DE202007018605U1 - Improved navigation device - Google Patents

Abstract

A computer program product comprising computer program code means adapted to perform on a navigation system having a digital camera associated therewith, by means of which digital image data can be captured, a pattern recognition technique on captured digital image data to determine whether the image has one or more recognizable, includes predefined features and to store at least some information including an indication of the identified feature for which the pattern recognition technique was successful, along with geographic location data that identifies the approximate location of at least one of the following:
The location of the navigation system at the time the digital image was taken or within a predetermined time limit from that point in time;
A calculated predicted location of the navigation system at the time the digital image was taken, the prediction being based on previously stored information about the position of the navigation system; and
A calculated approximation of the location of the feature identified in the captured digital image ...

Description

The The invention relates to an improved navigation device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

• – einen Prozessor,
• – einen Speicher (mindestens ein flüchtiger und ein nicht flüchtiger Speicher, üblicherweise beide)
• – Kartendaten, die in diesem Speicher gespeichert sind
• – ein Softwarebetriebssystem und wahlweise ein oder mehrere zusätzliche Programme, die darauf ihre Ausführung finden, um die Funktion der Vorrichtung zu steuern und verschiedene Funktionen zu liefern,
• – eine GPS-Antenne, mit der von einem Satelliten gesendete Signale, die Standortdaten einschließen, empfangen und nachfolgend verarbeitet werden können, um den aktuellen Standort der Vorrichtung zu bestimmen,
• – wahlweise elektronische Gyroskope und Beschleunigungsmesser, die Signale erzeugen, die verarbeitet werden können, um die aktuelle Winkelbeschleunigung und Linearbeschleunigung und in Verbindung mit der Standortinformation, die vom GPS-Signal abgeleitet wurde, die Geschwindigkeit und die relative Verschiebung der Vorrichtung und somit des Fahrzeugs, in der diese montiert ist, zu bestimmen,
• – Eingabe- und Ausgabemittel, Beispiele davon umfassen eines visuelle Anzeige (die berührungsempfindlich sein kann, um eine Benutzereingabe zu erlauben), ein oder mehrere physikalische Tasten, um das Anschalten/Ausschalten oder andere Funktionen der Vorrichtung zu steuern, einen Lautsprecher für eine hörbare Ausgabe,
• – wahlweise einen oder mehrere physikalische Verbindungsvorrichtungen, mit denen Leistung und wahlweise ein oder mehrere Datensignale zur Vorrichtung übertragen und von dieser empfangen werden können, und
• – wahlweise ein oder mehrere Sender/Empfänger, um eine Kommunikation über Mobiltelekommunikationsnetze und andere Signal- und Datennetze, beispielweise Wi-Fi, Wi-Max GSM und dergleichen, zu erlauben.

Portable navigation devices (PNDs) incorporating means for Global Positioning System (GPS) signal processing and processing are well known and widely used as in-vehicle navigation systems. Modern PNDs essentially include:

• A processor,
• A memory (at least one volatile and one non-volatile memory, usually both)
• - Map data stored in this memory
• A software operating system and optionally one or more additional programs found thereon to control the function of the device and to provide various functions,
• A GPS antenna with which signals transmitted by a satellite, including location data, can be received and subsequently processed to determine the current location of the device,
• Optionally electronic gyroscopes and accelerometers that generate signals that can be processed, the current angular acceleration and linear acceleration and, in conjunction with the location information derived from the GPS signal, the speed and relative displacement of the device and thus the vehicle, in which this is mounted to determine
• Input and output means, examples of which include a visual display (which may be touch-sensitive to allow user input), one or more physical buttons to control power on / off, or other functions of the device, a speaker for audible output .
• Optionally one or more physical connection devices with which power and optionally one or more data signals can be transmitted to and received by the device, and
• Optionally one or more transceivers to allow communication over mobile telecommunication networks and other signal and data networks, for example Wi-Fi, Wi-Max GSM and the like.

The Usefulness of PND manifests itself mainly in their ability to a route between a starting location or a current location and to find a goal by a user of the computing device entered by a wide variety of different methods can be, for example, by the postal code, the street name and the house number and pre-stored, well-known, preferred or recent visited goals. Typically, the PND is enabled by software, a "best" or "optimal" route between the Locations of the start and the destination address from the map data too to calculate. A "best" or "optimal" route will be on the Based on predetermined criteria, and it does not have to necessarily act on the fastest or shortest route. The vote The route along which drivers are to be guided can be quite be demanding, and the selected route can be existing, predicted and received dynamically and / or wirelessly. and road information, historical information about road speeds and the driver's preferences as factors that determine the choice of the road consider. additionally The device can continuously monitor road and traffic conditions and offer or choose the route over to carry out the rest of the journey is, by the changed conditions to change. Real time traffic monitoring systems, based on different techniques (for example, mobile phone calls, fixed cameras, GPS fleet tracking), are used to identify traffic delays and to feed the information into notification systems.

