Traffic information providing device, traffic information distribution device, traffic information providing method, traffic information distribution method, traffic information providing program, and traffic information distribution program

Abstract

To reduce a communication amount in transmitting dynamic information to another device, and to enhance accuracy of traffic information to be generated by the other device.SOLUTION: A traffic information provision device comprises: a detection section for detecting a peripheral object; an acquisition section for acquiring position information of a dead angle area to be a dead angle of a mobile body in an object area and object information related to the mobile object; a first identification section for identifying an overlap area of the dead angle area with a detection range of the detection section based on the position information acquired by the acquisition section; a second identification section for identifying a prediction area including a traffic line predicted that the mobile body moves based on the object information acquired by the acquisition section; and a transmission section for transmitting detection information which indicates a detection result of the detection section in an area to be identified based on the overlap area identified by the first identification section and the prediction area identified by the second identification section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a traffic information providing device, a traffic information distribution device, a traffic information providing method, a traffic information distribution method, a traffic information providing program, and a traffic information distribution program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, technologies have been developed to deliver dynamic information, such as information about objects present around a vehicle, to the vehicle in order to support safe driving of the vehicle. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-26009 (Patent Document 1) describes the following dynamic map construction method. Specifically, a roadside device 419 transmits first detection data acquired by a first sensor 411 to a sensor integrating server 400. The sensor integrating server 400 extracts an unobservable area, which is a blind spot of the first sensor 411, based on the received first detection data and transmits unobservable area information indicating the unobservable area to at least one mobile terminal 439. The mobile terminal 439 extracts second dynamic information indicating an object present in the sensing range of the second sensor 431 based on second detection data acquired by the second sensor 431, determines whether there is an overlapping area between the unobservable area indicated by the received unobservable area information and the sensing range of the second sensor, and, if it is determined that there is an overlapping area, transmits third dynamic information, which is part of the second dynamic information and indicates an object present in the overlapping area, to the sensor integrating server 400. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-26009 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The dynamic map construction method described in Patent Document 1 mentioned above can reduce the amount of communication traffic when a mobile terminal such as an in-vehicle device uploads dynamic information to a sensor integration server.

[0005] However, communication delays may occur when uploading dynamic information to the sensor integrated server, or the sensor integrated server may need time to process the dynamic information. In such cases, moving objects in the target area may move before the traffic information is generated, resulting in a decrease in the accuracy of the traffic information.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a traffic information providing device, a traffic information distribution device, a traffic information providing method, a traffic information distribution method, a traffic information providing program, and a traffic information distribution program that can reduce the amount of communication when transmitting dynamic information to other devices and can further improve the accuracy of traffic information generated by other devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The traffic information providing device of the present disclosure includes a detection unit that detects surrounding objects, an acquisition unit that acquires position information of blind spot areas that are blind spots for moving objects in a target area and object information related to the moving objects, a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit, a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit, and a transmission unit that transmits detection information indicating the detection results by the detection unit in the area identified based on the overlapping area identified by the first identification unit and the predicted area identified by the second identification unit.

[0008] The traffic information distribution device of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires position information of blind spot areas that are blind spots for moving objects in a target area and object information related to the moving objects, a transmission unit that transmits the position information and the object information acquired by the acquisition unit to another device, and a receiving unit that receives detection information from the other device that indicates the detection result of the object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device and a prediction area that includes a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0009] The traffic information providing method of the present disclosure is a traffic information providing method for a traffic information providing device, and includes the steps of: acquiring position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area, and object information related to the moving object; identifying an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the surrounding detection range of the traffic information providing device based on the acquired position information; identifying a predicted area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the acquired object information; and transmitting detection information indicating the detection results of the object in the area identified based on the identified overlapping area and the predicted area.

[0010] The traffic information distribution method of the present disclosure is a traffic information distribution method in a traffic information distribution device, and includes the steps of acquiring position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area, and object information related to the moving object, transmitting the acquired position information and object information to another device, and receiving detection information from the other device indicating the detection result of the object in an area specified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device, and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0011] The traffic information provision program disclosed herein is a traffic information provision program used in a traffic information provision device, and causes a computer to function as a detection unit that detects surrounding objects, an acquisition unit that acquires location information of blind spot areas in a target area that are blind spots for moving objects and object information related to the moving objects, a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the location information acquired by the acquisition unit, a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a movement path along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit, and a transmission unit that transmits detection information indicating the detection results by the detection unit in the area identified based on the overlapping area identified by the first identification unit and the predicted area identified by the second identification unit.

