Electronic map display device and method for displaying information relating to the electronic map

Abstract

Electronic map display device (6) for acquiring and displaying electronic maps, wherein each electronic map is acquired per procurement unit, comprising: a map information display determiner (23a) for determining whether the electronic map is currently available per procurement unit and a map information display device (23b) for displaying information relating to the electronic map per procurement unit, depending on whether the electronic map is available per procurement unit, characterized in that the map display device (6) further comprises a map display controller (22) for coarsely displaying a map in a display mode where the map is at least modifiable in scale and scrollable, wherein the map information display device (23b) displays the information relating to the electronic map by graphical overlay on the map.

Description

Reference to related registration(s)

[0001] The application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 of Japanese patent application No. 2012-09043, which was filed on April 11, 2012, and the entire disclosure is hereby included by reference. Technical field

[0002] The present invention relates generally to electronic nautical chart display devices. Background of the invention

[0003] Electronic chart display devices are commonly known as navigation equipment, including so-called ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display Information System) and ECS (Electronic Chart System).

[0004] These systems display electronic nautical charts on a computer screen based on electronic chart data.

[0005] Electronic nautical charts are typically purchased separately from electronic chart display devices. These charts are based on electronic data derived from measurement data provided by waterway authorities and from paper charts. Consequently, each electronic nautical chart covers a different range of marine areas and offers varying levels of detail. Numerous electronic charts covering different areas and levels of detail are published for a wide variety of marine regions worldwide. A user can order and purchase (download) the specific electronic chart they require. The data unit of the electronic nautical chart that a user can acquire through a procurement process is referred to as the procurement unit.

[0006] When a user purchases an electronic nautical chart, they acquire the chart data and install it in an electronic chart display system. The user also acquires a license for the purchased electronic nautical chart. The chart can only be used if the electronic chart data is installed in the electronic chart display system and the license is valid.

[0007] Although JP 2003-005630 A does not refer to an electronic nautical chart in this respect, it discloses a navigation device with which a user can acquire chart data corresponding to the selected area by preselecting an area from a selectable palette.

[0008] As described above, the user of the electronic chart display system can order and purchase (download) a procurement unit of electronic charts at a specific time. However, if a large number of electronic charts have been purchased, and the number of purchased charts is extremely high, it becomes difficult for the user to determine whether the data from the electronic chart has already been installed and whether the respective license for each chart has been acquired.

[0009] Furthermore, every electronic nautical chart is regularly updated, and update information is provided. For navigational safety, it is therefore desirable to update to the latest version of the electronic nautical chart. However, if a large number of electronic nautical charts have been acquired and the number becomes too large, it is difficult for a user to keep track of whether each one has been updated.

[0010] Furthermore, since various versions of electronic nautical charts are available with different area data and levels of detail, it may be necessary to acquire more than one type of electronic chart for a given sea area. For example, when entering a port during deep-sea navigation, a detailed chart depicting the harbor interior may be required in addition to a chart covering a broad area. However, if several electronic nautical charts are needed, it can be difficult for the user to keep track of which charts have already been purchased. Therefore, when buying a new electronic nautical chart, one challenge for the user can be identifying which chart to purchase.

[0011] Since various types of electronic charts with different levels of detail are provided for electronic chart display devices, it is difficult for the user to accurately determine the status of purchased charts (for example, whether the data has been acquired, whether the license has been purchased, or whether the data has been updated). In this respect, the navigation device disclosed in JP 2003-005630A has a configuration in which chart data of a certain type, already pre-installed in the device, is sectioned, and the user selects an area from the chart data to use; therefore, in this case, it is assumed that the user will have no difficulty in identifying which chart data has been acquired. However, JP 2003-005630A provides no information regarding facilitating the user's access to acquired chart data. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention was made in view of the situation described above and provides an electronic chart display device which can record the status of an electronic chart per procurement unit.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic card display device is provided. The device procures electronic cards and displays them, each electronic card being acquired per procurement unit. The electronic card display device comprises a card information display detector (card information display with a detector) for determining whether the electronic card is currently available via the procurement unit and a card information display device for displaying information as to whether the electronic card is available per procurement unit.

[0014] In this way, it is easy to determine for each procurement unit whether the electronic card is available.

