Navigation information display device, navigation information display method, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

Provided is a marine information display device that can more easily understand and display marine information. The marine information display device includes: a first acquisition unit that sequentially acquires first geographic coordinates of a first ship that is sailing on the sea; a first object generation unit that generates a first object that represents the first ship and is arranged at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates in a display image displayed on a display unit; a first window generation unit that generates a first window that indicates the first object and moves within the display image in accordance with movement of the first object or a display viewpoint; a designation reception unit that receives designation of second display coordinates within the display image from a user; a second window generation unit that generates a second window that indicates the second display coordinates; a second acquisition unit that acquires second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second display coordinates; a marine information calculation unit that calculates marine information including a distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; and a display control unit that controls display of the first object, the first window, the second window, and the marine information within the display image in such a manner that the first window and the second window do not overlap.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a nautical information display device, a nautical information display method, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that data for three-dimensional display is generated and depicted for overlay display, so as to place graphics representing additional display information on the water surface of the image output by the imaging device.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2018 / 216535 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In such devices / methods for displaying the conditions around a ship, there is a desire to display nautical information related to a location specified by the user in a way that is easier to understand.

[0008] The main objective of this invention is to provide a navigation information display device, navigation information display method, and program that can display navigation information in a more easily understandable way.

[0009] Technical means to solve the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of the present invention provides a maritime information display device comprising: a first acquisition unit that sequentially acquires first geographic coordinates of a first vessel navigating at sea; a first object generation unit that generates a first object representing the first vessel, displayed within a display image on a display unit and positioned at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates; a first window generation unit that generates a first window indicating the first object and moving within the display image as the first object or a display viewpoint moves; a designation acceptance unit that accepts a designation of second display coordinates within the display image from a user; a second window generation unit that generates a second window indicating the second display coordinates; a second acquisition unit that acquires second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second display coordinates; a maritime information calculation unit that calculates maritime information including the distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; and a display control unit that displays the first object, the first window, the second window, and the maritime information within the display image, controlling the first window and the second window to not overlap. This allows for a more easily understood display of maritime information.

[0011] The above method further includes: a third acquisition unit that sequentially acquires the third geographic coordinates of a maritime object; and a second object generation unit that generates a second object representing the maritime object, located within the display image and positioned at third display coordinates corresponding to the third geographic coordinates. The designated acceptance unit sets the second display coordinates as the third display coordinates if the third display coordinates exist within a predetermined range from the second display coordinates. Thus, a second window indicating the second object representing the maritime object can be generated.

[0012] In the above-described manner, when the maritime landmark is a ship sailing at sea, the display control unit moves the second window within the displayed image as the second object moves. Thus, the second window can be moved as the second object moves.

[0013] In the above method, the designated receiving unit receives the user's designation of the position of the second window, and the display control unit, having received the designation of the position of the second window which is moving within the displayed image, can also fix the second window at the designated position. Thus, the second window can be fixed at the designated position.

[0014] In the above-described manner, the display control unit can also fix the second window at a predetermined position within the displayed image. Thus, the second window can be fixed at a predetermined position.

[0015] In the above-described manner, the display control unit can also make the display mode of the second window different depending on whether the second window moves within the displayed image or is fixed in a predetermined position. This allows for the identification of both the moving and fixed second windows.

[0016] The above method also includes: a bearing acquisition unit that sequentially acquires the bow bearing of the first vessel; and a navigation information calculation unit that, based on the first geographic coordinates, the second geographic coordinates, and the bow bearing, calculates navigation information that also includes the bearing of the second geographic coordinates relative to the bow bearing of the first vessel. Thus, the bearing of the second geographic coordinates relative to the bow bearing of the first vessel can also be displayed.

[0017] In the above-described manner, the display control unit can also display the navigation information within the second window. This makes the navigation information easier to understand.

[0018] The above method also includes: a ship information acquisition unit that acquires ship information including the ship's geographical coordinates, bow position, speed, maritime mobile service identification code, and ship type, located at the second geographical coordinates; the display control unit can also display the ship information in the second window. This makes it easier to understand and display ship information.

[0019] In the above method, the navigation information calculation unit calculates navigation information including the closest distance or closest time, and the display control unit can also display the navigation information in the second window. Therefore, it is also possible to display the closest distance or closest time.