[0012] The traffic information distribution program disclosed herein is a traffic information distribution program used in a traffic information distribution device, and causes a computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires position information of blind spot areas that are blind spots for moving objects in a target area and object information related to the moving objects, a transmission unit that transmits the position information and the object information acquired by the acquisition unit to another device, and a receiving unit that receives detection information from the other device that indicates the detection results of an object in an area identified based on an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device, and a predicted area that includes the movement line along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0013] One aspect of the present disclosure can be realized not only as a traffic information providing device having such a characteristic processing unit, but also as a semiconductor integrated circuit that realizes part or all of the traffic information providing device, or as a system that includes the traffic information providing device.

[0014] One aspect of the present disclosure may be realized not only as a traffic information distribution device having such a characteristic processing unit, but also as a semiconductor integrated circuit that realizes part or all of the traffic information distribution device, or as a system that includes the traffic information distribution device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the amount of communication when transmitting dynamic information to other devices, and to further improve the accuracy of traffic information generated by other devices. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a traffic information distribution system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating driving information generated by a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a format of a frame in which driving information is stored and transmitted from a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overlapping area identified by a first identifying unit in the in-vehicle device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a provision area determined by an information processing unit in an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a provision area determined by an information processing unit in an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of a provision area determined by an information processing unit in an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an example of a sequence that defines the operation procedures of each device in the traffic information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is an example of a sequence that defines the operation procedures of each device in the traffic information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] First, the contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0018] (1) A traffic information providing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a detection unit that detects surrounding objects; an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area and object information related to the moving object; a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit; a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit; and a transmission unit that transmits detection information indicating the detection results by the detection unit in the area identified based on the overlapping area identified by the first identification unit and the predicted area identified by the second identification unit.

[0019] This configuration allows the amount of data of detection information to be appropriately reduced. Even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information to another device or if it takes time for the other device to process the detection information, the detection result of an object in an area that takes into account changes in the position of the blind spot due to the movement of the moving object can be transmitted. Therefore, the amount of communication required when transmitting dynamic information to another device can be reduced, and the accuracy of traffic information generated by the other device can be further improved.

[0020] (2) The acquisition unit may acquire speed information of the moving object as the object information.

[0021] With this configuration, the moving distance of a moving object can be predicted, and the predicted area can be specified more accurately.

[0022] (3) The acquisition unit may acquire, as the object information, orientation information of the moving object.

[0023] With this configuration, the moving direction of the moving object can be predicted and the predicted area can be specified more accurately.

[0024] (4) The detection information may include a result of detecting an object in an area that includes both the overlap area and the predicted area.

[0025] With this configuration, other devices can obtain object detection results not only in the overlapping area but also in a range including the predicted area, thereby making it possible to more reliably generate highly accurate traffic information.

[0026] (5) When the overlapping area identified by the first identifying unit does not exist, the transmitting unit may not need to transmit the detection information.

[0027] In this way, by using a configuration in which the object detection result is not transmitted when there is no overlapping area, it is possible to more appropriately reduce the amount of communication between other devices.

[0028] (6) A traffic information distribution device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area and object information related to the moving object; a transmission unit that transmits the position information and the object information acquired by the acquisition unit to another device; and a receiving unit that receives detection information from the other device indicating the detection result of the object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0029] This configuration allows the amount of data of detection information transmitted from the in-vehicle device to be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information from the in-vehicle device or if it takes time for another device, such as a traffic information distribution device, to process the detection information, the detection result of an object in an area that takes into account changes in the position of the blind spot due to the movement of the moving object can be received. Therefore, the amount of communication when transmitting dynamic information to another device can be reduced, and the accuracy of traffic information generated by the other device can be further improved.

[0030] (7) A traffic information providing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a traffic information providing method in a traffic information providing device, and includes the steps of: acquiring location information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area, and object information regarding the moving object; identifying an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the surrounding detection range of the traffic information providing device based on the acquired location information; identifying a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the acquired object information; and transmitting detection information indicating the detection result of the object in the area identified based on the identified overlapping area and the predicted area.

[0031] This method can appropriately reduce the amount of data of detection information transmitted to other devices. Even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information to other devices or if it takes time for the other devices to process the detection information, it is possible to transmit the detection result of an object in an area that takes into account changes in the position of the blind spot due to the movement of the moving object. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of communication when transmitting dynamic information to other devices and further improve the accuracy of traffic information generated by other devices.

[0032] (8) A traffic information distribution method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a traffic information distribution method in a traffic information distribution device, and includes the steps of acquiring location information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area and object information related to the moving object, transmitting the acquired location information and object information to another device, and receiving detection information from the other device indicating a detection result of the object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0033] This method can appropriately reduce the amount of data in the detection information transmitted from the in-vehicle device. Furthermore, even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information from the in-vehicle device or if it takes time for another device, such as a traffic information distribution device, to process the detection information, it is possible to receive detection results for objects in areas that take into account changes in the position of blind spots due to the movement of moving objects. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of communication required when transmitting dynamic information to other devices and further improve the accuracy of traffic information generated by other devices.

