JP7505745B2 - Navigation system, device, server, method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a navigation system, device, server, method, and program.

Navigation systems that provide guidance when traveling calculate and provide guidance on a route from a current location, which is determined using a GPS (Global Positioning System), to a specified destination. When calculating a route, navigation systems take into account road congestion information to calculate travel time or arrival time. If there are railroad crossings on the calculated route, the travel time or arrival time can vary significantly. Therefore, technology has been proposed that provides route guidance according to the conditions of railroad crossings (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

Patent Document 1 discloses a navigation system that, when a railroad crossing is found on a route taken by a mobile station to a destination and it is determined that the mobile station will pass through the railroad crossing during the crossing's closed hours, re-searches for a detour route that does not pass through the railroad crossing. Patent Document 2 discloses a navigation device that, when passing through a road that includes a railroad crossing, estimates the time of passing the relevant crossing and calculates a route by taking into account the railroad crossing data corresponding to that time.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-311536 JP 2001-304887 A

The following analysis is provided by the present inventors.

However, in the navigation system of Patent Document 1, in areas with many railroad crossings, the system frequently searches for routes that bypass railroad crossings, which increases the load on the system and may cause stress to users. In addition, in the navigation device of Patent Document 2, the time at which a user passes through a railroad crossing varies depending on the amount of traffic congestion, which causes frequent calculations of the time at which a train will pass through the crossing, which increases the load on the system and may cause stress to users.

The main objective of the present invention is to provide a navigation system, device, server, method, and program that can help provide guidance during travel while minimizing the load on the system and stressing the user.

A navigation system (for a navigation device) according to a first aspect comprises a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance, and a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing installed on a railway line over which a railroad vehicle passes. The navigation device comprises a display unit that displays information, a positioning unit that measures the current location of the navigation device, and a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing. The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server comprises a control unit that calculates the railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from outside, and preset position information of the railroad crossing. The control unit of the navigation device is configured to perform the following processes when the route includes the railroad crossing: calculate a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest location information of the current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device and the preset location information of the railroad crossing; obtain information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance; and calculate again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device to the destination when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

A navigation system (for a navigation server) according to a second aspect of the invention comprises an information and communications terminal having a positioning unit for locating a current location, an input unit for inputting a destination, and a display unit for displaying information, a navigation server configured to calculate a route from the current location to the destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from the information and communications terminal, and to provide route guidance to the information and communications terminal, and a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing installed on a railway line through which a railroad vehicle passes. The navigation server comprises a control unit that performs predetermined information processing. The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server comprises a control unit that calculates a railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from outside, and preset position information of the railroad crossing. The control unit of the navigation server is configured to perform the following processes when the route includes a railroad crossing: calculate a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location position information measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal and the preset railroad crossing position information; obtain information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance; and calculate again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal to the destination when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

The navigation device according to the third aspect is a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railroad crossing waiting time data from a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railroad crossing waiting times at railroad crossings installed on a railroad line on which railroad vehicles pass, and includes a display unit that displays information, a positioning unit that measures the current location of the navigation device, and a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing. The control unit is configured to perform the following operations when the railroad crossing is on the route: calculate a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on position information of the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device and position information of the preset railroad crossing; obtain information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance; and calculate a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device to the destination again when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

The navigation server according to the fourth aspect is a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination obtained from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that locates a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using crossing waiting time data from a crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate crossing waiting times at crossings installed on a railway line over which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal, and is equipped with a control unit that performs predetermined information processing. The control unit is configured to perform the following processes when the railroad crossing is present on the route: calculate the current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest location information of the current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal and the preset location information of the railroad crossing; when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, acquire information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server; and when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time, calculate again the route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal to the destination.

The navigation method (for a navigation device) according to the fifth aspect is a navigation method using a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railroad crossing waiting time data from a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railroad crossing waiting times at railroad crossings installed on a railroad line through which railroad vehicles pass. The navigation method includes the steps of: calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on position information of the latest current location measured by the navigation device and position information of the railroad crossing that is set in advance, when the railroad crossing is on the route; acquiring information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server, when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a predetermined distance; and calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination, when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time.

The navigation method (for a navigation server) relating to the sixth aspect is a navigation method using a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination obtained from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that locates a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using crossing waiting time data from a crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate crossing waiting times at crossings installed on a railway line over which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal. The navigation method includes the steps of: calculating a current location-to-crossing distance between the current location and the crossing based on the latest current location position information measured by the information communication terminal and the preset crossing position information when the crossing is on the route; acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance; and calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

The program (for a navigation device) according to the seventh aspect is a program that causes a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance by using crossing waiting time data from a crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate crossing waiting times at crossings installed on a railway line on which railway vehicles pass, to execute a predetermined process. The program causes the navigation device to execute the following processes when the crossing is on the route: a process of calculating a current location-to-crossing distance between the current location and the crossing based on position information of the latest current location measured by the navigation device and position information of the preset crossing; a process of acquiring information related to the crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance; and a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination when the crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

The program relating to the eighth aspect (for a navigation server) is a program that uses railroad crossing waiting time data from a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railroad crossing waiting times at railroad crossings installed on a railway line over which railway vehicles pass, calculates a route from the current location to the destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination obtained from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that locates the current location, an input unit that inputs the destination, and a display unit that displays the information, and causes a navigation server configured to perform a specified process and provide route guidance to the information communication terminal. The program causes the navigation server to execute the following processes when the railroad crossing is on the route: calculating the current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the information communication terminal and the preset location information of the railroad crossing; acquiring information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance; and calculating again the route from the latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time.

