Navigation system

Abstract

And performing driving assistance corresponding to the cognitive ability. A navigation system is provided with a cognitive ability evaluation unit, a map information database, and a route search unit. The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability relating to the driving of the driver. A map information database stores map information used in route search. The route search unit performs a route search from the position of the vehicle to the destination position using the departure position of the route search, the destination position of the route search, and map information. The map information database has, as map information, first map information including, as constituent elements, at least a plurality of roads used in a route search, and second map information including, as constituent elements, the plurality of roads used in the route search. The second map information includes cognitive ability weight information set for a plurality of constituent elements of the first map information on the basis of cognitive ability. The route search unit performs a route search on the basis of the first map information and the second map information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a navigation system that performs driving assistance corresponding to the cognitive ability of a driver. Background Art

[0002] A navigation device is described in Patent Document 1. The navigation device of Patent Document 1 monitors the actions of a driver and accumulates the results of the action monitoring.

[0003] The navigation device of Patent Document 1 uses the accumulated results of the action monitoring to perform a route guidance service that matches the driving tendency and personality of the driver.

[0004] A recognition degree estimation method is described in Patent Document 2. The recognition degree estimation method of Patent Document 2 detects a decrease in recognition degree during driving. The recognition degree estimation method of Patent Document 2 uses the detected decrease in recognition degree during driving for driving assistance.

[0005] Prior Art Documents

[0006] Patent Documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2008-058193

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-080549 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] Currently, traffic accidents involving elderly drivers and the like have become a problem. As one of the factors, it is caused by driving by a driver with a decreased cognitive ability.

[0011] However, the navigation device of Patent Document 1 and the cognitive ability estimation method of Patent Document 2 do not use the cognitive ability for driving assistance.

[0012] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to perform driving assistance corresponding to the cognitive ability.

[0013] Means for Solving the Problems

[0014] The navigation system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cognitive ability evaluation unit, a map information database, and a route search unit. The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability related to the driving of the driver. The map information database stores map information used in route search. The route search unit uses the departure position of the route search, the destination position of the route search, and the map information to perform a route search from the position of the vehicle to the destination position.

[0015] The map information database has first map information and second map information as map information. The first map information includes at least a plurality of roads used in path search as respective constituent elements, and the second map information includes cognitive ability weight information set for the plurality of constituent elements of the first map information based on cognitive ability.

[0016] The path search unit performs path search based on the first map information and the second map information.

[0017] In this structure, a path is searched according to cognitive ability.

[0018] Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, driving assistance corresponding to cognitive ability can be performed. Description of the Drawings

[0020] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of a navigation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 (A) of is a table showing an example of setting of cognitive ability levels, Figure 2 (B) of is a table showing an example of setting of cognitive ability weighting coefficients, Figure 2 (C) of is a table showing an example of setting of cognitive ability levels and weighting coefficients for each road.

[0022] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of a cognitive ability evaluation unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of a navigation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a first example of a navigation method performed by a navigation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a second example of a navigation method performed by a navigation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7 is a functional block diagram of a navigation device of a navigation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a first example of an information feedback method performed by a navigation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 9It is a flowchart of the second example of the information feedback method performed by the navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 10 It is a flowchart of the third example of the information feedback method performed by the navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation mode

[0030] [First embodiment]

[0031] The navigation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] (System structure)

[0033] Figure 1 It is a functional block diagram of the navigation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As Figure 1 shown, the navigation system 10 includes a system control unit 20, a cognitive ability evaluation unit 30, and a navigation device 40.

[0034] The system control unit 20, the cognitive ability evaluation unit 30, and the navigation device 40 are connected via an information communication network such as the Internet.

[0035] The system control unit 20 is provided in a device capable of connecting to the information communication network, or in a cloud server or the like in the cloud.

[0036] The cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 is provided in a device worn by the driver. Here, the driver mainly refers to a person before driving a vehicle. However, the driver may also include a person during driving.

[0037] The navigation device 40 is installed in the vehicle driven by the driver.

[0038] Generally speaking, the navigation system 10 performs the following processing.

[0039] Before performing path search, the cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 observes the brain waves of the driver and generates cognitive ability evaluation data. The cognitive ability evaluation data is data for evaluating the cognitive ability related to the driving of the driver (especially the potential cognitive ability). The cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 outputs the cognitive ability evaluation data to the system control unit 20.

[0040] The system control unit 20 prestores map information (first map information) used in general path search and map information (second map information) including cognitive ability weight information corresponding to the cognitive ability level.

[0041] The system control unit 20 uses the cognitive ability evaluation data to evaluate the cognitive ability related to the driving of the driver and generates a cognitive ability level.