[0034] (9) A traffic information providing program according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a traffic information providing program used in a traffic information providing device, and causes a computer to function as a detection unit that detects surrounding objects, an acquisition unit that acquires position information of blind spot areas in a target area that are blind spots for moving objects and object information related to the moving objects, a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit, a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit, and a transmission unit that transmits detection information indicating the detection results by the detection unit in the area identified based on the overlapping area identified by the first identification unit and the predicted area identified by the second identification unit.

[0035] This configuration allows the amount of data of detection information to be appropriately reduced. Even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information to another device or if it takes time for the other device to process the detection information, the detection result of an object in an area that takes into account changes in the position of the blind spot due to the movement of the moving object can be transmitted. Therefore, the amount of communication required when transmitting dynamic information to another device can be reduced, and the accuracy of traffic information generated by the other device can be further improved.

[0036] (10) A traffic information distribution program according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a traffic information distribution program used in a traffic information distribution device, and causes a computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in a target area and object information related to the moving object, a transmission unit that transmits the position information and the object information acquired by the acquisition unit to another device, and a receiving unit that receives detection information from the other device indicating the detection result of an object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0037] This configuration allows the amount of data of detection information transmitted from the in-vehicle device to be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, even if a communication delay occurs when transmitting the detection information from the in-vehicle device or if it takes time for another device, such as a traffic information distribution device, to process the detection information, the detection result of an object in an area that takes into account changes in the position of the blind spot due to the movement of the moving object can be received. Therefore, the amount of communication when transmitting dynamic information to another device can be reduced, and the accuracy of traffic information generated by the other device can be further improved.

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, identical or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. Furthermore, at least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[0039] <Configuration and basic operation> [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a traffic information distribution system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] 1, a traffic information distribution system 300 includes a distribution server (traffic information distribution device) 100, one or more in-vehicle devices (traffic information providing devices) 200, and one or more roadside units 60 installed on the roadside in a target area. The in-vehicle device 200 is mounted on a vehicle 40. The target area includes, for example, an intersection or a branch point of a road.

[0041] The roadside device 60 is capable of communicating with the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20 using, for example, ITS (Intelligent Transport System) wireless.

[0042] The roadside device 60 periodically or irregularly detects surrounding objects using sensors such as a camera, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and millimeter-wave radar device, and transmits detection information indicating the detection results to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20. The objects include vehicles and people. The detection information includes, for example, the type, position, speed, and moving direction of each detected object.

[0043] When the vehicle 40 is present within a target area, the in-vehicle device 200 mounted on the vehicle 40 periodically or irregularly detects surrounding objects using a sensor mounted on the vehicle 40, similar to the roadside device 60, and transmits detection information indicating the detection results to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20. Hereinafter, each of the roadside device 60 and the in-vehicle device 200 will also be referred to as a detection device.

[0044] Each detector may be configured to transmit detection information indicating the object detection result to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20 when receiving a request for detection information from the distribution server 100.

[0045] The distribution server 100 receives detection information from one or more detection devices present in the target area via the wireless base station 20, and generates driving information including the detection results of objects in the target area that are wider than the detection range of each detection device, i.e., dynamic information, based on the received detection information. The driving information indicates the type, position, speed, and movement direction of each object present in the target area.

[0046] Furthermore, the distribution server 100 transmits the generated driving information to the in-vehicle device 200 of the vehicle 40 present in the target area via the wireless base station 20. Hereinafter, the vehicle 40 to which the driving information is to be transmitted is also referred to as a distribution destination vehicle.

[0047] The in-vehicle device 200 of the vehicle 40, which is the distribution destination vehicle, acquires location information of the vehicle 40 acquired by a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNNS), such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver (not shown), mounted on the vehicle 40. The in-vehicle device 200 also acquires detection results of surrounding objects detected by a sensor mounted on the vehicle 40.

[0048] The in-vehicle device 200 then provides driving assistance for the vehicle 40 based on the acquired position information of the vehicle 40, the object detection results, and driving information from the distribution server 100. Specifically, as driving assistance, the in-vehicle device 200 performs control to display a driving route on the screen of a car navigation system, and performs automatic driving by controlling the driving of the vehicle 40, such as the speed.

[0049] [Distribution server] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] 2, distribution server 100 includes map generation unit 11, storage unit 12, receiving unit 13, identification unit (acquisition unit) 14, and transmission unit 15. Map generation unit 11 and identification unit 14 are realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Receiving unit 13 and transmission unit 15 are realized by a communication circuit such as a communication IC (Integrated Circuit). Storage unit 12 is, for example, a non-volatile memory.