The navigation device may typically be mounted in the dashboard of a vehicle, but it may also be formed as part of an on-board computer of the vehicle or car radio. The navigation device may also be a hand-held system (a part of a handheld system) such as a personal navigation device (PDA), a media player, a mobile phone, or the like, and in these cases becomes the normal function of the hand-held system by installing software on the device to perform both route calculation and navigation along the calculated route. In either case, when a route has been calculated, the user interacts with the navigation device to select the desired calculated route, optionally from a list of suggested routes. Optionally, the user may intervene or guide the route selection process by, for example, specifying that certain routes, roads, locations or criteria are to be avoided or are mandatory for a particular trip. The route calculation aspect of the PND is a primary intended function, and navigation along such a route is another primary function. While navigating along a calculated Route provides the PND visual and / or audible instructions to guide the user along the selected route to the end of the route, that is the desired destination. Usually, PNDs display map information on a screen during navigation, this information is updated regularly on the screen so that the map information displayed represents the current location of the device, and thus the user or the user's vehicle, if the device is for navigation used in the vehicle. An icon displayed on the screen typically indicates the current location of the device and is centered on the current map information of the current and surrounding streets, and other map features are also displayed. In addition, navigation information may be displayed, optionally in a status bar at the top, bottom or side of the displayed map information, examples of navigation information being the distance to the next turn from the current road to be taken by the user, the nature of this turn may be indicated by a another icon is displayed, which indicates the special type of turn, for example, a left or right arrow include. The navigation function also determines the content, duration and timing of the audible instructions by which the user can be guided along the route. As you can imagine, a simple instruction such as "turn left at 100 m" requires significant processing and analysis. As previously mentioned, the user's interaction with the device may be through a touch screen or additionally or alternatively through a steering column mounted remote control, voice activation, or any other suitable method.

• – ein Benutzer von der vorher berechneten Route während der Navigation an ihr entlang abweicht,
• – Echtzeitverkehrszustände diktieren, dass eine alternative Route zweckmäßiger ist, und die Vorrichtung fähig ist, solche Zustände automatisch zu erkennen, oder
• – ein Benutzer aktiv veranlasst, dass aus irgendwelchen Gründen die Vorrichtung eine Routenneuberechnung ausführt.

Another important function provided by the device is the automatic route recalculation in case of

• A user deviates from the previously calculated route during navigation along it,
• Real-time traffic conditions dictate that an alternative route is more convenient and the device is capable of automatically detecting such conditions, or
• A user actively causes, for whatever reason, the device to perform a route re-calculation.

It is also known to make it possible that calculates a route with criteria defined by the user becomes; For example, a user may be a scenic lovely Route through the device wants to calculate, or that he wishes, any streets to avoid on which a traffic jam is likely to be expected or currently exists. The software of the device would then calculate different routes, and those preferred weights that along its route, the highest Number of points of interest (POI), the for example, are characterized as scenic beauty, has, or she would use stored information that the prevailing traffic conditions on special roads indicates the calculated routes in terms of probability a traffic jam or a delay organize. Other POI or traffic information based route calculations and navigation criteria are also possible.

Even though the route calculation and the navigation functions for the whole The usability of PNDs are fundamental, it is possible that To use device only as an information display, or for a "free driving" in which only map information in Referring to the current location of the device is displayed and where no route has been calculated, and currently no navigation executed by the device becomes. Such a mode of operation is often applicable when the user already knows the route along which he wants to drive, and does not need any navigation assistance.

Recently, PNDs have been fabricated with integrated digital cameras incorporating one or more charge-coupled devices (CCDs), and thus capable of taking digital photos, which are then usually stored in the non-volatile memory of the device. Such images may then be downloaded to a user's PC or other digital image database, as is conventional practice in dedicated digital cameras, via a physical connection, such as USB, between the PC and the device. As noted, the images may be stored in native nonvolatile memory in the device or on a removable media memory card such as a secure digital card or SD card or on any other removable digital media such as flash memory. A particular advantage of integrating a digital camera into a PND is that the captured digital image can be provided with specific location information, which is calculated from the GPS signals or has recently been received by the device, in addition to the standard designation information, usually such Images are attributed, such as time and date. In particular, the S90i device manufactured and sold by Navman ^® contains this feature.

Navman ^{® also} provides a service that pre-geographically spatially images images of POIs for downloading ei an image server via a PC of a user to which a PND is connected, and this in the memory of the device for later display on the screen of the device, if it is determined that the location of the device is in a predetermined proximity to the specific POI is located, can be saved. Another useful feature of storing specifically geographically spatially flagged images of POIs is that they can be chosen from memory, as a means of either a desired destination or one. desired waypoint along a route to a changed user-selected destination. The function is roughly identical to finding and selecting default POIs that store only textual information as part of the map data used in navigation, route calculation, and free PND navigation modes - the only difference is that the specific POI on the screen can be immediately identified by the user by displaying a photograph of him.