The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transient medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. In addition, the present disclosure can be embodied as a computer program product. The program is input to the computer device from an input device or an external device via a communication interface, stored in a storage device, and drives the processor according to a predetermined step or process, and can display the processing results, including intermediate states as necessary, at each stage via a display device, or can communicate with the outside via the communication interface. As an example, a computer device for this purpose typically includes a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device as necessary, all of which can be connected to each other via a bus.

The first to eighth aspects mentioned above can help reduce the load on the system and provide travel guidance that does not cause stress to users.

1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a navigation system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flow chart diagram illustrating the operation of the navigation device in the navigation system according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flow chart diagram showing a schematic operation of a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a navigation system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flow chart diagram showing a schematic operation of a navigation server in a navigation system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flow chart diagram showing a schematic operation of a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a navigation system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a navigation system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of hardware resources.

The following describes the embodiments with reference to the drawings. Note that when reference symbols are used in this application, they are intended to aid understanding and are not intended to limit the invention to the illustrated form. The following embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the invention. The connection lines between blocks in the drawings and the like referred to in the following description include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. One-way arrows are used to diagrammatically indicate the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Furthermore, although not explicitly shown in the circuit diagrams, block diagrams, internal configuration diagrams, connection diagrams, and the like shown in this disclosure, input ports and output ports exist at the input and output ends of each connection line. The same is true for input/output interfaces. The program is executed via a computer device, which includes, for example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device as necessary, and the computer device is configured to be able to communicate with devices inside or outside the device (including a computer) via the communication interface, regardless of whether it is wired or wireless.

[Embodiment 1]
A navigation system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the navigation system according to the first embodiment.

The navigation system 1 is a system that calculates and provides guidance on a route from a current location determined by a navigation device 30 to a specified destination (see FIG. 1). If a railway crossing 3 is on the calculated route, the navigation system 1 has a function of recalculating the route based on the distance between the current location and the railway crossing 3 (current location-to-railroad crossing distance) and the railway crossing waiting time. The navigation system 1 includes a railway crossing waiting time calculation server 10, a railway vehicle 20, a navigation device 30, and a network 40.

The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 is a server that calculates the waiting time (railroad crossing blocking time) at the railroad crossing 3 through which the railway vehicle 20 passes (see FIG. 1). The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 may be, for example, a device having a computer. The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 includes a communication unit 11, a memory unit 12, and a control unit 13.

The communication unit 11 is a functional unit that communicates (transmits and receives) information (see FIG. 1). The communication unit 11 is communicatively connected to the railway vehicle 20 and the navigation device 30 via the network 40. The communication unit 11 communicates under the control of the control unit 13. For example, a wired communication interface can be used for the communication unit 11, or a wireless communication interface may be used.

The storage unit 12 is a functional unit that stores information such as data, databases, and programs (see FIG. 1). The storage unit 12 writes and reads information under the control of the control unit 13. The storage unit 12 may be, for example, a storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

The control unit 13 is a functional unit that controls the communication unit 11 and the memory unit 12 (see FIG. 1). For example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) can be used for the control unit 13. The control unit 13 can perform predetermined information processing described in a program by executing the program. The control unit 13 has a time function. The control unit 13 performs information processing for calculating the railroad crossing waiting time. The detailed operation of the control unit 13 (see FIG. 3) will be described later.

The railway vehicle 20 is a vehicle that travels (runs) on a railway line on which a railroad crossing 3 is installed (see FIG. 1). The railway vehicle 20 includes a communication unit 21, a memory unit 22, a control unit 23, and a positioning unit 24.

The communication unit 21 is a functional unit that communicates (transmits and receives) information (see FIG. 1). The communication unit 21 is communicatively connected to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 and the navigation device 30 via the network 40. The communication unit 21 communicates under the control of the control unit 23. For example, a wireless communication interface can be used for the communication unit 21, but a wired communication interface may also be used.

The storage unit 22 is a functional unit that stores information such as data, databases, and programs (see FIG. 1). The storage unit 22 writes and reads information under the control of the control unit 23. The storage unit 22 can be, for example, a storage device such as a RAM, SSD, or HDD.

The control unit 23 is a functional unit that controls the communication unit 21, the memory unit 22, and the positioning unit 24 (see FIG. 1). The control unit 23 may be, for example, a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. The control unit 23 can execute a predetermined program to perform a predetermined information processing described in the program. The control unit 23 has a time function. When the control unit 23 receives a request for position information and speed information of the railway vehicle 20 from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, the control unit 23 causes the positioning unit 24 to measure the position and speed of the railway vehicle 20, and transmits the measured information on the position (position information) and information on the speed (speed information) of the railway vehicle 20 to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

In addition, instead of transmitting position information and speed information of the railway vehicle 20 from the railway vehicle 20 to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, a vehicle detection device (not shown) and a vehicle speed measurement device (not shown) may be installed at a predetermined position on the railway line, and the position and speed of the railway vehicle 20 may be measured by the vehicle detection device and the vehicle speed measurement device, and the detection information of the railway vehicle 20 (information indicating that the railway vehicle 20 has been detected at a predetermined position; equivalent to position information) and the speed information may be transmitted to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

The positioning unit 24 is a functional unit that measures the position (current location) of the railway vehicle 20 (see FIG. 1). The positioning unit 24 performs positioning under the control of the control unit 23. For example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver, an IMCS (Inbuilding Mobile Communication System) receiver, etc. can be used as the positioning unit 24. The positioning unit 24 has a function of measuring the speed of the railway vehicle 20 based on the change over time of multiple measured positions (current location and past locations).

The navigation device 30 is a device that processes information to calculate a route from the current location of the navigation device 30 measured by the navigation device 30 to a destination specified by the navigation device 30 and guides the user along the route (see FIG. 1). The navigation device 30 may be, for example, an in-vehicle hardware resource that performs navigation, or a computer that executes a navigation program. The navigation device 30 includes a communication unit 31, a memory unit 32, a control unit 33, a positioning unit 34, an input unit 35, and a display unit 36.

