Information processing device

Abstract

To evaluate intersections by smoothness of right turns.SOLUTION: An information processing device acquires, from a first vehicle that has turned right at a predetermined intersection, first data about time taken to turn right at the intersection, and calculates, based on the first data, an evaluation value indicating smoothness when turning right at the intersection.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a device for collecting information on roads.

Background Art

[0002] Numerous techniques for improving the accuracy of route search are known. In this regard, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a device that calculates the cost for each road link and performs route search in consideration of road characteristics such as the width of the road, the presence or absence of signals, and the presence or absence of a right-turn lane.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] This disclosure aims to evaluate intersections based on the smoothness of right turns.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of an embodiment of this disclosure is obtaining first data regarding the time taken when a first vehicle makes a right turn at a predetermined intersection from the first vehicle that has made a right turn at the intersection, and calculating an evaluation value representing the smoothness when making a right turn at the intersection based on the first data; and an information processing device having a control unit that executes the above.

[0006] Also, as another aspect, there are a method executed by the above device, a program for causing a computer to execute the method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores the program.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to this disclosure, intersections can be evaluated based on the smoothness of right turns. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating the components of a vehicle system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the signal cycle. [Figure 3] An example of right-turn data generated by an in-vehicle device. [Figure 4] An example of intersection data generated by a server device. [Figure 5] A flowchart of the processes performed by the in-vehicle device. [Figure 6] A flowchart of the processes performed by the in-vehicle device. [Figure 7] A flowchart of the processes performed by the server device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] A device is known that performs route planning by estimating the time required to traverse each road link based on information collected from a probe car.

[0010] However, while conventional route search systems can calculate estimated travel times for each road link, they do not evaluate intersections from the perspective of "whether or not it is easy to cross the oncoming lane to make a turn."

[0011] The following embodiments are based on the premise that vehicles drive on the left side of the road. In a left-hand traffic system, vehicles turning right at an intersection must cross the oncoming lane. For example, there are intersections where the oncoming traffic is heavy, making it difficult to make a right turn while the light is green. In such intersections, a dedicated right-turn signal may be provided, but if the volume of right-turn traffic is high, it may not be possible for all vehicles waiting to turn right to complete the turn within the allotted time. Thus, there are intersections where right turns take significantly longer than straight or left turns, but conventional route search systems only consider the actual travel time on road links, making it difficult to accurately estimate the time cost of making a right turn.

[0012] For example, consider a road link leading to a certain intersection. Suppose this intersection is one where 90% of vehicles going straight can pass smoothly, but 10% of vehicles turning right cannot. In this case, the cost allocation for the road link is determined based on the past performance of the majority of vehicles going straight, resulting in the road link being judged as having a low cost (short estimated travel time). In such a situation, if a vehicle requiring a right turn is directed to this intersection, it will result in a longer waiting time than expected. The information processing device disclosed herein solves such problems.

[0013] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized by having a control unit that performs the following actions: acquire first data relating to the time taken to make a right turn at a predetermined intersection from a first vehicle that has made a right turn at the intersection; and calculate an evaluation value representing the smoothness of the right turn at the intersection based on the first data.

[0014] The first vehicle transmits first data to the information processing device when it turns right at a designated intersection. The first data is data related to the time taken to turn right at the intersection, and typically includes the time from when the first vehicle starts turning right until the turn is completed, the cycle information of the traffic lights installed at the intersection, the traffic volume in the opposing lane, or the congestion status on the road to the right. The cycle information is information about the duration for which each of the multiple lights on the traffic light is illuminated. These data may be measured or acquired by the first vehicle.

[0015] Based on the first data, the control unit evaluates the target intersection from the perspective of "whether a right turn can be made smoothly" and generates an evaluation value. The evaluation value can be set to be larger as the intersection where a right turn can be made smoothly. For example, the evaluation value may be made larger as the period during which a right turn is possible is longer. Also, for example, the evaluation value may be made larger as the average value of the time required for a right turn is shorter. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to identify an intersection where a right turn cannot be made smoothly.

