Method, device, system and computer program for updating maps

Abstract

To provide a method, device, system, and computer program for updating a map.SOLUTION: A map is divided into a plurality of geographic areas. A method includes steps of: receiving location information representing one or more movements of a user; using the location information representing the one or more movements of the user to determine one or more first sets of the plurality of geographic areas; defining a first region of the map based on the one or more first sets of the geographic areas; determining whether stored data for geographic areas of the first region is up to date; and selecting, in response to determining that the stored map data for at least one of the geographic areas of the first region is not up to date, first communication means for receiving updated map data for the at least one of the geographic areas of the first region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure relate to methods, devices, systems, and computer programs for updating maps. Without prejudice to the above, particular examples relate to updating maps stored in devices such as in-vehicle navigation devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional methods for updating electronic maps stored in navigation devices (such as in-vehicle satellite navigation devices) are not always optimal.

[0003] Previously, electronic maps stored in navigation devices would typically cover entire continents or countries. Updating the maps required manual intervention. Users typically had to manually download the entire map update (e.g., on their home computer) and then transfer the map update to their in-vehicle integrated navigation device (e.g., via a USB stick). Furthermore, during the process of updating a map pre-stored in the navigation device, i.e., installing the map update, the navigation device is inoperable or unable to perform navigation functions. Such issues result in a suboptimal user experience. Furthermore, because of the associated update process, users may not update their maps frequently. This can lead to the risk that the stored map contains outdated / unreliable map data.

[0004] It would be useful to provide an improved method for updating maps.

[0005] The listing or discussion of any prior-published document or any background in this specification should not necessarily be construed as an acknowledgement that the document or background is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge. One or more aspects / examples of the present disclosure may or may not address one or more of the background problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, a method of updating map data for a map stored on a device, the map being divided into a plurality of geographic areas, the method comprising: receiving location information representative of one or more movements of a user; using the location information representative of one or more movements of the user to determine a first set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas; defining a first region of the map based on the first set; determining whether the stored map data for the geographic area of ​​the first region is up to date; selecting a first communication means to receive updated map data for the at least one of the geographic areas of the first region in response to determining that the stored map data for the at least one of the geographic areas of the first region is not up to date; and A method is provided which includes:

[0007] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, an apparatus is provided that includes means configured to cause the apparatus to perform at least the above-described method.

[0008] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus comprising at least one processor, at least one memory containing computer program code, and the at least one processor, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to perform at least the above-described method.

[0009] The device may be one or more of a navigation device, an in-vehicle navigation device, a portable navigation device, a handheld mobile communications device, a mass storage device, or a module of an advanced driver assistance system.

[0010] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, a chipset or module is provided that includes processing circuitry configured to perform the above-described methods.

[0011] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided that, when executed by at least one processor, causes the above-described method to be performed.

[0012] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided that is encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the above-described method to be performed.

[0013] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, a system for updating map data for a map stored on a device, the map being divided into a plurality of geographic areas, the system comprising: the device; receiving location information from the device representing one or more previous movements of the user; using the location information representing one or more previous movements of the user to determine a first set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas through which the user most frequently moves; defining a first region of the map based on the first set; determining at the server whether the stored map data for the geographic area of ​​the first region is up to date; in response to determining that the stored map data for at least one of the geographic areas of the first region is out of date, transmitting to the device information indicating the geographic areas of the first region that are out of date. and a server configured to: A system is provided in which the device is configured to select a first communication means for receiving updated map data for the geographic area of ​​the first region that is not up-to-date.

[0014] According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, examples are provided as set forth in the accompanying claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] For a better understanding of various examples of the present disclosure that are useful in understanding the detailed description and specific embodiments of the present invention, reference is made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example of a method according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of an example map for use in the examples of this disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a further example of a method according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a further example of a map for use in the examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an example of an apparatus according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of a communication system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of a navigation device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an example of a further communication system according to the present disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and views of the drawings may be shown schematically or exaggerated in scale for clarity and conciseness. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in illustration. Similar reference numbers are used in the drawings to indicate similar features. For clarity, not all reference numbers necessarily appear in every figure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The figure shows a schematic diagram of a method 100 for updating map data 512 of a map 200 stored on a device 500, the map 200 covering a number of geographic areas 2031-2033. n This method is divided into receiving location information 201 representing one or more movements of a user; using location information 201 representative of one or more movements of a user to determine a first set of one or more of a plurality of geographic areas 2041, 2042; defining a first region 205 of the map 200 based on a first set of one or more of a plurality of geographic areas 2041, 2042; determining whether the stored map data 513 for the geographical areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205 is up to date; in response to determining that the stored map data 513 for at least one of the geographic areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205 is out of date, selecting a first communication means 803 to receive updated map data for at least one of the geographic areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205; Includes:

[0017] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, in some examples, a user's historical travel / route data (and data representing the user's planned or current travel / route) is used to identify / determine the geographic areas of the map that are most relevant to the user. For example, the user's previously made travel / route is used to determine which of the geographic areas of the map have previously been traveled through most frequently (e.g., most frequently used or visited). Similarly, the user's current and planned travel / route is used to determine which of the geographic areas of the map the user is currently in or will travel through. Such geographic areas are identified, selected, and used to define a first region of the map.