[0051] (Memory unit, map generation unit and transmission unit) Map data of a target area, which is static information, is stored in the memory unit 12. The receiver 13 receives detection information transmitted from the detection device via the wireless base station 20 and outputs the received detection information to the map generator 11.

[0052] The map generating unit 11 receives the detection information output from the receiving unit 13 and generates driving information based on the detection information and the map data stored in the storage unit 12 .

[0053] 3 is a diagram illustrating driving information generated by a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, as an example, driving information generated based on detection information from a roadside device 60 will be described.

[0054] 2 and 3, map generator 11 generates driving information indicating the state of each area when the target area is divided into a grid. Hereinafter, each area will also be referred to as a grid.

[0055] The grid state includes, for example, an "unknown state" in which no detection result can be obtained because the roadside unit 60 is outside its detection range or because map data does not exist, an "object presence state" in which an object is present, a "blind spot state" in which the object is in a blind spot, and a "clear state" in which no object is present.

[0056] Hereinafter, an area in an unknown state will also be referred to as an "unknown area," an area in an object-present state will also be referred to as an "object-present area," an area in a blind spot state will also be referred to as a "blind spot area," and an area in a clear state will also be referred to as a "clear area."

[0057] The map generation unit 11 determines the state of each grid based on the map data and detection information from the roadside device 60, and generates driving information indicating the determined state of each grid and the position of each grid. The map generation unit 11 then stores the generated driving information in the storage unit 12. The position of each grid is indicated using, for example, latitude and longitude.

[0058] The detection device may determine the state of each grid included in the detection range and transmit the determined state of each grid and detection information indicating the position of each grid to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20.

[0059] Furthermore, the map generation unit 11 outputs the generated driving information to the transmission unit 15, for example. Upon receiving the driving information output from the map generation unit 11, the transmission unit 15 broadcasts the driving information to a plurality of vehicles 40 in the target area, for example.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a format of a frame in which driving information is stored and transmitted from a distribution server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, the driving information is stored in a data area of ​​a frame, and includes, for example, a provision point management number, provision point coordinate information, object information, and state information.

[0062] The provision point management number includes, for example, the code of the prefecture that includes the target area, a provision point type code that indicates whether the target area is an intersection or a parking area, and a provision point ID (Identification) that is unique to each target area.

[0063] The provided point coordinate information includes, for example, the latitude and longitude of each grid included in the target area. The object information includes type information, position information, speed information, and direction information for each object present in the target area. The status information indicates the status of each grid.

[0064] When the in-vehicle device 200 receives the driving information broadcast from the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20, it checks, for example, the provision point ID contained in the frame in which the driving information is stored, and determines whether or not to use the contents of the driving information for driving assistance of the vehicle 40.

[0065] Specifically, the in-vehicle device 200 determines to use the content of the driving information for driving assistance when the provision point ID is an intersection ID within a predetermined range from the position of the vehicle 40 in which the in-vehicle device 200 is installed. Then, the in-vehicle device 200 provides driving assistance for the vehicle 40 based on the state of each grid indicated by the driving information, the position information of the vehicle 40, etc.

[0066] The transmitter 15 is not limited to a configuration that broadcasts the driving information to a plurality of vehicles 40, but may be a configuration that unicasts the driving information to one or a plurality of vehicles 40 in the target area.

[0067] (Specific part) Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the identification unit 14 acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot for a moving object in the target area, and object information about the moving object.

[0068] For example, the identification unit 14 refers to the driving information stored in the memory unit 12, and if, for example, as shown in Figure 3, an object presence area R1 exists on the road and there is also an area adjacent to the object presence area R1 that is in a blind spot state, the identification unit 14 identifies the area as a blind spot area R2 that is a blind spot for a moving object.

[0069] In addition, for simplicity of explanation, Figure 3 shows the object presence area R1 where the moving object P is located and the blind spot area R2 which is the square of the moving object P, but does not show the object presence areas where other moving objects are located or other blind spot areas.

[0070] In addition, the identification unit 14 acquires object information indicating the type, position, speed, direction, etc. of the moving object, as well as position information of the blind spot area R2, from the driving information, and outputs the acquired position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 to the transmission unit 15.

[0071] When the transmitter 15 receives the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 output from the identifier 14, the transmitter 15 broadcasts the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 to, for example, a plurality of vehicles 40 that are present in or around the blind spot area R2. At this time, the transmitter 15 requests detection information from the plurality of vehicles 40 along with the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2.

[0072] In addition, the transmitter 15 is not limited to a configuration that broadcasts the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 to multiple vehicles 40, but may also be configured, for example, to unicast the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 to one or more vehicles 40 that are located within or around the blind spot area R2.

