Server device, terminal device, information communication method, and program for server device

Abstract

To provide a server device and the like that can update map information.SOLUTION: A server device includes: a storage unit 14 for storing map information; an acquisition unit for acquiring collation result information indicating a collation result of map information included in terminal device map information held by a terminal device Sn with image information taken with an imaging unit included in the terminal device Sn; and a request unit for requesting the terminal device Sn to transmit the image information taken with the imaging unit if it is determined that there is no need to update the terminal device map information on the basis of the map information stored in the storage unit 14 and the collation result information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to the technical fields of a server device, a terminal device, an information communication method, and a program for a server device. More specifically, the present application relates to the technical fields of a server device, a terminal device, an information communication method, and a program for a server device that processes map information used for the movement of a moving body such as a vehicle or a person. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, navigation devices that are mounted on vehicles to provide travel guidance have become widespread. In general, navigation devices provide route guidance from a departure point to a destination while, for example, displaying a map or outputting audio guidance.

[0003] Recently, for example, at locations such as intersections or locations with large signs, real-life images (including both still images and moving images; the same applies hereinafter) of the scenery around the intersection or the sign itself, actually taken from the driver's point of view, are displayed together with a map to provide guidance to the intersection, etc. Navigation devices that display such real-life images display, for example, the scenery that the driver can actually see, on a display, etc., while providing guidance to the corresponding locations, thereby reducing the burden on the driver and enabling more convenient and reliable guidance. In this case, as a configuration for providing guidance using the real-life images described above, image information corresponding to the real-life images is recorded in association with map information including the locations where the real-life images were taken.

[0004] Meanwhile, the contents of the scenery, signs, etc. around the intersection may naturally change over time. In this case, due to the change, the contents of the previously photographed images of those things may differ from the actual situation (contents of signs, etc.). As a result, if guidance is provided using old photographed images that differ from the actual situation, it may confuse drivers, etc. Therefore, there is a need to update the image information corresponding to the photographed images contained in the map information to the latest information, for example, at predetermined intervals. Conventional techniques for updating such image information are disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 listed below.

[0005] In this case, the technology described in Patent Document 1 below uses a camera mounted on a vehicle to take pictures of the surrounding area in order to update facility information including actual images at the center. More specifically, an image of the facility taken in the past is compared with an image of the facility newly taken by the camera, and if there is a difference between the two, the newly taken image is sent to the center to be used to update the image information.

[0006] In addition, in the technology described in Patent Document 2 below, a model of a signboard image is prepared in advance, and when a signboard that matches the model is photographed by an in-vehicle camera, the newly photographed image is recorded together with its location information obtained from, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System). The images will be recorded as map information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4946238 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-151523 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, the techniques described in the above patent documents have the following problems.

[0009] First, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, if the comparison result in the vehicle is negative, the image information itself is "always" transmitted to the center. Therefore, as the number of vehicles equipped with cameras increases, a large amount of image information is transmitted in a concentrated manner to the center, which can result in an enormous amount of communication traffic.

[0010] Furthermore, with the technology described in Patent Document 2, there is a possibility that the results of matching signs and the like on the vehicle may contain errors, and furthermore, there is a possibility that the GPS location information may also contain errors. Therefore, if the image is recorded as map information in such cases, there is a problem that the accuracy of the map information itself will be reduced and that it will not be suitable for sharing with map information for other vehicles. Therefore, there is a problem that when map information is presented to the user, information with low accuracy is presented.

[0011] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one example of the object of the present invention is to provide a server device or the like that can update map information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 is characterized by comprising: a storage unit that stores map information; an acquisition unit that acquires matching result information that indicates a matching result between feature information included in terminal device map information held by a terminal device and image information captured by an image capture unit held by the terminal device; and a request unit that requests the terminal device to transmit the image information captured by the image capture unit when it is determined that updating of the terminal device map information is not necessary based on the map information stored in the storage unit and the matching result information.

[0013] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 2 is characterized by comprising: a storage unit that stores map information; an acquisition unit that acquires matching result information that indicates a matching result between feature information included in terminal device map information held by a terminal device and image information captured by an image capture unit held by the terminal device; and a request unit that requests the terminal device to transmit the image information captured by the image capture unit when it is determined that the map information needs to be updated based on the matching result information.

[0014] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 3 is characterized by comprising: a storage unit that stores map information; an acquisition unit that acquires matching result information that indicates a result of matching between feature information included in terminal device map information held by a terminal device and image information captured by an image capture unit held by the terminal device; and a request unit that requests the terminal device to transmit the image capture information captured by the image capture unit when the feature information that is the subject of the matching result information is feature information related to a specified feature.

[0015] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 4 comprises an imaging unit, a memory unit that stores terminal device map information, a transmission unit that transmits to a server device matching result information that indicates a matching result between feature information included in the terminal device map information and imaging information captured by the imaging unit, and a reception unit that receives request information transmitted from the server device when the server device determines that updating of the terminal device map information is not necessary based on the map information stored in the server device and the matching result information, and is characterized in that the transmission unit transmits the imaging information to the server device in response to the request information.

[0016] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 5 is an information communication method used by a server device having a memory unit that stores map information, characterized in that it includes: an acquisition step of acquiring matching result information that indicates a result of matching between feature information included in terminal device map information held by a terminal device and image information captured by an image capturing unit held by the terminal device; and a request step of requesting the terminal device to transmit the image information captured by the image capturing unit when it is determined that updating of the terminal device map information is not necessary based on the map information stored in the memory unit and the matching result information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information notification device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are block diagrams showing the detailed configuration of a navigation device according to a first embodiment, in which FIG. 1A is the block diagram, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of the contents of map data recorded in the navigation device. [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are block diagrams showing the detailed configuration of a server device according to a first embodiment, in which FIG. 1A is the block diagram, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating the contents of map data recorded in the server device. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 10]13 is a flowchart showing a map data update process according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are flowcharts showing map data update processing according to a second modified example, in which FIG. 10A is a flowchart showing processing for generating an update list, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing processing for updating feature data using the update list. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an information notification operation. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an information notification display. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing an example of an information notification display, in which (a) is a schematic diagram before updating, (b) is a schematic diagram in an intermediate state, and (c) is a schematic diagram after updating. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the display of information notification. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the display of information notification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information notification device according to the embodiment.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, the information notification device S according to the embodiment is a mobile information notification device S, and is configured to include an update information acquisition means 1 and a notification means 2.

[0020] In this configuration, the update information acquisition means 1 acquires update information regarding the update of map information from the server device SV that updates map information when it is determined that the feature information corresponding to the feature included in the map information used for the movement of the terminal device and included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device differs from the feature information newly acquired by the terminal device.

[0021] Examples of feature information corresponding to a feature include location information indicating the location of the feature corresponding to the feature information, imaging information generated by capturing an image of the feature corresponding to the feature information, etc. Examples include a newly captured image by a camera, vehicle position information at the time of capturing the image, camera imaging direction information, etc. Examples of features include roads, tunnels, bridges, right-turn lanes, road signs, guide signs, warning signs, landmarks, buildings such as stores, facilities, etc.

[0022] Examples of update information include updated data such as the location of a feature updated in map information, an image of the feature, an illustration of the feature, the name of the feature, and the update time. Note that the update information may be information based on a field survey.

[0023] The notification means 2 notifies update information. Examples of the notification means 2 include output means for outputting a map or the like, such as a display, and output means for outputting sound, such as a speaker.

[0024] As described above, according to the information notification device S of the embodiment, update information can be obtained from the server device that updated the map information and the update information can be notified to the user, so that the user can be aware of the update of the map information. [Example]

[0025] Next, specific examples corresponding to the above-described embodiments will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 10. Note that each example described below is an example in which the embodiment is applied to an information processing system in which a plurality of navigation devices (one example of an information notification device) mounted on or carried by a mobile object such as a vehicle and a server device are connected via a network such as the Internet.