The communication unit 31 is a functional unit that communicates (transmits and receives) information (see FIG. 1). The communication unit 31 is communicably connected to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 via the network 40. The communication unit 31 communicates under the control of the control unit 33. For example, a wireless communication interface can be used for the communication unit 31, or a wired communication interface may be used.

The memory unit 32 is a functional unit that stores information such as data, databases, and programs (see FIG. 1). The memory unit 32 writes and reads information under the control of the control unit 33. The memory unit 32 may be a storage device such as a RAM, SSD, or HDD. The memory unit 32 stores crossing position information related to the crossing 3.

The control unit 33 is a functional unit that controls the communication unit 31, the storage unit 32, the positioning unit 34, the input unit 35, and the display unit 36 (see FIG. 1). The control unit 33 may be, for example, a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. The control unit 33 can perform a predetermined information processing described in the program by executing a predetermined program. The control unit 33 has a time function. The control unit 33 performs information processing to calculate and guide a route from the current location measured by the positioning unit 34 to a specified destination. If a railroad crossing 3 is on the calculated route, the control unit 33 calculates the distance between the current location measured by the positioning unit 34 and the railroad crossing 3 (current location-to-railroad crossing distance). If the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a predetermined distance, the control unit 33 acquires railroad crossing waiting time data from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10. If the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, the control unit 33 recalculates the route from the current location to the destination. The detailed operation of the control unit 33 (see FIG. 2) will be described later.

The positioning unit 34 is a functional unit that measures the position (current location) of the navigation device 30 (see FIG. 1). The positioning unit 34 performs positioning under the control of the control unit 33. For example, a GPS receiver, a GNSS receiver, an IMCS receiver, etc. can be used as the positioning unit 34.

The input unit 35 is a functional unit that inputs information to the navigation device 30 (see FIG. 1). The input unit 35 is controlled by the control unit 33, and information is input by a user's operation. The input unit 35 may be, for example, a touch panel, a microphone (when using a voice recognition function), a keypad, or the like. The input unit 35 transmits the information input by the user's operation to the control unit 33.

The display unit 36 is a functional unit that displays information (see FIG. 1). The display unit 36 displays information under the control of the control unit 33. For example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display may be used as the display unit 36. Note that a speaker unit (not shown) may be used in combination with or in place of the display unit 36.

The network 40 is an information and communication network that connects the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, the railway vehicle 20, and the navigation device 30 so that they can communicate with each other. The network 40 may be, for example, a communication network such as a PAN (Personal Area Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or a GAN (Global Area Network). The network 40 includes wireless base stations, communication equipment, wired cables, etc.

Next, the operation of the navigation device in the navigation system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a flow chart diagram that illustrates the operation of the navigation device in the navigation system according to the first embodiment.

First, the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 acquires destination data from the input unit 35 via a user's operation (step A1).

After step A1, or if the waiting time at the railroad crossing is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (YES in step A9), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 acquires the latest current location data of the navigation device 30 from the positioning unit 34, and calculates a route from the current location to the destination based on the acquired current location data and the destination data acquired in step A1 (step A2).

After step A2, if the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is not within the predetermined distance (NO in step A6), after step A10, or if the destination has not been reached (NO in step A11), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 performs route guidance (navigation) based on the route calculated in step A2 (step A3).

After step A3, the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 checks whether or not a railroad crossing 3 exists on the route calculated in step A2 (step A4). If a railroad crossing 3 does not exist on the route (NO in step A4), the process proceeds to step A11.

If a railroad crossing 3 is present on the route (YES in step A4), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 acquires the latest current location data of the navigation device 30 from the positioning unit 34, and calculates the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing (current location-to-railroad crossing distance) based on the acquired current location data and the railroad crossing position data relating to the railroad crossing 3 stored in the memory unit 32 (step A5).

After step A5, the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 determines whether the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing calculated in step A5 is within a preset distance (step A6). If the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is not within the preset distance (NO in step A6), the process proceeds to step A3.

Here, the predetermined distance in step A6 can be set arbitrarily in advance, or can be set by the user through operation.

If the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within the predetermined distance (YES in step A6), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 sends a railroad crossing approach notification to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 to inform the navigation device 30 that it is approaching the railroad crossing 3 (step A7).

The crossing waiting time calculation server 10, which has received the crossing approach notification in step A7, calculates the crossing waiting time at the crossing 3 and transmits data related to the calculated crossing waiting time (crossing waiting time data) to the navigation device 30. The detailed operation of the crossing waiting time calculation server 10 will be described later (see FIG. 3).

After step A7, the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 acquires railroad crossing waiting time data from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 (step A8).

After step A8, the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 determines whether the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a preset predetermined time based on the railroad crossing waiting time data acquired in step A8 (step A9). If the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time (YES in step A9), the control unit 33 proceeds to step A2, determines that there will be a large delay in arriving at the destination, and recalculates the route from the current location to the destination.

Here, the predetermined time in step A9 can be set arbitrarily in advance, or can be set by the user through operation.

If the railroad crossing waiting time is less than the predetermined time (NO in step A9), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 causes the display unit 36 to display the railroad crossing waiting time based on the railroad crossing waiting time data acquired in step A8 (step A10). After step A10, the process returns to step A3. Here, instead of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time, the time at which the railroad crossing 3 becomes passable may be calculated based on the railroad crossing waiting time data and displayed.

If there is no railroad crossing 3 on the route (NO in step A4), the control unit 33 of the navigation device 30 acquires the latest current location data of the navigation device 30 from the positioning unit 34, and determines whether the destination has been reached (whether the current location matches the destination, or whether the current location is within a predetermined range from the destination) based on the acquired current location data and the destination data acquired in step A1 (step A11). If the destination has not been reached (NO in step A11), the process returns to step A3. If the destination has been reached (YES in step A11), the process ends.