[0042] The system control unit 20 receives the departure location, destination location, and driver identification information from the navigation device 40. Based on various information from the navigation device 40, the system control unit 20 detects the cognitive ability level of the driver from the driver identification information. The system control unit 20 provides the first map information and the second map information corresponding to the detected cognitive ability level to the navigation device 40.

[0043] The navigation device 40 uses the information provided from the system control unit 20 to perform a route search corresponding to the cognitive ability.

[0044] Thus, the navigation system 10 can perform driving assistance corresponding to the driver's cognitive ability.

[0045] (System control unit 20)

[0046] As Figure 1 shown, the system control unit 20 includes a cognitive ability data generation unit 21, a navigation-related information communication unit 22, a cognitive ability level database (cognitive ability level DB) 210, a first map information database (first map information DB) 221, and a second map information database (second map information DB) 222. The first map information database 221 and the second map information database 222 are set independently of each other. In other words, the navigation-related information communication unit 22 can independently access the first map information database 221 and the second map information database 222.

[0047] Figure 2 (A) is a table showing an example of the setting of the cognitive ability level, Figure 2 (B) is a table showing an example of the setting of the cognitive ability weighting coefficient, Figure 2 (C) is a table showing an example of the setting of the cognitive ability level and the weighting coefficient for each road.

[0048] The cognitive ability data generation unit 21 obtains the evaluation data of the cognitive ability from the cognitive ability evaluation unit 30. The cognitive ability data generation unit 21 uses the evaluation data of the cognitive ability to estimate the cognitive ability level of the driver. The cognitive ability data generation unit 21 estimates the cognitive ability level as multiple discrete levels. For example, the cognitive ability data generation unit 21 estimates the cognitive ability level as 5 stages, and sets multiple cognitive ability levels L1, L2, L3, L4, L5. Here, as Figure 2 (A) shown, the multiple cognitive ability levels L1, L2, L3, L4, L5 are set such that the larger the number added to L, the higher the cognitive ability. In other words, the multiple cognitive ability levels L1, L2, L3, L4, L5 are set such that the smaller the number added to L, the worse the decline in cognitive ability.

[0049] The cognitive ability data generation unit 21 associates the cognitive ability level with the driver (driver ID) who is the estimation object of the cognitive ability level, and generates cognitive ability data. The cognitive ability data generation unit 21 stores the cognitive ability data in the cognitive ability level database 210.

[0050] The estimation of the driver's cognitive ability level and the generation of cognitive ability data are performed at a specified cycle (for example, every six months, every year, etc.). Each time the cognitive ability data generation unit 21 generates new cognitive ability data, it updates and stores the cognitive ability data in the cognitive ability level database 210.

[0051] The cognitive ability level database 210 stores the cognitive ability data for each driver.

[0052] The first map information database 221 stores the first map information used in general path search. The first map information includes multiple roads and connection points of multiple roads as the first constituent elements. The first map information also includes, for example, the distances of multiple roads, the categories of multiple roads (ordinary roads or toll roads), the information of intersections where multiple roads cross (priority roads, etc.), the widths of multiple roads, congestion information, traffic information (congestion information, speed limits, etc.) as the first constituent elements. The first constituent elements correspond to "external attention information".

[0053] In addition, the first map information only needs to include at least multiple roads and connection points of multiple roads, and can appropriately include other constituent elements according to the specifications required for path search, etc.

[0054] Moreover, the first map information sets index values for path search for each first constituent element such as roads. For example, if it is the distance of a road, it is set that: the shorter the distance of the road, the higher the index value for path search.

[0055] The second map information database 222 stores the second map information reflecting the cognitive ability. The second map information includes the cognitive ability weighted information set for multiple roads and connection points of multiple roads respectively based on the cognitive ability level.

[0056] The cognitive ability weighted information is information that sets the priority of road selection in path search according to the cognitive ability. For example, as Figure 2 shown in (B) of, the second map information database 222 sets the weighting coefficients kw1, kw2, kw3, kw4, kw5 according to the driving difficulty of multiple roads. The weighting coefficients kw1, kw2, kw3, kw4, kw5 are set such that: the higher the driving difficulty of the road, the higher the weighting coefficient is set, and the larger the number added to kw (kw1 < kw2 < kw3 < kw4 < kw5). The weight coefficient is set to a positive value, for example.

[0057] The driving difficulty is set based on the items shown below, for example. The more of the items shown below are included, the higher the driving difficulty is set.