[0016] Based on the plurality of first data for each of the plurality of intersections acquired from the plurality of first vehicles, the control unit may calculate an evaluation value for each of the plurality of intersections. For example, by evaluating each of the plurality of intersections included in the target range of the route search, it can be expected that an appropriate route can be generated.

[0017] The control unit may generate second data associating each of the plurality of intersections with the corresponding evaluation value. Also, the control unit may transmit the second data to the first vehicle. When the first vehicle has a terminal with a route search function, route search and the like can be performed based on the second data. Also, the information processing apparatus may provide a route search function using the second data. In this case, when there is a request from the first vehicle, the information processing apparatus may perform a route search based on the second data and provide the result to the first vehicle.

[0018] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the drawings. The hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, etc. described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure only to those, unless otherwise specified.

[0019] (First embodiment) An overview of the vehicle system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. The vehicle system according to this embodiment consists of a vehicle 10 on which an in-vehicle device 100 is mounted, and a server device 200. There may be multiple vehicles 10 (and in-vehicle devices 100) included in the vehicle system.

[0020] The in-vehicle device 100 acquires data for evaluating a right turn when the vehicle makes a right turn at a predetermined intersection while driving, and transmits this data to the server device 200. A predetermined intersection is typically an intersection with opposing lanes and traffic lights. In the following description, the data generated and transmitted by the in-vehicle device 100 will be referred to as "right turn data (first data)". The right-turn data includes several pieces of data that allow the server device 200 to evaluate how smoothly the vehicle was able to pass through the intersection. Details will be described later.

[0021] The server device 200 calculates an evaluation value indicating how smoothly a vehicle can make a right turn based on right-turn data received from multiple vehicles 10 (onboard devices 100), and stores this evaluation value in association with the target intersection. The evaluation value may also be calculated by performing statistical processing on multiple right-turn data. The data associating the evaluation value with the intersection is referred to as "intersection data (second data)". Intersection data is transmitted from the server device 200 to the in-vehicle device 100 upon request and used for route planning.

[0022] This section provides a detailed explanation of each element that makes up the system. The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment is configured to include an in-vehicle device 100, an ECU 110, a camera 120, and a DCM 130.

[0023] First, let me explain the ECU110. The ECU110 is an electronic control unit that controls multiple components of the vehicle 10. The ECU110 has the function of periodically communicating with the multiple components via an in-vehicle network. In this embodiment, the components of the vehicle 10 include a vehicle speed sensor and a turn signal sensor. The vehicle speed sensor is a sensor that senses the speed of the vehicle 10. The turn signal sensor is a sensor that senses the operating status of the turn signals on the vehicle 10.

[0024] The ECU110 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, main memory such as RAM or ROM, and auxiliary storage such as EPROM, disk drives, or removable media.

[0025] The vehicle 10 may contain multiple ECUs. These multiple ECUs may control components in different systems, such as the engine system, electrical system, powertrain system, and autonomous driving system.

[0026] Camera 120 is an in-vehicle camera mounted facing forward of vehicle 10. Camera 120 can acquire images of the area in front of the vehicle at a predetermined frame rate. The images acquired by 120 are used by multiple components of the vehicle 10, such as the in-vehicle device 100 and the ECU for the autonomous driving system.

[0027] The DCM130 is a device that communicates wirelessly with other devices (or external networks) over a network. The DCM130 functions as a gateway for connecting components of the vehicle 10 to a network outside the vehicle. For example, the DCM130 provides the in-vehicle device 100 with access to the external network. This allows the in-vehicle device 100 to communicate with external devices via the DCM130. Furthermore, the DCM130 can also provide access to an external network to a predetermined ECU (not limited to the ECU110) located in the vehicle 10.

[0028] Next, the in-vehicle device 100 will be described. The in-vehicle device 100 is a device that provides information to the occupants of a vehicle (for example, a car navigation system). The in-vehicle device 100 is also called a car navigation system, infotainment system, or head unit. The in-vehicle device 100 can provide navigation and entertainment to the occupants of a vehicle. The in-vehicle device 100 has the function of wirelessly communicating with an external network via the DCM 130, which will be described later. The in-vehicle device 100 may also have the function of downloading traffic information, road map data, music, videos, etc., by communicating with the external network of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the in-vehicle device 100 may be a device that can be linked with a smartphone or the like.