[0018] Examples of the present disclosure thereby determine / learn which geographic areas are most relevant to the user and define regions from there. Such identified regions can be assigned a high priority. The examples then seek to ensure that map data for such high-priority regions of the map is kept up-to-date and reliable by automatically determining whether the map data stored for the region is up-to-date (i.e., by checking whether there is a newer version of map data for any of the first regions or geographic areas of the first region). If the map data for the region is not up-to-date, a first communication means is selected to automatically download updated map data for the geographic area of ​​the region that has outdated map data. For example, the selected communication means may be a long-range wireless communication network such as a cellular communication network (i.e., more readily available and accessible [compared to a short-range wireless communication network such as a wireless LAN]). Therefore, a more reliable and robust method of updating map data can be provided.

[0019] In certain other examples, multiple regions of a map may be defined in a hierarchical ranking of importance, where each region is assigned a priority level that may determine the frequency and / or order of checking for region updates, downloading region updates, and / or installing region updates. This allows updates for more relevant regions to be given higher priority than less relevant regions, thereby efficiently using communication bandwidth resources for downloading map updates and computational resources for installing map updates, while keeping all regions of the map optimally updated.

[0020] Advantageously, various implementations can enable map data to be updated automatically, efficiently, reliably, and in a minimally invasive manner (requiring minimal / no user intervention or manual map management). This facilitates providing seamless updates of map data, seeking to ensure that the most relevant / important areas of importance to users are always maintained and kept up to date. Thus, users can be confident that their map data is kept up to date.

[0021] 1 illustrates a schematic flow chart of a method 100 for updating map data 512 of a map 200 (see FIG. 2) stored in a device (500, see FIG. 5) according to an example of the present disclosure. The blocks in FIG. 1 may represent sections of instructions / code in a computer program. The blocks in FIG. 1 may or may not be performed by a single physical entity (as described with reference to FIG. 5).

[0022] The map 200 includes a plurality of individually updatable predetermined geographic areas 2031-2033 pre-stored on the device 500. n The geographic area may be an electronic map divided into areas. The geographic area may be of any size / scale. The geographic area may cover any number / amount of navigable elements, such as road segments. In some examples, a given geographic area may cover only a few or even just one road segment. The updatable given geographic areas 2031-203 n The number, size / scale of may be determined by the map service provider / map data source provider. Providing pre-stored maps on the navigation device enables offline navigation (cf. online navigation, where map data is downloaded "on the fly", i.e., only when currently needed (i.e., continuously in real time), as opposed to map data that needs to be downloaded every time it is needed).

[0023] In block 101, location / location information 201 representing / indicating one or more user movements / route is received. Such location information may correspond to data indicative of previously made / historical user movements / route, planned user movements / route, or current user movements / route. Such movement / route information / data may include previously tracked and recorded route data, or current or planned route data. In some examples, the location information may include a trace (trajectory) or line segment of (tracked or planned) locations that defines a (previous, current, or planned) movement / route.

[0024] In block 102, location information 201 representing one or more movements of a user is used to determine a first set of one or more of a plurality of geographic areas 2041, 2042.

[0025] If one or more journeys 201 include previously made journeys, the first set of geographic areas 2041, 2042 can be determined by selecting the geographic areas previously most frequently traveled to by the user. This can be determined, for example, by determining the following geographic areas of the map: Identifying geographic areas containing trip origins where trips most frequently originated, i.e. trip origins exceeding a threshold amount (e.g., >X%); Identifying geographic areas where trips most frequently end, i.e., containing more than a threshold amount (e.g., >Y%) of trip destinations; and / or The geographic areas with the most frequent travel traverses, i.e., those containing more than a threshold amount (e.g., >Z%) of travel traverses, are identified.

[0026] If the one or more journeys include a journey the user is currently undergoing or one or more planned journeys of the user, the first set of geographic areas may be determined, for example, by determining the geographic areas of the map through which the current journey or the planned journey passes.

[0027] It is understood that the first set 2041, 2042 may include the geographic area in which the user's home location 206 is located.

[0028] The first set of such determined geographic areas 2041, 2042 can be considered to represent / indicate the geographic areas of the map that are most relevant / important to the user (i.e., based on past, current and planned travel / driving behavior).

[0029] In block 103, a first region 205 of the map 200 is defined based on the first set of geographic areas 204 2041, 2042. That is, the first region is formed from the first set of geographic areas 2041, 2042.

[0030] In block 104, it is determined whether the stored map data 513 is up to date for the geographic areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205. This may be done in any suitable manner and may include communicating with the map source service provider (e.g., to verify whether the version number / date of the currently stored map data for the geographic areas 2041, 2042 corresponds to the latest version number / date of the service provider's map data).

[0031] In block 105, in response to determining that the stored map data 513 for at least one of the geographic areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205 is not up to date, a first communication means is selected to receive updated map data for at least one of the geographic areas 2041, 2042 of the first region 205.

[0032] Thus, examples of the present disclosure provide an active step of specifically selecting a communication means (i.e., selecting one communication means from multiple possible communication means (see 803-806 in FIG. 8)) for downloading updated map data. Such selection may depend on the accessibility / availability of the communication means. For example, in some examples, a long-range wireless communication network, such as a cellular communication network, may be selected to receive updates for the first region (having greater accessibility / availability than a short-range wireless communication network, such as a WLAN).

[0033] Selecting the first communication means may include selecting one or more of a first communication path / channel, a first communication network, and a first wireless communication interface. In some examples, selecting the first communication means may include selecting one or more of a long-range communication network, a long-range wireless communication interface, a cellular communication network, a cellular communication interface, a wired communication path, and a wired communication interface.