[0058] · Roads including accident-prone locations

[0059] · Roads included in routes with many left turns and right turns

[0060] · Roads with many temporary stops

[0061] · Roads with relatively dark tunnels

[0062] · Roads connecting multiple branch roads

[0063] · Roads with many lanes and many entrances and exits

[0064] · Roads with short intervals between intersections and traffic lights

[0065] · Roads frequently passed by large vehicles

[0066] · Roads with many roadside parkings

[0067] Moreover, for example, as shown in (C) of Figure 2 , the second map information database 222 sets a weighting coefficient for each of the multiple roads according to the cognitive ability levels L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5. The weighting coefficient set for each road according to the cognitive ability level is the cognitive ability weighting coefficient.

[0068] For example, in the case of (C) of Figure 2 , if it is the road LD1 connecting the location P1 and the location P2, the driving difficulty is the lowest for all drivers of cognitive ability levels (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5). Therefore, the weighting coefficient kw1 is set for all cognitive ability levels (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5).

[0069] On the other hand, if it is the road LD2 connecting the location P1 and the location P2, the driving difficulty is the highest for the drivers of cognitive ability level L1. Therefore, the weighting coefficient kw5 is set for the cognitive ability level L1. In addition, if it is the road LD2, the driving difficulty is moderately high for the drivers of cognitive ability levels L2 and L3. Therefore, the weighting coefficient kw3 is set for the cognitive ability levels L2 and L3. In addition, if it is the road LD2, the driving difficulty is low for the drivers of cognitive ability levels L4 and L5. Therefore, the weighting coefficient kw1 is set for the cognitive ability levels L4 and L5.

[0070] In addition, the setting of the weighting coefficient corresponding to the cognitive ability level is not limited to the above method. As long as the weighting coefficient is set so that a person with a low cognitive ability level is not selected for a road with a high driving difficulty.

[0071] The navigation-related information communication unit 22 receives the departure position, the destination position, and the driver's identification information from the navigation device 40. The navigation-related information communication unit 22 detects the driver's cognitive ability level with reference to the cognitive ability level database 210 based on the driver's identification information. The navigation-related information communication unit 22 provides the first map information and the second map information based on the first map information and the cognitive ability level to the navigation device 40 based on the departure position and the destination position.

[0072] Thereby, the navigation-related information communication unit 22 can provide the map information for path search to the navigation device 40 according to the driver's cognitive ability for driving.

[0073] (Cognitive ability evaluation unit 30)

[0074] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the cognitive ability evaluation unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 includes a stimulus presentation unit 31, a brain signal detection unit 32, a response detection unit 33, an event-related potential detection unit 34, a movement preparation potential detection unit 35, a response speed detection unit 36, and a communication unit 37.

[0075] The cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 generates data for cognitive ability evaluation as follows before the driver drives, in other words, before path search.

[0076] The stimulus presentation unit 31 presents a stimulus to the driver who is the evaluation object of the cognitive ability. The stimulus is, for example, a stimulus simulating an image or sound associated with a danger during driving.

[0077] The brain signal detection unit 32 is, for example, a wearable terminal and is worn on the driver who is the evaluation object of the cognitive ability. The brain signal detection unit 32 detects the brain signal of the driver. The brain signal detection unit 32 outputs the brain signal to the event-related potential detection unit 34 and the movement preparation potential detection unit 35.

[0078] The event-related potential detection unit 34 detects an event-related potential (such as P300) from the brain signal. If it is a visual stimulus, the event-related potential is a visual event-related potential (for example, P300), and if it is an auditory stimulus, the event-related potential is an auditory event-related potential (for example, MMN). The event-related potential detection unit 34 outputs the detection result of the event-related potential (such as the presence or absence of the event-related potential) to the communication unit 37.

[0079] The movement preparation potential detection unit 35 detects the movement preparation potential from the brain signals. The movement preparation potential detection unit 35 outputs the detection result of the movement preparation potential (such as the presence or absence of the movement preparation potential, the time from the presentation of the stimulus to the generation of the movement preparation potential, etc.) to the communication unit 37.

[0080] The response detection unit 33 is a device such as a simulated steering wheel, a simulated pedal, or an operation button for detecting the response operation of the driver, which is the evaluation object of the cognitive ability, to the stimulus. The response detection unit 33 detects the response operation of the driver, which is the evaluation object of the cognitive ability, and generates a response signal. The response detection unit 33 outputs the response signal to the response speed detection unit 36.

[0081] The response speed detection unit 36 detects the response speed based on the time difference between the time of presenting the stimulus and the time of detecting the response signal. The response speed detection unit 36 outputs the response speed to the communication unit 37.

[0082] The communication unit 37 generates the cognitive ability evaluation data including at least one of the detection result of the event-related potential, the detection result of the movement preparation potential, and the response speed. The communication unit 37 associates the cognitive ability evaluation data with the driver ID (the identification information of the driver) for which the evaluation has been performed and sends it to the cognitive ability data generation unit 21 of the system control unit 20.