Even though such secondary Functions or side functions are beneficial and the overall experience of the user, they do not provide an improvement to the navigation function, which is supplied by the device, with the exception that the Number of accessible POIs is extended.

current Companies that provide map data, such as TeleAtlas NV and NavTeq digital map data in the form of one or more base files which extracts the PND information used in the creation of a graphical representation of geographical features, such as roads, buildings, railways and other landmarks and POIs. This information is displayed on the screen of the device and almost continuously refreshed to give the user a continuously changing Map of the current place and the surrounding area with reference to a generally stationary one graphic vehicle display, which also displayed in the center of the screen will deliver. The extent of Details shown on the map depend on many factors, the the special scale the card chosen by the user will, the cruising speed and of course the level of detail, which is supplied by the underlying map files, for the specific Location where the device is currently located. For example only very little information is displayed on the screen of the device, when the user moves through the landscape on a highway, whereas relatively larger levels of Details can be delivered on the screen when the user through a city on congested roads and thus relatively slow emotional.

In In this latter scenario, the navigation function is performed by the device is delivered by the display in more detail Information on the screen because of the greater likelihood that the user features the roadside or the street which are displayed on the screen, with the corresponding ones physical characteristics that he can see when walking along the special street or the roads in question, relate to each other can put. A disadvantage with the current from a map supplier Issued files is that the level of detail only with each subsequent version edition rises. This is relatively rare instead, and thus it is possible that the map information through changes in the streets and the establishment of access restrictions, often in cities and to a lesser extent in Regions outside the cities occur, becomes obsolete. additionally card data generally does not contain any temporary information Road changes as for example by construction work, road constrictions or lane changes or setting up pedestrian zones on roads that previously as thoroughfares for vehicles recorded on the card could be caused.

A Object of the present invention is a PND or a navigation system and a computer program by means of which these be controlled, along with a system of improvement of To provide map data that it is equipped with a camera PND allows photographically captured digital information to use the underlying map files with which the Device provides their navigation function to improve.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

• – den Ort der Vorrichtung zu dem Moment, zu dem das digitale Bild aufgenommen wurde oder innerhalb eines vorbestimmten Zeitgrenzwerts dieses Moments,
• – einen berechneten vorhergesagten Ort der Vorrichtung in dem Moment, zu dem das digitale Bild aufgenommen wurde, wobei die Vorhersage auf einer früher gespeicherten Information über die Position der Vorrichtung basiert, und
• – eine berechnete Näherung des Orts des Merkmals, das im aufgenommenen digitalen Bild identifiziert wurde.

According to the present invention, there is provided a PND or a navigation system having a digital camera associated therewith, by means of which digital image data can be captured, wherein the PND or the navigation system is characterized by having a pattern recognition technique this captured digital image data is arranged to determine whether the image contains one or more recognizable features, these features being defined in advance by digital information stored in the memory of that device, and this pattern recognition technique makes a comparison between the captured digital images Image information and at least some digital information representative of a feature, and further characterized in that it is arranged to store at least some information indicating an identi includes fictitious features for which the pattern recognition technique was successful, along with geographic location data identifying the approximate location of at least one of the following:

• The location of the device at the moment the digital image was taken or within a predetermined time limit of that moment,
• A calculated predicted location of the device at the moment the digital image was taken, the prediction being based on previously stored information about the position of the device, and
• A calculated approximation of the location of the feature identified in the captured digital image.

At the best is the information that passes through the device after successful pattern recognition is saved to a or more of the special digital images taken contain the one or more identified features.

At the best are the features, for the sentences of digital descriptors are provided, such features that one on or in or around modern streets, with examples Pedestrian crossings, Traffic lights, speed cameras, warning signals, speed limits, Gantries, road markings and the like, which are features, which are easily recognizable and distinguishable, both digitally the pattern recognition technology as well as in reality by the drivers of vehicles.

In a preferred embodiment finds the recording of the digital image data substantially continuous instead, allowing a stream of digital data similar to a digital video feed, through the PND or the system is recorded, the pattern recognition technique essentially continuously with these streamed digital data accomplished becomes.

In a further preferred embodiment It is beneficial if only part of the streamed digital Data, which is preferably an image stored is, and the rest is thrown away, with the part in the Device or system that is part of that a digital representation of the feature that has been successfully used by the Pattern recognition technology was detected contains.

In In yet another preferred embodiment, it is advantageous if the device or system has one or more stored graphic Contains pictogram, the for one or more features provided by the pattern recognition technique can be identified are representative, wherein the PND or the system includes a routine with the map information displayed on the screen by the Display of graphic icons representing such features the appropriate position, as previously through the PND system Record the digital image data containing the identified feature included, was determined, supplemented becomes.