[0015] The card information display device can vary (change) the display mode of information regarding the electronic card depending on whether data has been acquired from the electronic card.

[0016] In this way, it can be easily recorded for each procurement unit whether the electronic card is installed.

[0017] The card information display device can vary (change) an information display mode regarding the electronic card depending on whether a license has been acquired from the electronic card.

[0018] In this way, it can be easily recorded for each procurement unit whether the license for the electronic card has been acquired.

[0019] The map information display device can vary or change an information display mode regarding the electronic map depending on whether the data from the electronic map has been updated.

[0020] In this way, it can be easily determined for each procurement unit whether the electronic card data has been updated.

[0021] Furthermore, the electronic map display device can include at least one map display control for the coarse display of a map in a display mode where the map is at least modifiable in scale and scrollable. The map information display device can display the information relating to the electronic map by graphical overlay on the coarse map.

[0022] In this way, the status of the electronic card can be easily recorded for each procurement unit.

[0023] The map information display device can graphically represent information relating to a section area, which is recorded in the electronic map as map information, by overlaying it onto the coarse map, and the map information display device can vary or change an information display mode relating to the information of the section area depending on a status of the electronic map.

[0024] By displaying the recorded section of the electronic map on the rough map, as described above, the content of the electronic map can be intuitively grasped per procurement unit. Additionally, by varying the display mode of the selection area depending on the status of the electronic map, the status of the electronic map can be intuitively grasped per procurement unit.

[0025] The coarse map display control can display the "coarse" map using the Mercator projection when the scale of the coarse map is larger than a predetermined scale. The map display control can perform a coordinate transformation on the coarse map and display the transformed coarse map so that the globe is shown on the map using the orthogonal projection when the scale of the coarse map is smaller than the predetermined scale. The map information display device can perform the coordinate transformation for the area of ​​interest and display the transformed area depending on the display mode of the coarse map.

[0026] Especially when a large area is displayed using the Mercator projection, an exact area ratio cannot be accurately determined due to differences in latitude. Therefore, it is preferable to display a three-dimensional globe when the scale is small. Furthermore, by transforming coordinates and displaying the recorded area of ​​the electronic map, the recorded area can be accurately represented on the granular map.

[0027] The card information display device can display the status of the respective electronic card in a list, as information relating to the electronic card.

[0028] By displaying the status of the electronic card in a list, as described above, detailed information regarding the electronic card can be displayed for each procurement unit.

[0029] The electronic map display device may further include a route setter for setting a planned route and displaying the planned route by overlaying it on the electronic map, and a trip plan map information display control for graphically displaying information relating to an area that is recorded on the electronic map and at least part of the area along which the planned route passes. The trip plan map information display control can change (vary) the display mode of the information for the selected area depending on whether the electronic map currently has the corresponding information for that area available.

[0030] In this way, it can be visually determined on the electronic map whether the electronic map required for navigating the set route is available.

[0031] The electronic map display device may further comprise a route setter for setting a planned route and a itinerary map information display control for displaying the states of the respective electronic map in a list, each electronic map covering at least a part of an area through which the planned route passes.

[0032] In this way, the status of the electronic map required for navigating the set route can be easily recorded.

[0033] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for displaying information in an electronic card display device is provided for acquiring and displaying electronic cards and information relating to the electronic cards, wherein each electronic card was acquired via a procurement unit. The method comprises determining whether the electronic card is currently accessible via the procurement unit and displaying the information regarding the current availability of the electronic card with the procurement unit.

[0034] In this respect, it can be easily determined for each procurement unit whether the electronic card is available. Brief description of the drawings

[0035] The present invention is illustrated by means of examples, but is not limited by the drawings accompanying the figures, where the same reference numerals refer to the same elements:

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electronic chart display device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Fig. Figure 2 shows a view of an example of a screen from a nautical chart display device;

[0038] Fig. 3 is a view showing an example of a nautical chart information screen;

[0039] Fig. Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the nautical chart information screen, in which the globe is displayed in three dimensions;

[0040] Fig. 5 is a view that shows a corresponding relationship between a display mode of a recorded display frame area and the status of an electronic nautical chart;

[0041] Fig. 6 is a view that displays a state with nautical chart information in a list on the nautical chart information screen in Fig. 3 displayed;

[0042] Fig. Figure 7 is a view of an exemplary implementation of a route planning screen; and

[0043] Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart which represents a method for displaying information relating to the electronic nautical chart, implemented with the electronic nautical chart display device according to the embodiment. Detailed description

[0044] In the following, an embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating an electronic chart display and information system. 1 (ECDIS) comprising an electronic chart display device according to this embodiment of the invention.