[0073] Furthermore, the distribution server 100 may request detection information from the in-vehicle device 200 of the vehicle 40, which is the moving object creating the blind spot area R2. In this case, the distribution server 100 may transmit the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 to the in-vehicle device 200, or may not transmit the position information and object information.

[0074] Furthermore, the object information of a moving object is not limited to including all of type information, position information, speed information, and orientation information, but may also be information including at least one of type information, position information, speed information, and orientation information.

[0075] [In-vehicle device] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] 5, in-vehicle device 200 includes a receiving unit (acquiring unit) 31, a detecting unit 32, an information processing unit 33, an identifying unit 34, and a transmitting unit 35. Information processing unit 33 and identifying unit 34 are realized by a processor such as a CPU and a DSP. Receiving unit 31 and transmitting unit 35 are realized by a communication circuit such as a communication IC. Identifying unit 34 includes a first identifying unit 51 and a second identifying unit 52.

[0077] When the receiving unit 31 receives the request for the position information, object information, and detection information of the blind spot area R2 transmitted from the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20, the receiving unit 31 notifies the detecting unit 32 that the request for the detection information has been received. In addition, the receiving unit 31 outputs the position information and object information of the blind spot area R2 from the distribution server 100 to the identifying unit 34.

[0078] When the detection unit 32 receives notification from the receiving unit 31 that a request for detection information has been received, the detection unit 32 uses sensors mounted on the vehicle 40 to detect objects around the in-vehicle device 200 periodically or irregularly, and outputs the detection results, such as the position of each detected object, to the information processing unit 33.

[0079] The first identification unit 51 in the identification unit 34 identifies an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the detection range of the detection unit 32, based on the detection result held by the information processing unit 33 and the position information of the blind spot area R2 received from the receiving unit 31. Then, the first identification unit 51 outputs the position information of the identified overlapping area R3 to the information processing unit 33.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overlapping area identified by a first identifying unit in the in-vehicle device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] Referring to Figure 6, it is assumed here that a vehicle 40a is located in a blind spot area R2 created by a moving object P, and that an in-vehicle device 200a of the vehicle 40a receives a request from the distribution server 100 for location information of the blind spot area R2, object information of the moving object, and detection information.

[0082] In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the first identification unit 51 in the in-vehicle device 200a identifies an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the detection range of the detection unit 32 in the vehicle 40a based on the position information of the blind spot area R2.

[0083] Here, it is assumed that the in-vehicle device 200a transmits detection information indicating the detection result of an object in the overlap region R3 to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20. In this case, the distribution server 100 receives the detection information transmitted from the in-vehicle device 200a, and generates or updates the driving information based on the detection information.

[0084] Specifically, the distribution server 100 can generate more useful driving information, for example, by changing the state of an area that was a blind spot in the driving information before the update to an object presence state or a clear state.

[0085] However, a communication delay may occur when uploading the detection information from the in-vehicle device 200 to the distribution server 100, or the distribution server 100 may require time to update the driving information. In this case, the moving object that is creating the blind spot area R2 may move, resulting in a problem of reduced accuracy of the driving information.

[0086] For this reason, the in-vehicle device 200 identifies a provision area based on the overlap area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the object detection range and the object information of the moving object that is creating the blind spot area R2, and transmits detection information indicating the object detection results in the identified provision area to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20.

[0087] More specifically, the second identification unit 52 in the identification unit 34 identifies, based on the object information received from the receiving unit 31, a predicted area R4 including the path of movement along which the moving object creating the blind spot is predicted to move.

[0088] 7 and 8 are diagrams showing an example of a provision area determined by an information processing unit in an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] 2, 7, and 8, the second identification unit 52 predicts, based on the object information, a path of travel of a moving object P moving straight through an intersection from the present until a predetermined time has elapsed, as shown in Fig. 7. The predetermined time is, for example, the length of a predicted communication delay when uploading detection information from the in-vehicle device 200 to the distribution server 100.

[0090] Then, the second identification unit 52 identifies a predicted region R4 that includes the predicted flow line, and outputs position information of the identified predicted region R4 to the information processing unit 33.

[0091] Specifically, it is assumed that the speed of the moving object P is 18 km / h and the predetermined time is 300 milliseconds. In this case, the second identification unit 52 predicts, for example, that the moving distance of the moving object P is 1.5 m (= 18 km / h × 300 milliseconds), and identifies the prediction region R4.

[0092] As another example, suppose that the second identification unit 52 predicts the path of a moving object P turning right at an intersection, as shown in Fig. 8. In this case as well, the second identification unit 52 identifies a prediction area R4 that includes the predicted path of the moving object P, and outputs position information of the identified prediction area R4 to the information processing unit 33.