[0034] Various examples of the present disclosure can improve map reliability by ensuring that key regions of high importance / relevance to the user are maintained via map updates received over a ubiquitous communications network (i.e., long-range wireless communications, e.g., a cellular network), while not overburdening such a network by minimizing bandwidth usage (i.e., by using the network to receive updated map data for only key regions, rather than using the network to update the entire map). For other (less relevant) remaining geographic areas, an alternative communications network can be used, e.g., a communications network with a less extensive / narrow range (e.g., Wi-Fi™) to update map data for lower priority regions.

[0035] This allows the example to provide an optimal balance between sufficiently up-to-date map data (for the primary / associated regions) and optimal use of the communications network. Furthermore, because the map is divided into multiple geographic areas, updates in a first region may be smaller (compared to the entire map), and therefore the amount of data in a map update for the first region may be smaller compared to receiving an update for the entire map. This not only reduces bandwidth usage, but also reduces the processing and installation time for installing the update, thereby minimizing disruption to the user (because the navigation device may not be operational or may perform poorly during the installation process).

[0036] 3 shows a schematic flow chart of a further computer-implemented method 300 for updating map data 512 for a map 200 (see FIG. 2) stored on a device (500, see FIG. 5), according to an example of the present disclosure. The blocks of FIG. 3 may or may not be performed by a single physical entity (as described with reference to FIG. 5).

[0037] Blocks 301, 302, 303, 304, and 305 are generally similar to blocks 201-205 of Figure 1 and were described above. However, in the left branch of the flowchart of Figure 3, decision block 304 is repeated (as indicated at 306). This may cause block 306 to be automatically repeated at a first frequency. For example, the determination as to whether map data for a first region is up to date may be repeated, for example, weekly or monthly.

[0038] In block 307, in response to determining that the map data for the first region is not up-to-date, a request for updated map data may be made. Such a request may be made to a map source service provider, e.g., a server of the map source service provider. In some examples discussed further below, the map update may be pre-downloaded to an intermediate user device (e.g., a user's mass storage device such as a USB stick, or a user's mobile wireless communication device such as a smartphone). In this case, such a device acts as a map source for providing updated map data to the device, and an appropriate communication means for receiving the updated map data may be selected (block 305), e.g., a wired communication path / interface for receiving updated map data from the USB stick.

[0039] At block 308, a first priority level is set / assigned to the first region.

[0040] Turning now to the right branch of the method of FIG. 3, this shows the steps involved in determining additional regions of the map.

[0041] In block 309, location information representing one or more previous movements of the user is used to determine at least a second set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas to which the user moves less frequently.

[0042] At block 310, at least a second region of the map is defined based on at least a second set.

[0043] At block 311, a determination is made as to whether the stored map data 514 for at least the geographic area of ​​the second region is up to date.

[0044] Decision block 311 is repeated (as indicated at 312). This allows block 311 to be automatically repeated at a second frequency, which may be different from the first frequency. For example, the determination as to whether the map data for the second region is up to date may be repeated, for example, quarterly, yearly, etc.

[0045] The first frequency of step 306 may be different from, and in fact may be higher than, the second frequency of step 312. In this way, the (more important / relevant) first / primary area may be checked for updates more frequently than the second / secondary area. Thus, the higher priority and more relevant / important first / primary area may be kept more up to date than the less relevant / important second / secondary area.

[0046] Advantageously, rather than updating the entire map at once (i.e., downloading map update data for the entire map and installing the same), various examples of the present disclosure may prioritize updates so that updates for a first region occur first and more frequently than updates for a second region. Such management of update timing may avoid updating the entire map simultaneously, which may take an excessively long period of time (which may cause the navigation device to be unable to perform navigation functions / utilize the map, thereby interrupting navigation). Instead, automatic updates for the first region may be automatically downloaded and installed separately from the second region as a high priority, with automatic updates for the second region (which has a lower priority) automatically downloaded and installed later.

[0047] In response to determining that the stored map data for at least one geographic area of ​​the second region is out of date, a request for updated map data may be made at block 313. Such a request may be made to a map source provider as described above with respect to block 307.

[0048] At block 314, a second communication means is selected for receiving updated map data for at least one geographic area of ​​the second region. Such selection of the second communication means may include a second communication path (channel), a second communication network, and a second wireless communication interface. Such selection of the second communication means may include: Short-range communication networks (Wi-Fi (registered trademark) / Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.), Short-range wireless communication interface, wireless local area networks, Wireless local area network interface, a wired communication path; and Wired Communication Interface The method may include selecting one of:

[0049] In practice, blocks 305 and 314 enable independent selection of a communication means for each region. The selection of the communication means (for receiving updated map data for a region) may depend on the region, i.e., whether it is a first (higher relevance / priority) region or a second (lower relevance / priority) region. For example, a long-range communication network such as a cellular network may be used to receive updated data for the first / primary region, thereby supporting reliable and rapid delivery of updated map data. A second region with lower priority may select a short-range wireless communication network, such as a WLAN, which may not be as readily available / accessible as a cellular network (thus, receiving updated map data may be delayed until the short-range wireless communication network is available / accessible). However, with lower priority, such updates may be less important and may wait until a short-range wireless communication network is available.

[0050] Instead of a device, e.g., an in-vehicle built-in navigation device, receiving updated map data directly from a map service provider's server, the device may receive the updated map data from an intermediate device, such as a mass storage device (e.g., a USB stick) or a mobile communication device, download the updated map data to such intermediate device, and then transfer the downloaded map update data to the device. In this manner, receiving the updated map data in blocks 305 and 314 may include transferring the updated map data from the mass storage device or the mobile communication device to the device. Whether such a source of updated map data is available may be determined, and if so, the same may be used; if not, different first and second communication means may be used to receive updated map data for the first and second regions, respectively.