[0026] (1) First Example First, a first example corresponding to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 2 to 5. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the general configuration of an information processing system according to the first example, and Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a navigation device according to the first example. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a server device according to the first example, and Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the map data update process according to the first example. In Figs. 2, 5(a), and 5(b), the same component numbers as those of the server device SV according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 are used for the components of the first example.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 2, the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment includes a server device SV and a plurality of navigation devices S1, S2, ..., Sn (n is a natural number), each of which serves as an example of an information notification device S (information processing device) according to the embodiment and a terminal device. The server device SV and each of the navigation devices S1, S2, ..., Sn are connected to each other via a network W such as the Internet so that information can be exchanged. In the following description, when matters common to each of the navigation devices S1, S2, ..., Sn are described, they will be simply referred to as "navigation device S" as appropriate.

[0028] In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 3(a), each navigation device S includes an output unit 2 (corresponding to the notification means 2 according to the embodiment) including a liquid crystal display, a speaker, etc.; an operation unit 4 including operation buttons or a remote controller, etc.; a recording unit 9 including a hard disk or the like for non-volatilely recording a database including map data SD, etc., which corresponds to the map, etc., to be described later, displayed when guiding the movement of the mobile body; a sensor unit 6 including a stand-alone sensor such as an acceleration sensor, a GPS sensor, and a VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) (registered trademark) sensor for collecting traffic congestion information, etc.; and a sensor unit 7 including, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device ) and takes an image in a direction specified by a processing unit 8 described later, and a processing unit 9 consisting of a CPU, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), etc. In addition to the map data, etc., the recording unit 9 also records navigation data such as audio data necessary for guiding the movement of the mobile object as non-volatile information.

[0029] The processing unit 8 is configured to include an interface 1, which corresponds to an example of the update information acquisition means 1 according to the embodiment, a determination unit 3, and an update unit 5. In this case, the interface 1, the determination unit 3, and the update unit 5 may be configured by a so-called hardware logic circuit, or may be functionally realized by a CPU in the processing unit 8 reading and executing a program corresponding to a flowchart showing the map data update process according to a first embodiment described below. The camera 7 corresponds to an example of an "imaging unit" according to the present application, the processing unit 8 corresponds to an example of a "detection unit" and an example of a "terminal device determination unit" according to the present application, the recording unit 9 corresponds to an example of a "terminal device storage unit" according to the present application, and the interface 1 corresponds to an example of a "terminal device transmission unit" according to the present application.

[0030] Next, the map data SD according to the first embodiment, which is recorded in the recording unit 9, will be described with reference to Fig. 3(b). As shown in Fig. 3(b), the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S according to the first embodiment includes feature data 90, road data 91, and background data 92. The feature data 90 includes data relating to features to be included in a map output to the output unit 2 (for example, a display, a speaker, etc.) when guiding the movement of a mobile object.

[0031] Here, the "land feature" in the first embodiment refers to an object that is significant in guiding the movement of the mobile object, and in principle refers to an object that exists on a road or its vicinity, such as a building, a facility such as a park or an overpass, or a traffic light, a sign or a crosswalk. The land feature data 90 is associated with a pre-set land feature ID for distinguishing it from other land features, and includes: version data indicating the version in the map data SD of the data indicating the land feature identified by the land feature ID; position data consisting of, for example, latitude data and longitude data indicating the position of the land feature; and feature amount data quantitatively indicating the features of the land feature. An example of the feature amount data is feature amounts extracted by the SIFT (Scale-Invariant Feature Transform) method, which is an algorithm used for object recognition in images. The SIFT method is an algorithm that has been used for object recognition. For example, by recording feature data based on the SIFT method instead of image data corresponding to the actual image of the feature, it is possible to significantly reduce the amount of data.

[0032] On the other hand, the road data 91 is similar to the road data for map data used in conventional navigation devices, and road data indicating roads included on a map is recorded as link data indicating multiple links, for example. The background data 92 is also similar to the background data for map data used in conventional navigation devices, and records background data used to draw backgrounds other than roads and features included on a map (in the case of a planar map, the backgrounds for roads and features).

[0033] The geographical range of the map recorded in the navigation device S as the map data SD may be, for example, the entire country in which the navigation device S is used (for example, Japan), or it may be limited to a partial area such as one prefecture or one region. Furthermore, the version of the feature data 90 and the version of the map data SD as a whole may be the same, or the version of the map data SD as a whole and the version of each of the feature data 90 may be set separately.

[0034] 4(a), the server device SV according to the first embodiment includes an interface 10 corresponding to an example of a receiving unit and an example of a transmitting unit of the server device SV according to the embodiment, a processing unit 11 including a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. and corresponding to an example of a determining unit of the server device SV according to the embodiment, a display 12 including a liquid crystal display, etc., an operation unit 13 including a keyboard, a mouse, etc., and a recording unit 14 including a hard disk, etc., that non-volatilely records a database including map data VD as master map data used to update the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S connected to the server device SV. The recording unit 14 corresponds to an example of a map information storage unit of the server device SV according to the embodiment. The processing unit 11 corresponds to an example of an "updating unit" according to the present application.

[0035] Next, the map data VD according to the first embodiment recorded in the recording unit 14 will be described with reference to FIG. 4(b). As shown in FIG. 4(b), the map data VD recorded in the server device SV according to the first embodiment includes feature data 140, road data 141, and background data 142. The feature data 140 includes data related to features to be included in the map output to the output unit 2 of the navigation device S when guiding the movement of a mobile object, similar to the feature data 90 in the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S. That is, the feature data 140 includes, in association with the same feature ID as the map data SD, version data indicating the version in the map data VD of data indicating the feature identified by the feature ID. In addition, position data indicating the position of the feature identified by the feature ID and image data of a real image of the feature identified by the feature ID may also be recorded. In the following description, the real image data will be simply referred to as "real image data."

[0036] Meanwhile, the road data 141 is road data indicating roads included on a map, recorded as link data, for example, similar to the road data 91 in the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S. The background data 142 is background data used to depict the background other than the roads and features included on the map, similar to the background data 92 in the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S. As described above, the feature data 140, road data 141, and background data 141 are positioned as master map data, respectively, in relation to the feature data 90, road data 91, and background data 92 recorded in each navigation device S.

[0037] The geographical range of the map recorded in the server device SV as the map data VD may be limited to a certain region, like the map data SD used in the navigation device S. However, from the viewpoint that the map data VD is used to generate update data (an example of update information) for updating the map data SD recorded in multiple navigation devices S, it is desirable that the corresponding geographical range covers, for example, the entire country (e.g., Japan).

[0038] Furthermore, the version of the feature data 140 and the version of the map data VD as a whole may be the same as the feature data 90 in the navigation device S, or the version of the map data VD as a whole and the version of each feature data 140 may be set separately.

[0039] In the configuration described above, the interface 1 of each navigation device S, under the control of the processing unit 8, controls input and output of data to and from the server device SV via the network W, and also controls input and output of data between the recording unit 9, the sensor unit 6, and the camera 7. The determination unit 3 and update unit 5 of the processing unit 8 determine whether or not to update the navigation device S, based on a setting preset in the navigation device S. Based on information representing the location of the vehicle or an operation by a user (such as a driver) on the operation unit 4, the output unit 2 outputs necessary information, and executes the map data update process according to the embodiment. At this time, feature data 90 and the like recorded in the recording unit 9 are read out as necessary and provided to the map data update process by the determination unit 3 and the like. Furthermore, under the control of the processing unit 8, the camera 7 captures images of the front, side, or rear of the vehicle or the like in which the navigation device S is installed, and outputs actual image data corresponding to the images to the processing unit 8. Furthermore, the processing unit 8 executes navigation processing to guide the movement of the mobile object in which the navigation device S is installed, based on the current position data, traffic congestion information, and the like output from the sensor unit 6, and also executes the map data update process according to the first embodiment, which will be described later.

[0040] At this time, the processing unit 8 of each navigation device S can calculate / estimate the current position of the camera 7 (in other words, the navigation device S itself) on the map and the shooting direction of the camera 7, mainly based on the current position data output from the sensor unit 6 and direction data indicating the moving direction of the moving object. Furthermore, if the moving object is a vehicle, the installation position and installation direction of the camera 7 within the vehicle can be input in advance and used to calculate / estimate the above-mentioned shooting direction. From these, the processing unit 8 can calculate / estimate, for each feature, whether or not the above-mentioned feature on the map is in a position and direction that allows it to be photographed by the camera 7 at that time.