[0020] In the above method, the first vessel is the ship equipped with the navigation information display device, and the display control unit can move the display viewpoint in a manner that keeps the first object representing the ship at a predetermined position within the displayed image. Thus, the display viewpoint can be moved in sync with the movement of the ship.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for displaying maritime information, which sequentially acquires the first geographic coordinates of a first vessel navigating at sea; generates a first object representing the first vessel, positioned at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates and displayed within a display image on a display unit; generates a first window indicating the first object and moving within the display image as the first object or the display viewpoint moves; receives a user's request for second display coordinates within the display image; generates a second window indicating the second display coordinates; acquires the second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second display coordinates; calculates maritime information including the distance between the first and second geographic coordinates; and displays the first object, the first window, the second window, and the maritime information within the display image, controlled in a manner where the first and second windows do not overlap. This allows for easier display of maritime information.

[0022] Furthermore, another aspect of the program of the present invention is used to cause a computer to execute: sequentially acquiring the first geographic coordinates of a first vessel navigating at sea; generating a first object representing the first vessel, arranged at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates and displayed within a display image on a display unit; generating a first window indicating the first object and moving within the display image as the first object or the display viewpoint moves; receiving a user's designation of second display coordinates within the display image; generating a second window indicating the second display coordinates; acquiring second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second display coordinates; calculating nautical information including the distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; and displaying the first object, the first window, the second window, and the nautical information within the display image, controlled in a manner where the first window and the second window do not overlap. This allows for a more easily understood display of the nautical information. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a ship information display system.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of an image.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a ship information display device.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a database for managing other ships.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a diagram representing an example of a virtual three-dimensional space.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for displaying ship information.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of an image.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of an image.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of an image.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of an image. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] Figure 1This is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of the nautical information display system 100. The nautical information display system 100 is a system mounted on a ship. In the following description, the ship equipped with the nautical information display system 100 will be referred to as "this ship," and other ships may be referred to as "other ships."

[0035] The marine information display system 100 includes a marine information display device 1, a display unit 2, an AIS 3, a radar 4, a camera 5, a GNSS receiver 6, a gyroscope 7, and an ECDIS 8. These devices can be connected to a network N, such as a LAN, and can communicate with each other via the network.

[0036] The nautical information display device 1 is a computer including a CPU, RAM, ROM, non-volatile memory, and input / output interfaces. The CPU of the nautical information display device 1 performs information processing based on programs loaded from ROM or non-volatile memory into RAM.

[0037] The program can be provided via information storage media such as optical discs or memory cards, or via communication networks such as the Internet or LAN.

[0038] Display unit 2 displays images generated by the nautical information display device 1. Display unit 2 is, for example, a display device with a touch sensor, i.e., a touch panel. It is not limited to a touch sensor, and other pointing devices such as a trackball or a mouse may also be used.

[0039] AIS (Automatic Identification System) 3 receives AIS data from other vessels or land-based control systems in the vicinity of the vessel. It is not limited to AIS; VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) can also be used.

[0040] AIS data includes the vessel's identification symbol, name, position, course, speed, type, length, and destination. The identification symbol is the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI).

[0041] Radar 4 emits radio waves around the ship and receives the reflected waves, generating echo data based on the received signals. Additionally, Radar 4 identifies maritime landmarks based on the echo data, generating landmark tracking data (TT data) indicating the landmark's position and speed.

[0042] Camera 5 is a digital camera that generates image data by photographing the exterior of the ship. Camera 5 is, for example, positioned on the bridge of the ship with its orientation towards the bow. Camera 2 may be a camera with roll / pitch function and optical zoom function, i.e., a so-called PTZ camera.

[0043] Additionally, camera 5 may include an identification unit that identifies the location and category of maritime landmarks such as ships in the captured images using an object detection model. The identification unit is not limited to camera 5 and may also be implemented in other devices such as the nautical information display device 1.

[0044] The GNSS receiver 6 detects the ship's position based on radio waves received from the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The gyroscope 7 detects the ship's heading. It is not limited to a gyroscope; a GPS compass can also be used.

[0045] The ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) 8 obtains the vessel's position from the GNSS receiver 6 and displays it on the electronic chart. Additionally, the ECDIS 9 displays the vessel's planned route on the electronic chart. GNSS plotters can also be used, but not limited to ECDIS.