In a most preferred embodiment forms the first Aspect of the invention, a map data updating system in which the PND or navigation system stores information that a Identified feature and its location, using the PND or the navigation system Funds for involves uploading such data to a data validation server, the the entire received feature identification and the corresponding location information processing, taking into account the fact that that some of the uploaded data is erroneous, and thus a relative probability determines that a feature exists in a specific place, in dependence of the number of times that a special feature belongs to one specific location or within a proximity limit thereof where the data validation server also includes one or more map update files generates the validated feature information and the corresponding Location information, wherein the map data updating system then after that the one or more map update files, which contain the validated feature data, transmits back to the PND or the navigation system.

In an embodiment contain the map update files that come from the validation server are generated, graphical image representations of the identified Characteristics, whereby those in an overlapping Way together with the base map data on the screen of the PND or of the navigation system.

In an alternative embodiment the memory of the PND or the system stores graphic picture character representations potential Features included in the map update files provided by the data validation server can be identified, with the map update files only pointer information (together with the corresponding location information) contains which is identifiable by the PND or the navigation system, thus the appropriate graphically stored icon for a display on the screen of the device or system if can Map data for a region representing the location information in the map data update file includes.

Preferably is the PND equipped with an integrated digital camera, or in an alternative embodiment is the PND or the navigation system linked to it, and provided with software that can control a digital camera, the with the PND or the navigation system by means of a physical Connection (for example, a cable) or wireless (for example through Bluetooth). In a preferred embodiment the digital camera can be detached from the PND or the navigation system.

In a preferred arrangement downloaded the map update files over the Internet by connecting a PND to a PC connected to the Internet connected via a USB cable, as is currently the case with the Most existing PNDs possible is.

In Further aspects of the invention will be a computer program which ever as required on a computer-readable medium is for implementing the steps described above, such as also a PND and / or a navigation system that is designed to to carry out the steps described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The The present invention will be described below by way of example Embodiments, which are explained with the help of the drawings, in more detail described.

1 shows an exemplary view of a Global Positioning System (GPS);

2 shows an exemplary block diagram of electronic components of a navigation device;

3 shows an exemplary block diagram of the manner in which a navigation device may receive information over a wireless communication channel;

4A and 4B Figures 15 are perspective views of an implementation of an embodiment of the navigation device;

5 FIG. 12 shows a schematic diagram of a proposed system by which basic map data stored locally on a PND can be supplemented with graphical displays representing user-identifiable features of the roadside.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1 shows an exemplary view of a Global Positioning System (GPS) that can be used by navigation devices. Such systems are known and used for a variety of purposes. In general, the GPS is a satellite based navigation system that can continuously determine position, speed, time, and in some cases directional information for an unlimited number of users. The GPS, formerly known as NAVSTAR, includes a variety of satellites that work with the Earth in extremely precise orbits. Based on these precise orbits, GPS satellites can relay their location to any number of receiving units.

The GPS system is implemented when a device specifically equipped is to receive GPS data so that starts radio frequency signals on signals from GPS satellites scan. After receiving a radio signal from a GPS satellite the device determines the precise one Place this satellite over a method of a variety of conventional methods. The device will in most cases sample for signals Continue until you have at least three different satellite signals (it should be noted that, in exceptional cases, the Position with only two signals using other triangulation techniques can be determined). Using implementation of geometric triangulation used the recipient the three known positions to its own two-dimensional Position relative to the satellites. This can be done in one done known manner. additionally Receiving a fourth satellite signal will receive it Device allow its three-dimensional position through the same calculate geometric calculation in a known way. The Position and speed data can be displayed in real-time on one continuous basis by an unlimited number of users to be updated.

As in 1 is shown, the GPS system is generally indicated by the reference numeral 100 designated. A variety of satellites 120 is in orbits around the earth 124 , The orbit of each satellite 120 is not necessarily synchronous with the orbits of other satellites 120 and she is probably asynchronous to these. It is a GPS receiver 140 shown the spread spectrum GPS satellite signals 160 from the different satellites 120 receives.

The spread spectrum signals 160 that is continuously from each satellite 120 are sent, use a high-precision frequency standard, which is achieved with an extremely accurate atomic clock. Every satellite 120 transmits as part of its data signal transmission 160 a data stream containing this special satellites 120 designated. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the GPS receiver device 140 generally spread spectrum GPS satellite signals 160 of at least three satellites 120 receives for the GPS receiver device 140 can calculate their two-dimensional position by triangulation. The acquisition of an additional signal, resulting in signals 160 out of a total of four satellites 120 The GPS receiver device allows it 140 to calculate their three-dimensional position in a known way. 2 shows an exemplary block diagram electronic components of a navigation device 200 in block component format. It should be noted that the block diagram of the navigation device 200 does not include all components of the navigation device, but only represents many exemplary components.

The navigation device 200 is arranged in a housing (not shown). The housing includes a processor 210 that with an input device 220 and a display screen 240 connected is. The input device 220 may include a keyboard device, a voice input device, a touchpad, and / or any other known input device used to input information, and the display screen 240 may include any type of display screen, such as an LCD display. The input device 220 and a display screen 240 are integrated into an integrated input and display device that includes a touch panel or touch screen input, in which a user only a portion of the display screen 240 needs to touch to select a variety of displayed choices, or to activate one of a variety of virtual buttons.