[0041] Meanwhile, the interface 10 of the server device SV controls the input and output of data to and from each navigation device S via the network W under the control of the processing unit 11. The processing unit 11 then executes the map data update process according to the first embodiment while displaying necessary information on the display 12 based on the operation of the user (administrator) at the operation unit 13. At this time, the feature data 140 and the like recorded in the recording unit 14 are read out as necessary and provided to the processing unit 11 for the map data update process, or are updated under the control of the processing unit 11 with actual photographic data and the like transmitted from each navigation device S.

[0042] Next, the map data update process according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 2 to 5. The map data update process is a process for updating the map data SD recorded in each navigation device S using the map data VD recorded in the server device SV as master map data, and is executed mainly by the processing unit 8 of each navigation device S and the processing unit 11 of the server device SV.

[0043] 5, in the map data update process according to the first embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S monitors whether or not there is a possibility that any of the surrounding features has been photographed by the camera 7, for example, at predetermined travel distances, predetermined positions, or time intervals (step S1). At this time, as described above, the processing unit 8 monitors while calculating for each feature whether or not there is a possibility that the features on the map located around the mobile object are in a position and direction that allows them to be photographed by the camera 7 at that time.

[0044] If there is no possibility that any feature has been photographed in the monitoring of step S1 (step S1; NO), the processing unit 8 continues monitoring the possibility of photographing a feature in step S1. On the other hand, if there is a possibility that any feature has been photographed in the monitoring of step S1 (step S1; YES), the determination unit 3 of the processing unit 8 then compares the feature indicated by the feature data (see FIG. 3(b)) corresponding to the feature that may have been photographed with the feature corresponding to the feature actually reflected in the photographed data output from the camera 7 (step S2), and determines whether there is a difference between them (step S3).

[0045] If the determination in step S3 is that there is no difference between the two (step S3; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing a feature. On the other hand, if the determination in step S3 is that the two feature amounts are different (step S3; YES), the processing unit 8 transmits a result of this (a comparison result indicating a mismatch) to the server device SV via the interface 1 (step S4). At this time, the processing unit 8 transmits the comparison result to the server device SV together with feature data 90 indicating the features compared in steps S2 and S3 and including version data and corresponding position data. Here, the transmission of the comparison result from the navigation device S to the server device SV means that, if the feature photographed in the monitoring of step S1 is a sign, there is a high possibility that the feature data 90 corresponding to the feature in question needs to be updated due to circumstances such as changes to the content of the sign.

[0046] Next, the processing unit 8 determines whether or not update data for updating the map data SD of the navigation device S has been received, the update data being transmitted from the server device SV in response to the collation result transmitted in the process of step S4 (step S5). If it is determined in step S5 that update data has not been received (step S5; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing a feature. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that update data has been received (step S5; YES), the processing unit 8 uses the received update data to update the corresponding part of the map data SD (step S6). The processing unit 8 may also store the update data, which is an example of update information, in the recording unit 9 as an update record.

[0047] Thereafter, the processing unit 8 determines whether or not to terminate the map data update process according to the first embodiment of the navigation device S, for example, when the power of the navigation device S is turned off (step S7). If the determination in step S7 is that the map data update process should be terminated (step S7; YES), the processing unit 8 terminates the process as is, whereas if the determination in step S7 is that the map data update process should not be terminated (step S7; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of photographing a feature.

[0048] Next, a map data update process according to a first embodiment in the server device SV, which corresponds to the map data update process according to the first embodiment in the navigation device S described above, will be described with reference to FIG.

[0049] 5, in the map data update process according to the first embodiment, when the power supply is turned on, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV monitors whether or not a matching result indicating a mismatch has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S10). If, during the monitoring in step S10, no matching result has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S10; NO), the processing unit 11 continues to monitor whether or not the matching result has been received.

[0050] On the other hand, if the processing unit 11 receives the matching result from any of the navigation devices S during the monitoring in step S10 (step S10; YES), it then determines, based on the received matching result, whether or not the map data SD needs to be updated, including the feature data 90 for the features photographed when the matching result was generated (see steps S2 and S3 above) (step S11). Specifically, in step S11, the processing unit 11 compares the version data and other information of the feature data 90 transmitted together with the matching result (see FIG. 3(b)) with the version data and other information of the feature data 140 stored in the storage unit 14 corresponding to the matching result (see FIG. 4(b)). If the two data are different, it is determined that the update is necessary, and if the two data are identical, it is determined that the update is not necessary. The processing unit 11 also determines that the update is necessary if the feature data 140 stored in the storage unit 14 corresponding to the feature data 90 transmitted together with the matching result does not exist. In addition, the version data, position data, etc. of the feature data 90 sent along with the matching result (see Figure 3(b)) may be compared with the version data, position data, etc. of the feature data 140 in the recording unit 14 corresponding to the feature data 90 (see Figure 4(b)), and if the two are different, it may be determined that the above-mentioned update is necessary, and if the two are identical, it may be determined that the update is not necessary.

[0051] If it is determined in step S11 that there is no need to update the map data SD (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues monitoring for the reception of the matching result. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that there is a need to update the map data SD (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 generates the update data including the map data VD corresponding to the feature data SD to be updated (for example, map data 140 corresponding to the map data 90 to be updated), and transmits the update data to the navigation device S that transmitted the matching result (step S12). Upon receiving this update data, the navigation device S then performs the processes of steps S5 to S7.

[0052] Thereafter, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV determines whether or not to terminate the map data update process according to the first embodiment as the server device SV, for example, when the power of the server device SV is turned off (step S13). If the determination in step S13 is that the map data update process should be terminated (step S13; YES), the processing unit 11 terminates the process. On the other hand, if the determination in step S13 is that the map data update process should not be terminated (step S13; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues to monitor the reception of the matching result.

[0053] As described above, according to the map data update process of the first embodiment, the feature data 90 included in the map data SD for travel and corresponding to surrounding features is compared with feature data of a newly photographed feature separately, and if it is determined that there is a difference between the two, the feature data 90 is transmitted to the server device SV. Then, only when update data corresponding to the transmitted feature data 90 is transmitted from the server device SV, the map data SD is updated using the update data.

[0054] Therefore, the map data SD of the navigation device S is updated only using update data generated by the server device SV after determining that an update is necessary, thereby enabling the map data SD to be updated in a centralized and accurate manner. Also, because the map data SD is updated only when there is a difference between feature data and update data has been transmitted, the map data SD can be updated while reducing the amount of information exchanged with the server device SV. Furthermore, because the map data SD is updated using update data that corresponds to the transmitted feature data 90, it becomes possible to update the map data SD in accordance with the route and area traveled by the navigation device S.

[0055] Furthermore, since the location data indicating the location of the corresponding feature is included in the feature data 90 sent to the server device SV (see Figure 3(b)), the location data, which has a small amount of data, can be used to identify features that have changed and update the map data SD.

[0056] Furthermore, since feature amount data of photographed data of the corresponding feature is included in the feature data 90, the feature that has changed can be accurately identified using the photographed data and the map data SD can be updated.

[0057] Furthermore, whether or not there is a difference between the map data 90 recorded in the recording unit 9 is determined based on feature data in the actual data newly photographed by the camera 7 of the features, so that the presence or absence of the difference can be determined more accurately.

[0058] In the first embodiment described above, when map data SD used by multiple navigation devices S are compared, the map data SD may be of different generations (versions) as a whole, and may even be incompatible with each other. In such cases, it is desirable to record multiple map data VD for each generation of the map data SD in the server device SV, and to generate and transmit the update data for each generation.

[0059] Furthermore, when moving images are used as the photographed data, the matching process in each navigation device S (see steps S2 and S3 in FIG. 5) is performed by using a series of still images of multiple frames as the photographed data. In this case, the transmission of the matching results to the server device SV (see step S4 in FIG. 5) is preferably performed after the current position of the moving object has left a predetermined range that may include a calculated / estimated position of the feature to be photographed as a moving image, for example.

[0060] This is because the matching process continues for multiple frame images within the specified range, and the matching result is generated after the moving object leaves the range. In other words, the matching process does not always produce a correct matching result in a short time. For example, there may be cases where the feature itself cannot be photographed due to the presence of some kind of obstacle, or the matching result may change depending on the shooting direction. In such cases, a correct matching result using the actual data of the moving image cannot be obtained unless the moving object moves outside the range.