[0083] In addition, in the above example, the case of using visual stimuli is shown, but auditory stimuli can also be used, and both visual and auditory stimuli can be used.

[0084] In this way, the cognitive ability evaluation data is based on the event-related potential or the driving preparation potential obtained from the brain signals (brain waves) generated in response to visual or auditory stimuli. Therefore, the navigation system 10 can evaluate the driver's cognitive ability for driving with high precision. And the cognitive ability evaluation data is based on the response speed. Therefore, the navigation system 10 can evaluate the driver's cognitive ability for driving with high precision.

[0085] (Navigation device 40)

[0086] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of the navigation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As Figure 4 shown, the navigation device 40 includes a navigation control unit 41, a position detection sensor 42, an operation unit 43, a display unit 44, a communication unit 49, and a map information storage unit 401. The navigation control unit 41 includes a route search unit 411 and a destination setting unit 412.

[0087] The communication unit 49 performs information communication with an external device including the system control unit 20 of the navigation device 40.

[0088] The map information storage unit 401 stores map information for displaying the current position, departure position, destination position, and path search result of the vehicle on the display unit 44. Road identification information and the like are linked between the map information in the map information storage unit 401 and the first map information.

[0089] The position detection sensor 42 is implemented, for example, by a GPS positioning sensor, and detects the current position of the vehicle. The position detection sensor 42 outputs the detected current position to the navigation control unit 41.

[0090] The operation unit 43 accepts operation inputs for path search. The operation unit 43 is implemented, for example, by a touch panel arranged on the display unit 44.

[0091] The display unit 44 displays the map stored in the map information storage unit 401. In addition, the display unit 44 displays the current position of the vehicle. Also, the display unit 44 displays navigation information. The navigation information includes a recommended route obtained based on the result of path search performed by the navigation control unit 41.

[0092] The destination setting unit 412 of the navigation control unit 41 sets the destination position for path search, for example, based on the operation input result of the operation unit 43.

[0093] The path search unit 411 of the navigation control unit 41 obtains the current position of the vehicle from the position detection sensor 42 and the destination position for path search from the destination setting unit 412. For example, if there is a designation of the departure position using the operation unit 43, the path search unit 411 obtains the departure position.

[0094] In addition, the path search unit 411 obtains the identification information of the driver currently driving the vehicle. There are various methods for obtaining the driver's identification information. As an example, it can be achieved by using operation inputs made using the operation unit 43, contact-type object detection sensors, and the like.

[0095] The path search unit 411 sends the departure position (or the current position of the vehicle) for path search, the destination position for path search, and the driver's identification information to the navigation-related information communication unit 22 of the system control unit 20 via the communication unit 49.

[0096] As described above, based on the departure position (or the current position of the vehicle) for path search, the destination position for path search, and the driver's identification information, the navigation-related information communication unit 22 provides the first map information and the second map information used in the path search to the path search unit 411.

[0097] The path search unit 411 performs path search using the first map information and the second map information. For example, the path search unit 411 uses Dijkstra's algorithm or a search method following Dijkstra's algorithm to perform path search. At this time, the path search unit 411 obtains index values for first components such as roads (edges) and intersections (nodes) from the first map information. The path search unit 411 obtains a weighting coefficient (weighted information according to cognitive ability) corresponding to the cognitive ability level for roads (edges) and intersections (nodes).

[0098] For example, the path search unit 411 multiplies the index value by the weighting coefficient and uses the multiplication result to perform path search.

[0099] By performing such processing, the navigation system 10 can search for a path corresponding to the driver's cognitive ability. Specifically, for example, for a person with a low cognitive ability, even if there is a path that is prioritized in normal path search, the navigation system 10 can select a path with a lower driving difficulty. On the other hand, for a person with a high cognitive ability, the navigation system 10 can select a path that is prioritized in normal path search.

[0100] In addition, in the above structure, a case where the functional unit for performing path search (path search unit 411) is arranged in the navigation device 40 is shown. However, the functional unit for performing path search (path search unit) may also be arranged in the system control unit 20.

[0101] In this case, the navigation device 40 sends the current vehicle position and the destination position of the path search to the system control unit 20. The path search unit of the system control unit 20 uses the current vehicle position and the destination position of the path search from the navigation device 40 and performs path search in the same manner as the above-mentioned path search unit 411. Then, the system control unit 20 sends the result of the path search to the navigation device 40.

[0102] (Navigation method 1)

[0103] Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing a first example of the navigation method performed by the navigation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the detailed content of each process is as described above, and the detailed description is omitted below.

[0104] The navigation system 10 obtains the cognitive ability level of the driver (S101). At this time, the navigation system 10 obtains the cognitive ability level before the driver starts driving, in other words, before performing path search.