[0045] The electronic chart display and information system 1 It is installed on a ship and can display a wide variety of information needed for navigation. The electronic chart display and information system 1 includes a radar system 2 , a GPS receiver 3 (Global Positioning System), a gyrocompass 4 and the electronic chart display device 6 (electronic map display device).

[0046] The radar device 2It features a known setup for detecting the state of objects surrounding the ship by transmitting and receiving radio waves through an antenna and generating a two-dimensional radar image that represents the state of the objects surrounding the ship. The radar image generated by the radar system 2 was generated, can be seen on the electronic map display device 6 The GPS receiver will be displayed. 3 It has a known configuration for acquiring the ship's terrestrial absolute coordinates based on signals from GPS satellites. The ship's absolute coordinates, which are provided by the GPS receiver 3 received, can be viewed on the electronic map display device 6 to be issued. The gyrocompass 4 It determines the ship's direction of travel. The direction of travel, which is determined by means of the gyrocompass. 4The information obtained will be displayed on the electronic map display device. 6 issued.

[0047] The electronic chart display device 6 Displays electronic nautical charts (electronic charts). The electronic charting device 6 includes a display unit 10 , a user interface 11 , a control unit 12 , a storage 13 , a nautical chart data acquisition unit 15 , a license key procurement unit 16 , an update information gathering unit 17 and a procurement unit 18 for obtaining electronic nautical chart catalogs (electronic nautical chart catalog procurer).

[0048] The user interface 11 It is equipped with an input device that a user can operate, such as a mouse (pointing device) or a keyboard. The display unit 10It is an LCD display (liquid crystal display), which can also be a color display, and can appropriately display electronic nautical charts.

[0049] The storage 13 A nautical chart data retrieval unit is a hard drive or similar storage device on which the acquired data for electronic nautical charts is stored. The data for each electronic nautical chart is provided by an electronic chart data provider (hereinafter referred to as the provider), for example, via a storage medium such as a CD-ROM. 15 (Chart data provider) obtains data from the electronic chart by reading the CD-ROM and installing it in the memory. 13 However, it should be taken into account that, given the recent developments in the provision of electronic nautical chart data via satellite communication, the nautical chart data procurer 15The vessel can be trained in such a way that electronic nautical charts can be acquired via satellite communication. Alternatively, electronic nautical charts can also be obtained using other suitable methods.

[0050] It should be noted that the electronic nautical chart, which is connected to the electronic chart display device 6 The chart processed according to this embodiment may be a vector chart, hereinafter referred to as an electronic chart (ENC), or a raster chart (raster chart), hereinafter referred to as a raster data chart (RNC). It should also be noted that the designations “ENC” and “RNC” usually indicate that the charts have been published by public bodies, although charts other than those published by public bodies, including private nautical charts, can also be displayed by the electronic chart display device. 6 can be processed according to this embodiment.

[0051] In many cases, electronic nautical chart data is encrypted if it is intended that the electronic nautical charts should not be used without a license key. The license key procurer 16 (License key procurement unit) 16 The user obtains the license key from the provider using a suitable procedure. By acquiring the license key, the data of the electronic nautical chart stored in the memory can be accessed. 13 The software is installed and can be used. It should be noted that a license key is supplied for each procurement unit of electronic nautical charts. Consequently, a license key must be purchased for each procurement unit. Furthermore, each license key has a limited validity period, and a new license must be purchased once the validity period has expired.

[0052] The electronic nautical chart is updated regularly. This update data is provided by the vendor. The update information provider 17 procures the update information and updates the data of the electronic nautical charts stored in memory 13The installed versions must be updated to the latest version. The update information can be obtained from the provider using any suitable method, such as a storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM) attached to an email or via satellite communication. It should be noted that electronic nautical charts are typically updated on a specific cycle, which is published by the maritime authorities through update information for relevant charts. Consequently, the update period for nautical charts varies for each procurement unit, and the update process must be carried out separately for each electronic chart procurement unit.