[0061] In this case, although it depends on the matching process method, if a positive matching result (a matching result in which the feature data matches) is obtained even once within the range, the determination result in step S3 is generally "NO." In contrast, it is considered preferable that the determination result in step S3 be "YES" after the moving object has left the range.

[0062] It is also possible to use a matching process in which the result of the determination in step S3 using the actual video data is set to "YES" except when the statistical percentage of cases in which the result is "NO" is equal to or greater than a predetermined percentage. In this case, the matching result may be transmitted to the server device SV even if the current position of the moving object is within the range.

[0063] Furthermore, when updated features are highlighted in the updated map information based on the update information, by limiting the highlighting to the features, it is possible to specifically express that part, making it easier for the user to visually understand that an update has been made.

[0064] (2) Second Example Next, a second example, which is another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the second example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the second example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Therefore, in the following explanation, the component numbers used in the explanation of the information processing system SS according to the first example will be used to explain the operation of the information processing system according to the second example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 will be assigned the same step numbers, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0065] In the map data update process according to the first embodiment described above, if the server device SV determines that the map data SD of the navigation device S needs to be updated (see step S11 in FIG. 5; YES), the server device SV immediately transmits the corresponding update data to the navigation device S. In contrast, in the map data update process according to the second embodiment described below, if the server device SV determines that the map data SD needs to be updated, it first transmits a message to that effect to the navigation device S, and then, only after receiving a request for the update data from the navigation device S, does the server device SV transmit the corresponding update data.

[0066] That is, in the map data update process according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, first, the processes of steps S1 to S4 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 are executed in any one of the navigation devices S, and then, based on the collation results transmitted as a result of the processes, the processes of steps S10 and S11 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 are executed in the server device SV.

[0067] If it is determined in step S11 that the map data SD needs to be updated (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 of the server device SV then transmits an update necessity notice indicating that the update is necessary to the navigation device S that transmitted the matching result in the monitoring of step S10 (step S20). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 monitors whether an update request requesting the update has been transmitted from the navigation device S that transmitted the update necessity notice (step S21). If the update request has not been transmitted from the navigation device S in the monitoring of step S21 (step S21; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and monitors for reception of the matching result. On the other hand, if the update request has been transmitted in the monitoring of step S21, the processing unit 11 generates the update data including the map data VD corresponding to the feature data SD to be updated and corresponding to the update request, and transmits the update data to the navigation device S that transmitted the matching result (step S12). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5.

[0068] In response to this, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S that transmitted the comparison result in the processing of step S4 above next monitors whether or not an update necessity notice has been transmitted from the server device SV in the processing of step S20 above (step S15). If the update necessity notice has not been received in the monitoring of step S15 (step S15; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 above to monitor the possibility of photographing a feature. On the other hand, if the update necessity notice transmitted from the server device SV has been received in the determination of step S15 (step S15; YES), the processing unit 8 notifies the user (driver, etc.) of the navigation device S of the need to update the map data SD, for example, by outputting it to the output unit 2, and determines whether or not an indication to update has been made, for example, by an operation using the operation unit 4 or based on the settings of the navigation device S (steps S16, S17). If the determination of step S17 indicates that the operation has not been performed (step S17; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 above to monitor the possibility of photographing a feature. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that an operation to update the corresponding map data SD has been performed (step S17; YES), the processing unit 8 transmits the update request corresponding to the update to the server device SV (step S18).

[0069] Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the processes of steps S5 to S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, and updates the map data SD.

[0070] As described above, according to the map data update process of the second embodiment, in addition to the advantageous effects of the map data update process of the first embodiment, when an operation to perform an update is executed on the navigation device S using the operation unit 4 (step S17 in FIG. 6 ; YES), the map data SD is updated using the update data received from the server device SV, so that the map data SD can be updated in accordance with the intention of the user (driver, etc.) of the navigation device S.

[0071] (3) Third Example Next, a third example, which is yet another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the third example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the third example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Therefore, in the following description, the component numbers used in the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example will be used to describe the operation of the information processing system according to the third example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 will be assigned the same step numbers, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0072] In the map data update processes according to the first and second embodiments described above, the server SV transmits update data to update the map data SD of each navigation device S. In a third embodiment described below, in addition to updating the map data SD, the map data VD stored in the server SV may be updated using actual image data captured by the navigation device S.

[0073] That is, in the map data update process according to the third embodiment, as shown in Fig. 7, first, one of the navigation devices S executes the processes from step S1 to step S6 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. In parallel with this, the server device SV according to the third embodiment executes the processes from step S10 to step S13 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5.

[0074] Next, if it is determined in the above step S11 that there is no need to update the map data SD (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 of the server device SV according to the third embodiment determines whether or not to transmit the actual image data related to the matching process (see steps S2 and S3) corresponding to the matching result transmitted in the monitoring of step S10 to the navigation device S that transmitted the matching result (step S27). The determination process of step S27 will be described in detail later.

[0075] If it is determined in step S27 that the actual image data related to the matching process corresponding to the received matching result is not to be transmitted (step S27; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues monitoring for reception of the matching result. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S27 that the actual image data is to be transmitted (step S27; YES), the processing unit 11 transmits an actual image data request to the corresponding navigation device S, requesting that the actual image data be transmitted to the server device SV (step S28). Next, the processing unit 11 monitors whether or not the actual image data corresponding to the actual image data request has been transmitted from the navigation device S (step S29). If, for example, in the monitoring of step S29, the actual image data is not transmitted even after a predetermined time has elapsed (step S29; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the processing of step S28 to transmit another actual image data request to the navigation device S. On the other hand, if the desired photographed data is received in the monitoring of step S29 (step S29; YES), the map data VD (more specifically, the corresponding feature data 140 in the map data VD) is updated using the received photographed data (step S30). Thereafter, the processing unit 11 proceeds to the determination of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0076] In response to this, after updating the map data SD by the process of step S6, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S monitors whether or not the request for actual photographed data has been transmitted from the server device SV (step S25). If the request for actual photographed data has not been transmitted in the monitoring of step S25 (step S25; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S1 and monitors the possibility of capturing images of the feature. On the other hand, if the determination of step S25 is that the request for actual photographed data transmitted from the server device SV has been received (step S25; YES), the processing unit 8 transmits the actual photographed data corresponding to the received request for actual photographed data (in other words, the actual photographed data captured by the process of step S1) to the server device SV (step S26), and then the processing unit 8 proceeds to the determination of step S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5.

[0077] Next, the determination process in step S27 in the processing unit 11 of the server device SV will be specifically described.

[0078] In the determination of step S27, for example, if the determination result of step S11 is "NO," it may be determined that it is necessary to immediately transmit the photographed data related to the comparison result transmitted during the monitoring of step S10 (step S27; YES). That is, if the version data, position data, etc. of the feature data 90 transmitted together with the comparison result match the version data, position data, etc. of the feature data 140 in the recording unit 14 corresponding to the feature data 90, it is determined that it is necessary to transmit the photographed data. In this case, since the comparison result indicating a mismatch has been received despite the version data, etc. of both data being identical, it is determined that there is a possibility that the map data VD recorded in the server device SV will be updated.

[0079] Furthermore, other conditions may be imposed in addition to the case where the determination result in step S11 is "NO." More specifically, the conditions may include that the matching result is for a feature that is not included in the map data 140 of the map data VD, or that the matching result is for a feature for which data is currently being collected as feature data 140 (in other words, for a feature for which sufficient data has already been collected, transmission of corresponding actual image data is not requested).

[0080] Here, the feature data 140 indicating that data is being collected is related to the possibility that the matching result received during the monitoring in step S10 may be incorrect. That is, in the matching process (see steps S2 and S3) in the navigation device S according to the embodiment, the features of the feature to be matched may temporarily become inaccurate at a certain timing. In this case, even if the feature to be matched remains unchanged, the matching result may indicate a mismatch (in other words, the matching result indicating a mismatch may be incorrect). Examples of conditions that may cause the "incorrect matching" include an obstacle in the camera's 7's field of view, a feature under construction that is obscured and cannot be photographed, or a feature that is exposed to direct sunlight and cannot be clearly photographed. In such cases, it is considered appropriate for the server device SV to "statistically" update the feature data VD. In other words, until a certain number of data are collected as a population to be included in the feature data 140, the data is treated as a series and is managed as a "candidate for update in the feature data 140."