[0029] The in-vehicle device 100 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, main memory such as RAM or ROM, and auxiliary storage such as an EPROM, hard disk drive, or removable media. The auxiliary storage contains an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions that match a predetermined purpose, as described later, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0030] The in-vehicle device 100 is configured to include a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, a communication unit 103, an input / output unit 104, and a location information acquisition unit 105.

[0031] The control unit 101 is a computing unit that realizes various functions of the in-vehicle device 100 by executing a predetermined program. The control unit 101 may be implemented by, for example, a CPU. The control unit 101 is composed of three functional modules: an information acquisition unit 1011, an information transmission unit 1012, and a route search unit 1013. Each functional module may be implemented by executing a stored program using a CPU.

[0032] The information acquisition unit 1011 determines that the vehicle 10 has made a right turn at an intersection with traffic lights and generates data related to that right turn (right turn data). Whether vehicle 10 has made a right turn at an intersection with traffic lights can be determined based on the location information of vehicle 10, the turn signal information of vehicle 10, and images acquired by camera 120.

[0033] In this embodiment, the information acquisition unit 1011 measures or acquires the following information and generates right-turn data that includes this data. Information regarding the time taken to make a right turn. • Signal cycle information • Presence or absence of a right-turn signal • Information regarding traffic volume in the opposing lane • Information regarding traffic congestion ahead when turning right These are examples of "primary data regarding the time taken when making a right turn at an intersection." The right-turn data may include any of the above. It may also include other factors that affect the time required for a right turn.

[0034] In the following explanation, "green light" refers to a light that allows right turns, but does not give priority to right turns. On a green light, traffic in the oncoming lane is not blocked. In other words, even with a green light, it may not be possible to turn right depending on the conditions in the oncoming lane.

[0035] A "right-turn signal" refers to a light that allows priority to turn right. In Japan, this is the right-turn arrow signal. When the right-turn signal is lit, traffic in the opposite lane is blocked, and you can turn right freely. Note that any light that prioritizes right turns is a "right-turn signal," regardless of the direction in which you can proceed. For example, a light that blocks traffic in the opposite lane and allows you to proceed in all directions is a "right-turn signal." A "red light" refers to a light that does not permit a right turn. This also includes lights that permit going straight and / or turning left.

[0036] The time required for the right turn can be defined as, for example, the time (in seconds) from when vehicle 10 begins its right-turn motion until the right turn is completed. Normally, if there are no particular problems at the intersection, a right turn can be completed within one signal cycle. However, if there are any problems at the intersection, a right turn may not be completed within a single signal cycle. Therefore, by including the time taken to make a right turn in the right-turn data, it is possible to evaluate the smoothness of the right turn.

[0037] The fact that vehicle 10 has started to make a right turn, and that the right turn has been completed, can be determined, for example, based on the vehicle 10's position information, speed information, information obtained from images acquired by camera 120, or turn signal information. The time required for the right turn may be expressed in seconds, or it may be expressed using points or other indicators that represent the length of time required for the right turn. The time required for the right turn may also refer to the time taken from when vehicle 10 begins its right-turn motion until it completes the right turn.

[0038] In this embodiment, the on-board device 100 calculates points representing the time taken to make a right turn at each intersection using a point deduction system. Specifically, the on-board device 100 sets an initial point at the time the right turn operation begins, and deducts points each time the signal lights change a predetermined number of times. For example, 100 points are set as the initial point, and 10 points are deducted each time the signal lights change a predetermined number of times. A point total of 100 indicates that the right turn was made without any waiting time.

[0039] Cycle information refers to information that represents the duration of each light on a signal in terms of time (for example, in seconds). Figure 2 shows an example of a signal cycle. In this example, the lights illuminate in the following order: green light, yellow light, right-turn signal, and red light. In the diagram, A represents the duration of the green light, and B represents the duration of the yellow light. Similarly, C represents the duration of the right-turn signal, and D represents the duration of the red light. The sum of A, B, C, and D represents the entire signal cycle.