[0053] Furthermore, the provider of electronic nautical charts distributes catalog data, including information regarding the electronic nautical charts provided by the provider. The electronic nautical chart catalog procurer 18 procures the catalog data. The catalog data can be acquired through any suitable method, such as via a storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM), attached to an electronic email, or via satellite communication.

[0054] The control unit 12 It is designed as a computer with a CPU or other processor, volatile memory such as Random Access Memory (RAM), and non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory). Furthermore, the memory contains... 13the software is stored, such as a program for the electronic map display device (an electronic map display device program), which is stored by the control unit 12 is executed. Furthermore, the electronic map display device performs. 6 the electronic chart display program, which is stored in memory 13 stored, by means of the control unit 12 off and the control unit 12 works as a rough map display control 22 , a nautical chart information display control 23 (Map information display unit), a route setter 24 , a travel plan nautical chart information display control 25 (Itinerary-map information display-control).

[0055] The control unit 12 displays the electronic nautical charts on the display unit 10 based on the data from the electronic nautical chart stored in memory 13are stored. An example display of an electronic nautical chart is shown on the display unit. 10 (chart display screen) 30 ) in Fig. 2 shown. The control unit 12 The nautical chart can be generated according to the ship's position and route based on the GPS receiver. 3 and the gyrocompass 4 Representing the information received, etc. It should be noted that in cases where the configuration for displaying nautical charts based on electronic chart data is known, a detailed description has been omitted.

[0056] The following describes a characteristic design of the electronic chart display device. 6 as described in this exemplary embodiment.

[0057] The electronic chart display device 6 According to this embodiment, nautical charts can be displayed on the chart display screen.30 , as in Fig. 3 shown, so that the user can switch between the chart display screen using appropriate handling 30 and the nautical chart information screen 31 can jump back and forth.

[0058] As in Fig. Shown in section 3, the map display control is shown. 22 a rough map 33 (Rough map), which shows the shape of a coastline on the nautical chart information screen 31 shows. The rough map 33 is not generated via electronic nautical chart data, but is generated using global coastline data which is stored in memory 13 Previously, the data was generated separately, in addition to the electronic nautical charts. Therefore, the coarse chart can be used 33 It also includes a sea area for which the electronic nautical chart data cannot be used.

[0059] The rough map display control 22changes the scale and shows central coordinates of the rough map 33 according to available user operations. In this way, the user can change the scale as desired and the rough map. 33 scroll back and forth and can view the rough map 33 thus displayed for a desired sea area on the nautical chart information screen.

[0060] If the scale of the rough map 33 The coarse map display control shows that the area is larger than a predetermined scale. 22 the rough map 33 using a two-dimensional Mercator projection ( Fig. 3) However, the area ratio in the Mercator projection is not exact over a wide area due to differences in latitude. Thus, if the scale of the rough map 33 below a predetermined value, using the coarse map display control 22 a map transformation of the rough map33 performed and displayed in such a way that the globe appears in a three-dimensional spherical shape ( Fig. 4) It should be noted that even when the globe is displayed in three dimensions, the user can adjust the scale as desired by zooming in and out and scrolling (rotating the world map from the rough map). 33 can change.

[0061] The map information display control 23 includes a map information display investigator 23a and a map information display device 23b Since the map information display investigator 23a Since it may also have a known configuration, a detailed description is omitted. The map information display device 23b displays information related to the electronic nautical chart on the nautical chart information screen 31 per procurement unit. In the embodiment as described in Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows the map information display control. 23 Information relating to the electronic nautical chart is displayed in a predefined display area (display area information) by overlaying it on the coarse chart. 33 Note that the area information can be chosen arbitrarily, as long as the area is clearly marked. For example, the area information can display a frame indicating the area's extent, which may extend slightly outside the selected area.

[0062] Each of the captured selection area windows 34 will be shown in the rough map 33The area is displayed graphically, showing the outer edge of the recorded area of ​​the sea area (area) on each electronic chart. Additionally, the name of the corresponding acquisition of the electronic chart (GB 101, GB 102, ..., etc.) is displayed near the selection area window. 34 This allows the user to easily determine which marine areas are covered in the electronic nautical chart for each procurement unit, by displaying them in the recorded selection window. 34 in the rough map 33 are evident.