[0081] Another condition for the judgment in step S27 is that, for example, even if a comparison result indicating a mismatch (see step S3; YES above) is transmitted from another navigation device S regarding a feature corresponding to the feature data 140 being judged, the actual photograph data may not be necessary between the time when the server device SV has finished acquiring data as the feature data 140 and the time when a judgment is made as to whether or not the feature data VD can be updated using at least the acquired multiple data (see steps S27 and S29 above).

[0082] Furthermore, the following five conditions may be taken into consideration in the judgment at step S27. (I) Camera 7 performance and shooting conditions (so-called camera parameters) (II) Date and time of shooting, weather, direction and position of camera 7 (estimate of how well features are captured) (III) Whether the feature is likely to cause a matching error in the navigation device S (if there is data indicating this) (IV) The load status of the processing unit 11 of the server device SV and the load status of the network W (V) Communication status such as transmission of past matching results from each navigation device S By adding the above-mentioned considerations (I) and (II), it is possible to estimate the degree of coverage of features in the photographed data and the corresponding "accuracy" of the matching process. Furthermore, by adding the above-mentioned consideration (III), statistical results such as "the accuracy of the matching process is generally low" may be obtained from past matching results. These "accuracies" can then be used as a basis for determining whether the corresponding photographed data is worth acquiring in the server device SV. If this accuracy is higher than a predetermined value, it can be determined that the photographed data should be transmitted. Meanwhile, depending on other load conditions in the information processing system SS, it may be determined that currently performing the update process of the map data VD is difficult or inappropriate (from a service perspective). In such cases, adding the above-mentioned considerations (IV) and (V) can serve as one criterion for determining not to transmit the photographed data when it is "currently difficult or inappropriate."

[0083] Furthermore, in the update process of the map data VD using the photographed data in step S30, the update process may be configured to be automatically executed by the processing unit 11, or may be configured to be executed with the judgment of the user (administrator, etc.) of the server device SV by displaying the photographed data that has been transmitted (see step S29; YES) on the display 12.

[0084] As described above, according to the map data update process of the third embodiment, in addition to the advantageous effects of the map data update process of the first embodiment, the actual photograph data is transmitted from the navigation apparatus S to the server apparatus SV only when there is a request for the actual photograph data from the server apparatus SV. Therefore, the actual photograph data can be used for the update process of the map data VD in the server apparatus SV while reducing, for example, the amount of data involved in communications over the network W.

[0085] (4) Fourth Example Next, a fourth example, which is yet another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the fourth example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the fourth example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Therefore, in the following explanation, the component numbers used in the explanation of the information processing system SS according to the first example will be used to explain the operation of the information processing system according to the fourth example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 will be assigned the same step numbers, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0086] In the map data update processing according to the first to third embodiments described above, actual photographic data taken by the camera 7 of any one of the navigation devices S was used to check for differences between the feature data 90 included in the map data SD and the actual state of the feature (see steps S2 and S3 above). In contrast, in the fourth embodiment described below, road data 91 in the map data SD is checked against the current position of the mobile object equipped with the navigation device S, based on current position data and the like from the sensor unit 6 of the navigation device S, and the road data 91 is updated as necessary.

[0087] 8, in the map data update process according to the fourth embodiment, first, the processing unit 8 of any navigation device S compares the current position of the mobile object or the route it has traveled with the positions of roads indicated by the road data 91, for example, for each preset travel distance or time, based on the current position data, etc. (step S35), and determines whether there is a difference between them (step S36). If there is a difference between them in the determination of step S36 (step S36; YES), this means that the mobile object is traveling on a new road that is not included in the road data 91, for example.

[0088] If the determination in step S36 shows that there is no difference between the two (step S36; NO), the processing unit 8 returns to step S35 and continues checking against the road data 91. On the other hand, if the determination in step S36 shows that there is a difference between the two (step S36; YES), the processing unit 8 transmits a checking result to that effect (including information that the vehicle is located on a road not included in the road data 91, and current position data at that time) to the server device SV via the interface 1 (step S4). Thereafter, the processing unit 8 performs the processes of steps S5 to S7 and steps S25 and S26 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0089] At this time, in the process of step S5, update data for updating the road data as new road data separate from the road data 91 is received, and in the process of step S6 using this update data, the new road data is added and updated. The photographed data transmitted to the server SV in the process of step S26 is photographed data of features near the road, taken by the camera 7 during the comparison process of steps S35 and S36. The photographed data may be, for example, photographed data of features taken by the camera 7 immediately before it is determined in the determination of step S36 that the two data do not match (see step S36; YES), photographed data of features taken immediately after the determination of the mismatch, or photographed data of features taken during the determination.

[0090] In contrast, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV in the map data update process according to the fourth embodiment basically executes the processes of steps S10 to S13 and steps S27 to S30 in the same manner as the processing unit 11 of the server device SV in the map data update process according to the third embodiment.

[0091] At this time, in the judgment of step S11, the processing unit 11 judges whether or not the road data 141 including the current position included in the matching result received in the monitoring of step S10 is included in the map data VD. If the road data 141 including the current position included in the matching result is included in the map data VD, the processing unit 11 transmits this as update data to the navigation device S (step S11; YES and step S12).

[0092] In the determination process of step S27, similarly to the determination process of step S27 of the third embodiment, if the determination result of step S11 is "NO," the processing unit 11 may determine that it is necessary to immediately transmit the photographed image data related to the comparison result transmitted in the monitoring of step S10 (step S27; YES). That is, if there is no road data at the position indicated by the current position data, etc. transmitted together with the comparison result (see step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 determines that it is necessary to transmit the photographed image data. In this case, the processing unit 11 has received a comparison result indicating that the mobile object is moving even though there is no road on the map corresponding to the position indicated by the transmitted current position data, etc., so it determines that it is necessary to update the road data 141 of the map data VD recorded in the server apparatus SV.

[0093] Furthermore, when the determination result in step S11 is "NO," the actual image data may be transmitted if the following condition is further satisfied: i) the matching result is for a road not included in the road data of the map data VD, or the matching result is for a feature for which data is being collected as new road data, as in the third embodiment. Note that the meaning of "data being collected" in this case is the same as in the third embodiment. Furthermore, the five consideration conditions described in the third embodiment may be added in a weighted manner to the determination in step S27.

[0094] Furthermore, in the process of step S30 in the fourth embodiment, the map data VD including new road data is updated using the transmitted photographed data.

[0095] As described above, according to the map data update process of the fourth embodiment, in addition to the advantageous effects of the map data update processes of the first and third embodiments, the map data SD and new road data are updated using update data while the navigation device S is moving, so that the updated map data SD and new road data can be used for movement.

[0096] (5) Fifth Example Next, a fifth example, which is yet another example corresponding to the embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the fifth example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the fifth example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Therefore, in the following description, the component numbers used in the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example will be used to describe the operation of the information processing system according to the fifth example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 will be assigned the same step numbers, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0097] In the map data update processes according to the first to fourth embodiments described above, the map data SD recorded in the navigation device S or the map data VD recorded in the server device SV is updated using various data (e.g., actual photo data) acquired by one of the navigation devices S. In contrast, in the fifth embodiment described below, the road data 91 of the map data SD is updated based on guidance point data indicating guidance points included in a travel guidance route set in the navigation device S.

[0098] 9, in the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S sets route data indicating a route for guiding the movement of the mobile body on which the navigation device S is installed, for example, by a predetermined route search method (step S40). This route data includes departure point data indicating the position of a departure point on the route, destination data indicating the position of a destination on the route, and guidance point data indicating the positions of guidance points to be passed through on the way to the destination.

[0099] Next, the processing unit 8 transmits, for example, guidance location data from the route data generated by the process of step S40 to the server device SV (step S41). At this time, destination data may also be transmitted at the same time. Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the processes of steps S5 to S7 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. At this time, if update data for the guidance location data transmitted by the process of step S41 is transmitted from the server device SV, the processing unit 8 receives this (step S5; YES), and updates the map data SD using the received update data (step S6).