[0046] In this embodiment, the navigation information display device 1 and the display unit 2 are independent devices, but they are not limited thereto; the navigation information display device 1 and the display unit 2 may also be an integrated device.

[0047] Furthermore, the nautical information display device 1 may not be a standalone device; it can be integrated with other devices such as ECDIS8. That is, the functions of the nautical information display device 1 can also be implemented within other devices such as ECDIS8.

[0048] Alternatively, the display unit 2 may not be a separate device; the display device of other devices such as ECDIS8 can also be used as the display unit 2 to display images generated by the nautical information display device 1.

[0049] In this embodiment, the navigation information display device 1 is mounted on the vessel to display information about the vessel and other vessels in its vicinity, but its purpose is not limited to this. For example, the navigation information display device 1 can also be installed in a land-based control center to display vessels navigating in the managed sea area.

[0050] Figure 2This diagram illustrates an example of a display image D generated by the marine information display device 1 and displayed on the display unit 2. The marine information display device 1 sequentially generates display images D at various times based on data acquired from other devices, and outputs dynamic image data containing the time series of display images D to the display unit 2.

[0051] The display image D includes, for example, a three-dimensional image BE. The three-dimensional image BE is an image depicting a virtual three-dimensional space on a virtual water surface SS, with three-dimensional ship objects X arranged thereon. Figure 2 The example shows a 3D image BE with the viewpoint set to bird's-eye view mode.

[0052] In a three-dimensional ship object X, there is a three-dimensional ship object X1 representing the ship itself (hereinafter also referred to as "the ship object X1") and a three-dimensional ship object X2 representing another ship (hereinafter also referred to as "the other ship object X2").

[0053] The ship object X1 and the other ship object X2 are displayed in a recognizable manner. That is, the ship object X1 and the other ship object X2 can be identified from each other, for example, by making their colors, shapes, or textures different.

[0054] The ship object X1 has a simulated ship shape. Concentric circles CC, centered on the ship object X1, are displayed around it. The concentric circles CC are appended with strings DT1 and DT2 representing distance. Storage units indicating bearing may also be appended to the concentric circles CC.

[0055] The other ship object X2 has various shapes and sizes. Within the other ship object X2, there exist other ship objects X2s with shapes simulating ships and objects X2b with button shapes. These differences are based on the source of the other ship data, described later.

[0056] The 3D image BE also includes chart objects NC representing coastlines and safety depth contours, route objects RT representing the ship's planned route, and turning point objects WP representing waypoints along the planned route.

[0057] In addition, the three-dimensional image BE also includes markers indicating the intersection of the displayed line of sight and the virtual water surface SS, objects indicating the echo intensity detected by radar 4, or range circles indicating the detection range of radar 4.

[0058] In addition, the display image D includes an azimuth magnetic needle image MG that represents directions such as north and south, like a compass needle. To facilitate intuitive understanding of direction, the azimuth magnetic needle image MG is adjusted to represent the direction resulting from the combination of the direction on the virtual water surface SS and the horizontal component of the displayed line of sight.

[0059] Additionally, the display image D includes a button B6, which is used to switch the orientation corresponding to the top of the display image D between the ship's bow bearing (H-UP) and north bearing (N-UP). Figure 2 The image above shows an example of the orientation of the ship's bow, corresponding to the top of the image D.

[0060] In addition, the display image D includes a button B7 for switching the display viewpoint to top view mode, a button B8 for switching the display viewpoint to bird's-eye view mode, and a button B9 for switching the display viewpoint to bridge view mode.

[0061] Furthermore, the image D used for display is not limited to a three-dimensional image BE. For example, it can be a two-dimensional image with the ship object arranged on a two-dimensional plane, an AR (Augmented Reality) image with the ship object superimposed on a camera image captured by camera 5, an echo image generated by radar 4, or an electronic chart generated by ECDIS 8.

[0062] The following describes a structural example and an operational example of the nautical information display device 1 that generates and displays an image D.

[0063] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of the navigation information display device 1. The navigation information display device 1 includes a ship data acquisition unit 11, a foreign ship data acquisition unit 12, a designated receiving unit 13, a coordinate transformation unit 14, an object generation unit 15, a window generation unit 16, a navigation information calculation unit 17, and a display control unit 18. These functional units are implemented by the control unit (Processing Circuitry) 10, which serves as the CPU of the navigation information display device 1, performing information processing according to a program.