[0051] At block 315, a second priority level is set / assigned to the second region.

[0052] At block 316, the order of installation of the updated map data for the second region is determined according to their respective priority levels.

[0053] Block 316 effectively enables hierarchical ordering of the installation of updated map data for regions based on the region and its priority level, i.e., whether it is a first (higher relevance / priority) region or a second (lower relevance / priority) region. For example, updated map data for a first / primary region may be installed prior to the installation of updated map data for a second / secondary region, thereby facilitating rapid availability of updated map data for the first region. Meanwhile, a lower-priority second region may have its updated map data installation delayed until such time as the installation will not interfere with the operation of the device / navigation device (e.g., installed when the navigation device is not actively using its navigation functions and / or is in an idle state). However, due to its lower priority, such updates may be less critical and may be delayed in this manner without adversely affecting the operation of the device.

[0054] Block 316 may be useful when there are updates for both the first and second regions that have been received, are ready to be installed, and are available. In block 316, update installation may be applied in a hierarchical order depending on the relevance of the regions to which the updates relate. For example, updates for the first / primary region (of higher importance / relevance than the secondary region) are installed before updates for the second / secondary region (of lower importance / relevance than the primary region). In an example, a hierarchy of update installation may be provided so that updates are received / picked up and installed one by one in sequence (e.g., updates for the primary region are installed first, followed by other regions spiraling out to the map boundary, in hierarchical order).

[0055] In some examples, updated map data for the entire map, or at least geographic areas of various regions (e.g., a first region and a second region), may be downloaded from a remote server of the map service provider to an intermediate portable user storage device such as a portable mass storage device (e.g., a USB stick) or a portable communications device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet running an application that manages the (possibly substantially automated) download of required updates, such as over the user's home Wi-Fi), which may temporarily store the updates and transfer them to the navigation device when the smartphone / tablet is connected, e.g., via Wi-Fi, to, for example, an integrated navigation system built into the navigation device / vehicle / in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) or vehicle head unit.

[0056] Method 300 also includes (not shown) Collecting and storing user location information; using the collected and stored location information to determine location information representative of one or more previous movements of the user; Can contain:

[0057] The flowchart of FIG. 3 and the method described above represent, among other things, one possible scenario. The order of the illustrated blocks is not necessarily required, and thus, in principle, various blocks can be performed out of order. Not all blocks are required. In some examples, one or more blocks may be performed in a different order, or overlapping in time, serially, or in parallel. One or more blocks may be omitted, added, or modified in any combination.

[0058] In the example in Figure 2, two regions are defined: Primary / primary / highly relevant areas (e.g., the geographic areas you travel to most frequently), and Secondary / Secondary / Low Relevance Regions (the remaining geographic areas of the map).

[0059] In some examples, additional regions (e.g., tertiary regions, quaternary regions, etc.) may be determined, each defined to have a hierarchical order of relevance / importance to the user and an associated priority level.

[0060] Figure 4 shows Most relevant primary area (geographic area where people have been moved most before, will be moved to, and are currently being moved to) - 401 Secondary regions of intermediate / higher relevance (geographical areas that have not been traveled much before or that are adjacent to the geographical area of ​​the primary region) - 402 Tertiary regions of intermediate / lower relevance (geographical areas that have been traveled less previously or that are adjacent to the geographical areas of the secondary region) - 403 Least relevant quaternary region (geographical area not previously traveled, geographical area adjacent to the geographical area of ​​the tertiary region, or remaining geographical area) - 404 4 shows a map 400 including:

[0061] Lower priority areas may have a lower automatic update frequency and / or a lower install order priority.

[0062] Updated map data for an area may be provided in the form of either an "incremental update" or a "replacement update." Incremental updated map data contains information related to mere changes to stored (older) versions of map data. Such changes are applied to the stored map data to update the same. In contrast, replacement update map data contains the complete, all latest version of map data. The stored (older) versions of map data are deleted and replaced with new map data.

[0063] Using incremental updates can result in less data and smaller file sizes for map update data, thereby reducing file download times. However, installing / executing such incrementally updated map data (i.e., updating stored map data to apply changes) can be computationally intensive, thereby increasing installation / execution times and potentially increasing the amount of time the navigation device may be inoperable.

[0064] In contrast, installing replacement update map data (i.e., simply replacing stored map data with new map data without having to apply multiple individual changes) is less computationally intensive and therefore reduces installation / execution time and the amount of time the navigation device may be inoperable, but increases the amount of data and file download time for the replacement update map data.

[0065] In examples of the present invention, updated map data may be requested and / or received as either incremental update map data or replacement update map data. The type of updated map data requested / received, i.e., whether it is incremental update map data or replacement update map data, may depend on the priority level of the region / area.

[0066] Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of an apparatus 500 including means for carrying out methods according to the present disclosure, in particular the methods of Figures 1 and 3 described above. Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of the apparatus, highlighting the functional components necessary to explain the operation of the apparatus.

[0067] The apparatus 500 comprises a controller 501 provided in the illustrated example by a processor 502 and a memory 503 .