In addition, other types of output devices 250 in a non-limiting manner, include an audible output device. Like the output device 241 audible information to a user of the navigation device 200 it is equally understandable that the input device 240 may as well have a microphone and software for receiving input voice commands. In the navigation device 200 is the processor 210 operatively with the input device 240 over a connection 225 and is adapted to receive from this input information, and is operable over output connections 245 with at least one display screen 240 and an output device 241 connected to output to this information. Furthermore, the processor 210 Operatively via a connection 235 with a memory 230 connected and further designed to connect over 275 Information of input / output (I / O) terminals 270 to receive or send to, with the I / O port 270 with an I / O device 280 that are outside the navigation device 200 is connectable. The external I / O device 270 may include, but not limited to, an external hearing device, such as an earphone. The connection to the I / O device 280 may further be a wired or wireless connection to any other external device, such as a hands-free stereo and / or voice-activated stereo car radio, for connection to an earphone or headset, and / or for connection to, for example, a mobile telephone the mobile phone connection can be used to, for example, a data connection between the navigation device 200 and the Internet or any other network, and / or, for example, to connect to a server via the Internet or any other network.

The navigation device 200 can be a "mobile" connection or a connection via a telecommunications network with the server 302 via a mobile device 400 (such as a mobile phone, a PDA and / or any device with a mobile phone technology) by establishing a digital connection (such as a digital connection over, for example, the well-known Bluetooth technology). Thereafter, the mobile device 400 through its network service provider a network connection (for example, through the Internet) with a server 302 build up. Such a "mobile" network connection is between the navigation device 200 (which can be mobile and this is often when she moves alone and / or in a vehicle) and the server 302 to provide a "real-time" gateway or at least a "very up-to-date" gateway for information.

Establishing a network connection between the mobile device 400 (via a service provider) and another device, such as the server 302 for example using the Internet 410 can be done in a known manner. This may include, for example, the use of a TCP / IP layer protocol. The mobile device 400 can use any number of communication standards, such as CDMA, GSM, WAN, etc.

Thus, an Internet connection can be used, for example, via a data connection via a mobile phone or mobile phone technology in the navigation device 200 is obtained. For this connection will be an internet connection between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 built up. This can be done for example by a mobile phone or other mobile device and a General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) connection (a GPRS connection is a high-speed data connection for mobile devices supplied by telecom operators, GPRS is a method for connection to the Internet).

The navigation device 200 can continue a data connection with the mobile device 400 and finally with the internet 410 and the server 302 over, for example, an existing Bluetooth technique in a known manner, which data protocol may use any number of standards, such as GSRM, the data protocol standard for the GSM standard.

The navigation device 200 can their own mobile phone technology in the navigation device 200 itself (which includes, for example, an antenna, further alternatively the internal antenna of the navigation device 200 can be used). The mobile phone technology in the navigation device 200 may include internal components as specified above, and / or may include a retractable card (eg, a subscriber identity module or a SIM card) with, for example, the complete cellular telephone technology and / or an antenna. So can the mobile phone technology in the navigation device 200 similarly, a network connection between the navigation device 200 and the server 302 over, for example, the Internet 410 in a similar way as any mobile device 400 build up.

For settings of the GPRS phone, the Bluetooth-enabled device can be used to work correctly with the ever-changing spectrum of mobile phone models, manufacturers, etc., with settings specific to the model or manufacturer, for example, on the navigation device 200 can be stored. The data stored for this information can be updated.

2 further shows an operative connection between the processor 210 and an antenna / receiver 250 over a connection 255 where the antenna / receiver 250 For example, a GPS antenna / a GPS receiver can be. It can be seen that the antenna and the receiver, by the reference number 250 are schematically combined, but that the antenna and the receiver may be separately arranged components, and that the antenna may be, for example, a GPS patch antenna or a helical antenna.

Further, professionals will understand that the electronic components used in 2 are powered by power sources (not shown) in a conventional manner. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various configurations of the 2 shown components within the scope of the present application. For example, the in 2 shown components via wired and / or wireless connections and the like in communication with each other. Thus, the scope of the navigation device includes 200 the present application, a portable or hand-held navigation device 200 ,

In addition, the portable or handheld navigation device 200 of the 2 connected in a known manner with a motorized vehicle, such as a car or a boat or "docked" to this. Such a navigation device 200 Thus, it can be removed from the docked location for portable or handheld use.