[0064] The ship's data acquisition unit 11 sequentially acquires the ship's position detected by the GNSS receiver 6 and the ship's bow bearing detected by the gyroscope 7 as ship data. Hereinafter, the coordinates representing a two-dimensional position in real space will be referred to as geographic coordinates. The ship's data acquisition unit 11 sequentially acquires the geographic coordinates (first geographic coordinates) representing the ship's position. The ship's data acquisition unit 11 is an example of a first acquisition unit and a bearing acquisition unit.

[0065] The other vessel data acquisition unit 12 sequentially acquires AIS data received from AIS3, TT data generated by radar 4, or identification data identified based on images captured by camera 5, as other vessel data. Other vessel data can also be acquired externally via communication. The other vessel data acquisition unit 12 sequentially acquires the geographic coordinates (third geographic coordinates) indicating the position of other vessels. The other vessel data acquisition unit 12 is an example of a third acquisition unit and a ship information acquisition unit.

[0066] The AIS data received by AIS3 includes vessel information such as the geographical coordinates, bearing, speed, MMSI, and type of other vessels.

[0067] The position of other vessels contained in the TT data generated by radar 4 or the identification data of the image captured by camera 5 is represented by the relative position of the vessel. Therefore, the position of the vessel detected by GNSS receiver 6 will be transformed into an absolute position.

[0068] The other vessel data acquisition unit 12 uses the other vessel management database constructed in the memory of the navigation information display device 1 to manage other vessels. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a database for managing other ships.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the other vessel management database includes fields such as "Vessel ID", "Origin", "Geographic Coordinates", "Board Position", "MMSI", and "Vessel Type". In addition, it may also include fields such as navigation status, destination, vessel name, or hull length.

[0070] "Source" indicates the origin of the data from other vessels. When the geographic coordinates contained in the data from one of the other vessels (AIS3, radar4, and camera5) are the same or similar to the geographic coordinates contained in the data from another other vessel, the data from these other vessels are summarized and recorded because they are related to a common other vessel.

[0071] "Geographic coordinates" indicates the position of the other vessel. Geographic coordinates are expressed, for example, in latitude and longitude. "Board bearing" indicates the bearing of the other vessel. "Speed" indicates the speed of the other vessel. The speed is used for interpolation during the period when the geographic coordinates of the other vessel are updated. "MMSI" indicates the maritime movement service identifier of the other vessel. "Vessel type" indicates the type of the other vessel, such as a merchant ship or a fishing vessel.

[0072] Furthermore, for data from other vessels obtained from radar 4 or camera 5, the ship's bearing and speed can be inferred based on changes in the position of maritime objects in the echo images or camera images. Additionally, the type of vessel can be inferred from the images of maritime objects in the echo images or camera images.

[0073] In this embodiment, other vessels detected by AIS3, radar 4, or camera 5 are displayed as objects and managed. However, it is not limited to this. Other maritime objects detected by radar 4 or camera 5, such as buoys, icebergs, or floating containers, can also be displayed as objects and managed.

[0074] return Figure 3The designated receiving unit 13 receives the user's designation of a position within the display image D. Hereinafter, the coordinates representing a two-dimensional position within the image will be referred to as display coordinates. Specifically, the designated receiving unit 13, for example, acquires the display coordinates (second display coordinates) within the display image D designated by the user, detected by the touch sensor of the display unit 2.

[0075] If an object representing another vessel or other maritime landmark exists within the specified range of the user-specified display coordinates (second display coordinates), the designation and acceptance unit 13 determines that the display coordinates of that object have been designated (third display coordinates). Furthermore, the designation and acceptance unit 13 also accepts user input, such as object selection or window movement.

[0076] The coordinate transformation unit 14 acquires the geographic coordinates (second geographic coordinates) corresponding to the displayed coordinates (second displayed coordinates) received by the designated receiving unit 13. The coordinate transformation unit 14 is an example of a second acquisition unit.

[0077] The object generation unit 15 generates objects, such as a ship object X1 (first object) representing the ship itself and a ship object X2 (second object) representing another ship, which are displayed in the display image D. The object generation unit 15 is an example of a first object generation unit and a second object generation unit.