[0068] The memory 503 stores a computer program 504 including computer readable program code / instructions 505 that, when executed by the processor 502, controls the apparatus 500 to perform methods according to the present disclosure. The controller 501 is configured to receive input data and to provide data output. The processor 502 may include an input interface 506 through which data 508 (e.g., at least movement information and updated map data) and / or commands are input to the processor 502, and an output interface 507 through which data 509 and / or commands are output by the processor 502.

[0069] The computer program 504 may be stored on a non-transitory (non-transitory) computer-readable storage medium. The blocks illustrated in Figures 1 and 3 may represent actions in a method and / or sections of instructions / code within the computer program 504.

[0070] The memory 503 may also store map data 512 for the map 200. The map data 512 may include a plurality of geographic areas 2031-2033. n (hence, the determined first region 205 of the map includes the geographic areas 2041, 204 n Such map data for the first region 205 is shown as map data 513. Similarly, map data for the second region is shown as map data 514.

[0071] The device 500 may be embodied as one or more of a navigation device, an in-vehicle integrated navigation device, a portable navigation device, a handheld mobile communication device, a mass storage device, or a module of an advanced driver assistance system. The device may be embodied by a computing device, particularly as described above. The device may be, for example, a server device (such as the server 2150 in FIG. 6 ) or a client device (such as the navigation device 2200 in FIG. 6 ). In some examples, the device may be embodied as a chip, chipset, or module, i.e., for use in any of the foregoing. As used herein, “module” refers to a unit or device that excludes specific parts / components added by an end manufacturer or user.

[0072] 6 illustrates a navigation device 2200. The navigation device may be embodied, for example, as at least one in-vehicle built-in navigation device that may be integrated into the vehicle's IVI, a portable navigation device (PND), or a multi-function mobile wireless communication device (such as a smartphone or tablet) having navigation capabilities (e.g., position determining means and navigation software).

[0073] The navigation device comprises a GPS and a receiver with one or more communication means for establishing a data session via one or more different communication networks, protocols, and interfaces, e.g., for long-range wireless communication, short-range wireless communication, and wired communication. The device can establish a network connection with the server 2150 (e.g., via the Internet). Thus, a "mobile" network connection can be established between the navigation device 2200 (which can be, and often is, mobile when moving alone and / or in a vehicle) and the server 2150 to provide a "real-time" or at least very "up-to-date" gateway to information.

[0074] Establishment of a network connection between the device (via a service provider) and another device, such as server 2150, using, for example, the Internet, may be accomplished in a known manner. In this regard, any number of suitable data communications protocols may be employed, for example, the TCP / IP layered protocol. Additionally, the mobile device may utilize any number of communications standards, such as CDMA2000, GSM, IEEE 802.11a / b / c / g / n, etc.

[0075] It is therefore understood that internet connectivity achievable via a data connection, for example via a mobile phone or mobile phone technology within the navigation device 2200, may be utilized.

[0076] Although not shown, the navigation device 2200 may of course include its own cellular telephone technology within the navigation device 2200 itself (e.g., including an antenna or optionally using an internal antenna of the navigation device 2200). The cellular telephone technology within the navigation device 2200 may include internal components and / or may include, for example, an insertable card (e.g., a subscriber identity module (SIM) card) with the necessary cellular telephone technology and / or antenna. In this manner, the cellular telephone technology within the navigation device 2200 may similarly establish a network connection between the navigation device 2200 and the server 2150, for example, via the Internet, in a manner similar to any mobile device.

[0077] For phone settings, a Bluetooth enabled navigation device can be used to operate correctly across the ever-changing spectrum of cell phone models, manufacturers, etc., and model / manufacturer specific settings can be stored in, for example, the navigation device 2200. The data stored for this information can be updated.

[0078] 6, the navigation device 2200 is depicted as communicating with the server 2150 via a general-purpose communication channel 2152, which can be implemented by any of a number of different configurations. The communication channel 2152 generally represents a propagation medium or path connecting the navigation device 2200 and the server 2150. The server 2150 and the navigation device 2200 can communicate when a connection via the communication channel 2152 is established between the server 2150 and the navigation device 2200 (note that such a connection could be a data connection via a mobile device, a direct connection via a personal computer via the Internet, etc.).

[0079] The communication channel 2152 is not limited to a particular communication technology. Furthermore, the communication channel 2152 is not limited to a single communication technology; i.e., the channel 2152 can include several communication means / links using various technologies. For example, the communication channel 2152 can be configured to provide a path for electrical communication, optical communication, and / or electromagnetic communication, etc. Thus, the communication channel 2152 can include, but is not limited to, one or a combination of electrical circuits, electrical conductors such as wires and coaxial cables, fiber optic cables, converters, radio frequency (RF), the atmosphere, free space, etc. Furthermore, the communication channel 2152 can include intermediate devices such as, for example, routers, repeaters, buffers, transmitters, and receivers.

[0080] In one exemplary configuration, communication channel 2152 includes telephone and computer networks. Additionally, communication channel 2152 may be capable of accommodating wireless communications, e.g., radio frequency communications, such as infrared communications, microwave frequency communications, etc. Additionally, communication channel 2152 may accommodate satellite communications.

[0081] Communication signals transmitted over communication channel 2152 include, but are not limited to, signals that may be necessary or desirable for a given communication technology. For example, the signals may be configured for use in cellular communication technologies such as time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), etc. Both digital and analog signals may be transmitted over communication channel 2152. These signals may be modulated, encrypted, and / or compressed as desired for the communication technology.