3 shows an exemplary block diagram of a server 302 and a navigation device 200 that have a common communication channel 318 can communicate with each other. The server 302 and a navigation device 200 can communicate when connecting through a communication channel 318 between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 is constructed (note that such a connection may be a data connection via a mobile device, a direct connection via a personal computer via the Internet, etc.). The server 302 includes a processor in addition to other components that may not be shown 304 operating with a store 306 connected, and the further operationally via a wired or wireless connection 314 with a mass data storage 312 connected is. The processor 304 is still operational with a transmitter 308 and a receiver 310 connected to information via the communication channel 318 to the navigation device and to receive from it. The transmitted and received signals may include data, communication signals and / or other propagating signals. The transmitter 308 and the receiver 310 can according to the communication requirement and the communication technology used in the communication design for the navigation system 200 be used, selected or designed. Next, it should be noted that the functions of the transmitter 308 and the recipient 310 can be combined into a signal transceiver. The server 302 is further with a mass storage device 312 connected (or includes such), it being noted that the mass storage device 312 over the communication connection 314 With the server 302 can be coupled. The mass storage device 312 contains a memory of navigation data and map information, and it may again be a device by the server 302 is disconnected, or she may be in the server 302 be inserted.

The navigation device 200 is designed to work with the server 302 through the communication channel 318 and includes a processor, a memory, etc., as previously described with reference to FIG 2 described as well as a transmitter 320 and a receiver 322 to send signals and / or data through the communication channel 318 It should be noted that these devices could continue to be used with devices other than the server 302 to communicate. Next will be the transmitter 320 and the receiver 322 according to the communication requirements and the communication technique involved in the communication design for the navigation apparatus 200 be used, selected or configured, and the functions of the transmitter 320 and the recipient 322 can be combined in a single transceiver.

Software stored in server storage 306 is stored, provides instructions for the processor 304 , and allows the server 302 , the navigation device 200 To deliver services. A service coming from the server 302 includes processing requests from the navigation device 200 and sending navigation data from the mass data storage 312 to the navigation device 200 , Another service from the server 302 includes processing the navigation data using various algorithms for a desired application and sending the results of those calculations to the navigation device 200 ,

The communication channel 318 generally represents the propagation medium or path that or the navigation device 200 with the server 302 combines. Both the server 302 as well as the navigation device 200 comprise a transmitter for transmitting data through the communication channel and a receiver for receiving data sent through the communication channel. The communication channel 318 is not limited to a special communication technology. In addition, the communication channel 318 not limited to a single communication technology; that is, the channel 318 may include multiple communication links using a variety of technologies. For example, the communication channel 318 be designed to provide a path for electrical, optical and / or electromagnetic communication, etc. Thus, the communication channel comprises 318 in a non-limiting manner, one of the following, or a combination thereof: electrical circuits, electrical conductors such as cables and coaxial cables, fiber optic cables, transducers, radio frequency (RF) waves, the atmosphere, empty space, etc. Further, the communication channel 318 intervening devices such as routers, repeaters, buffers, transmitters, and receivers.

For example, the communication channel includes 318 Telephone and computer networks. Furthermore, it may be that the communication channel 318 wireless communication, such as radio frequency, microwave frequency, infrared communication, etc., allows. In addition, the communication channel 318 a satellite communication include ..

The communication signals passing through the communication channel 318 include, but are not limited to, signals required or desired for a given communication technique. For example, the signals may be designed to be used in a cellular communication technique, such as Time Division Multiplexing (TDMA), Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), etc. Both digital and analog signals through the communication channel 318 be transmitted. These signals may be modulated, encrypted and / or compressed signals, as is desirable for communications technology.

The server 302 includes a remote server by the navigation device 200 accessible via a wireless channel. The server 302 may include a network server located on a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a virtual private network (VPN), and so on.

The server 302 may include a personal computer such as a desktop or laptop computer, and the communication channel 318 may be a cable between the personal computer and the navigation device 200 connected is. Alternatively, a personal computer may be interposed between the navigation device 200 and the server 302 be connected to an internet connection between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 build. Alternatively, a mobile phone or hand-held device may establish a wireless connection to the Internet to the navigation device 200 with the server 302 connect via the internet.

The navigation device 200 can with In formation from the server 302 are provided via information download operations that are periodically updated after a user navigates the navigation device 200 with the server 302 and / or they can be more dynamic at a more constant or more frequent connection between the server 302 and the navigation device 200 for example, via a wireless mobile connection device and a TCP / IP connection. For many dynamic calculations, the processor can 304 in the server 302 can be used to handle the bulk of the processing needs, but also the processor 210 the navigation device 200 a large part of the processing and calculation, often independent of a connection to a server 302 , can handle.

As in above 2 is specified, so includes a navigation device 200 a processor 210 , an input device 220 and a display screen 240 , The input device 220 and the display screen 240 are integrated into an integrated input and display device to allow both the input of information (via direct input, menu selection, etc.) as well as to display information by, for example, a touch screen. Such a screen may be, for example, a touchscreen LCD screen, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the navigation device 200 also some additional input device 220 and / or an additional output device 241 , such as audio input / output devices.

The 4A and 4B are perspective views of a navigation device 200 , As in 4A shown, the navigation device 200 be a unit that has an integrated input and display device (for example, a touch screen) and the other components of the 2 includes (in a non-limiting way, the internal GPS receiver 250 , the microprocessor 210 , a power supply, storage systems 220 etc.).