[0093] The information processing unit 33 identifies the provision area R5 based on the position information of the overlap area R3 received from the first identification unit 51 and the position information of the predicted area R4 received from the second identification unit 52.

[0094] 7 and 8, the information processing unit 33 specifies an area including both the overlapping area R3 and the predicted area R4 as the provision area R5. Then, the information processing unit 33 extracts the detection results of the object in the specified provision area R5 from the detection results received from the detection unit 32, and outputs the extracted detection results to the transmission unit 35.

[0095] The transmitting unit 35 receives the detection result output from the information processing unit 33 and transmits detection information indicating the detection result to the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20.

[0096] (Variations in the area of ​​provision) FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of a provision area determined by an information processing unit in an in-vehicle device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] 9, the information processing unit 33 is not limited to a configuration in which it specifies an area including both the overlap area R3 and the prediction area R4 as the provision area R5. For example, the information processing unit 33 may specify the overlap area R3 as the provision area R5 when the position of the overlap area R3 is shifted so that the prediction area R4 is included in the overlap area R3. This makes the size of the provision area R5 the same as the size of the overlap area R3, thereby suppressing an increase in communication traffic.

[0098] The roadside device 60 may identify an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the surrounding detection range of the roadside device 60, and a predicted area R4, and transmit information indicating the detection result of an object in a provision area R5 based on the identified overlapping area R3 and predicted area R4 to the distribution server 100. In this case, the roadside device 60 includes a receiving unit 31, a detecting unit 32, an information processing unit 33, an identifying unit 34, and a transmitting unit 35, similar to the in-vehicle device 200 shown in FIG.

[0099] [Modifications of the distribution server and the in-vehicle device] The in-vehicle device 200 is not limited to a configuration in which it receives the position information of the blind spot area R2 and the object information of the moving object from the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20, but may also be configured to identify the blind spot area R2 and the moving object that is creating the blind spot area R2.

[0100] For example, the receiving unit 31 in the in-vehicle device 200 receives the driving information broadcast from the distribution server 100 via the wireless base station 20, and outputs the received driving information to the identifying unit .

[0101] The first identification unit 51 in the identification unit 34 receives the driving information output from the receiving unit 31, and identifies the blind spot area R2 that is the blind spot of a moving object, and the moving object, based on the driving information, using, for example, a method similar to the method for identifying the blind spot area R2 by the identification unit 14 of the distribution server 100. In this case, the first identification unit 51 corresponds to an acquisition unit that acquires position information of the blind spot area R2 and object information of the moving object.

[0102] Then, the first identification unit 51 identifies an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the detection range of the detection unit 32 based on the acquired position information of the blind spot area R2.

[0103] In this case, the first identification unit 51 outputs object information of the moving object acquired from the traveling information to the second identification unit 52. Based on the object information from the first identification unit 51, the second identification unit 52 identifies a prediction area R4 including a line of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move.

[0104] In the above configuration, the distribution server 100 does not need to include the identification unit 14.

[0105] Furthermore, if there is no overlapping region R3 between the blind spot region R2 and the object detection range of the detection unit 32, for example, the first identification unit 51 does not output object information of the moving object that is creating the blind spot region R2 to the second identification unit 52. In this case, the second identification unit 52 does not identify a predicted region R4, the information processing unit 33 does not identify a provision region R5, and the transmitter 35 does not transmit detection information indicating the detection result of the object in the provision region R5.

[0106] <Operation flow> Each device in the traffic information distribution system 300 is equipped with a computer including a memory, and a processing unit such as a CPU in the computer reads from the memory and executes a program including some or all of the steps in the following flowcharts and sequences. The programs for these multiple devices can each be installed externally. The programs for these multiple devices are each distributed in a state stored on a recording medium or via a communication line.

[0107] [Operational flow of each device in the traffic information distribution system (Example 1)] 10 illustrates an example of a sequence that defines the operation procedures of each device in the traffic information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, a case will be described in which the distribution server 100 transmits position information of blind spots and object information of moving objects to the in-vehicle device 200.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 10, first, roadside device 60 detects surrounding objects (step S10), and transmits detection information indicating the detection result to distribution server 100 (step S11).

[0109] Next, the distribution server 100 receives the detection information transmitted from the roadside device 60, and generates driving information indicating the detection result of the object in the target area based on the detection information (step S12).

[0110] Next, the distribution server 100 acquires, from the generated driving information, position information of the blind spot area R2 that is the blind spot of the moving object, and object information of the moving object (step S13).

[0111] Next, the distribution server 100 broadcasts the acquired position information and object information of the blind spot area R2, as well as a request for detection information, to, for example, multiple vehicles 40 that are present in or around the blind spot area R2. Here, it is assumed that the in-vehicle device 200a corresponding to the vehicle 40a receives the request for the position information, object information, and detection information of the blind spot area R2 from the distribution server 100 (step S14).