[0082] The server 2150 includes a processor 2154 operably connected to a memory 2156 and further operably connected to a mass data storage device 2160 via a wired or wireless connection 2158, in addition to other components not shown. The mass storage device 2160 includes storage of navigation data and map information and, again, may be a separate device from the server 2150 or may be incorporated into the server 2150. The processor 2154 is further operably connected to a transmitter 2162 and a receiver 2164 for transmitting and receiving information to and from the navigation device 2200 over the communication channel 2152. The transmitted and received signals may include data, communication, and / or other propagated signals. The transmitter 2162 and the receiver 2164 may be selected or designed according to the communication requirements and communication technology used in the communication design of the navigation system 2200. It should be further noted that the functions of the transmitter 2162 and the receiver 2164 may be combined into a single transceiver.

[0083] As mentioned above, the navigation device 2200 may be configured to communicate with the server 2150 over the communication channel 2152 using a transmitter and a receiver to send and receive signals and / or data over the communication channel 2152, and it should be noted that these devices may further be used to communicate with devices other than the server 2150. Furthermore, the transmitter 2166 and the receiver 2168 are selected or designed according to the communication requirements and communication technologies used in the communication design for the navigation device 2200, and the functionality of the transmitter 2166 and the receiver 2168 may be combined into a single transceiver as described above in connection with FIG. 6. Of course, the navigation device 2200 may comprise other hardware and / or functional components, which will be described in further detail later in this specification.

[0084] Software stored in the server memory 2156 provides instructions to the processor 2154, enabling the server 2150 to provide services to the navigation device 2200. One service provided by the server 2150 includes processing requests from the navigation device 2200 (e.g., a request for updated map data) and transmitting updated map data and other navigation data from the mass data storage 2160 to the navigation device 2200. Another service that may be provided by the server 2150 includes processing navigation data using various algorithms for a desired application and transmitting the results of these operations to the navigation device 2200.

[0085] The server 2150 constitutes a remote source of data accessible by the navigation device 2200 via a communication channel 2152. The server 2150 may include a network server located on a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a virtual private network (VPN), etc.

[0086] The server 2150 may include a personal computer such as a desktop, laptop computer, smartphone or tablet device, and the communication channel 2152 may be a cable connected between the personal computer and the navigation device 2200. Alternatively, a personal computer may be connected between the navigation device 2200 and the server 2150 to establish an internet connection between the server 2150 and the navigation device 2200.

[0087] The navigation device 2200 may be provided with information from the server 2150 via information downloads (such as updated map data, at least), which may be updated automatically from time to time, or may be updated by a user connecting the navigation device 2200 to the server 2150, and / or may be more dynamic, for example, in response to a more constant or frequent connection between the server 2150 and the navigation device 2200 via a wireless mobile connection and a TCP / IP connection. For many dynamic calculations, the processor 2154 in the server 2150 may be used to handle most of the processing needs, although the processor of the navigation device 2200 (not shown in FIG. 6) may often handle much of the processing and calculations independently of a connection to the server 2150.

[0088] With reference to FIG. 7 , it should be noted that the block diagram of the navigation device 2200 is not inclusive of all components of the navigation device, but merely represents many example components. The navigation device 2200 may be disposed within a housing (not shown) or integrated into the vehicle's console or IVI. The navigation device 2200 includes processing circuitry including, for example, the processor 2202 described above, which is coupled to an input device 2204 and a display device, for example, a display screen 2206. While the input device 2204 is referred to in the singular herein, those skilled in the art will understand that the input device 2204 represents any number of input devices, including a keyboard device, a voice input device, a touch panel, and / or any other known input device utilized to input information. Similarly, the display screen 2206 may include any type of display screen, such as, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD).

[0089] In one configuration, an embodiment of the input device 2204, touch panel, and display screen 2206 are integrated to provide an integrated input and display device, which includes a touchpad or touch screen input, allowing both the input of information (via direct entry, menu selection, etc.) and the display of information via the touch panel screen, such that a user need only touch a portion of the display screen 2206 to select one of multiple display options or to activate one of multiple virtual or "soft" buttons. In this regard, the processor 2202 supports a graphical user interface (GUI) that operates in conjunction with the touch screen.

[0090] In the navigation device 2200, the processor 2202 is operatively connected to the input device 2204 via connection 2210 to receive input information from the input device 2204, and to at least one of the display screen 2206 and the output device 2208 via respective output connections 2212 to output information. The navigation device 2200 may include an output device 2208, for example, an audible output device (e.g., a loudspeaker). Since the output device 2208 may generate audible information for a user of the navigation device 2200, it should also be understood that the input device 2204 may include a microphone and software for receiving input voice commands as well. Furthermore, the navigation device 2200 may also include any additional input device 2204, such as an audio input / output device, and / or any additional output device.

[0091] The processor 2202 is operatively connected to memory 2214 via connection 2216 and is further configured to send and receive information to and from an input / output (I / O) port 2218 via connection 2220, which is connectable to an I / O device 2222 external to the navigation device 2200. The external I / O device 2222 may include, but is not limited to, an external listening device such as, for example, an earphone. The connection to the I / O device 2222 may further be a wired or wireless connection to any other external device such as a car stereo unit, for example, for connection to earphones or headphones, and / or for connection to, for example, a mobile phone, for hands-free operation and / or for voice-activated operation; the mobile phone connection may be used, for example, to establish a data connection between the navigation device 2200 and the Internet or any other network, and / or to establish a connection to a server via, for example, the Internet or some other network.