The navigation device 200 can on one arm 292 Sit yourself using a big sucker 294 on the dashboard, the window of the vehicle, etc. can be attached. This arm 292 is an example of a docking station to which the navigation device 200 can be docked. As in 4B shown, the navigation device 200 on the arm 292 docked or otherwise connected to the docking station by the navigation device 200 for example, by a snap connection with the arm 292 (this is just one example, as other alternatives for connecting to a docking station are within the scope of the present application). The navigation device 200 can then on the arm 292 be rotatable, as indicated by the arrow of the 4B is shown. To the connection between the navigation device 200 and the docking station can be, for example, a button on the navigation device 200 (this is just one example, as other known alternatives for disconnecting to a docking station are within the scope of the present application).

Looking at the 5 Thus, an overview diagram of a system according to the present invention including a camera-suitable vehicle-mounted PND is shown. In particular, a vehicle includes 500 a normally mounted on the dashboard PND 502 , The typical arrangement is in the picture 504 shown in which one the PND 502 can see, as well as the field of view 506 the driver through the windshield of the vehicle, the field of view being a traffic light 508 includes. Ideally, the PND 502 with an integrated digital camera or other digital imaging device operated under the control of the operating software installed on the device or an alternative software program executed thereon. In a particularly desirable feature of the invention, such software includes an option that allows the user to select a conventional camera mode in which the device is typically held in the hand and can be used as a conventional digital camera, and an alternative option the device can be used in a free image capture mode, like that in FIG 5 is envisaged. In this mode of operation (which can be automatically selected by the device when it determines that it is connected to its mounting device) 510 is designated, is attached).

In one embodiment of the invention, the digital image data is continuously captured by the camera so that when the vehicle is moving, a continuous stream of digital image data, similar to a streaming video, is made available to the processing electronics of the device. In an alternative embodiment, the taking of digital image data occurs periodically with a relatively short period, for example every few seconds, so that a sufficient amount of digital image data is captured by the device to enable a pattern or object recognition technique to be performed on that data becomes. The particular recognition technique used is one of many available techniques, but in principle the technique uses a set of stored digital descriptors or object definitions, the base objects and common objects such as traffic lights, street lamps, road markings and other landmarks concerning the road or the roadside. The image or object recognition technique thus occurs either periodically or continuously in the received digital image data, but in any case, the processing of the captured image data gives a positive or negative result, depending on whether any of a number of objects in the captured image data the time they are processed. In the picture 512 you can see that the traffic sign feature 508 is detected, and the device can then store a highly compressed message or other data such as that 514 . 516 indicating both the type of object detected and some indication of its geographical location.

It There are several options regarding the information about the geographical location, which is included with the object identifier in such data. One option is for the device to use the current location coordinates or the GPS information at the time of recording the digital information, in the relevant feature through the pattern recognition or other Image processing technique has been identified records. An alternative to recording location information is to to cause the device to perform another location processing routine perform, either on the location of the device at the time of recording the digital image based, or stored on the last known Position of the device, corrected if necessary, an approximate Location of the device at the time of recording the digital image provide, this further processing routine another image processing routine includes, the one approximation the position of the identified feature relative to the actual or approached Location of the device at the time of recording the digital image performs. of course is in all the above cases the relevant time of taking the digital image and thus the Time representing the current running or approximate location of the device the one at which the captured digital image recognized that Feature contains.

Even though ideally the relevant time for determining the relevant actual or approximated Position of the device is exactly the same when recording the digital image data containing the recognized feature has been made, It may be that this is not always practical, and of course it can it may be that time limits are applied. This will of course be the precision reduce, with the actual or approximated Location of the device can be determined, and also, if appropriate, the derived position of the relevant recognized feature, but where such reductions in accuracy by the entire map data updating system, which will be described below, be averaged out.

If you go back to the 5 considered in the device 502 when a suitable option of "continuous monitoring" is enabled in which the integrated or connected digital camera continuously or periodically acquires digital image data and performs one or more pattern recognition techniques thereon, the amount of stored data relative to the number of roadside objects included in the recorded image data are identified, increase. At an appropriate time, for example when the amount of update data reaches a certain size, or when the device has means for communicating the data to a remote server 518 detected, the device either via a wireless connection or via a more standard USB connection to a PC connected to the Internet, uploading the update information in this server, which validates all received update information from all devices that have a capability for digital image capture and processing and having any stored update information for a delivery.

The validation method is equivalent to an averaging method and / or other statistical method for all such updates received from the validation server that include location coordinates that are more densely distributed at one or more geographic locations than at other locations. For example, a high distribution density of update data indicating a traffic light at or at a road intersection would certainly indicate traffic lights at that intersection. By making such a determination, the validation server then generates one or more map patches that include graphic icons, possibly "on the fly," and makes them available for later download by the entire user base of a particular manufacturer of the device , How to join 520 , which may indicate an example of the display of map information on a screen of the device, may be a traffic light icon 522 the basic map data 524 superimposed on the prescribed position to be brought to appearance.