[0063] The information for each procurement unit of the electronic nautical chart (in particular the name and the area covered by the procurement unit) can be acquired based on the catalog data, which is obtained with the electronic nautical chart catalog procurer. 18have been procured. It should be noted that the catalog data distributed by the provider also includes information regarding nautical charts that have not yet been purchased by the user. Consequently, the chart information display control may not be available. 23 also display the recorded areas of the unacquired electronic nautical charts alongside the marked areas of the acquired electronic nautical charts.

[0064] The map information display control 23 First, it retrieves information from the catalog data relating to the recorded areas of electronic nautical charts, including currently available electronic nautical charts and those that are currently unavailable (such as charts that have not been purchased and charts for which the license has expired). The chart information display control then determines 23 the coordinate system on the display screen of the rough map33 , which are displayed on the nautical chart information screen 31 The map information display control 23 The coordinate transformation from each captured area of ​​the electronic nautical chart to the coordinate system on the screen of the coarse chart is performed. 33 through. It should be noted that this coordinate data transformation can be carried out in a suitable manner, both when the rough map 33 through the Mercator projection ( Fig. ) as well as when the section of the Earth is represented using orthogonal projection ( Fig. ).

[0065] Furthermore, the map information display control shows 23 the captured selection display window 34 on, which defines the outer edge of the captured electronic nautical chart by overlaying it onto the coarse chart 33 displays. In this way, if the rough map 33 using the Mercator projection ( Fig. ) as well as by means of orthogonal projection ( Fig. ) is displayed, clearly showing the spectrum of recorded electronic nautical charts on the coarse map 33 will be displayed.

[0066] Furthermore, the map information display control is updated. 23 the display of each captured area selection window 34 , as soon as the user changes the scale using a suitable operation (zooms in and out) and / or through the coarse map 33 scrolls. In particular, the scale of the captured area selection window changes depending on the user operation by changing the scale and / or scrolling. Consequently, the user can accordingly navigate through the rough map by changing the scale and / or scrolling. 33 Change the display areas appropriately so that only the information related to the electronic nautical chart for the desired sea area is shown on the chart information screen.31 will be displayed.

[0067] Furthermore, the map information display control varies. 23 According to this embodiment, the display mode for showing information regarding the electronic nautical chart depends on the status of the electronic nautical chart.

[0068] More precisely, the map information display control varies. 23 According to this embodiment, the display mode of the recorded area selection window 34 depending on the status of the corresponding electronic nautical chart. For example, in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The line types of the recorded area selection windows 34The line type changes from solid to dashed to dotted to double-dash dotted to double-dotted, depending on the status of the electronic chart. An example of the corresponding relationship between the line type of the recorded area selection window is shown. 34 and the status of the electronic nautical chart is in Fig. shown. It should be taken into account that the corresponding relationship, which is shown in Fig. The figure shown in 5 is for illustrative purposes only and is not limited to that.

[0069] By distinguishing the display mode of the selected area selection window 34Depending on the status of the electronic nautical chart, as described above, the status of the electronic nautical chart can be easily recorded for each procurement unit. Different types of statuses can be considered for the electronic nautical chart. For example, it is possible to switch between the currently available electronic chart and the currently unavailable electronic chart by displaying this information on the chart information screen. 31 according to Fig. 3 or Fig. 4, provided this is sufficient for the user. Consequently, it is preferred to vary the distinction of the display mode of the recorded area selection window at least depending on the availability of the electronic nautical chart.

[0070] Therefore, the map information display control determines 23According to this embodiment, the availability of the electronic nautical chart for each procurement unit. As previously discussed in connection with the electronic nautical chart display device. 6 As described in this example, the electronic nautical chart can only be used after acquiring a valid license for the corresponding chart. Thus, the chart information display determines 23a map information display control 23 According to this embodiment, for each electronic nautical chart listed in the catalog data, it is determined whether the electronic chart data has been acquired and whether the license for the electronic nautical chart is available. Based on the results of this investigation, the chart information display control can be... 23 the display mode of the recorded area selection window 34 change.