[0092] The memory 2214 of the navigation device 2200 includes a portion of non-volatile memory (e.g., for storing program code) and a portion of volatile memory (e.g., for storing data when the program code is executed). The navigation device also includes a port 2228 in communication with the processor 2202 via a connection 2230 to allow a removable memory card (commonly referred to as a card) to be added to the device 2200. In this embodiment, the port is configured to allow for the addition of a Secure Digital (SD) card. In other embodiments, the port may allow for the connection of other formats of memory, such as a CompactFlash (CF) card, a Memory Stick, an xD memory card, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive, a Multimedia (MMC) card, a SmartMedia card, a Microdrive, etc.

[0093] 7 further illustrates an operative connection between processor 2202 and antenna / receiver 2224, which may be a GPS antenna / receiver, via connection 2226. While the antenna and receiver indicated by reference numeral 2224 are schematically combined for purposes of illustration, it should be understood that the antenna and receiver may be separately located components, and the antenna may be, for example, a GPS patch antenna or a helical antenna.

[0094] Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the electronic components shown in FIG. 7 are powered by one or more power sources (not shown) in a conventional manner. Such power sources may include an internal battery and / or an input for a low-voltage DC power source or any other suitable configuration. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, different configurations of the components shown in FIG. 7 are contemplated. For example, the components shown in FIG. 7 may communicate with each other via wired and / or wireless connections, etc. Accordingly, the navigation device 2200 described herein may be a portable or handheld navigation device 2200.

[0095] Furthermore, when the navigation device 2200 is embodied as a portable or handheld navigation device, it may be connected or "docked" in a known manner to a vehicle, such as, for example, a bicycle, motorcycle, automobile, or boat. Such a navigation device 2200 may be removable from its docked location for portable or handheld navigation use. Indeed, in other embodiments, the device 2200 may be configured to be handheld to enable user navigation.

[0096] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of a system 800 for updating map data for a map stored in a device 801. The system includes: A device 801; receiving location information from the device representing one or more previous movements of the user; using location information representative of one or more previous movements of the user to determine a first set of one or more of a plurality of geographic areas through which the user most frequently moves; defining a first region of the map based on the first set; determining, at the server, whether stored map data for the geographic area of ​​the first region is up to date; In response to determining that the stored map data for at least one geographic area of ​​the first region is out of date, transmitting information to the device indicating the geographic area of ​​the first region that is out of date. and a server 802 configured to: The device is configured to select a first communication means for receiving updated map data for a geographic area of ​​a first region that is not up-to-date.

[0097] 8 also shows schematically various communication means / channels / paths 803-807 by which updated map data from the server 802 can be transferred to the device 801, namely via: Long-distance / cellular communications networks 803; an intermediate portable wireless communication device 804; Short-range wireless communication network (e.g., Wi-Fi™) 805 The intermediate portable mass storage device 806 , where updated map data previously downloaded onto the user's personal computer 807 , is transferred to the intermediate portable mass storage device 806 via the user's personal computer 807 .

[0098] Examples of the present disclosure may take the form of a method, an apparatus, a computer program product, or a system. Accordingly, embodiments may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0099] Examples of the present disclosure are described using flowchart diagrams and schematic block diagrams. It should be understood that each block (of the flowchart diagrams and block diagrams), and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions of a computer program. These program instructions may be provided to one or more processors, processing circuits, or controllers, such that the instructions executing thereon create means for performing the functions specified in one or more blocks, i.e., the method may be computer-implemented. The computer program instructions may be executed by a processor to cause the processor to perform a series of operational steps / actions to generate a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executing on the processor provide steps for performing the functions specified in one or more blocks. Thus, the blocks support a combination of means for performing the specified functions, a combination of actions for performing the specified functions, and computer program instructions / algorithms for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that each block, and combination of blocks, can be implemented by a special purpose hardware-based system that performs the specified functions or actions, or a combination of special purpose hardware and computer program instructions.

[0100] As an example, a device includes one or more components for performing a function. It is contemplated that the functions of these components may be combined into one or more components or may be performed by other components of equivalent functionality.

[0101] Examples of the present disclosure provide both methods and corresponding apparatuses comprising various modules, means, or circuits that provide functionality for performing / applying the actions of the methods. The modules, means, or circuits may be implemented as hardware, or as software or firmware executed by a computer processor. In the case of firmware or software, examples of the present disclosure may be provided as a computer program product including a computer-readable storage structure embodied with computer program instructions (i.e., software or firmware) for execution by a computer processor.

[0102] When a structural feature is recited, it may be replaced by a means for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature, regardless of whether that function or functions are explicitly or implicitly recited.

[0103] It will be understood that each block and combination of blocks may be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, and / or software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the procedures described above may be implemented by computer program instructions. In this regard, computer program instructions embodying the procedures described above may be stored by a memory storage device and executed by a processor.

[0104] As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device (i.e., hardware) to create a machine, and when executed on the programmable device, the instructions create means for performing the functions specified in the blocks. These computer program instructions can also be stored on a computer-readable medium that can direct the programmable device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in a computer-readable memory create a product that includes instruction means for performing the functions specified in the blocks. Computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a programmable gate array device to cause a series of operational actions to be performed on the programmable device to create a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executing on the programmable device provide the actions for performing the functions specified in the blocks.