Next, the operation of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a flow chart diagram that shows a schematic diagram of the operation of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the first embodiment.

First, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 receives a railroad crossing approach notification (the railroad crossing approach notification sent in step A7 of FIG. 2) from the navigation device 30 (step B1).

After step B1, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 requests the railroad vehicle 20 for its position information and speed information (step B2).

When the railway vehicle 20 receives the request for position information and speed information in step B2, it measures the position and speed of the railway vehicle 20, and transmits the measured information relating to the position (position information) and information relating to the speed (speed information) of the railway vehicle 20 to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

After step B2, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 acquires position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle 20 from the railroad vehicle 20 (step B3).

After step B3, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 calculates the distance between the railroad vehicle 20 and the railroad crossing 3 (railroad vehicle-crossing distance) based on the position information of the railroad vehicle 20 acquired in step B3 and the position information of the railroad crossing 3 that has been set in advance (step B4).

After step B4, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 determines whether the distance between the railroad vehicles and the railroad crossings calculated in step B4 is within a preset distance (step B5). If the distance between the railroad vehicles and the railroad crossings is not within the preset distance (NO in step B5), the process proceeds to step B7.

If the distance between the railway vehicles and the railway crossings is within the predetermined distance (YES in step B5), the control unit 13 of the railway crossing waiting time calculation server 10 calculates the waiting time at the railway crossing 3 (railroad crossing waiting time) based on the position information and speed information of the railway vehicle 20 acquired in step B3 and the position information of the railway crossing 3 that has been set in advance (step B6).

If the distance between the railway vehicles and the crossing is not within the predetermined distance (NO in step B5), the control unit 13 of the crossing waiting time calculation server 10 sets the waiting time at the crossing 3 (crossing waiting time) to 0 (step B7).

After step B6 or step B7, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 transmits the railroad crossing waiting time calculated in step B6 or data relating to the railroad crossing waiting time set to 0 in step B7 (railroad crossing waiting time data) to the navigation device 30 (step B8), and then ends the process. The railroad crossing waiting time data transmitted from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 is acquired by the navigation device 30 in step A8 of FIG. 2.

According to the first embodiment, the route is calculated taking into account the distance between the user (navigation device 30) and the railroad crossing 3 and the waiting time at the railroad crossing 3, which reduces the frequency of route changes, suppresses the load on the system, and contributes to providing travel guidance that does not cause stress to the user. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the user can know the railroad crossing waiting time without going to the site, so that the user can travel based on the received route guidance, thereby avoiding or minimizing time loss due to waiting at railroad crossings.

[Embodiment 2]
A navigation system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the navigation system according to the second embodiment.

The navigation system 2 according to the second embodiment is a modified version of the navigation system 1 according to the first embodiment, in which information processing related to route guidance (route calculation, calculation of the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing, etc.) is performed by the navigation server 50.

The navigation system 2 is a system that calculates and provides guidance on a route from a current location measured by the user's information communication terminal 60 to a specified destination (see FIG. 4). If the calculated route includes a railroad crossing 3, the navigation system 2 has a function of recalculating the route according to the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing 3 (current location-to-railroad crossing distance) and the railroad crossing waiting time. The navigation system 2 includes a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, a railway vehicle 20, a network 40, a navigation server 50, and an information communication terminal 60. Note that the configurations of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, the railway vehicle 20, and the network 40 in FIG. 4 are the same as those of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10, the railway vehicle 20, and the network 40 in embodiment 1 (see FIG. 1) except for the configurations related to the navigation server 50 and the information communication terminal 60, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The navigation server 50 is a server that calculates a route from the current location of the user (information communication terminal 60) measured by the information communication terminal 60 to a destination specified by the information communication terminal 60, and processes information so that the information communication terminal 60 provides guidance (see FIG. 4). The navigation server 50 may be, for example, a device having a computer. The navigation server 50 includes a communication unit 51, a storage unit 52, and a control unit 53.

The communication unit 51 is a functional unit that communicates (transmits and receives) information (see FIG. 4). The communication unit 51 is communicatively connected to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 and the information communication terminal 60 via the network 40. The communication unit 51 communicates under the control of the control unit 53. For example, a wired communication interface can be used for the communication unit 51, or a wireless communication interface may be used.

The memory unit 52 is a functional unit that stores information such as data, databases, and programs (see FIG. 4). The memory unit 52 writes and reads information under the control of the control unit 53. The memory unit 52 may be a storage device such as a RAM, SSD, or HDD. The memory unit 52 stores crossing position information related to the crossing 3.

The control unit 53 is a functional unit that controls the communication unit 51 and the storage unit 52 (see FIG. 4). The control unit 53 may be, for example, a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. The control unit 53 can execute a predetermined program to perform a predetermined information process described in the program. The control unit 53 has a time function. The control unit 53 performs information process to calculate and guide a route from the current location of the information communication terminal 60 measured by the information communication terminal 60 to a destination specified by the information communication terminal 60. If a railroad crossing 3 is on the calculated route, the control unit 53 calculates the distance between the current location of the information communication terminal 60 measured by the information communication terminal 60 and the railroad crossing 3 (current location-to-railroad crossing distance). If the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a predetermined distance, the control unit 53 acquires railroad crossing waiting time data from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10. If the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, the control unit 53 recalculates the route from the current location to the destination. The detailed operation of the control unit 53 (see FIG. 5) will be described later.

The information communication terminal 60 is a terminal device that communicates information (see FIG. 4). For example, a smartphone, tablet terminal, or mobile phone that runs a map application or a navigation application can be used as the information communication terminal 60. The information communication terminal 60 includes a communication unit 61, a memory unit 62, a control unit 63, a positioning unit 64, an input unit 65, and a display unit 66.