[0105] The navigation system 10 obtains the departure position of the path search and the destination position of the path search (S102).

[0106] The navigation system 10 sets a plurality of waypoints between the departure position and the destination position (S103).

[0107] The navigation system 10 performs path search using Dijkstra's method or a search method following Dijkstra's method. Specifically, the navigation system 10 conceptually performs the following individual processes shown below.

[0108] The navigation system 10 sets one or more road candidates (S104). If there are multiple road candidates, the navigation system 10 selects a road candidate and performs correction corresponding to the cognitive ability level (correction using the cognitive ability weighting coefficient). If the selected and corrected road candidate is the most preferred road (S105: "Yes"), the navigation system 10 determines the road candidate as the road to be selected (S106). In addition, if the selected and corrected road candidate is not the most preferred road (S105: "No"), the navigation system 10 selects a different road and performs the same process.

[0109] If the destination position has not been reached (S107: "No"), the navigation system 10 sets the next waypoint and continues the process for determining the road to be selected.

[0110] When the destination position has been reached (S107: "Yes"), the navigation system 10 notifies the user (e.g., the driver) of the recommended route from the departure position to the destination (S108). As the notification, the navigation system 10, for example, performs the process of adding the recommended route on the map displayed on the display unit 44.

[0111] In addition, in the above method, the case where the cognitive ability is evaluated before path retrieval is shown. However, it is also possible to perform path search based on the cognitive ability evaluated after path search.

[0112] For example, the cognitive ability evaluation unit 30 evaluates the cognitive ability after path search. The map information database updates the second map information based on the cognitive ability evaluated after path search. The path retrieval unit 411 performs path search based on the updated second map information.

[0113] Thereby, the navigation system 10 can perform path search according to the latest cognitive ability.

[0114] (Navigation method 2)

[0115] Figure 6 It is a flowchart showing a second example of the navigation method performed by the navigation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The second example is an example of the case where there are multiple most preferred roads when correction based on the cognitive ability level is performed in the first example.

[0117] The navigation system 10 obtains the cognitive ability level of the driver (S201). At this time, the navigation system 10 obtains the cognitive ability level before the driver starts driving, that is, before performing a route search.

[0118] The navigation system 10 obtains the departure position of the route search and the destination position of the route search (S202).

[0119] The navigation system 10 sets a plurality of waypoints between the departure position and the destination position (S203).

[0120] The navigation system 10 sets candidates for one or more roads (S204). If there are multiple road candidates (S205: "Yes"), the navigation system 10 selects a road candidate and performs correction corresponding to the cognitive ability level (correction using a cognitive ability weighting coefficient). If the selected corrected road candidate is the most preferred road, that is, if there are not multiple most preferred roads (S207: "No"), the navigation system 10 determines this road candidate as the road to be selected (S209).

[0121] When there are multiple most preferred roads (S207: "Yes"), the navigation system 10 selects the most preferred road based on additional factors (S208). The additional factors are, for example, the road surface conditions depending on the weather, traffic congestion information, etc. of each road.

[0122] If the destination has not been reached (S210: "No"), the navigation system 10 sets the next waypoint and continues the process of determining the road to be selected.

[0123] When the destination has been reached (S210: "Yes"), the navigation system 10 notifies the user (e.g., the driver) of the recommended route from the departure position to the destination (S211).

[0124] In addition, the additional factors may also be pre - included in the first map information. In this case, the navigation system 10 may also appropriately select any one of the multiple most preferred roads, or select based on the evaluation results of the roads following the multiple most preferred roads.

[0125] [Second Embodiment]

[0126] The navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The navigation system according to the second embodiment is different from the navigation system according to the first embodiment in the structure of the navigation device and the processing of the system control unit. Other structures and processes of the navigation system according to the second embodiment are the same as those of the navigation system 10 according to the first embodiment, and the description of the same parts is omitted.

[0127] Figure 7This is a functional block diagram of a navigation device of a navigation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. As Figure 7 shown, the navigation device 40A includes a navigation control unit 41A and a driving state detection unit 45, which is different from the navigation device 40. The navigation control unit 41A includes a feedback information generation unit 413, which is different from the navigation control unit 41 according to the first embodiment.

[0128] The driving state detection unit 45 detects the driving state of the driver. The driving state includes at least one of dangerous driving and route deviation. Dangerous driving includes at least one of sudden start, sharp turn, sudden stop, reverse driving, and violation of stop-and-go. Route deviation means that the recommended route (recommended path) presented to the driver through route search is different from the actual path of the vehicle based on the current position of the vehicle.

[0129] The driving state detection unit 45 outputs the detected driving state to the feedback information generation unit 413 in the navigation control unit 41A.