[0078] The ship object X1 generated by the object generation unit 15 is configured with display coordinates (first display coordinates) in the display image D corresponding to the ship's geographic coordinates (first geographic coordinates). The other ship object X2 is configured with display coordinates (third display coordinates) in the display image D corresponding to the other ship's geographic coordinates (third geographic coordinates).

[0079] Window generation unit 16 generates windows F1 and F2 (see reference) to be displayed within the display image D. Figures 7-10 Details regarding windows F1 and F2 will be explained later. Window generation unit 16 is an example of the first window generation unit and the second window generation unit.

[0080] The nautical information calculation unit 17 calculates various nautical information. This nautical information includes the distance between the geographic coordinates representing the ship's position (first geographic coordinates) and the geographic coordinates of a position specified by the user (second geographic coordinates). The geographic coordinates of the user-specified position (second geographic coordinates) can also be the geographic coordinates of other ships or other maritime landmarks located within that specified range (third geographic coordinates).

[0081] In addition, nautical information includes the bearing of the user-specified geographic coordinates (second geographic coordinates) relative to the ship's bow position. Furthermore, nautical information may also include the closest distance to the nearest point of approach (DCPA) or the closest time to the nearest point of approach (TCPA) of other vessels relative to the ship.

[0082] The display control unit 18 generates windows F1 and F2 (see reference) including the local ship object X1 and the other ship object X2 generated by the object generation unit 15, and windows F1 and F2 generated by the window generation unit 16. Figures 7-10 The system displays images D, including navigation information calculated by the navigation information calculation unit 17, and outputs them to the display unit 2.

[0083] The display control unit 18 controls the positions of windows F1 and F2 so that windows F1 and F2 contained in the display image D do not overlap.

[0084] In this embodiment, the display control unit 18 generates a display image D that includes a three-dimensional image BE. The three-dimensional image BE is an image depicting the scene within the field of view of a virtual camera VC arranged in a virtual three-dimensional space VS. The generation of the three-dimensional image BE will be described below.

[0085] Figure 5 This is a diagram representing an example of a virtual 3D space VS. The virtual 3D space VS has a coordinate system corresponding to the real space. The height of the virtual water surface SS in the virtual 3D space VS corresponds to the height of the water surface in the real space (e.g., altitude 0m).

[0086] The display control unit 18 configures the three-dimensional ship object X at the position corresponding to the two-dimensional position of the ship on the virtual water surface SS in the virtual three-dimensional space VS.

[0087] Specifically, the display control unit 18, based on the ship data acquired by the ship data acquisition unit 11, configures the ship object X1 at the position of the virtual water surface SS corresponding to the ship's geographical coordinates (first geographical coordinates), with an orientation corresponding to the ship's bow position. The ship object X1 has a simulated ship shape that makes it easy to grasp the bow position at first glance.

[0088] In addition, the display control unit 18 configures the other ship object X2 at the position of the virtual water surface SS corresponding to the geographical coordinates (third geographical coordinates) of the other ship based on the other ship data acquired by the other ship data acquisition unit 12.

[0089] In detail, the display control unit 18 configures other ship objects X2s, simulating the shape of the ship, with an orientation corresponding to the bow position for other ship data sourced from AIS3. Alternatively, the display control unit 18 can also configure other ship objects X2s with shapes or sizes corresponding to ship type or hull length.

[0090] On the other hand, the display control unit 18 configures a button-shaped object X2b for other vessels, which is based on data from the radar 4 or the camera 5. Furthermore, the display control unit 18 can change the manner of displaying the object X2b based on the detection reliability.

[0091] In addition, the display control unit 18 configures chart objects NC, route objects RT, and turning point objects WP based on data from ECDIS8.

[0092] The display control unit 18 sets a virtual camera VC in the virtual three-dimensional space VS. The viewpoint of the virtual camera VC can also be called the display viewpoint, and the line of sight of the virtual camera VC can be called the display line of sight. The display control unit 18 sets the virtual camera VC to top view mode, bird's-eye view mode, or bridge view mode.

[0093] In top-view mode, the virtual camera VC is set to look down directly at the ship object X1 from a position higher than the ship object X1. In bird's-eye view mode, the virtual camera VC is set to look down at the ship object X1 from a position higher than the ship object X1 along an angled direction.