[0071] In this way, the user can determine which electronic nautical charts are currently available and which are not, simply by glancing at the nautical chart information screen. 31 throws. For example, the user can determine whether the data for the electronic nautical chart is available for the sea area for the planned navigation route by simply accessing the nautical chart information screen. 31 looks, and if the data has not yet been acquired, determines that it is necessary to acquire the data from the provider.

[0072] Furthermore, the map information display control varies. 23 According to this embodiment, the display mode of the recorded area selection window 34This depends on whether the electronic chart data is up to date. It should be noted that the determination of whether the electronic charts are up to date can be based on whether the electronic chart data has been updated within a predetermined update cycle.

[0073] In this way, the user can determine which of the electronic nautical charts has the latest data simply by glancing at the chart information screen. 31 throws. Thus, the user can see the information at a glance on the nautical chart information screen. 31 Determine whether the data of the electronic nautical chart for the marine area for which navigation is planned corresponds to the latest version, and if the data does not correspond to the latest version, determine that the data needs to be updated.

[0074] On the other hand, no major problems are expected with regard to the electronic charts for the relevant sea area, which is not intended for navigation, even if the data has not been acquired, the license has not been obtained, and / or an update has not been carried out. In other words, the electronic chart that is not required for the planned navigation can simply be ignored, even if it is unavailable. In this respect, according to the configuration described above, because the information of the electronic chart (specifically the recorded selection area) is displayed graphically on the granular chart, it can be intuitively recognized whether the corresponding electronic chart relates to the planned navigation for each recorded area.

[0075] As described above, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the user can easily ascertain the status of the electronic nautical chart (for example, whether it is available and whether it is updated) using the procurement unit by simply changing the display mode of the recorded area selection window. 34 on the nautical chart information screen 31 is considered. Since the recorded area of ​​the electronic nautical chart is graphically displayed on the coarse chart. 33 through the recorded area selection window 34 The user can easily identify the naval area where the electronic chart is to be used by selecting the procurement unit. This allows the user to easily determine whether the required data has been acquired, whether the necessary license has been obtained, or whether the required data has been updated for each procurement unit of the electronic chart.

[0076] Since the recorded area selection window 34 , which was described previously, the information regarding the electronic nautical chart in the rough chart 33 While it is graphically represented, it is suitable for the instinctive reading of information, but not suitable for reading detailed information, such as the number of electronic nautical charts without a license.

[0077] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the map information display control can be adjusted. 23 According to this embodiment, the information relating to the electronic nautical chart is displayed in a nautical chart information list in a further display mode. 35 Displaying the information from the electronic nautical charts in a list. The nautical chart information list. 35 can be permanently displayed on the nautical chart information screen 31 it will be displayed, or it can only be displayed on the nautical chart information screen if it is not displayed. 31will be displayed when the user performs a predetermined user operation.

[0078] The nautical chart information list 35 , which are controlled by the map information display 23 The displayed information lists details regarding the electronic chart for each procurement unit. This information includes the name of each electronic chart procurement unit and the type of electronic chart data. The information (e.g., name and type) for each electronic chart can be determined from catalog data obtained using the electronic chart catalog procurer. 18 can be purchased. Since the catalog data also records information regarding charts that were not purchased, as described above, information on unpurchased electronic nautical charts can also be displayed in the list.

[0079] Furthermore, the map information display controls are changed. 23 According to this example, the display mode of the nautical chart information list 35 depending on the status of the electronic chart. In particular, a string in each line of the electronic chart information is displayed in the chart information list. 35 a status corresponding to the electronic nautical chart (the "Status" column in Fig. The user can specifically determine the status of each electronic card by checking the character string.

[0080] Since the electronic nautical charts for the global sea area are now available, all information recorded in the catalog data is listed, along with the browser properties of the nautical chart information list. 35 This can worsen their performance. Consequently, the map information display control may be affected. 23in the nautical chart information list 35 Display only those information relating to the electronic nautical chart on which the recorded area selection window is located. 34 in the raw map 33 displayed (for example, all information regarding the electronic nautical chart, which is completely outside the display area of ​​the coarse chart). 33 is located in the nautical chart information list 35 (will be hidden). In this way, the user can appropriately adjust the scale of the selection area and / or scroll through the rough map. 33 , so that only the information relating to the electronic nautical chart for the desired sea area is in the nautical chart information list 35 will be displayed.