[0040] If the traffic light cycle is not set correctly, turning right may take time. For example. If there is no right-turn signal, or if the right-turn signal is only lit for a short time, many cars may not be able to turn right at once, causing traffic congestion near the intersection. Therefore, by including cycle information in the right-turn data, the smoothness of right turns can be evaluated. The duration for which each light is illuminated can be determined, for example, by analyzing images acquired by camera 120 over time. Alternatively, signal cycle information may be directly received from roadside equipment installed at the intersection. Note that the cycle information may be information about all lights, as shown in Figures 2A to D, or it may be information about the duration of individual lights, such as "seconds for green light" or "seconds for right-turn signal."

[0041] Furthermore, if the volume of traffic in the oncoming lane is greater than the volume of traffic turning right, the right-turning vehicle may not be able to pass unless the right-turn signal is lit (i.e., unless traffic in the oncoming lane is stopped). Conversely, if the volume of traffic in the oncoming lane is less than the volume of traffic turning right, the right turn can be made while the green light is lit. Therefore, by including data on the volume of traffic in the oncoming lane in the right-turn data, the smoothness of right turns can be evaluated. The traffic volume in the opposing lane can be determined, for example, by analyzing images acquired by camera 120. Alternatively, data on the traffic volume of the corresponding road segment (the road segment in the opposing lane) may be received from a server device that manages traffic information.

[0042] Furthermore, if the road to which a vehicle is turning right is congested and there is no space for the vehicle to enter, it may not be possible to make the turn even if there are no problems with traffic lights or the conditions of oncoming lanes. Therefore, by including data on the congestion status of the road to which the vehicle is turning right in the right-turn data, it is possible to evaluate the smoothness of the right turn. The traffic congestion on the road to the right can be determined, for example, by analyzing images acquired by camera 120. Alternatively, traffic volume data for the corresponding road segment (the road segment to the right) may be received from a server device that manages traffic information.

[0043] The information transmission unit 1012 transmits the right-turn data generated by the information acquisition unit 1011 to the server device 200. The right-turn data is generated and transmitted each time the vehicle 10 makes a right turn at an intersection. Figure 3 shows an example of right-turn data generated by the information acquisition unit 1011 and transmitted by the information transmission unit 1012. As shown in the figure, the right-turn data consists of the following fields: date and time, vehicle ID, intersection ID, point, time 1, time 2, traffic volume 1, and traffic volume 2.

[0044] The date and time field stores the date and time information when the right turn data was generated. The vehicle ID field stores a unique identifier for vehicle 10. The intersection ID field stores a unique identifier for the intersection that vehicle 10 passed through. The intersection ID may be defined by road map data. The points field stores a value representing the time taken for the right turn, as described above, expressed in points. The time field stores information about the illumination time of the traffic light's lights. In this embodiment, "Time 1" stores a value representing the illumination time of the green light (length A in Figure 2), and "Time 2" stores a value representing the illumination time of the right-turn signal (length C in Figure 2). The traffic volume information field stores information about the traffic volume in the opposing lane (Traffic Volume 1) and information about the congestion status at the right turn (Traffic Volume 2). In this embodiment, "Traffic Volume 1" stores a value representing the number of vehicles passing per unit time, and "Traffic Volume 2" stores a value representing either "congested" or "not congested".

[0045] The route search unit 1013 performs route searching based on intersection data generated by the server device 200. The route search unit 1013 sends data requesting the server device 200 to provide intersection data (hereinafter referred to as "request data") at any time, and receives the intersection data sent from the server device 200. Right-turn data is data collected at a single intersection, whereas intersection data is data that includes scores (values ​​representing the smoothness of right turns) for multiple intersections, evaluated based on multiple right-turn data. The route search unit 1013 searches for a route when a right turn occurs along the route, taking into account the score included in the intersection data (in other words, using the smoothness of the right turn as a cost).

