communication delay-allowed data that allows communication delay, the communication control unit instructs the wireless communication unit to stop transmitting the communication delay-allowed data.

11. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 9, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the aforementioned data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is real-time data for which communication delay is not allowed, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned real-time data based on the aforementioned minimum guaranteed speed.

12. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 9, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is emergency data with an urgent need for information transmission, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned emergency data based on the aforementioned estimated speed.

13. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein, The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device is mounted on a mobile body.

14. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein, The above-mentioned requirement is that the location information acquisition unit acquires the location information sent from the terminal device mounted on the mobile body.

15. A device for acquiring and utilizing radio waves, wherein, have: The location information acquisition unit is required to acquire the requested location information indicating the requested location. The transmitting unit sends a radio wave map request containing the aforementioned requested location information to the radio wave map providing device; The receiving unit receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the communication speed between a reference position corresponding to the requested location information and each of the plurality of external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the plurality of external communication devices, i.e., the connection probability. The unstable region determination unit determines whether the above-mentioned reference position is an unstable region based on the above-mentioned connection probability. The communication control unit controls wireless communication between itself and each of the aforementioned external communication devices based on the determination result of the unstable region determination unit. as well as The wireless communication unit transmits data by wirelessly communicating with multiple external communication devices mentioned above. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

16. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, It also has: The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability; and The speed estimation calculation unit calculates the estimated speed at the reference position based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability.

17. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, If the maximum value of the connection probability is below a specified threshold, the aforementioned unstable region determination unit determines that the reference position is an unstable region.

18. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device is mounted on a mobile body.

19. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The above-mentioned requirement is that the location information acquisition unit acquires the location information sent from the terminal device mounted on the mobile body.

20. A device for acquiring and utilizing radio waves, wherein, have: The location information acquisition unit is required to acquire the requested location information indicating the requested location. The transmitting unit sends a radio wave map request containing the aforementioned requested location information to the radio wave map providing device; The receiving unit receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information; the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probability; the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and the connection probability; and information indicating whether the reference location is an unstable region calculated based on the connection probability. The communication control unit controls wireless communication with each of the aforementioned external communication devices based on information indicating whether the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region. as well as The wireless communication unit transmits data by wirelessly communicating with multiple external communication devices mentioned above. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

21. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, It also has a data type detection unit that detects data types that are characteristics of the aforementioned data. In addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit or the information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region, the communication control unit also controls wireless communication with each of the multiple external communication devices based on the data type detected by the data type detection unit.

22. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 21, wherein, If the reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the data type detection unit is communication delay-allowed data that allows communication delay, the communication control unit instructs the wireless communication unit to stop transmitting the communication delay-allowed data.

23. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device according to claim 21, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the aforementioned data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is real-time data for which communication delay is not allowed, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned real-time data based on the aforementioned minimum guaranteed speed.

24. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 21, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is emergency data with an urgent need for information transmission, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned emergency data based on the aforementioned estimated speed.

25. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein, The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device is mounted on a mobile body.

26. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein, The above-mentioned requirement is that the location information acquisition unit acquires the location information sent from the terminal device mounted on the mobile body.

27. A device for acquiring and utilizing radio waves, wherein, have: The location information acquisition unit is required to acquire the requested location information indicating the requested location. The transmitting unit sends a radio wave map request containing the aforementioned requested location information to the radio wave map providing device; The receiving unit receives a radio wave map response from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the communication speed between a reference position corresponding to the requested location information and each of the plurality of external communication devices; the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wireless communication between the reference position and the plurality of external communication devices; and information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region based on the connection probability. The communication control unit controls wireless communication with each of the aforementioned external communication devices based on information indicating whether the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region. as well as The wireless communication unit transmits data by wirelessly communicating with multiple external communication devices mentioned above. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

28. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 27, wherein, It also has: The minimum guaranteed speed calculation unit calculates the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability; and The speed estimation calculation unit calculates the estimated speed at the reference position based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability.

29. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 28, wherein, It also includes a data type detection unit, which detects the data type that is a characteristic of the aforementioned data. In addition to the determination result of the unstable region determination unit or the information indicating whether the reference position is an unstable region, the communication control unit also controls wireless communication with each of the multiple external communication devices based on the data type detected by the data type detection unit.

30. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 29, wherein, If the reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the data type detection unit is communication delay-allowed data that allows communication delay, the communication control unit instructs the wireless communication unit to stop transmitting the communication delay-allowed data.

31. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 29, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the aforementioned data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is real-time data for which communication delay is not allowed, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned real-time data based on the aforementioned minimum guaranteed speed.

32. The radio wave image acquisition and utilization apparatus according to claim 29, wherein, If the aforementioned reference position is in an unstable region and the data type detected by the aforementioned data type detection unit is emergency data with an urgent need for information transmission, the aforementioned communication control unit instructs the aforementioned wireless communication unit to transmit the aforementioned emergency data based on the aforementioned estimated speed.

33. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein, The radio wave image acquisition and utilization device is mounted on a mobile body.

34. The radio wave pattern acquisition and utilization apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein, The above-mentioned requirement is that the location information acquisition unit acquires the location information sent from the terminal device mounted on the mobile body.

35. A method for providing radio waveforms, performed by a radio waveform providing device that receives a radio waveform request from a radio waveform acquisition and utilization device and sends required information, wherein... The aforementioned radio wave image providing device includes a radio wave image storage unit that stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and various external communication devices; and the probability, i.e., connection probability, of wireless communication between the reference position and the various external communication devices. Receive the aforementioned radio waveform request containing requested location information indicating the requested location. Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated. Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the estimated speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated. A radio waveform response is transmitted, which includes the connection probability at the reference location corresponding to the requested location information, the minimum guaranteed velocity, and the estimated velocity. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

36. A method for acquiring and utilizing radio waves, executed by a radio wave acquisition and utilization device, wherein, Retrieve the required location information representing the requested location. The radio wave map request, containing the aforementioned required location information, is sent to the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map is received from the aforementioned radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability, i.e., the connection probability, of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information; a minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probabilities; and an estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speeds and the connection probabilities. Based on the aforementioned connectivity probabilities, it is determined whether the aforementioned reference location is an unstable region. Based on the above determination, wireless communication control is performed between the device and each of the aforementioned external communication devices. And data is transmitted by wireless communication with multiple of the aforementioned external communication devices. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

37. A storage medium storing a radio chart providing program that can be executed by a radio chart providing device capable of receiving a radio chart request from a radio chart acquisition and utilization device and sending necessary information, wherein, The aforementioned radio wave image providing device includes a radio wave image storage unit that stores radio wave images, which include: reference position information representing a reference position; communication speeds between the reference position and various external communication devices; and the probability of wireless communication between the reference position and the various external communication devices, i.e., connection probability. The aforementioned radio waveform provider includes: receiving the aforementioned radio waveform request containing requested location information indicating the requested location; Based on the above communication speed and connection probability, the minimum guaranteed speed at the above reference location is calculated. Based on the aforementioned communication speed and connection probability, the estimated speed at the aforementioned reference location is calculated; and A radio waveform response is transmitted, which includes the connection probability at the reference location corresponding to the requested location information, the minimum guaranteed velocity, and the estimated velocity. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

38. A storage medium storing a radio waveform acquisition and utilization program executable by a radio waveform acquisition and utilization device, wherein, The aforementioned radio wave image acquisition and utilization program includes: acquiring the required location information representing the required location; The radio wave map request containing the aforementioned required location information is sent to the radio wave map providing device; The radio wave map is received from the radio wave map providing device. The radio wave map response includes: the probability of wireless communication with multiple external communication devices at a reference location corresponding to the requested location information, i.e., the connection probability; the minimum guaranteed speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed between the reference location and each of the multiple external communication devices and the connection probability; and the estimated speed at the reference location calculated based on the communication speed and the connection probability. Based on the above connection probabilities, determine whether the above reference location is an unstable region; Based on the results of the above determination, control is performed for wireless communication between the device and each of the aforementioned external communication devices; and Data is transmitted wirelessly with multiple external communication devices mentioned above. The connection probability mentioned above represents the probability of the terminal device connecting with each of the aforementioned external communication devices when the terminal device communicates with each of the aforementioned external communication devices using the same communication method at the reference position.

Images