The communication unit 61 is a functional unit that communicates (transmits and receives) information (see FIG. 4). The communication unit 61 is communicably connected to the navigation server 50 via the network 40. The communication unit 61 communicates under the control of the control unit 63. For example, a wireless communication interface can be used for the communication unit 61, or a wired communication interface may be used.

The storage unit 62 is a functional unit that stores information such as data, databases, and programs (see FIG. 4). The storage unit 62 writes and reads information under the control of the control unit 63. For example, a storage device such as a RAM, SSD, or HDD can be used as the storage unit 62.

The control unit 63 is a functional unit that controls the communication unit 61, the storage unit 62, the positioning unit 64, the input unit 65, and the display unit 66 (see FIG. 4). The control unit 63 may be, for example, a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. The control unit 63 executes a predetermined program to perform a predetermined information processing described in the program. The control unit 63 has a time function. The control unit 63 performs a process of transmitting data relating to the destination inputted by the input unit 65 (destination data) and data relating to the current location measured by the positioning unit 64 (current location data) to the navigation server 50 via the communication unit 61. The control unit 63 acquires the route calculated by the navigation server 50 (route from the current location to the destination) and performs information processing to provide route guidance based on the route.

The positioning unit 64 is a functional unit that measures the position (current location) of the information communication terminal 60 (see FIG. 4). The positioning unit 64 performs positioning under the control of the control unit 63. For example, a GPS receiver, a GNSS receiver, an IMCS receiver, etc. can be used as the positioning unit 64.

The input unit 65 is a functional unit that inputs information to the information communication terminal 60 (see FIG. 4). The input unit 65 is controlled by the control unit 63, and information is input by a user's operation. The input unit 65 may be, for example, a touch panel, a microphone (when using a voice recognition function), a keypad, or the like. The input unit 65 transmits the information input by the user's operation to the control unit 63.

The display unit 66 is a functional unit that displays information (see FIG. 4). The display unit 66 displays information under the control of the control unit 63. For example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display may be used as the display unit 66. Note that a speaker unit (not shown) may be used in combination with or in place of the display unit 66.

Next, the operation of the navigation server in the navigation system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a flow chart diagram that illustrates the operation of the navigation server in the navigation system according to the second embodiment.

First, the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 acquires destination data from the information communication terminal 60 (step C1). Here, the destination data is data related to the destination that is input and transmitted from the input unit 65 of the information communication terminal 60 by the user's operation.

After step C1, or if the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (YES in step C9), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 acquires the latest current location data of the information communication terminal 60 (data relating to the latest current location of the information communication terminal 60 measured by the positioning unit 64 of the information communication terminal 60) from the information communication terminal 60, and calculates a route from the current location to the destination based on the acquired current location data and the destination data acquired in step C1 (step C2).

After step C2, if the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is not within the predetermined distance (NO in step C6), after step C10, or if the destination has not been reached (NO in step C11), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 provides route guidance (navigation) to the information communication terminal 60 based on the route calculated in step C2 (step C3).

After step C3, the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 checks whether or not a railroad crossing 3 exists on the route calculated in step C2 (step C4). If a railroad crossing 3 does not exist on the route (NO in step C4), the process proceeds to step C11.

If a railroad crossing 3 is present on the route (YES in step C4), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 acquires the latest current location data of the information communication terminal 60 (data relating to the latest current location of the information communication terminal 60 measured by the positioning unit 64 of the information communication terminal 60), and calculates the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing (current location-to-railroad crossing distance) based on the acquired current location data and the railroad crossing position data relating to the railroad crossing 3 stored in the memory unit 52 (step C5).

After step C5, the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 determines whether the distance between the current location and the crossing calculated in step C5 is within a preset distance (step C6). If the distance between the current location and the crossing is not within the preset distance (NO in step C6), the process proceeds to step C3.

Here, the predetermined distance in step C6 can be set arbitrarily in advance, or can be set by the user through operation.

If the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within the predetermined distance (YES in step C6), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 sends a railroad crossing approach notification to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 to inform the information communication terminal 60 that it is approaching the railroad crossing 3 (step C7).

The crossing waiting time calculation server 10, which has received the crossing approach notification in step C7, calculates the crossing waiting time at the crossing 3 and transmits data related to the calculated crossing waiting time (crossing waiting time data) to the navigation server 50. The detailed operation of the crossing waiting time calculation server 10 will be described later (see FIG. 6).

After step C7, the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 acquires the railroad crossing waiting time data from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 (step C8).

After step C8, the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 determines whether the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a preset predetermined time based on the railroad crossing waiting time data acquired in step C8 (step C9). If the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset predetermined time (YES in step C9), the process proceeds to step C2, where it is determined that there will be a large delay in arriving at the destination, and the route from the current location to the destination is recalculated.

Here, the predetermined time in step C9 can be set arbitrarily in advance, or can be set by the user through operation.

If the crossing waiting time is less than the predetermined time (NO in step C9), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 transmits the crossing waiting time data acquired in step C8 to the information communication terminal 60 (step C10). After step C10, the process returns to step C3.

The information communication terminal 60 that receives the railroad crossing waiting time data in step C10 will display the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit 66.

If there is no railroad crossing 3 on the route (NO in step C4), the control unit 53 of the navigation server 50 acquires the latest current location data of the information communication terminal 60 (data related to the latest current location of the information communication terminal 60 measured by the positioning unit 64 of the information communication terminal 60) from the information communication terminal 60, and determines whether the destination has been reached (whether the current location matches the destination, or whether the current location is within a predetermined range from the destination) based on the acquired current location data and the destination data acquired in step C1 (step C11). If the destination has not been reached (NO in step C11), return to step C3. If the destination has been reached (YES in step C11), end the process.

Next, the operation of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram that illustrates the operation of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server in the navigation system according to the second embodiment.

First, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 receives a railroad crossing approach notification (the railroad crossing approach notification sent in step C7 of FIG. 5) from the navigation device 30 (step D1).

After step D1, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 requests the railroad vehicle 20 for position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle 20 (step D2).

Upon receiving the request for position information and speed information in step D2, the railway vehicle 20 measures the position and speed of the railway vehicle 20, and transmits the measured information relating to the position (position information) and information relating to the speed (speed information) of the railway vehicle 20 to the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

After step D2, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 acquires the position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle 20 from the railroad vehicle 20 (step D3).

After step D3, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 calculates the distance between the railroad vehicle 20 and the railroad crossing 3 (railroad vehicle-crossing distance) based on the position information of the railroad vehicle 20 acquired in step D3 and the position information of the railroad crossing 3 that has been set in advance (step D4).

After step D4, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 determines whether the distance between the railroad vehicles and the railroad crossings calculated in step D4 is within a preset distance (step D5). If the distance between the railroad vehicles and the railroad crossings is not within the preset distance (NO in step D5), the process proceeds to step D7.

If the distance between the railway vehicles and the railway crossings is within the predetermined distance (YES in step D5), the control unit 13 of the railway crossing waiting time calculation server 10 calculates the waiting time at the railway crossing 3 (railroad crossing waiting time) based on the position information and speed information of the railway vehicle 20 acquired in step D3 and the position information of the railway crossing 3 that has been set in advance (step D6).

If the distance between the railway vehicles and the crossing is not within the predetermined distance (NO in step D5), the control unit 13 of the crossing waiting time calculation server 10 sets the waiting time at the crossing 3 (crossing waiting time) to 0 (step D7).

After step D6 or step D7, the control unit 13 of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 transmits the railroad crossing waiting time calculated in step D6 or data relating to the railroad crossing waiting time set to 0 in step D7 (railroad crossing waiting time data) to the navigation server 50 (step D8), and then ends the process. The railroad crossing waiting time data transmitted from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 is acquired by the navigation server 50 in step C8 of FIG. 5.

According to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the route is calculated taking into account the distance between the user (information communication terminal 60) and the railroad crossing 3 and the waiting time at the railroad crossing 3, which reduces the frequency of route changes, suppresses the load on the system, and contributes to providing travel guidance that does not cause stress to the user. Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the user can know the railroad crossing waiting time without going to the site, so that the user can travel based on the received route guidance, thereby avoiding or minimizing time loss due to waiting at railroad crossings.

[Embodiment 3]
A navigation system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the navigation system according to the third embodiment.

The navigation system 1 is a system that calculates and provides guidance on a route from a current location to a destination. The navigation system 1 includes a navigation device 30 and a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

The navigation device 30 is a device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance. The navigation device 30 includes a display unit 36 that displays information, a positioning unit 34 that measures the current location of the navigation device 30, and a control unit 33 that controls the display unit 36 and the positioning unit 34 and performs predetermined information processing.

When a railroad crossing 3 is present on the route, the control unit 33 performs a process of calculating the current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing 3 based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit 34 of the navigation device 30 and the preset position information of the railroad crossing 3. When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, the control unit 33 performs a process of acquiring information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10. When the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time, the control unit 33 performs a process of calculating again the route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit 34 of the navigation device 30 to the destination.

The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 is a server configured to calculate the railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing 3 installed on a railway line on which a railroad vehicle 20 passes. The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 includes a control unit 13 that calculates the railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing 3 based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle 20 acquired from outside, and preset position information of the railroad crossing 3.

According to the third embodiment, the route is calculated taking into account the distance between the navigation device 30 and the railroad crossing 3 and the waiting time at the railroad crossing 3, which reduces the frequency of route changes, reduces the load on the system, and contributes to providing travel guidance that does not cause stress to the user of the navigation device 30.

[Embodiment 4]
A navigation system according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the navigation system according to the fourth embodiment.

The navigation system 2 is a system that calculates and provides guidance on a route from a current location to a destination. The navigation system 2 includes an information communication terminal 60, a navigation server 50, and a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10.

The information communication terminal 60 includes a positioning unit 64 that measures the current location, an input unit 65 for inputting a destination, and a display unit 66 for displaying information.

The navigation server 50 is a server configured to calculate a route from the current location to the destination based on the position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from the information communication terminal 60, and provide route guidance to the information communication terminal 60. The navigation server 50 includes a control unit 53 that performs predetermined information processing.

When a railroad crossing 3 is present on the route, the control unit 53 performs a process of calculating the current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing 3 based on the latest location information of the current location measured by the positioning unit 64 of the information communication terminal 60 and the preset location information of the railroad crossing 3. When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, the control unit 53 performs a process of acquiring information related to the railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server. When the railroad crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than the preset time, the control unit 53 performs a process of calculating again the route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit 64 of the information communication terminal 60 to the destination.

The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 is a server configured to calculate the railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing 3 installed on a railway line on which a railroad vehicle 20 passes. The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 10 includes a control unit 13 that calculates the railroad crossing waiting time at a railroad crossing 3 based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle 20 acquired from outside, and preset position information of the railroad crossing 3.

According to the fourth embodiment, the route is calculated taking into account the distance between the information communication terminal 60 and the railroad crossing 3 and the waiting time at the railroad crossing 3, which reduces the frequency of route changes, reduces the load on the system, and contributes to providing travel guidance that does not cause stress to the user of the information communication terminal 60.

The navigation device, navigation server, and railroad crossing waiting time calculation server according to the first to fourth embodiments can be configured using so-called hardware resources (information processing device, computer), and those having the configuration shown in FIG. 9 can be used. For example, the hardware resource 100 includes a processor 101, a memory 102, a network interface 103, and the like, which are interconnected by an internal bus 104.