[0094] In top-view and bird's-eye view modes, the virtual camera VC is set to position and direction of view with the ship object X1 centered in the field of view. In bridge-view mode, the virtual camera VC is set to observe the bow position from a position corresponding to the bridge of the ship object X1.

[0095] The display control unit 18 sets a camera tracking mode in which the virtual camera VC moves as the ship object X1 moves. That is, the display control unit 18 maintains the relative position and posture with respect to the ship object X1 and makes the virtual camera VC track it. As a result, the ship object X1 is kept at a predetermined position within the display image D.

[0096] The display control unit 18 can also set a camera fixing mode to fix the position of the virtual camera VC, and can switch between camera tracking mode and camera fixing mode.

[0097] The display control unit 18 changes the three-dimensional position, orientation, viewing angle, or magnification of the virtual camera VC based on the operation input for viewpoint movement received by the designated acceptance unit 12. As a result, the lighting and scenery within the field of view of the virtual camera VC changes.

[0098] The following describes an example of the steps involved in displaying ship information in the nautical information display device 1.

[0099] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps performed when the nautical information display device 1 receives a designation for a position within the display image D. The CPU of the nautical information display device 1 executes the processing shown in this diagram according to the program. Figures 7-10 It means Figure 6 The following is an example diagram showing the execution of the process, illustrated in image D.

[0100] First, the nautical information display device 1 determines whether the user has accepted the designation of a position within the display image D (S11, as part of the designation acceptance unit 13). The nautical information display device 1, for example, obtains the display coordinates (second display coordinates) within the display image D specified by the user from the touch sensor of the display unit 2.

[0101] When the user accepts the specification of the position within the image D to be displayed (S11: "Yes"), as Figure 7 As shown in the example, the nautical information display device 1 displays a first window F1 that indicates the ship object X1, linking it with the ship object X1 (S12, as processed by the window generation unit 16 and the display control unit 18). The first window F1 indicates the ship object X1 located at display coordinates (first display coordinates) within the display image D corresponding to the ship's geographic coordinates (first geographic coordinates).

[0102] The first window F1 is, for example, in the shape of a flag, and is erected on the ship object X1, i.e., the lower end of the pole is located on the ship object X1, thereby indicating the ship object X1. However, it is not limited to this; the first window F1 can also be configured at a position away from the ship object X1 and connected to the ship object X1 via a connecting line.

[0103] exist Figure 7 In the example, the first window F1 is blank, but it is not limited to this. The first window F1 can include a mark or string representing the ship, or it can include a string representing the ship's geographical coordinates, bow position, or speed, etc.

[0104] The first window F1 moves within the display image D as the ship object X1 or the display viewpoint moves. For example, the first window F1 moves together with the ship object X1 to maintain its upright position on the ship object X1. Alternatively, when the display viewpoint moves away from the ship object X1, the first window F1 can also move together with the display viewpoint while still connected to the ship object X1 via a connecting line.

[0105] Next, the navigation information display device 1 determines whether there are display coordinates (third display coordinates) of another vessel object X2 within the specified range of the display coordinates (second display coordinates) specified by the user (S13).

[0106] If there is no other vessel X2 within the specified range (S13: "No"), the navigation information display device 1 calculates navigation information for the corresponding position (S14, as processed by the navigation information calculation unit 17). Specifically, the navigation information display device 1 calculates the distance and bearing between the geographic coordinates (first geographic coordinates) representing the position of the vessel and the geographic coordinates (second geographic coordinates) corresponding to the display coordinates (second display coordinates) specified by the user, based on the geographic coordinates (first geographic coordinates).

[0107] Next, as Figure 7 As shown in the example, the navigation information display device 1 displays a fixed second window F2 that indicates the display coordinates (second display coordinates) specified by the user, and displays navigation information (S15, as processed by the window generation unit 16 and the display control unit 18). Hereinafter, the fixed second window F2 will be referred to as "fixed window F2p".

[0108] The fixed window F2p, like the first window F1, is, for example, flag-shaped, with the lower end of the pole indicating the display coordinates (second display coordinates) specified by the user. However, it is not limited to this; the fixed window F2p can also be configured at a position away from the display coordinates (second display coordinates) specified by the user, connected via a connecting line.