[0112] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a detects surrounding objects (step S15), and identifies an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2 and the object detection range based on the detection result and the position information of the blind spot area received from the distribution server 100 (step S16).

[0113] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a identifies a predicted region R4 including a path of movement along which the moving object creating the blind spot is predicted to move, based on the object information received from the distribution server 100 (step S17).

[0114] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a determines, for example, an area including both the identified overlap area R3 and the predicted area R4 as the provision area R5, and extracts the object detection results in the determined provision area R5 from the object detection results performed in step S15 (step S18).

[0115] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a transmits detection information indicating the extracted detection result to the distribution server 100 (step S19).

[0116] Next, the distribution server 100 receives the detection information transmitted from the in-vehicle device 200a, and updates the driving information based on the received detection information (step S20).

[0117] Next, the distribution server 100 broadcasts the updated driving information to, for example, one or more vehicles 40 in the target area. Here, it is assumed that the in-vehicle device 200b of the vehicle 40b receives the driving information (step S21).

[0118] Next, the in-vehicle device 200b detects surrounding objects (step S22).

[0119] Next, the in-vehicle device 200b checks the provision point ID etc. included in the driving information from the distribution server 100 and decides to use the contents of the driving information for driving assistance. In this case, the in-vehicle device 200b extracts, for example, status information indicating the status of the area around the vehicle 40b from the driving information as information to be used for driving assistance (step S23).

[0120] Next, the in-vehicle device 200b determines whether the vehicle 40b can travel based on the object detection result performed in step S22, the state information extracted from the travel information, the position information of the vehicle 40b, and the like.

[0121] For example, when vehicle 40b is turning right at an intersection, if the in-vehicle device 200b confirms that the area included in the path of movement from the current position of vehicle 40b to turning right at the intersection, and the area of ​​the lane of an oncoming vehicle going straight toward the intersection, are both clear, the in-vehicle device 200b determines that vehicle 40b can turn right.

[0122] On the other hand, when vehicle 40b is turning right at an intersection, if at least a part of the area included in the path of movement from the current position of vehicle 40b to turning right at the intersection and the area of ​​the driving lane of an oncoming vehicle going straight toward the intersection are blind spots or object-containing areas, on-board device 200b determines that vehicle 40b should not turn right (step S24).

[0123] Then, the in-vehicle device 200b performs driving assistance for the vehicle 40b according to the result of the determination as to whether the vehicle 40b can travel.

[0124] For example, if the in-vehicle device 200b determines that the vehicle 40b can turn right, it controls the traveling of the vehicle 40b so that the vehicle 40b turns right at the intersection. On the other hand, if the in-vehicle device 200b determines that the vehicle 40b should not turn right, it performs control such as slowing down the speed of the vehicle 40b or stopping the vehicle 40b (step S25).

[0125] The in-vehicle device 200a may be configured to detect surrounding objects (step S15) before receiving a request for detection information from the distribution server 100.

[0126] Furthermore, the in-vehicle device 200b may be configured to detect surrounding objects (step S22) before receiving the driving information from the distribution server 100.

[0127] [Operational flow of each device in the traffic information distribution system (Example 2)] 11 illustrates an example of a sequence that defines the operation procedures of each device in the traffic information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, a case will be described in which the in-vehicle device 200 acquires position information of a blind spot area and object information of a moving object based on the driving information received from the distribution server 100.

[0128] 11, the operations from step S30 to step S32 are similar to the operations from step S10 to step S12 shown in FIG. 10, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0129] Next, the distribution server 100 broadcasts the generated driving information to, for example, one or more vehicles 40 in the target area. Here, it is assumed that the in-vehicle device 200a of the vehicle 40a receives the driving information (step S33).

[0130] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a detects surrounding objects (step S34).

[0131] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a determines whether or not there is an overlapping area R3 between the blind spot area R2, which is a blind spot for a moving object, and the detection range of the object, based on the driving information received from the distribution server 100 (step S35).

[0132] Next, when the in-vehicle device 200a determines that the overlapping region R3 does not exist ("NO" in step S35), it does not transmit to the distribution server 100, for example, the object detection result performed in step S34.

[0133] On the other hand, if the in-vehicle device 200a determines that an overlapping area R3 exists ("YES" in step S35), it acquires the position information of the blind spot area R2 and the object information of the moving object that is creating the blind spot area R2 from the driving information (step S36).

[0134] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a identifies a predicted region R4 including a path of movement along which the moving object creating the blind spot is predicted to move, based on the acquired object information (step S37).

[0135] Next, the in-vehicle device 200a, for example, identifies an area including both the identified overlap area R3 and the predicted area R4 as the provision area R5, and extracts the object detection results in the provision area R5 from the object detection results performed in step S34 (step S38).