The configuration shown in FIG. 9 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the hardware resource 100. The hardware resource 100 may include hardware (e.g., an input/output interface) that is not shown. Furthermore, the number of units such as the processor 101 included in the device is not intended to be limited to the example shown in FIG. 9, and for example, multiple processors 101 may be included in the hardware resource 100. The processor 101 may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc.

Memory 102 may be, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a SSD (Solid State Drive).

The network interface 103 may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a network adapter, a network interface card, etc.

The functions of the hardware resource 100 are realized by the above-mentioned processing module. The processing module is realized, for example, by the processor 101 executing a program stored in the memory 102. The program can be updated by downloading it over a network or by using a storage medium on which the program is stored. Furthermore, the above-mentioned processing module may be realized by a semiconductor chip. In other words, it is sufficient that the functions performed by the above-mentioned processing module can be realized by the execution of software on some kind of hardware.

A part or all of the above embodiments may be described as follows, but is not limited to the following:

[Appendix 1]
A navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance;
A railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railway crossing waiting time at a railway crossing installed on a railway line through which a railway vehicle passes;
Equipped with
The navigation device includes:
A display unit for displaying information;
a positioning unit that measures a current location of the navigation device;
a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing;
Equipped with
The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server includes a control unit that calculates a railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from an external source and preset position information of the railroad crossing,
The control unit of the navigation device
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit and preset position information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation system.
[Appendix 2]
The control unit of the navigation device
a process of determining whether or not the vehicle has arrived at the destination based on the latest current location measured by the positioning unit and the destination when the railroad crossing is not present on the route;
A process of continuing the route guidance when the destination has not been reached;
4. The method of claim 3,
2. The navigation system of claim 1.
[Appendix 3]
The control unit of the navigation device is configured to perform a process of continuing the route guidance when the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is not within a predetermined distance set in advance.
3. The navigation system of claim 1 or 2.
[Appendix 4]
The control unit of the navigation device is configured to, when the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time set in advance, perform processing to cause the display unit to display the railroad crossing waiting time and to continue the route guidance.
4. A navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
[Appendix 5]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of calculating the railroad crossing waiting time when the control unit receives, from the navigation device, a railroad crossing approach notification notifying the navigation device that the navigation device is approaching the railroad crossing.
5. A navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
[Appendix 6]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of acquiring position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle from the railroad vehicle having a positioning unit that measures the current location of the railroad vehicle.
6. A navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
[Appendix 7]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of acquiring position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle from a vehicle detection device and a vehicle speed measurement device installed at a predetermined position on the railroad line.
6. A navigation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
[Appendix 8]
an information communication terminal including a positioning unit for measuring a current location, an input unit for inputting a destination, and a display unit for displaying information;
a navigation server configured to calculate a route from the current location to the destination based on each piece of location information related to the current location and the destination acquired from the information communication terminal, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal;
A railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railway crossing waiting time at a railway crossing installed on a railway line through which a railway vehicle passes;
Equipped with
The navigation server includes a control unit that performs a predetermined information processing.
The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server includes a control unit that calculates a railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from an external source and preset position information of the railroad crossing,
The control unit of the navigation server
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit and preset position information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation system.
[Appendix 9]
The control unit of the navigation server
a process of determining whether or not the destination has been reached based on the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal and the destination when the railroad crossing is not present on the route;
When the destination has not been reached, a process of continuing the route guidance for the information communication terminal;
4. The method of claim 3,
9. The navigation system of claim 8.
[Appendix 10]
the control unit of the navigation server is configured to perform processing for continuing the route guidance for the information communication terminal when the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is not within a preset predetermined distance.
10. The navigation system according to claim 8 or 9.
[Appendix 11]
The control unit of the navigation server is configured to, when the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time set in advance, perform processing to cause the display unit of the information communication terminal to display the railroad crossing waiting time and to continue the route guidance for the information communication terminal.
11. A navigation system according to any one of claims 8 to 10.
[Appendix 12]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of calculating the railroad crossing waiting time when the control unit receives a railroad crossing approach notification from the navigation server, the notification notifying the information communication terminal that the information communication terminal is approaching the railroad crossing.
12. A navigation system according to any one of claims 8 to 11.
[Appendix 13]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of acquiring position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle from the railroad vehicle having a positioning unit that measures the current location of the railroad vehicle.
13. A navigation system according to any one of claims 8 to 12.
[Appendix 14]
The control unit of the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server is configured to perform a process of acquiring position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle from a vehicle detection device and a vehicle speed measurement device installed at a predetermined position on the railroad line.
13. A navigation system according to any one of claims 8 to 12.
[Appendix 15]
A navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which a railway vehicle passes,
A display unit for displaying information;
a positioning unit that measures a current location of the navigation device;
a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing;
Equipped with
The control unit is
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit and preset position information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation device.
[Appendix 16]
a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal including a positioning unit that positions a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal,
A control unit that performs predetermined information processing,
The control unit is
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit and preset position information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation server.
[Appendix 17]
A navigation method using a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railroad crossing waiting time data from a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railroad crossing waiting times at railroad crossings installed on a railroad line through which a railroad vehicle passes, comprising:
a step of calculating a current location to current crossing distance between the current location and the current crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the navigation device and preset location information of the current crossing when the current location is located on the route;
When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a step of calculating again a route from a latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
including,
Navigation methods.
[Appendix 18]
A navigation method using a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that positions a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal,
a step of calculating a current location-to-current crossing distance between the current location and the current crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the information communication terminal and preset location information of the current crossing when the current location-to-current crossing is present on the route;
When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a step of calculating again a route from a latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
including,
Navigation methods.
[Appendix 19]
A program for causing a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance by using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line on which a railway vehicle passes, to execute a predetermined process,
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the navigation device and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
causing the navigation device to execute
program.
[Appendix 20]
A program for causing a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that positions the current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal, the program comprising:
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the information communication terminal and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
causing the navigation server to execute the
program.