[0130] In the case of dangerous driving, the feedback information generation unit 413 generates feedback information including the category of dangerous driving, the location of dangerous driving, and the driver's cognitive ability level. In the case of route deviation, the feedback information generation unit 413 generates feedback information including the location of route deviation, the state of route deviation (which direction it deviated), and the driver's cognitive ability level.

[0131] The feedback information generation unit 413 sends the feedback information to the navigation-related information communication unit 22 of the system control unit 20.

[0132] The navigation-related information communication unit 22 analyzes the feedback information and updates the second map information. Specifically, in the case of dangerous driving, the navigation-related information communication unit 22 extracts the type and location of dangerous driving from the feedback information and updates the driving difficulty of the road corresponding to the location. In addition, the navigation-related information communication unit 22 updates and sets the weighting coefficient (by cognitive ability weight information) corresponding to the cognitive ability level of the second map information according to the cognitive ability level extracted from the feedback information and the cognitive ability level already stored in the second map information.

[0133] With this structure and process, the navigation system can make the second map information more accurately adapted to the cognitive ability level. Thus, in the second map information, the set weighting coefficient more accurately reflects the cognitive ability level.

[0134] Therefore, the navigation system can provide more appropriate driving assistance considering the cognitive ability.

[0135] (Information feedback method 1)

[0136] Figure 8It is a flowchart of the first example of the information feedback method performed by the navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 It shows the first example of the information feedback method based on dangerous driving information.

[0137] The navigation system stores the driving route while (S301). It detects dangerous driving while (S311). When the navigation system detects dangerous driving (S311: "Yes"), it stores the location of the dangerous driving (S312).

[0138] The navigation system repeats the above process before reaching the destination (S313: "No").

[0139] When the navigation system reaches the destination (S313: "Yes"), it uses the detection result of dangerous driving and the location of the dangerous driving to generate feedback information. The navigation system updates and sets the second map information based on the feedback information (S302).

[0140] (Information feedback method 2)

[0141] Figure 9 It is a flowchart of the second example of the information feedback method performed by the navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 It shows the second example of the information feedback method based on dangerous driving information. The second example is different from the first example in that it confirms the driver's cognitive ability level every time dangerous driving is detected.

[0142] The navigation system stores the driving route while (S301). It detects dangerous driving while (S311). When the driving state detection unit 45 detects dangerous driving (S311: "Yes"), the navigation control unit 41A of the navigation device 40A (corresponding to the "in-driving cognitive ability detection unit") detects the driver's cognitive ability level. For example, the navigation control unit 41A obtains the driver's cognitive ability level from the cognitive ability level DB 210 of the system control unit 20. When the navigation system detects that the driver is a person with a decline in cognitive ability (a person with a declined cognitive ability level) (S315: "Yes"), it obtains the stored driver's cognitive ability level (S316). In addition, at this time, if electroencephalogram observation for evaluating the driver's cognitive ability level can be performed, the navigation control unit 41A can also detect the in-driving cognitive ability level and use the detected cognitive ability level.

[0143] When the driver is a person with a decline in cognitive ability, the navigation system stores the detection result of dangerous driving, the location of the dangerous driving, and the cognitive ability level in association (S312A).

[0144] When the navigation system detects that the driver is not a person with a decline in cognitive ability (S315: "No"), it does not store the location of the dangerous driving.

[0145] Before reaching the destination (S313: "No"), the navigation system repeats the above-mentioned processes.

[0146] When the navigation system reaches the destination (S313: "Yes"), it generates feedback information using the detection result of dangerous driving, the location of dangerous driving, and the cognitive ability level. The navigation system updates and sets the second map information (S302) based on the feedback information.

[0147] (Information feedback method 3)

[0148] Figure 10 It is a flowchart of the third example of the information feedback method performed by the navigation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 It shows an example of the feedback method based on the information of path deviation.

[0149] The navigation system stores the driving route (S301) while detecting path deviation (S321). When the navigation system detects path deviation (S321: "Yes"), it stores the location of path deviation and the deviated route (the wrong road traveled).

[0150] Before reaching the destination (S323: "No"), the navigation system repeats the above process.

[0151] When the navigation system reaches the destination (S323: "Yes"), it generates feedback information using the detection result of path deviation, the location of path deviation, and the deviated route. The navigation system updates and sets the second map information (S302) based on the feedback information.

[0152] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, when approaching a road or intersection with high driving difficulty, the navigation system can also give a warning notice. At this time, the navigation system can also select whether to give a warning notice according to the cognitive ability level. For example, the navigation system can select whether to give a warning notice as follows: give a warning notice only when the cognitive ability level is below a specified level, and do not give a warning notice when the cognitive ability level exceeds the specified level, etc.