[0105] Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0106] Features described in the foregoing description may be used in combinations other than those expressly described. While functions have been described with reference to particular features, these functions may be performed by other features, whether or not described. Although features have been described with reference to particular examples, other embodiments may exist, whether or not these features have been described. Thus, features described in connection with one example / aspect of the present disclosure may include any or all of the features described in connection with another example / aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa, to the extent they are not mutually inconsistent. While various examples of the present disclosure have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that modifications to the given examples may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0107] As used herein, the terms "connect" and "communicate" and their derivatives mean operatively connected / communicating. It should be understood that any number or combination of intervening components may be present (including no intervening components), i.e., providing a direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Such intervening components may include hardware and / or software components.

[0108] As used herein, "determining" (and grammatical variations thereof) can include, among other things, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, searching (e.g., searching a table, database, or another data structure), ascertaining, etc., and "determining" can also include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), etc. "Determining" can also include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc.

[0109] Reference has been made herein to various examples. The description of features or functions in connection with an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. Use of the terms "example," "for example," or "may" in the text indicates that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether explicitly stated or not, and that they can, but need not, be present in some or all other examples, whether listed as examples or not. Thus, an "example," "for example," or "may" refers to a particular instance within a class of examples. Properties of an instance can be properties of only that instance, or properties of the class, or properties of a subclass of the class that includes some but not all of the instances in the class.

[0110] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to the feature (or combination of features) itself and to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). Equivalent features include, for example, features that are modifications and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. Equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

[0111] Although the foregoing specification has endeavored to draw attention to features of the examples of the present disclosure that are considered to be of particular importance, it should be understood that applicants claim protection for any patentable feature or combination of features previously mentioned and / or shown in the drawings herein, whether or not particular emphasis is placed on them.

[0112] The embodiments of the present disclosure and the appended claims may be combined in any suitable manner apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0113] Each claim is incorporated as further disclosed herein, and the claims are embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, although the claims herein are provided as including certain dependencies, any claim may be dependent on any other claim, and to the extent that any alternative embodiments may result from combining, combining, and / or omitting features of various claims and / or changing the dependency of the claims, any such alternative embodiments and their equivalents are also contemplated to be within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A method of updating map data for a map stored on a device, the map being divided into a plurality of geographic areas, the method comprising: receiving, by a server device, location information representative of one or more movements of the user, including at least one previous movement of the user, a current movement of the user, and at least one planned movement of the user; using the location information representative of one or more movements of the user to determine a first set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas most frequently traveled by the user; defining a primary region of the map based on the first set, the primary region being associated with a highest priority level; using the location information representative of one or more movements of the user to determine at least a second set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas that are less frequently or not traveled by the user; defining at least one secondary region of the map based on the at least one second set, the at least one secondary region being associated with a corresponding lower priority level; updating the map data based on the defined areas and their priority levels; Including, Updating the map data includes: periodically determining whether the stored map data for one or more geographic areas of the primary region is most frequently up to date; for each of the at least one secondary region, determining whether the stored map data for the one or more geographic areas of that region is less frequently up to date based on the associated priority level; A method comprising:

2. selecting a first communication means for receiving updated map data for the at least one geographic area of ​​the primary region in response to determining that the stored map data for the at least one geographic area of ​​the primary region is not up to date; selecting a second communication means for receiving updated map data for the at least one geographic area of ​​the at least one secondary region in response to determining that the stored map data for the at least one geographic area of ​​the at least one secondary region is not up to date; and further comprising The method of claim 1 , wherein the first communication means and the second communication means are different communication means.

3. Selecting the first communication means includes: Long-distance communication networks, Long-distance wireless communication interface, cellular communication networks, cellular communication interface, Wired communication paths, and Wired communication interface, The method of claim 2 , comprising selecting one or more of:

4. Selecting the second communication means includes: Short-range communication networks, Short-range wireless communication interface, wireless local area networks, Wireless local area network interface, Wired communication paths, and Wired communication interface, The method of claim 2 , comprising selecting one of:

5. determining an installation order of the updated map data of the regions according to their respective priority levels; The method of any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising:

6. collecting and storing location information of the user; using the collected and stored location information to determine location information representative of one or more previous movements of the user; The method of claim 1 , further comprising:

7. 1. An apparatus comprising:

7. Apparatus comprising means adapted to cause said apparatus to perform at least the method according to one or more of claims 1 to 6.

8. The device comprises: navigation devices, In-vehicle navigation devices, Portable navigation devices, handheld mobile communication devices, Mass storage device, or Advanced driver assistance system modules, The apparatus of claim 7 , comprising one or more of:

9. A computer program which, when executed by at least one processor, causes the computer program to carry out the method according to any one or more of claims 1 to 6.

10. 1. A system for updating map data for a map stored on a device, the map being divided into a plurality of geographic areas, the system comprising: the device; receiving location information from the device that is indicative of one or more movements of a user; using the location information representing one or more movements of the user to determine a first set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas through which the user most frequently travels; defining a primary region of the map based on the first set, wherein the primary region is associated with a highest priority level; using the location information representative of one or more movements of the user to determine at least a second set of one or more of the plurality of geographic areas that are less frequently or not traveled by the user; defining at least one secondary region of the map based on the at least second set, wherein the at least one secondary region is associated with a corresponding lower priority level; updating the map data based on the defined areas and their priority levels; a server configured as follows: Equipped with The server periodically determining whether the stored map data for one or more geographic areas of the primary region is most frequently up to date; for each of the at least one secondary region, determining whether the stored map data for the one or more geographic areas of that region is less frequently up to date based on the associated priority level; The system further comprises:

11. The server determining an installation order of the updated map data of the regions according to their respective priority levels; The system of claim 10 configured to:

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