[0109] The fixed window F2p displays the distance (RNG) and bearing (BRG) calculated as nautical information. However, it is not limited to this; the fixed window F2p can also be blank. Furthermore, a line BL connecting the two points and the string DT representing the distance are displayed between the first window F1 and the fixed window F2p.

[0110] On the other hand, if there is another vessel X2 within the specified range (S13: "Yes"), the navigation information display device 1 calculates navigation information for the corresponding other vessel (S16, as processing by the navigation information calculation unit 17). That is, assuming that the navigation information display device 1 has specified another vessel X2 located near the position specified by the user (the second display coordinates are set as the third display coordinates).

[0111] Specifically, the navigation information display device 1 calculates navigation information based on the geographical coordinates (first geographical coordinates) representing the position of the vessel and the geographical coordinates (third geographical coordinates) corresponding to the displayed coordinates (third displayed coordinates) of another vessel X2. Additionally, the navigation information display device 1 also calculates the closest distance and closest time indicating the risk of collision.

[0112] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, the navigation information display device 1 displays the second window F2, which indicates the other vessel X2, in conjunction with the other vessel X2, and displays navigation information (S17, as processed by the window generation unit 16 and the display control unit 18). Hereinafter, the second window F2 that is displayed in conjunction will be referred to as "connection window F2t".

[0113] The linkage window F2t moves within the display image D along with the movement of the other ship object X2. For example, the linkage window F2t moves together with the other ship object X2 to maintain an upright position on the other ship object X2.

[0114] The linked window F2t, like the first window F1, is, for example, a flag shape, and is erected on the other ship object X2 to indicate the other ship object X2. However, it is not limited to this; the linked window F2t can also be configured at a position away from the other ship object X2, connected via a connecting line.

[0115] Fixed window F2p (reference) Figure 7 ) and linkage window F2t (refer to Figure 8 The display methods of the two windows are different, thus allowing them to be identified. For example, the fixed window F2p is a rectangle with its upper right corner cut off, while the linked window F2t is rectangular. In addition, they are not limited to shape, but also differ in color or texture.

[0116] Inside the linked window F2t, the distance (RNG) and bearing (BRG) calculated as nautical information are displayed in the same way as in the fixed window F2p. In addition, a line BL connecting two points and a string DT representing their distance are displayed between the first window F1 and the linked window F2t.

[0117] Not limited to this, such as Figure 9 As shown, the linked window F2t can display not only distance and bearing, but also other information. For example, the linked window F2t can also display the geographic coordinates (third geographic coordinates) of other ships, their bearing, speed, MMSI, and one or more ship types as ship information. It can also display the closest distance and closest time to collision as navigation information.

[0118] Furthermore, the navigation information display device 1 controls the positions of windows F1 and F2 to prevent them from overlapping. For example, by moving the position of the ship object X1, the other ship object X2, or the viewpoint, when the first window F1 and the second window F2 approach each other, at least one of the first window F1 and the second window F2 is moved away from the other.

[0119] Next, the navigation information display device 1 determines whether the user has accepted a change in the position of the linkage window F2t, which moves together with the other vessel object X2 (S18, as part of the processing of the designated acceptance unit 13). The navigation information display device 1 accepts, for example, an operation input for changing the position of the linkage window F2t from the touch sensor of the display unit 2.

[0120] If the change of position of the linkage window F2t has been accepted (S18: "Yes"), such as Figure 10 As shown in the example, the nautical information display device 1 moves the linked window F2t to the position desired by the user and switches it to the fixed window F2p (S19, as processed by the display control unit 18). Thus, the fixed window F2p, which indicates the other vessel X2, can be fixed at the position desired by the user.

[0121] As shown above, Figure 6 The processing shown is now complete. Furthermore, the display and control of windows F1 and F2 in this embodiment described above are not limited to the three-dimensional image BE; for example, two-dimensional images, AR images, echo images, or electronic charts can also be applied.

[0122] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can certainly be made by those skilled in the art.

[0123] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0124] 1. Navigation information display device; 2. Display unit; 3. AIS; 4. Radar; 5. Camera; 6. GNSS receiver; 7. Gyroscope; 8. ECDIS; 10. Control unit; 11. Ship data acquisition unit; 12. Other ship data acquisition unit; 13. Designated receiving unit; 14. Coordinate transformation unit; 15. Object generation unit; 16. Window generation unit; 17. Navigation information calculation unit; 18. Display control unit; 100. Navigation information display system.