[0046] The memory unit 102 is a means for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, magnetic disks, and flash memory. The memory unit 102 stores various programs executed by the control unit 101, data used by those programs, and so on. In addition, the memory unit 102 stores road map data 102A. Road map data 102A is map data of roads that vehicle 10 can travel on. Road map data 102A may include definitions of road segments.

[0047] The communication unit 103 is a communication interface for connecting the in-vehicle device 100 to the bus of the in-vehicle network. The communication unit 103 is a CAN (Controller Area Network) within the vehicle. ) It may include an interface for communication.

[0048] The input / output unit 104 is a means for receiving input operations performed by the user and presenting information to the user. Specifically, the input / output unit 104 consists of a touch panel and its control means, and a liquid crystal display and its control means. In this embodiment, the touch panel and liquid crystal display consist of a single touch panel display. The input / output unit 104 may also include a unit for outputting audio (amplifier or speaker), a unit for inputting audio (microphone), etc.

[0049] The location information acquisition unit 105 acquires location information of the vehicle 10 and identifies the road segment on which the vehicle 10 is traveling. The location information acquisition unit 105 includes a GPS antenna and a positioning module for determining location information. The GPS antenna is an antenna that receives positioning signals transmitted from positioning satellites (also called GNSS satellites). The positioning module is a module that calculates location information based on the signals received by the GPS antenna.

[0050] Next, we will describe the server device 200. The server device 200 performs the processes of collecting right-turn data from multiple vehicles 10 (onboard devices 100) and storing it in a database, and assigning scores to multiple intersections based on the collected right-turn data. The score is a numerical representation of the degree to which a right turn can be made smoothly.

[0051] The server device 200 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, main memory such as RAM or ROM, and auxiliary storage such as EPROM, hard disk drive, and removable media. The auxiliary storage contains an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc. The programs stored therein are loaded into the working area of ​​the main memory and executed, and through the execution of the programs, each component is controlled, thereby realizing various functions that match the predetermined purpose, as described later. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0052] The server device 200 is configured to include a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203. It will be done. The control unit 201 is a computing device that manages the control performed by the server device 200. The control unit 201 can be implemented by a computing device such as a CPU. The control unit 201 is configured as a functional module comprising a data acquisition unit 2011, an evaluation unit 2012, and an information provision unit 2013. Each functional module may be implemented by executing a stored program using a CPU.

[0053] The data acquisition unit 2011 collects right-turn data from multiple vehicles 10 (onboard devices 100) and performs the process of storing it in the storage unit 202, which will be described later. The storage unit 202 stores the right-turn data as explained in Figure 3.

[0054] The evaluation unit 2012 calculates a score for each of the multiple intersections based on the multiple right-turn data stored in the memory unit 202. The evaluation unit 2012 performs the score calculation process at predetermined intervals. As mentioned above, the score can be set to a value that increases with the smoothness of the right turn. The evaluation unit 2012 statistically processes multiple right-turn data (elements shown in Figure 3) transmitted from multiple vehicles at each intersection and calculates a score.

[0055] For example, intersections with higher point values, longer green light durations, right-turn signals, longer right-turn signal durations, lower oncoming traffic volume, and a lower tendency for congestion at the right-turn destination will receive a higher score. Furthermore, intersections with lower point values, shorter green light durations, no right-turn signals, shorter right-turn signal durations, heavier oncoming traffic, and a tendency for congestion at the right-turn destination will receive a lower score.

[0056] The calculated score is associated with the intersection and stored as intersection data. Figure 4 shows an example of intersection data. Furthermore, if traffic conditions (ease of making a right turn) vary depending on the day of the week and time of day, scores may be calculated and maintained separately for each day of the week and time of day.

[0057] The storage unit 202 comprises a main memory and an auxiliary storage device. The main memory is the memory where programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by said control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device is the device where programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by said control programs are stored. Furthermore, the memory unit 202 stores right-turn data collected from multiple vehicles 10, as well as generated intersection data.

[0058] The communication unit 203 is a communication interface for connecting the server device 200 to a network. The communication unit 203 is comprised of, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication.