[0081] Furthermore, the contents of the nautical chart information list can be accessed 35The cards can be sorted based on the content in each column. For example, electronic cards without a license can be displayed by sorting the information using a suitable user operation. This makes it easy to see which electronic cards require a license.

[0082] The following describes route planning using the electronic chart display device. 6 as described in this exemplary embodiment.

[0083] With the electronic chart display device 6 A planned navigation course (planned route) can be defined. The planned route can be executed by the user by performing appropriate user operations on a course planning screen. An example of a course planning screen is shown below. 37 is in Fig. 7 shown.

[0084] First, the user displays the electronic nautical chart, which shows the planned course in its entirety on the course planning screen. 37 can display. Then the user selects a variety of points. 38 on the electronic nautical chart displayed on the course planning screen 37 is displayed. The route planner 24 The following links the points defined by the user. 38 together on a planned course 39 The route setter 24 shows the planned course 39 by overlaying it on the electronic map on the course planning screen 37 on ( Fig. 7).

[0085] The itinerary map information display control 25 displays information regarding the electronic nautical chart that covers at least part of the sea area through which the planned course is taken. 39 through it. The journey plan map information display control 25First, it retrieves every recorded area of ​​the electronic chart (including available electronic charts and those currently unavailable, such as unpurchased charts and charts for which the license has expired) from the catalog data. Then, the voyage plan chart information display control extracts this information. 25 the information from the electronic nautical charts, which at least cover the part of the sea area where the planned course 39 runs through which the route setter 34 The information was determined based on the acquired data from the catalog. Then the itinerary map information display control is drawn. 25 the recorded area selection windows 34on, which identify the recorded area of ​​the extracted electronic nautical chart by overlaying it onto the electronic nautical chart on the course planning screen 37 ( Fig. 7).

[0086] In this way, it can be ensured that only information from the electronic nautical chart relating to the planned course is displayed on the course planning screen. 37 The electronic nautical charts required for navigating the set course can be easily displayed for each procurement unit by checking the recorded area selection window. 34 and the planned course route 39 , which appear on the course planning screen 37 They are displayed and can be recognized. Furthermore, the itinerary map information display controls change. 25 the display mode of the recorded area selection window 34depending on the status of the electronic nautical chart. It should be noted that the description of the display mode of the recorded area selection window 34 It is omitted because it has already been described previously.

[0087] According to the implementation method described above, the user can check the status of the electronic nautical chart used for navigation along the planned course. 39 The required information can be determined with a simple glance. For example, if the license for the electronic nautical chart is required for the sea area, the planned course can be determined. 39 It must be determined whether the license has expired, was not acquired (or has expired), and it must be established that the license must be acquired from the provider.

[0088] Furthermore, the itinerary map information display can be controlled. 25be trained in the statutes of the electronic nautical charts, which cover at least part of the sea area through which the planned course is taken. 39 to list the progress. In this way, the user can specifically determine the status of each electronic nautical chart relevant for navigating the planned course. 39 is required.

[0089] As previously described, the electronic chart display device 6 According to this embodiment, the electronic nautical chart is acquired and displayed for each procurement unit and is configured as described below. In particular, the electronic nautical chart display device includes 6 the chart information display control 23 The chart information display control 23determines whether the electronic nautical chart is currently available per procurement unit, as well as information concerning the electronic nautical chart per procurement unit, depending on whether the electronic nautical chart is currently available.

[0090] Therefore, a method for displaying information regarding electronic nautical charts using the electronic chart display device is required. 6 (100) as follows. In particular with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8. The display procedure includes determining whether the electronic chart is currently available per procurement unit (S101) and displays the information concerning the electronic nautical chart per procurement unit depending on whether the electronic nautical chart is currently available (S102). It should be noted that part of the control unit 12 can be configured using software.

[0091] As previously described, by differentiating the display mode of the information depending on the status of the electronic nautical chart, the status of the electronic nautical chart can be easily determined for each procurement unit.

[0092] As mentioned above, a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described. The aforementioned configuration can be modified as follows.