[0153] <1>A navigation system, comprising:

[0154] A cognitive ability evaluation unit that evaluates the cognitive ability related to the driving of the driver;

[0155] A map information database that stores map information used in path search; and

[0156] A path search unit that uses the departure location of the path search, the destination location of the path search, and the map information to perform the path search from the departure location to the destination location,

[0157] Among them, the map information database has first map information and second map information as the map information,

[0158] The first map information includes at least a plurality of roads used in the path search as respective constituent elements,

[0159] The second map information includes weight information according to cognitive ability set for a plurality of constituent elements of the first map information based on the cognitive ability,

[0160] The path search unit performs the path search based on the first map information and the second map information.

[0161] <2>The navigation system according to <1>, wherein,

[0162] The map information database includes external attention information during driving in the first map information,

[0163] The path search unit uses the first map information including the external attention information to perform the path search.

[0164] <3>The navigation system according to <1> or <2>, wherein,

[0165] The map information database is provided in the system control unit in the cloud,

[0166] The path search unit is installed in the vehicle driven by the driver,

[0167] The path search unit obtains a part of the first map information and the second map information from the map information database to perform the path search.

[0168] <4>The navigation system according to <1> or <2>, wherein,

[0169] The map information database and the path search unit are provided in the system control unit in the cloud,

[0170] The path search unit obtains the current vehicle position and the destination position of the path search from the vehicle driven by the driver to perform the path search.

[0171] <5>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <3>, wherein,

[0172] The map information database includes:

[0173] A first map information database that stores the first map information; and

[0174] A second map information database that stores the second map information,

[0175] The first map information database and the second map information database are set independently of each other.

[0176] <6>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein:

[0177] A driving state detection unit that detects the state of the driving; and

[0178] A feedback information generation unit,

[0179] When the driving state detection unit detects dangerous driving of the vehicle as the state of the driving, it outputs the situation of the dangerous driving of the vehicle to the feedback information generation unit.

[0180] The feedback information generation unit generates feedback information including the location where the dangerous driving occurred and the cognitive ability of the driver, and outputs the feedback information to the map information database.

[0181] The map database updates the weight information according to cognitive ability based on the cognitive ability of the driver included in the feedback information and the cognitive ability level already stored in the second map information.

[0182] <7>The navigation system according to <6>, wherein,

[0183] The feedback information includes at least one of sudden start, sharp turn, sudden stop, reverse driving, and violation of stop-and-go.

[0184] <8>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <7>, wherein,

[0185] It includes a feedback information generation unit,

[0186] When the path presented to the driver by the path search is different from the actual path of the vehicle based on the current position of the vehicle, the path search unit outputs the situation of path deviation to the feedback information generation unit.

[0187] The feedback information generation unit generates feedback information including the result of path deviation and the cognitive ability of the driver, and outputs the feedback information to the map information database.

[0188] The map information database updates the weight information according to cognitive ability based on the cognitive ability of the driver included in the feedback information and the cognitive ability level already stored in the second map information.

[0189] <9>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <8>, wherein,

[0190] It is provided with a cognitive ability detection unit during driving, and the cognitive ability detection unit during driving detects the cognitive ability of the driver during driving.

[0191] The route search unit also uses the cognitive ability during driving to perform route search.

[0192] <10>The navigation system according to <6> or <7>, wherein

[0193] It is provided with a cognitive ability detection unit during driving, and the cognitive ability detection unit during driving detects the cognitive ability of the driver during driving.

[0194] The route search unit also includes the cognitive ability during driving in the dangerous driving information.

[0195] <11>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <10>, wherein

[0196] The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability before the route search.

[0197] <12>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <11>, wherein

[0198] The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability after the route search.

[0199] The map information database updates the second map information based on the cognitive ability evaluated after the route search.

[0200] The route retrieval unit performs route search based on the updated second map information.

[0201] <13>The navigation system according to any one of <1> to <12>, wherein

[0202] The cognitive ability evaluation unit includes:

[0203] A brain signal detection unit that detects brain signals generated in response to visual or auditory stimuli; and

[0204] An event-related potential detection unit that uses the brain signals to detect event-related potentials.

[0205] The navigation system uses the event-related potentials to evaluate the cognitive ability.

[0206] <14>The navigation system according to <13>, wherein

[0207] The cognitive ability evaluation unit further includes a movement preparation potential detection unit, and the movement preparation potential detection unit uses the brain signal to detect the movement preparation potential.

[0208] The navigation system uses the event-related potential and the movement preparation potential to evaluate the cognitive ability.

[0209] <15>The navigation system according to <13> or <14>, wherein

[0210] The cognitive ability evaluation unit further includes a response speed detection unit, and the response speed detection unit detects the response speed to visual stimuli or auditory stimuli.