[0059] Note that the configuration shown in Figure 2 is just one example, and all or part of the illustrated functions may be performed using specially designed circuits. Furthermore, program storage and execution may be performed using combinations of main memory and auxiliary memory other than those shown.

[0060] Next, we will explain the specific details of the processing performed by the in-vehicle device 100. Figure 5 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the in-vehicle device 100. The processing shown is repeatedly executed while the vehicle 10 is in motion.

[0061] First, in step S11, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines that the vehicle has started to make a right turn. Determine whether or not a right turn was made. The action of turning right typically involves slowing down and activating the right turn signal near an intersection. In this step, a positive result is given if the following conditions are met: "the vehicle is near an intersection," "the speed is below a predetermined value," and "the right turn signal is illuminated." Whether or not these conditions are met may be determined based on information obtained from the location information acquisition unit 105 or the ECU 110. If the result in this step is positive, the process proceeds to step S12. If the result in this step is negative, the process terminates.

[0062] Next, in step S12, the information acquisition unit 1011 sets the points to their initial value. If the points are in the range of 0 to 100, the initial value of the points is 100. The points are a numerical value that decreases as the time taken to pass through the intersection (turn right) increases.

[0063] Next, in step S13, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether the vehicle is stopped in order to turn right. In this step, a positive determination is made if the following conditions are met: "the vehicle is near the intersection," "the speed is 0," and "the right turn signal is illuminated." Whether these conditions are met may also be determined based on information acquired from the position information acquisition unit 105 or the ECU 110. If the result in this step is positive, the process proceeds to step S14. If the right turn is completed without the speed becoming zero, this step is judged as negative. If this step is judged as negative, it means that the vehicle was able to make a right turn without stopping. In this case, the process transitions to step S26, where right turn data including the current point is generated, and the information transmission unit 1012 transmits this to the server device 200. In this case, the number of points included in the right turn data will be 100.

[0064] Next, in step S14, the information acquisition unit 1011 records the time when the vehicle stopped. This time becomes the starting point for calculating the time when vehicle 10 is waiting to turn right.

[0065] Next, in step S15, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether or not a right turn was possible within one cycle of the signal. For example, if the vehicle 10 was able to turn right within the period when the right-turn-permitting light was illuminated after it stopped, this step results in a positive determination. If the vehicle was unable to turn right within the period when the right-turn-permitting light was illuminated, and then a light indicating that it could not proceed in any direction illuminated, this step results in a negative determination. If the result in this step is negative, the process proceeds to step S16. If the result in this step is positive, it means that vehicle 10 was able to make a smooth right turn. In this case, the process moves to step S26, where right-turn data including the current point is generated, and the information transmission unit 1012 transmits this to the server device 200. In this case, the number of points included in the right-turn data will be 100. In addition to points, the right-turn data may also include the measured waiting time.

[0066] If the process proceeds to step S16, it means that the light indicating a right turn was illuminated, but the right turn was not possible for some reason. Therefore, in step S16, points are deducted by a predetermined amount. For example, points that were 100 points are reduced to 90 points.

[0067] The processing from step S17 onward differs depending on whether or not a right-turn signal is installed at the intersection in question. First, let's explain the case where a right-turn signal is installed at the target intersection. Steps S18 to S26 are executed when a right-turn signal is installed at the target intersection. For the case where a right-turn signal is not installed at the target intersection, please refer to Figure 6 and see the following explanation. . Whether or not a right-turn signal is installed at the target intersection can be determined, for example, based on the image acquired by camera 120.

[0068] In step S18, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether or not there is a preceding vehicle in front of the vehicle. The presence of a preceding vehicle can be determined, for example, based on images acquired by the camera 120 or information output by sensors installed on the vehicle 10. If there is a preceding vehicle, the process proceeds to step S19. If there is no preceding vehicle, that is, if the vehicle is at the front of the line waiting to turn right, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0069] If the process proceeds to step S19, it means that there were other vehicles besides your own that were unable to make a right turn during the period when the right-turn signal was illuminated. Therefore, in step S19, points are deducted by a predetermined amount. In step S20, the measurement of the duration of the next green light begins. The status of the signal light can be determined, for example, based on the image acquired by camera 120.