[0093] The electronic chart display device is not limited to a device for displaying electronic nautical charts for ships and can be used in a wide range of other devices for displaying charts, such as navigation devices for motor vehicles.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the line type of the recorded area selection window can be 34Depending on the status of the electronic map, it can vary, but is not limited to this, and various different display modes can be considered, such as changes in the color of the lines of the recorded area selection window. 34 depending on the status of the electronic nautical chart.

[0095] Furthermore, according to the above-mentioned embodiment, the outer edge of the recorded area is displayed to represent the selected area of ​​the electronic nautical chart. However, the display method for the recorded area of ​​the electronic nautical chart is not limited to this display in the recorded form by a frame and can, for example, also be indicated by hatching.

[0096] The states of the electronic nautical chart are not limited to the types mentioned above. For example, as in Fig.Figure 5 shows how the display mode can be changed based on the occurrence of an error that occurs during the installation of the electronic nautical chart.

[0097] Furthermore, the way information from the electronic chart is graphically displayed in the coarse chart view is not limited to the window. For example, icons can be overlaid on the coarse chart to reflect the current state of the respective electronic chart. Here, the position for displaying each icon on the coarse chart can correspond to the central coordinates of the recorded area of ​​each electronic chart.

[0098] The foregoing description details specific embodiments of the present invention. However, a person skilled in the art in this field can make various modifications and changes without departing from the scope of the present invention, as illustrated in the dependent claims. Accordingly, the description and figures are to be considered merely as exemplary embodiments and not as limiting, and all such modifications are to fall within the scope of the present invention. Described benefits, advantages, and technical problems, as well as any element that contributes a benefit, advantage, or to the solution of the problem, or that has been particularly emphasized, are not to be considered critical, necessary, or essential features and are therefore not required in all claims.The invention is defined exclusively by the attached claims, including all amendments made during the pendency of this application, and by all equivalents of the granted claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0099] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0100] JP 2012-09043

[0001] JP 2003-005630 A [0007, 0011, 0011]

Claims

[1] Electronic card display device for acquiring and displaying electronic cards, wherein each electronic card is acquired per procurement unit, comprising: a map information display investigator to determine whether the electronic map is currently available for each procurement unit and A card information display device for displaying information relating to the electronic card per procurement unit, depending on whether the electronic card is available per procurement unit. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the card information display device changes an information display mode with respect to the electronic card depending on whether data has been acquired from the electronic card. [3] Device according to claim 1, wherein the card information display device changes an information display mode with respect to the electronic card depending on whether a license has been acquired from the electronic card. [4] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the map information display device changes an information display mode with respect to the electronic map depending on whether data from the electronic map has been updated. [5] Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises a map display control for coarse display of a map in a display mode where the map is at least modifiable in scale and scrollable, wherein the map information display device displays the information relating to the electronic map by graphic overlay on the map. [6] Device according to claim 5, wherein the map information display device displays information relating to a section area recorded in the electronic map as information relating to the electronic map by superimposing it on the rough map, and the map information display device changes an information display mode relating to the information of the section area depending on a status of the electronic map. [7] Device according to claim 6, wherein the map display control displays the coarse map by Mercator projection when the scale of the coarse map is larger than a predetermined scale, and the map display control performs a coordinate transformation on the coarse map and displays the transformed coarse map such that the globe is displayed in the map by orthogonal projection when the scale of the coarse map is smaller than the predetermined scale, and wherein the map information display device performs the coordinate transformation for the section area and displays the transformed area depending on the display mode of the coarse map. [8] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the map information display device displays states of the respective electronic maps in a list, as the information relating to the electronic maps. [9] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a route setter for setting a planned route and displaying the planned route by overlaying it on the electronic map, and a itinerary map information display controller for graphically displaying information regarding a selection area that shows an area recorded in the electronic map and that covers at least part of an area where the planned route passed, wherein the itinerary map information display controller changes the display mode of the selection area information depending on whether the electronic map currently has the corresponding selection area information available. [10] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a route setter for setting a planned route; and a itinerary map information display controller for displaying the states of the respective electronic maps in a list, each electronic map recording at least a portion of an area along which the planned route passes. [11] A method for displaying information in an electronic card display device for the acquisition and display of electronic cards, wherein each electronic card was acquired by means of a procurement unit, the method comprising: Determine whether the electronic card is currently accessible via the procurement unit, and Displaying information regarding the current availability of the electronic card with the procurement unit.

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