Claims

1. A maritime information display device, wherein, have: The first acquisition unit sequentially acquires the first geographical coordinates of the first ship sailing at sea; The first object generation unit generates a first object representing the first ship, which is displayed in a virtual three-dimensional space image for display on the display unit and is configured at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates. The first window generation unit generates a first window that is graphically connected to the first object and moves within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display as the first object or the display viewpoint moves. The designated acceptance department designates the second display coordinates within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display, based on the user's acceptance. The second window generation unit generates a second window that is graphically connected to the second display coordinates; The second acquisition unit acquires the second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second displayed coordinates; The nautical information calculation unit calculates nautical information including the distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; as well as The display control unit displays the first object, the first window, the second window, and the nautical information within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display, and controls them in a manner in which the first window and the second window do not overlap.

2. The nautical information display device according to claim 1, wherein, It also has: The third acquisition unit sequentially acquires the third geographic coordinates of maritime landmarks; as well as The second object generation unit generates a second object representing the maritime landmark, located within the virtual three-dimensional spatial image for display and positioned at third display coordinates corresponding to the third geographic coordinates. If the designated receiving department finds that the third display coordinate exists within a specified range from the second display coordinate, it will set the second display coordinate as the third display coordinate.

3. The nautical information display device according to claim 2, wherein, When the maritime landmark is a ship sailing at sea, the display control unit moves the second window within the virtual three-dimensional space image being displayed as the second object moves.

4. The nautical information display device according to claim 3, wherein, The designated acceptance department is determined from the user's acceptance of the second window's location. When the display control unit receives a position specification for the second window that is moving within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display, it fixes the second window at the specified position.

5. The nautical information display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display control unit fixes the second window at a predetermined position within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display.

6. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The display control unit makes the display mode of the second window different when the second window moves within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display and when the second window is fixed in a predetermined position.

7. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, It also features: a bearing acquisition unit, which sequentially acquires the bearing of the bow of the first vessel. The navigation information calculation unit calculates navigation information based on the first geographic coordinates, the second geographic coordinates, and the ship's bow bearing, which also includes the bearing of the second geographic coordinates relative to the ship's bow bearing.

8. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The display control unit displays the navigation information in the second window.

9. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, It also includes: a ship information acquisition unit, which acquires ship information including the ship's geographical coordinates, bow position, speed, maritime mobile service identification code, and any one of the ship types located at the second geographical coordinates. The display control unit displays the ship information in the second window.

10. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The navigation information calculation unit also calculates the navigation information including the closest distance or the closest time. The display control unit displays the navigation information in the second window.

11. The nautical information display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first vessel is the ship equipped with the aforementioned navigation information display device. The display control unit moves the display viewpoint in such a way that the first object representing the ship is kept at a predetermined position within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display.

12. A method for displaying nautical information, wherein, Obtain the first geographic coordinates of the first ship sailing at sea in sequence; Generate a first object representing the first vessel, which is displayed in a virtual three-dimensional space image on the display unit and configured at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates; A first window is generated that is graphically connected to the first object and moves within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display as the first object or the display viewpoint moves; The user accepts the designation of the second display coordinates within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display; Generate a second window that is graphically connected to the second display coordinates; Obtain the second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second displayed coordinates; Calculate nautical information including the distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; The first object, the first window, the second window, and the nautical information are displayed within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display, and controlled in a manner in which the first window and the second window do not overlap.

13. A computer-readable storage medium comprising a stored computer program for causing a computer to execute: Obtain the first geographic coordinates of the first ship sailing at sea in sequence; Generate a first object representing the first vessel, which is displayed in a virtual three-dimensional space image on the display unit and configured at first display coordinates corresponding to the first geographic coordinates; A first window is generated that is graphically connected to the first object and moves within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display as the first object or the display viewpoint moves; The user accepts the designation of the second display coordinates within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display; Generate a second window that is graphically connected to the second display coordinates; Obtain the second geographic coordinates corresponding to the second displayed coordinates; Calculate nautical information including the distance between the first geographic coordinates and the second geographic coordinates; as well as The first object, the first window, the second window, and the nautical information are displayed within the virtual three-dimensional space image for display, and controlled in a manner in which the first window and the second window do not overlap.

Images