[0070] In step S21, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether the vehicle was able to turn right before the right-turn signal illuminated. If the vehicle was able to turn right before the right-turn signal illuminated, the process proceeds to step S26, and the information transmission unit 1012 transmits the right-turn data to the server device 200. The right-turn data may include information about the length of the green light, which was measured starting in step S20, in addition to the current point. If the right-turn signal lights up, the process proceeds to step S22.

[0071] The transition to step S22 means that there was heavy traffic in the oncoming lane, and the driver was unable to make a right turn within the period when the green light was on. Therefore, in step S22, points are deducted by a predetermined amount, and the traffic volume in the oncoming lane is measured. The traffic volume in the oncoming lane can be determined by analyzing the images acquired by camera 120 in retrospect. In step S23, the information acquisition unit 1011 starts measuring the length of the right-turn signal.

[0072] In step S24, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether the vehicle was able to make a right turn during the period when the right-turn signal was lit. If the vehicle was able to make a right turn during the period when the right-turn signal was lit, the process proceeds to step S26, and the information transmission unit 1012 transmits the right-turn data to the server device 200. The right-turn data may include the current point, information on the length of the green light that was measured starting in step S20, information on the traffic volume in the opposing lane that was acquired in step S22, and information on the length of the right-turn signal that was measured starting in step S23. If the vehicle is unable to make a right turn while the right-turn signal is illuminated, the process proceeds to step S25.

[0073] In step S25, points are further deducted by a predetermined amount, and the process transitions to step S18. In this way, if a right turn is not made while the green light or right-turn signal is lit, the steps from step S18 are repeatedly executed, and points are repeatedly deducted. In step S25, the traffic congestion status ("congested" or "not congested") of the road segment to which the vehicle is turning right is acquired. The traffic congestion status of the road segment to which the vehicle is turning right can be determined by analyzing the images acquired by camera 120. The acquired traffic congestion status is included in the right-turn data and transmitted to server device 200 after the right turn is completed.

[0074] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the process that the in-vehicle device 100 executes when there is no right-turn signal at the target intersection. The process up to step S20 is the same as that shown in Figure 5. Step S22A measures the traffic volume in the opposing lane. The traffic volume in the opposing lane is measured by Camera 1 The determination can be made by analyzing the images acquired by 20 over time.

[0075] Next, in step S24A, the information acquisition unit 1011 determines whether the vehicle was able to make a right turn within the period that the green light was on. If the vehicle was able to make a right turn within the period that the green light was on, the process proceeds to step S26, and the information transmission unit 1012 transmits the right turn data to the server device 200. The right turn data may include information about the length of the green light, which was measured starting in step S20, in addition to the point.

[0076] If the vehicle fails to make a right turn while the green light is on, the process proceeds to step S25. In other words, as explained with reference to Figure 5, if the vehicle fails to make a right turn while the green light is on, the steps from step S18 are repeated, and points are repeatedly deducted.

[0077] Figure 7 is a flowchart of the process (intersection data generation process) executed by the server device 200. Note that right-turn data is received from the in-vehicle device 100 by the data collection unit 2011 and stored in the storage unit 202. First, in step S31, the evaluation unit 2012 determines whether or not the timing for generating intersection data has arrived. The timing for generating intersection data may arrive at a predetermined cycle.

[0078] When the timing for generating intersection data arrives, the process transitions to step S32, and the evaluation unit 2012 generates the intersection data. The evaluation unit 2012 statistically processes the elements shown in Figure 3 using unprocessed right-turn data or right-turn data generated within a predetermined past period, and calculates a score for each intersection. The calculated score is associated with the intersection and stored as intersection data.

[0079] If the timing for generating intersection data has not yet arrived in step S31, the process proceeds to step S33, where it is determined whether or not a request data (a request to transmit intersection data) has been received from the in-vehicle device 100. If a request data has been received from the in-vehicle device 100, the process proceeds to step S34, where the latest intersection data is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 100 that sent the request data. The intersection data may be data for all intersections under management, or data for intersections located within a predetermined range from the vehicle 10.