The disclosures of the above patent documents are incorporated herein by reference and may be used as the basis or part of the present invention as necessary. Within the framework of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the claims and drawings), and further based on the basic technical ideas, modifications and adjustments of the embodiments and examples are possible. Furthermore, within the framework of the entire disclosure of the present invention, various combinations or selections (or non-selection as necessary) of various disclosed elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and corrections that a person skilled in the art would be able to make in accordance with the entire disclosure, including the claims and drawings, and the technical ideas. Furthermore, with regard to the numerical values and numerical ranges described in this application, any intermediate value, lower numerical value, and small range are considered to be described even if not specified. Furthermore, the disclosures of the above cited documents may be used in part or in whole in combination with the descriptions in this document as part of the disclosure of the present invention as necessary, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention, and are considered to be included (belong) to the disclosures of this application.

LIST OF SYMBOLS 1, 2 Navigation system 3 Railroad crossing 10 Railroad crossing waiting time calculation server 11 Communication unit 12 Memory unit 13 Control unit 20 Railway vehicle 21 Communication unit 22 Memory unit 23 Control unit 24 Positioning unit 30 Navigation device 31 Communication unit 32 Memory unit 33 Control unit 34 Positioning unit 35 Input unit 36 Display unit 40 Network 50 Navigation server 51 Communication unit 52 Memory unit 53 Control unit 60 Information communication terminal 61 Communication unit 62 Memory unit 63 Control unit 64 Positioning unit 65 Input unit 66 Display unit 100 Hardware resources 101 Processor 102 Memory 103 Network interface 104 Internal bus

Claims (9)

A navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance;
A railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railway crossing waiting time at a railway crossing installed on a railway line through which a railway vehicle passes;
Equipped with
The navigation device includes:
A display unit for displaying information;
a positioning unit that measures a current location of the navigation device;
a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing;
Equipped with
The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server includes a control unit that calculates a railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from an external source and preset position information of the railroad crossing,
The control unit of the navigation device
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest position information of the current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device and preset position information of the railroad crossing;
When the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is within a predetermined distance, a process of acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
When the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, the process of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation system. The control unit of the navigation device is configured to perform a process of continuing the route guidance when the distance between the current location and the railroad crossing is not within a predetermined distance set in advance.
The navigation system of claim 1. an information communication terminal including a positioning unit for measuring a current location, an input unit for inputting a destination, and a display unit for displaying information;
a navigation server configured to calculate a route from the current location to the destination based on each piece of location information related to the current location and the destination acquired from the information communication terminal, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal;
A railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate a railway crossing waiting time at a railway crossing installed on a railway line through which a railway vehicle passes;
Equipped with
The navigation server includes a control unit that performs a predetermined information processing.
The railroad crossing waiting time calculation server includes a control unit that calculates a railroad crossing waiting time at the railroad crossing based on position information and speed information of the railroad vehicle acquired from an external source and preset position information of the railroad crossing,
The control unit of the navigation server
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
When the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, the process of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation system. A navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which a railway vehicle passes,
A display unit for displaying information;
a positioning unit that measures a current location of the navigation device;
a control unit that controls the display unit and the positioning unit and performs predetermined information processing;
Equipped with
The control unit is
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
When the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, the process of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation device. a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal including a positioning unit that positions a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal,
A control unit that performs predetermined information processing,
The control unit is
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the positioning unit of the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
When the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, the process of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
4. The method of claim 3,
Navigation server. A navigation method using a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance using railroad crossing waiting time data from a railroad crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railroad crossing waiting times at railroad crossings installed on a railroad line through which a railroad vehicle passes, comprising:
a step of calculating a current location to current crossing distance between the current location and the current crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the navigation device and preset location information of the current crossing when the current crossing is present on the route;
When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a step of calculating again a route from a latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
a step of displaying the railway crossing waiting time and continuing the route guidance when the railway crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time set in advance;
including,
Navigation methods. A navigation method using a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that positions a current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal,
a step of calculating a current location to current crossing distance between the current location and the current crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the information communication terminal and preset location information of the current crossing when the current location is located on the route;
When the current location-to-railroad crossing distance is within a preset distance, acquiring information related to a railroad crossing waiting time from the railroad crossing waiting time calculation server;
a step of calculating again a route from a latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time set in advance;
when the railway crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time set in advance, displaying the railway crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
including,
Navigation methods. A program for causing a navigation device configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination and provide route guidance by using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line on which a railway vehicle passes, to execute a predetermined process,
When the route includes a railroad crossing, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the navigation device and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the navigation device to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
When the railway crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, a process of displaying the railway crossing waiting time and continuing the route guidance;
causing the navigation device to execute
program. A program for causing a navigation server configured to calculate a route from a current location to a destination based on position information relating to the current location and the destination acquired from an information communication terminal having a positioning unit that positions the current location, an input unit that inputs a destination, and a display unit that displays information, using railway crossing waiting time data from a railway crossing waiting time calculation server configured to calculate railway crossing waiting times at railway crossings installed on a railway line along which railway vehicles pass, and to provide route guidance to the information communication terminal, the program comprising:
When the railroad crossing is present on the route, a process of calculating a current location-to-railroad crossing distance between the current location and the railroad crossing based on the latest current location information measured by the information communication terminal and preset location information of the railroad crossing;
When the current location-to-crossing distance is within a preset distance, a process of acquiring information related to a crossing waiting time from the crossing waiting time calculation server;
a process of calculating again a route from the latest current location measured by the information communication terminal to the destination when the railway crossing waiting time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time;
When the railroad crossing waiting time is less than a predetermined time, the process of displaying the railroad crossing waiting time on the display unit and continuing the route guidance;
causing the navigation server to execute the
program.

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