[0136] Next, in-vehicle device 200a transmits detection information indicating the extracted detection result to distribution server 100 (step S39). The operations from step S40 to step S45 are similar to the operations from step S20 to step S25 shown in Fig. 10, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0137] Note that some or all of the functions of the distribution server 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided by cloud computing. That is, the distribution server 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured by multiple cloud servers, etc.

[0138] The above-described embodiments should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0139] The above description includes the following additional features. [Appendix 1] a detection unit that detects surrounding objects; an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot of a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit; a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move, based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit; a transmitter that transmits detection information indicating a detection result by the detector in an area identified based on the overlap area identified by the first identifier and the predicted area identified by the second identifier; The transmission unit transmits detection information indicating the result of detecting an object in an area that includes both the overlapping area and the predicted area, or the result of detecting an object in the overlapping area when the position of the overlapping area is shifted so that the predicted area is included in the overlapping area.

[0140] [Appendix 2] an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area that is a blind spot of a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a transmitting unit that transmits the location information and the object information acquired by the acquiring unit to another device; a receiving unit that receives, from the other device, detection information indicating a result of object detection in an area specified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and an object detection range of the other device, and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move; The transmission unit requests the detection information together with the position information and the object information from one or more other devices present in or around the blind spot area, moreover, a map generation unit that generates driving information including a detection result of an object in the target area based on the detection information received by the receiving unit; The other device is a traffic information distribution device that is an in-vehicle device or a roadside device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 11 Map generation section 12 Storage section 13 Receiving unit (acquiring unit) 14 Specific part 15 Transmitter 20 Wireless Base Stations 31 Receiving unit (acquiring unit) 32 Detection unit 33 Information Processing Department 34 Specific part 35 Transmitter 40, 40a, 40b vehicles 51 1st Specific Part 52 Second Specific Part 60 Roadside unit 100 Distribution server (traffic information distribution device) 200,200a In-vehicle device (traffic information providing device) 200b On-vehicle device 300 Traffic Information Distribution System P moving object R1 Object area R2 blind spot area R3 overlap area R4 predicted region R5 service area

Claims

1. a detection unit that detects surrounding objects; an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit; a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move, based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit; a transmission unit that transmits detection information indicating the detection results by the detection unit in an area identified based on the overlap area identified by the first identification unit and the prediction area identified by the second identification unit.

2. The traffic information providing device according to claim 1 , wherein the acquisition unit acquires speed information of the moving object as the object information.

3. The traffic information providing device according to claim 1 , wherein the acquisition unit acquires, as the object information, direction information of the moving object.

4. The traffic information providing device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection information includes a result of detecting an object in an area that includes both the overlap area and the predicted area.

5. The traffic information providing device according to claim 1 , wherein the transmission unit does not transmit the detection information when the overlapping area identified by the first identification unit does not exist.

6. an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a transmitting unit that transmits the location information and the object information acquired by the acquiring unit to another device; a receiving unit that receives, from the other device, detection information indicating the detection result of an object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device, and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

7. A traffic information providing method in a traffic information providing device, comprising: acquiring position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; identifying an overlapping area between the blind spot area and a surrounding detection range of the traffic information providing device based on the acquired position information; specifying a prediction area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move based on the acquired object information; and transmitting detection information indicating a result of detecting an object in an area specified based on the specified overlap area and the predicted area.

8. A traffic information distribution method in a traffic information distribution device, comprising: acquiring position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; transmitting the acquired location information and object information to another device; receiving, from the other device, detection information indicating the result of object detection in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and the object detection range of the other device, and a predicted area including the path along which the moving object is predicted to move.

9. A traffic information providing program used in a traffic information providing device, Computer, a detection unit that detects surrounding objects; an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a first identification unit that identifies an overlapping area between the blind spot area and the detection range of the detection unit based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit; a second identification unit that identifies a predicted area including a path of movement along which the moving object is predicted to move, based on the object information acquired by the acquisition unit; a transmitter that transmits detection information indicating a detection result by the detector in an area identified based on the overlap area identified by the first identifier and the predicted area identified by the second identifier; A traffic information program to function as a

10. A traffic information distribution program used in a traffic information distribution device, Computer, an acquisition unit that acquires position information of a blind spot area caused by a moving object in a target area and object information regarding the moving object; a transmitting unit that transmits the location information and the object information acquired by the acquiring unit to another device; a receiving unit that receives, from the other device, detection information indicating a result of detecting an object in an area identified based on an overlap area between the blind spot area and an object detection range of the other device and a predicted area including a path along which the moving object is predicted to move; A traffic information distribution program that functions as a

Images