[0211] The navigation system uses the event-related potential, the movement preparation potential, and the response speed to evaluate the cognitive ability.

[0212] Explanation of reference numerals

[0213] 10: Navigation system; 20: System control unit; 21: Cognitive ability data generation unit; 22: Navigation-related information communication unit; 30: Cognitive ability evaluation unit; 31: Stimulus presentation unit; 32: Brain signal detection unit; 33: Response detection unit; 34: Event-related potential detection unit; 35: Movement preparation potential detection unit; 36: Response speed detection unit; 37: Communication unit; 40, 40A: Navigation device; 41, 41A: Navigation control unit; 42: Position detection sensor; 43: Operation unit; 44: Display unit; 45: Driving state detection unit; 49: Communication unit; 210: Cognitive ability level database; 221: First map information database; 222: Second map information database; 401: Map information storage unit; 411: Route search unit; 412: Destination setting unit; 413: Feedback information generation unit.

Claims

1. A navigation system, comprising: A cognitive ability evaluation unit that evaluates the cognitive ability related to the driving of a driver; A map information database that stores map information used in path search; and A path search unit that performs the path search from the departure position to the destination position using the departure position of the path search, the destination position of the path search, and the map information, wherein, The map information database has first map information and second map information as the map information, The first map information at least includes a plurality of roads used in the path search as respective constituent elements, The second map information includes cognitive ability weight information set for a plurality of constituent elements of the first map information based on the cognitive ability, The path search unit performs the path search based on the first map information and the second map information.

2. The navigation system according to claim 1, wherein, The map information database includes external attention information during driving in the first map information, The path search unit uses the first map information including the external attention information to perform the path search.

3. The navigation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The map information database is provided in a system control unit in the cloud, The path search unit is installed in a vehicle driven by a driver, The path search unit obtains a part of the first map information and the second map information from the map information database to perform the path search.

4. The navigation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The map information database and the path search unit are provided in a system control unit in the cloud, The path search unit obtains the current vehicle position and the destination position of the path search from the vehicle driven by the driver to perform the path search.

5. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The map information database includes: A first map information database that stores the first map information; and A second map information database that stores the second map information, The first map information database and the second map information database are provided independently of each other.

6. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, It includes: A driving state detection unit that detects the state of the driving; and A feedback information generation unit, When the driving state detection unit detects dangerous driving of the vehicle as the state of the driving, it outputs the situation of the dangerous driving of the vehicle to the feedback information generation unit, The feedback information generation unit generates feedback information including the position where the dangerous driving occurred and the cognitive ability of the driver, and outputs the feedback information to the map information database, The map information database updates the cognitive ability weight information according to the cognitive ability of the driver included in the feedback information and the cognitive ability level already stored in the second map information.

7. The navigation system according to claim 6, wherein, The dangerous driving information includes at least one of sudden start, sharp turn, sudden stop, reverse driving, and violation of stop-and-go.

8. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, It includes a feedback information generation unit, When the path presented to the driver through the path search is different from the actual path of the vehicle based on the current position of the vehicle, the path search unit outputs the situation of path deviation to the feedback information generation unit, The feedback information generation unit generates feedback information including the result of path deviation and the cognitive ability of the driver, and outputs the feedback information to the map information database, The map information database updates the cognitive ability weight information according to the cognitive ability of the driver included in the feedback information and the cognitive ability level already stored in the second map information.

9. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, It is provided with a driving cognitive ability detection unit that detects the driver's driving cognitive ability during driving. The route search unit also uses the driving cognitive ability to perform route search.

10. The navigation system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, It is provided with a driving cognitive ability detection unit that detects the driver's driving cognitive ability during driving. The route search unit also includes the driving cognitive ability in the dangerous driving information.

11. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability before the route search.

12. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The cognitive ability evaluation unit evaluates the cognitive ability after the route search. The map information database updates the second map information based on the cognitive ability evaluated after the route search. The route retrieval unit performs route search based on the updated second map information.

13. The navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The cognitive ability evaluation unit includes: A brain signal detection unit that detects brain signals generated in response to visual or auditory stimuli; And An event-related potential detection unit that uses the brain signals to detect event-related potentials, and the navigation system uses the event-related potentials to evaluate the cognitive ability.

14. The navigation system according to claim 13, wherein, The cognitive ability evaluation unit further includes a movement preparation potential detection unit that uses the brain signals to detect movement preparation potentials. The navigation system uses the event-related potentials and the movement preparation potentials to evaluate the cognitive ability.

15. The navigation system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The cognitive ability evaluation unit further includes a response speed detection unit that detects the response speed to visual or auditory stimuli. The navigation system uses the event-related potentials, the movement preparation potentials, and the response speed to evaluate the cognitive ability.

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