[0100] On the other hand, in the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment, when the power supply of the server device SV is turned on, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV monitors whether or not the above-mentioned guidance location data, etc. has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S45). In the monitoring of step S45, if guidance location data, etc. has not been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S45; NO), the processing unit 11 continues to monitor the reception of the guidance location data, etc.

[0101] On the other hand, if the above-mentioned guidance place data, etc. is received from any of the navigation devices S during the monitoring in step S45 (step S45; YES), the processing unit 11 then searches the map data VD for the guidance place, etc. included in the guidance place data, etc. based on the received guidance place data, etc., and checks whether new feature data 140, etc. has been recorded for the guidance place, etc., thereby determining whether the map data SD including the feature data 90 for the guidance place, etc. needs to be updated (step S11).

[0102] In the fifth embodiment, if it is determined in step S11 that there is no need to update the map data SD (step S11; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to step S10 and continues monitoring the reception of the guide place data, etc. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that there is a need to update the map data SD (step S11; YES), the processing unit 11 generates the update data including the guide place data in the map data VD that corresponds to the guide place data in the feature data SD to be updated, and transmits the update data to the navigation device S that transmitted the guide place data, etc. (step S12). The navigation device S that has received this update data then executes the processes of steps S5 to S7.

[0103] Thereafter, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0104] As described above, according to the map data update process of the fifth embodiment, in addition to the advantageous effects of the map data update process of the first embodiment, the map data SD is updated using update data when a route is set, so that the updated map data SD can be used to set a route for travel and to provide guidance using that route.

[0105] Here, the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment described above often results in updating data on facilities that serve as destinations (guidance locations) in route-based guidance. However, other than this, for example, it may be possible to determine whether or not map data SD relating to other facilities within a certain geographical range from the route or the destination has been updated (see step S56 in FIG. 9) and update the data, based on the type of facility that serves as the guidance location. More specifically, for example, it may be possible to determine whether or not map data SD corresponding to recommended tourist facilities (spots) or evacuation facilities has been updated. In this case, the certain geographical range may be changed based on the type of other facilities.

[0106] (6) Sixth Example Finally, a sixth example, which is yet another example corresponding to the embodiments, will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing map data update processing according to the sixth example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the sixth example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first example. Therefore, in the following description, the component numbers used in the description of the information processing system SS according to the first example will be used to describe the operation of the information processing system according to the sixth example. Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, the same processes as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 or the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 will be assigned the same step numbers, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0107] In the map data update processes according to the first to fourth embodiments described above, the map data SD recorded in the navigation device S or the map data VD recorded in the server device SV is updated using various data (e.g., actual photo data) acquired by one of the navigation devices S. In contrast, in the sixth embodiment described below, the map data SD is updated based on route data indicating a route set in the navigation device S.

[0108] That is, as shown in Fig. 10, in the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S executes the process of step S40 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 9. Next, the processing unit 8 transmits the route data itself generated by the process of step S40 to the server device SV (step S50). The timing of transmission in step S50 may be, for example, immediately after the route is searched for, or after the user (driver, etc.) of the navigation device S approves the search results.

[0109] Thereafter, the processing unit 8 monitors whether or not the re-search result corresponding to the transmitted route data and the corresponding update data are transmitted from the server device SV (step S51). If the re-search result etc. are not transmitted in the monitoring of step S51 (step S51; NO), the processing unit 8 proceeds to the processing of step S52 described later and performs route guidance for the mobile body using the route data generated by the processing of step S40.

[0110] On the other hand, if the re-search result or the like is transmitted in the monitoring of step S51 (step S51; YES), the processing unit 8 updates the map data SD using the transmitted update data (step S6), and further provides route guidance for the mobile object using the route data included in the re-search result (step S52). Thereafter, the processing unit 8 executes the process of step S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0111] On the other hand, in the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment, when the power supply of the server device V as the server device SV is turned on, the processing unit 11 of the server device V monitors whether or not the route data has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S55). If, in the monitoring of step S55, no route data has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S55; NO), the processing unit 11 continues to monitor the reception of the route data.

[0112] On the other hand, if the processing unit 11 receives the route data from any navigation device S during the monitoring of step S55 (YES in step S55), the processing unit 11 then verifies, based on the received route data, whether the route indicated by the route data is optimal in light of the map data VD currently stored in the server device SV (step S56). More specifically, the processing unit 11 searches for a new route using the departure point data and destination data included in the transmitted route data, and determines whether the route is identical to the content of the route data received during the monitoring of step S55. At this time, the processing unit 11 also determines whether any roads in the route searched by the navigation device S are no longer available. Then, if the content of the route data received during the monitoring of step S55 is identical to the content of the newly searched route (NO in step S56), the processing unit 11 returns to step S55 and continues monitoring for the reception of route data. In this case, the processing unit 11 may transmit a message indicating the identity to the navigation device S that transmitted the route data during the monitoring of step S55.

[0113] On the other hand, if the determination in step S56 shows that the contents of the two route data are different (step S56; YES), the processing unit 11 transmits route data indicating the newly searched route as the re-search result to the navigation device S that transmitted the route data in the monitoring in step S55 (step S57). At this time, if the route data received in the monitoring in step S55 includes a road that is no longer usable, the processing unit 11 also transmits a message to that effect and related update data. Thereafter, the processing unit 11 executes the process of step S13 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5.

[0114] In the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment described above, if the re-search results and the like transmitted from the server device SV do not provide sufficient update data to update the map data SD of the navigation device S, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S may be configured to request and obtain the update data for the insufficient portion (for example, the missing road data 91) from the server device SV again, and use this to update the map data SD.

[0115] Furthermore, in the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment described above, the route data transmitted from the navigation device S (see step S50 above) may include additional information such as road travel instructions and time-of-day changes. The additional information may also include version data of the map data 91 indicating the guide point included in the route data. In this case, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV determines whether the map data VD is the latest, including the additional information. If updated data is present in the map data VD, the processing unit 11 may transmit the updated data to the navigation device S to update the map data SD.

[0116] As described above, the map data update process according to the sixth embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the map data update process according to the fifth embodiment.

[0117] Next, a modification of the embodiment will be described.

[0118] (7) First Modification First, a first modified example will be described. In the first to third embodiments described above, for example, images of features are taken by the camera 7 at predetermined travel distances or time intervals and then collated, but it is also possible to configure the system so that feature collation is performed while the navigation device S is providing guidance along a route to a mobile object equipped with the navigation device S.

[0119] More specifically, route guidance typically includes easy-to-understand information about surrounding features for each guide location. For example, a voice message may be provided, such as, "Turn left at XX (facility name) at the intersection 30 meters ahead." Typically, at each intersection, there are multiple candidate facilities for the guide location at each turn, and the facility that is most easily visible to the user (driver, etc.) is selected as the guide location for the route based on the current direction of travel and the direction of the turn. Data on these guide locations and their candidate facilities is known when the route is set. Furthermore, after a guide location is set, the facility to be used for guidance may be determined from the facilities in the vicinity of the guide location when the user approaches the guide location.

[0120] Therefore, when approaching a certain guidance location, a comparison process (see steps S2 and S3 above) may be performed between a facility used for guidance at that guidance location, or multiple facilities including its candidates, and the map data SD. In this case, the comparison process is performed, in principle, using actual photographic data within a range in which the facility can be photographed by the camera 7 and which can be calculated / estimated as usable for the comparison process. In this case, a geographical range within which the comparison process is performed may be set in advance. Then, the comparison result is transmitted to the server device SV after, for example, moving outside the geographical range.

[0121] Then, when the update data for the facility is transmitted from the server device SV as a result of the transmission to the server device SV, the map data SD of the navigation device S is updated using the update data (see step S6 above).

[0122] According to the configuration of the first modified example described above, it is possible to intensively update the map data SD for facilities used for guiding a mobile body, and also to reduce the amount of communication with the server apparatus SV.

[0123] (8) Second Modification Next, the second modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the map data update process according to the second modified example. The hardware configuration of the information processing system according to the second modified example is basically the same as that of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the component numbers used in the description of the information processing system SS according to the first embodiment will be used to describe the operation of the information processing system according to the second modified example.