[0080] The in-vehicle device 100 performs route searching using the received intersection data and outputs the results. As explained in Figure 4, the score associated with each intersection represents the ease of making a right turn at that intersection. When a right turn occurs during route searching, the score associated with that intersection can be used as the cost required to pass through it, making it possible to generate an appropriate route.

[0081] As described above, in the vehicle system according to this embodiment, each of the multiple vehicles 10 generates data (right-turn data) to evaluate how smoothly they were able to make a right turn at an intersection, and transmits it to the server device 200. The server device 200 evaluates the intersection based on the multiple right-turn data collected, and transmits the intersection data, including the results, to the in-vehicle device 100 upon request. With this configuration, the in-vehicle device 100 becomes able to identify intersections where a smooth right turn is possible, and becomes able to generate a more appropriate route.

[0082] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the server device 200 provided intersection data to the in-vehicle device 100, and the in-vehicle device 100 performed route searching. However, the server device 200 was given route searching functionality. That's fine. In this case, the server device 200 may search for a route connecting the origin and destination based on a request received from the in-vehicle device 100 and notify the in-vehicle device 100 of the result. The server device 200 uses the score included in the generated intersection data as the cost of passing through the intersection when making a right turn to perform the route search. This configuration also allows for the generation of an appropriate route, taking into account the cost of making a right turn.

[0083] (modified version) The embodiments described above are merely examples, and this disclosure may be modified as appropriate without departing from its essence. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise.

[0084] Furthermore, while Figure 3 is used as an example of right-turn data in the description of the embodiment, other data may be acquired and transmitted as long as it is data that evaluates the smoothness of the right turn. Also, the score calculation method executed by the evaluation unit 2012 is not limited to the example shown.

[0085] Furthermore, while the description of the embodiment includes an example of route searching based on intersection data, intersection data may also be used for purposes other than route searching. For example, if there is an intersection ahead of the vehicle where a right turn cannot be made smoothly, the in-vehicle device 100 may overlay a graphic or the like indicating this on the road map. Also, if the driver is attempting to make a right turn at the intersection, the device may output a notification via image or sound. This notification may include the expected waiting time, etc.

[0086] Furthermore, while the description of the embodiments assumes a country or region with left-hand traffic, in the case of a country or region with right-hand traffic, "right turn" in this specification should be read as "left turn".

[0087] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by a single device may be divided and executed by multiple devices. Conversely, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is implemented can be flexibly changed.

[0088] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program implementing the functions described in the embodiments above to a computer, and having one or more processors in the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer by a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the computer's system bus, or it may be provided to the computer via a network. Non-temporary computer-readable storage mediums include, for example, any type of disk such as magnetic disks (floppy disks, hard disk drives (HDDs), etc.), optical disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 10.. Vehicles 100...In-vehicle equipment 110···ECU 120...Camera 130···DCM 200... Server equipment 101,201...Control Unit 102,202...Storage section 103,203... Communications Department 104...Input / output section 105...Location information acquisition unit

Claims

1. From the first vehicle that turned right at the designated intersection, A first data set is obtained that includes a point representing the time required to make a right turn at the intersection, and which is calculated by the first vehicle based at least on whether the first vehicle completed the right turn within one cycle of the traffic signals installed at the intersection, and whether the right turn was completed before the right-turn-specific lights illuminated within that cycle. Based on the aforementioned first data, an evaluation value representing the smoothness of turning right at the intersection is calculated, An information processing device having a control unit that performs the following.

2. The first data further includes at least one of the following: cycle information of a traffic light installed at the intersection, traffic volume in the lane opposite to the first vehicle, or congestion status on the road after the first vehicle turns right. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit calculates the evaluation value for each of the multiple intersections based on the multiple first data for each of the multiple intersections obtained from the multiple first vehicles. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The control unit transmits to the first vehicle a second data set, which associates each of the plurality of intersections with a corresponding evaluation value. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The control unit generates second data associating each of the plurality of intersections with a corresponding evaluation value, and performs a route search based on the second data when a request is received from the first vehicle. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

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