[0124] In the above-described embodiments and the first modified example, the update process of the map data SD or the map data VD is started when the server device SV receives a matching result from any of the navigation devices S. At this time, the corresponding feature data 140 or 50 may not be updated for a long period of time due to various reasons, such as when the feature is located in a place where people do not often visit. This is particularly undesirable for the map data VD that is positioned as master map data.

[0125] Therefore, in the map data update process according to the second modified example, the server device SV periodically identifies features whose corresponding feature data 140 have not been updated for a long period of time, and collects feature data for update for those features from each navigation device S to update the feature data 140. Note that the map data update process according to the second embodiment is a process that is executed as an interrupt process when the map data update process according to each embodiment is set as a main routine. Furthermore, as for the feature data 140 according to the second modified example, time data indicating the timing at which the data was updated is associated with each feature ID and recorded in the recording unit 14 for each feature.

[0126] Specifically, in the map data update process according to the second modification, first, features corresponding to feature data 140 that have not been updated for a long period of time are identified and listed at regular intervals. In the following description, this list will be referred to as an "update list." This update list is non-volatilely stored in the storage unit 14 of the server device SV.

[0127] 11(a), in the map data update process according to the second modification, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV monitors whether a predetermined timing has arrived as the timing for identifying feature data 140 that has not been updated for a long period of time (step S60). As the timing for identification at this time, the processing unit 11 periodically identifies the timing at intervals of, for example, once every few weeks.

[0128] If the timing for identification has not arrived in the monitoring of step S60 (step S60; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, if the timing for identification has arrived in the monitoring of step S60 (step S60; YES), the processing unit 11 next determines whether or not the listing process has been completed for all features (step S61), and if completed (step S61; NO), returns to the original main routine.

[0129] On the other hand, if there is a feature for which the listing process has not been completed (step S61; YES), the processing unit 11 next reads the time data indicating the most recent update timing for that feature from the recording unit 14 (step S62), and then determines whether the current time is a time that a predetermined period (e.g., several weeks) has elapsed since the read update timing (step S63). If the determination in step S63 is that the current time is not a time that the predetermined period has elapsed (step S63; NO), it determines that listing for updating the feature data 140 corresponding to that feature is unnecessary, and the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, if the determination in step S63 is that the predetermined period has elapsed (step S63; YES), the processing unit 11 adds that feature to the update list (step S64), increments the feature ID by "1" (step S65) so that the process from step S61 onwards is repeated for the next feature, and proceeds to the process in step S61. By repeating the above-described processing of steps S60 to S65 for all features, an update list is generated that includes features corresponding to feature data 140 that has not been updated for the predetermined period.

[0130] Next, the process of updating the feature data 140 using the update list will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 11(b). As shown in FIG. 11(b), in the process of updating the feature data 140 according to the second embodiment, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV monitors whether any communication has been received from any of the navigation devices S (step S70) in parallel with the process of generating the update list shown in FIG. 11(a), for example. The communication in step S70 includes not only the reception of the matching result in each of the above embodiments, but also other communication that can identify the navigation device S that is the sender. If it is determined in step S70 that no communication has been received (step S70; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S70 that any communication has been received (step S70; YES), the processing unit 11 then determines whether the navigation device S that is the sender of the communication supports updating the feature data 140 (step S71). If it does not support updating (step S71; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine.

[0131] On the other hand, if the identification in step S71 shows that the communicating navigation device S supports updating of the feature data 140 (step S71; YES), then the processing unit 11 determines whether a route (route data) for travel guidance has been set in the navigation device S, for example, using the received comparison result (step S72). If the determination in step S72 shows that a route has been set in the navigation device S (step S72; YES), the processing unit 11 lists the features that are located on the set route or in an area along the route and that are currently included in the update list, by using their corresponding feature IDs (step S73). On the other hand, if the determination in step S72 shows that the route has not been set (step S72; NO), the processing unit 11 identifies and lists the features that are located, for example, within a predetermined geographical range centered on the current location of the mobile body on which the navigation device S is installed, or within the administrative division to which the current location belongs, and that are currently included in the update list, by using their corresponding feature IDs (step S74).

[0132] Next, the processing unit 11 transmits data corresponding to the list (including the corresponding feature IDs) generated by the processing of step S73 or the processing of step S74 to the navigation device S with which it is communicating during the monitoring of step S70 (step S75).

[0133] In addition, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S that receives the data transmits to the server device SV, for features whose feature IDs are included in the list corresponding to the received data, the feature data 50 recorded by the navigation device S, or the feature data 50 accompanied by actual photographic data captured by the camera 7 of the navigation device S, etc.

[0134] After transmitting data corresponding to the list generated by the process of step S73 or step S74, the processing unit 11 of the server device SV monitors whether or not feature data 50 corresponding to the list has been transmitted from the destination navigation device S (step S76). If the corresponding feature data 50 has not been transmitted in the monitoring of step S76 (step S76; NO), the processing unit 11 returns to the original main routine. On the other hand, if the corresponding feature data 50 has been transmitted (step S76; YES), the processing unit 11 uses the transmitted feature data 50 to update the feature data 140 of the corresponding feature (the feature data 140 that has not been updated for a long period of time) and the associated map data VD (step S77). The processing unit 11 then returns to the original main routine. The processes of steps S70 to S77 are performed each time any communication is performed with the navigation device S, thereby updating the feature data 140 that has not been updated for a predetermined period of time with the map data 50 transmitted from the navigation device S.

[0135] According to the map data update process of the second modified example described above, features whose corresponding feature data 140 have not been updated for a specified period are extracted, and the map data VD including the feature data 140 is updated using the feature data 50 transmitted from the navigation device S in accordance with the feature ID indicating the feature. This makes it possible to update the map data VD at every specified period.

[0136] In addition to periodically checking all features and creating a list as explained using Figure 11(a), another example of generating the update list is to first generate a (temporary) update list for all features and then update each feature individually.

[0137] More specifically, for example, in the update list created initially, the processing unit 11 arranges the feature data 140 in order of most recent update date and time, and updates the feature data 140 for each feature as needed (i.e., updates using the feature data 50 from the navigation device S). Then, when an update is performed on one piece of feature data 140, the order of that feature data 140 in the existing update list is changed based on the date and time of the update. In this way, it is possible to maintain a state in which an update list in which the update dates and times are clearly identified is recorded in the recording unit 14.

[0138] Another possible method is for the processing unit 11 to gradually expand the range of feature data 140 to be updated in the initially created update list at regular intervals so as to include data whose most recent update date and time is later, and then update the feature data 140 that is currently being updated using the feature data 50 from the navigation device S.

[0139] Furthermore, it is also possible to record programs corresponding to the flowcharts shown in Figures 5 to 10 on a recording medium such as a flexible disk or a hard disk, or obtain them via a network such as the Internet, and then read and execute them on a general-purpose microcomputer or the like, thereby causing the microcomputer or the like to function as the processing unit 8 and processing unit 11 according to the embodiments.

[0140] (9) Information notification operation Next, the information notification operation will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0141] First, in a navigation device S, which is an example of an information notification device, a user inputs, via the operation unit 4, keywords and the like for performing a route search.

[0142] Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the navigation device S performs a route search (step S80). Specifically, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S performs a route search based on the input information. Note that the navigation device S may search for stores, places, etc. associated with the keywords input by the user, and may search for a map showing the stores, places, etc. Furthermore, with regard to the searched route (an example of a set guide route), the navigation device S may inquire of the server device SV as to whether or not there is any updated information on the searched route. Here, feature information present on the searched route is an example of identified feature information. Then, if there is any updated information as a result of the inquiry, the navigation device S may acquire the updated information from the server device SV.

[0143] Next, the navigation device S determines the display location of the route (step S81). Specifically, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S determines the display location to be displayed on the output unit 2 based on the route search results. For example, a display of the entire route from the current location to the destination, a display of the area near the destination, or a display of important points along the route are examples of the display location. The display location may also be a map of the area near a store or place related to the keyword. The display location of the route is an example of identified feature information. The display location is also an example of the map information of the portion to be output.

[0144] Next, the navigation device S determines whether or not there is an updated feature in the displayed location (step S82). Specifically, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S references the recording unit 9 and determines, based on the update information, whether or not there is an updated feature in the displayed location. Note that the navigation device S may make this determination by limiting the update information to updates that have occurred within a predetermined period from the present. The navigation device S also determines whether or not there is update information regarding feature information related to the set guide route.

[0145] If there are any updated features in the display area (step S82; YES), the navigation device S notifies the user of the updated features and displays the route (step S83). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the processing unit 8 of the navigation device S simultaneously displays the pre-update map information 21 and the updated map information 22 on the output unit 2. In the output unit 2, the pre-update map information 21 area displays pre-update road guide sign information (an example of pre-update feature information). In the output unit 2, the updated map information 22 area displays updated road guide sign information (an example of updated feature information). In the map information 22 area, a newly constructed road 23, a destination name 24, and a road sign 25 are highlighted as examples of updated features. For example, the road 23 is displayed in a conspicuous color, flashing, or the like. The destination name 24 is displayed large. Furthermore, the navigation device S may notify the user of the updated information by a voice from the speaker of the output unit 2 indicating the presence of a new road.

[0146] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 14, the navigation device S may display pre-update map information and updated map information on the output unit 2 with a time delay. For example, as shown in FIG. 14(a), the navigation device S first displays pre-update map information. As shown in FIG. 14(b), the navigation device S displays map information in an intermediate state. As the intermediate state map information, roads 26 in an intermediate display state and destination names 37 in an intermediate display state are displayed on the output unit 2. Then, as shown in FIG. 14(c), the navigation device S displays updated map information in which roads 23 and destination names 24 are displayed. In other words, the navigation device S may display the pre-update map information by fading out and the updated map information by fading in, creating a cross-fade.

[0147] It is also possible to simply switch from the pre-update map information shown in FIG. 14(a) to the updated map information shown in FIG. 14(c) without going through the intermediate state shown in FIG. 14(b).

[0148] The display may also be switched from the pre-update map information to the updated map information, as if the screen were wiped. After the switch, the updated features may be made to blink.

[0149] Furthermore, the navigation device S may display the map information before the update as shown in FIG. 14(a), and then display the map information before the update and the map information after the update side by side for a certain period of time as shown in FIG. 13, and then display the updated map information on the output unit 2 as shown in FIG. 14(c).

[0150] The transition may also be a combination of fade, wipe, highlight, etc.

[0151] If there is no updated feature in the display area (step S82; NO), the navigation device S displays the normal route (step S84).

[0152] As described above, update information can be obtained from the server device that updated the map information and notified to the user, allowing the user to recognize updates to the map information. Furthermore, if the terminal device determines that feature information included in the terminal device map information stored in the terminal device differs from feature information newly acquired by the terminal device, the update information is obtained from the server device that updates the map information, so the accuracy of the update information is increased and the user can recognize highly accurate map information. Since update information is notified and no notification is not required if there is no update, information can be notified efficiently. Furthermore, if the notification means notifies the user of update information and the user knows what the updated update information is, the user can focus only on the update information.

[0153] Furthermore, since the system notifies users of updated information about roads they are using or about to use, it is possible to notify them of updated information effectively. Furthermore, users can check in advance any changes to facilities on roads they will be passing through. By being able to check in advance, users can be aware that the system will always provide them with the latest map information. In other words, this improves the reliability of map information, allowing users to drive more comfortably.

[0154] Furthermore, the server device SV is queried as to whether or not there is update information for the identified feature information, and when update information is found to exist, the update information is acquired from the server device SV, and update information can be efficiently acquired for feature information that is likely to attract the user's attention, and notified to the user.

[0155] Furthermore, when determining whether or not update information exists in the map information to be output and notifying the user of the update information based on the determination result, the update information is obtained from a server device that has updated the map information based on feature information collected from each terminal device, and the user is notified of any update information that exists when the map information is output, allowing the user to recognize highly accurate map information.

[0156] Furthermore, when determining whether or not there is updated information about feature information related to the set recommended route, it becomes easier to recognize updated feature information on the route.

[0157] Furthermore, when the pre-update map information and the updated map information are displayed simultaneously or with a time lag based on the update information, the pre-update and post-update information can be compared, making it easier for the user to recognize the updated areas. Because the pre-update map information and the post-update map information are displayed in parallel or in chronological order, the user can confirm that the map is up to date. This is expected to increase the user's confidence in the map data. Furthermore, by notifying the user of update information regarding the location where the user is traveling, the user can actually confirm the changed features at that location.

[0158] Furthermore, when update information regarding updating of map information is obtained from a server device that updates map information based on feature information transmitted from a terminal device, it is possible to provide timely update information collected from the terminal device, or highly accurate update information collected from the terminal device.

[0159] Furthermore, when feature information before the update and feature information after the update are displayed simultaneously or with a time lag based on the update information, the specific feature information allows comparison of the information before and after the update, making it easier to recognize.

[0160] Furthermore, when updated features are highlighted in the updated map information based on the update information, by limiting the highlighting to the features, it is possible to specifically express that part, making it easier for the user to visually understand that an update has been made.

[0161] Next, a modified example of the information notification display will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0162] 15, the navigation device S may highlight updated features 28 in the road information displayed in three dimensions. Furthermore, the updated parts may be highlighted by balloon displays 29 so that they stand out.

[0163] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16, when a new feature (for example, a road or a tunnel) is created on the searched route, the navigation device S may display the updated portion by changing the color, thickness, or blinking of the updated road 30 compared to the road before the update, or by adding a balloon display 29.

[0164] If an updated feature is located near the searched route, the navigation device S may notify the user of the updated feature even if the feature is not on the route.

[0165] The navigation device S may also use map information that was updated a certain period of time ago as the pre-update map information. The pre-update map information may also be map information that was previously acquired from a recording medium, a network, or the like.

[0166] Furthermore, the transmitting unit, which transmits the update information for the update only when the determining unit determines that an update is necessary, may be a terminal device that has not yet transmitted feature information or that will not transmit feature information, in addition to the terminal device that transmitted the received feature information. This terminal device has the function of an information notification device.

[0167] In addition to the navigation device S, an example of the information notification device may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone.

[0168] The received feature information may include at least a determination result indicating that the feature information is different in the terminal device, and identification information for identifying the feature information within the map information.

[0169] Furthermore, each of the terminal devices may be equipped with an imaging means for imaging the feature, and the feature information may correspond to image information generated by imaging the feature corresponding to the feature information.

[0170] In addition, each of the terminal devices may further include a detection means for detecting features that indicate the characteristics of the feature in the generated image information, and the received feature information may be transmitted from the terminal device only when it is determined that the feature information included in the terminal device map information differs from the newly acquired feature information, based on the features in the image information generated by capturing an image of the feature corresponding to the newly acquired feature information.

[0171] The system may further include a determination means for determining the need to update the stored map information based on the received feature information, and a transmission means for transmitting request information to the terminal device to request the transmission of the generated image information when it is determined that the update is necessary, and the image information may be transmitted from the terminal device to which the request information has been transmitted only when the transmitted request information has been received.

[0172] The information processing device may further include an extraction means for extracting, from among the features whose feature information is included in the stored map information, features whose corresponding feature information has not been received by the receiving means for a predetermined period of time; an identification information transmission means for transmitting feature identification information indicating the extracted features to the terminal device; and an update means for updating the map information using the transmitted feature information when the feature information corresponding to the feature indicated by the transmitted feature identification information is transmitted from the terminal device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0173] 1. Method for obtaining update information (interface) 2 Notification means (output section) 3 Judgment section 8, 11 Processing section 9, 14 Recording section S Information notification device SS Information Processing System S1, S2, Sn Navigation device (information notification device, terminal device) SV server device W Network SD, VD map data

Claims

[Claim 1] a storage unit that stores map information; an acquisition unit that acquires matching result information that indicates a result of matching between feature information included in terminal device map information stored in the terminal device and image information captured by an image capturing unit stored in the terminal device; a request unit that requests the terminal device to transmit the image information captured by the imaging unit when it is determined that the map information needs to be updated based on the matching result information; A server device comprising:

Images