These map corrections are made by the server 518 either downloaded on demand from a PC connected to the Internet, on which software as available from the present Applicant under the name TomTom HOME ^™ has been installed, and to which the device can be connected, or alternatively if the In front direction with a capability for wireless communication or telecommunication is provided over radio at predetermined times or in turn at the request of the user. Another alternative is that the map corrections to the user base are wirelessly "pushed" as the number or size of map corrections reaches a certain level.

In a further alternative embodiment can the map corrections contain very limited data, for example an object specification and corresponding location data and optionally other settings or information. In this example it is necessary that the PND or the system contains a variety of graphic icons that stored in a memory, allowing them for display in overlaying Way to the displayed map data are selected during navigation, to provide the user with improved navigation. Of course the graphic icons are only shown when the device near is the location of the relevant identified object that is at the time when the displayed map data is the specific one Include place.

• – die PND hat eine integrierte oder angefügte oder verbundene preisgünstige Kamera
• – die Kamera und/oder Vorrichtung wird mit Software versehen, die effizient einen vordefinierten Satz von Objekten erkennt
• – erkannte Objekte werden zusammen mit Ortsdaten an einen Validierungsserver gesendet
• – der Server verifiziert die Gültigkeit des erkannten Objekts und einer oder mehrerer Kartenkorrekturen
• – Kartenkorrekturen werden in die PND über das Internet wahlweise drahtlos oder über andere Telekommunikationsnetze vom Server herabgeladen.

In summary, therefore, the primary components of the system aspect of the invention are:

• - The PND has a built-in or attached or connected low cost camera
• - The camera and / or device is provided with software that efficiently detects a predefined set of objects
• - detected objects are sent together with location data to a validation server
• - The server verifies the validity of the detected object and one or more map corrections
• - Map corrections are downloaded into the PND via the Internet either wirelessly or via other telecommunication networks from the server.

It should be mentioned be that this invention in the same way to a in the vehicle integrated navigation system application finds.

It should also be mentioned that software routines can be provided that the user in aligning the PND in which a camera integrates is, or a docking station, in which the camera is provided is and with which the PND forms a connection and interface, support. Of course you can in the case of a navigation system that is currently in a vehicle can be provided or integrated into the production, a camera, with which the navigation system is in communication, already be provided as part of the vehicle and thus it may be that alignment and other issues (such as providing a suitable shielding against bright incident light) already considered were.

It There are a lot of other ways to use it a pattern recognition technique in PNDs and navigation systems, the also as encompassed by the invention. For example is it for camera enabled PNDs and navigation systems possible, automatically map correction data for future transmission to a validator or other downstream processing device. In such an embodiment The pattern recognition technique becomes continuous or periodic executed with the recorded image data, and the types of features, that can be recognized are road connections, Designs and arrangements, signposts, traffic restrictions along streets specify, and indeed each other on the street or the roadside feature related by stored digital data can be represented, either as part of the underlying File of map data or a subsequent correction or POI file, commonly associated with these underlying files be used.

Especially in the case of automatically generating correction data, which are applicable to the underlying file of map data, or auxiliary files applicable thereto, the present invention the further step of comparing the recognized feature with the underlying map data (or descriptive helper corrections). or POI files) and identifying a discrepancy between this one of a type that is useful in Way could be corrected. For example, there is a common one Difficulty with modern map information in that smaller crossings, which were previously of an "intersection type", often at roundabouts changed become, through roadworks, local authorities or other administrative authorities, who have the authority, road structures and street tours to change in one place. Another example is the introduction of traffic lights or a regulated intersection at a previously unregulated intersection.

By means of the pattern recognition techniques performed by the PND or the navigation system, it is possible for the device to automatically determine that a particular type of intersection or traffic management measures applicable to one such as those on the screen by the device are identified and displayed on the basis of the underlying map data, the actual intersection type or the traffic management measures such as those used by the connected or integrated camera Device when it is in either a free-fall mode or in a navigation mode in motion.

This Feature can be great Advantage for the entire community of users of the device, of which Most just generally are interested in the device to use a basic navigation to a desired one To execute goal, unlike the use of the map correction features in the software of the device can be provided. Thus, if one assumes that a user has already indicated that he is ready to use it Device to automatically allow data that its current or previously traveled locations, wirelessly from the device transferred to (an option, usually is set at the first start-up of the device), none additional action required for the device to automatically transmit correction data.

Of course they can locally stored data for Characteristics representative are by the pattern match technique be recognized, take any form of various forms, including one or more of the following forms: outline data, Color data, pattern data, appearance property or profile data and the same. additionally can the data stored in advance include animated images that as part of the pattern recognition technique with a number progressing taken pictures can be compared, which together the effect the animation in such pictures supplies.

Claims (15)

Computer program product, the computer program code means which are set up to operate on a navigation system, the one associated with it Digital camera possesses, by means of which digital image data recorded can be a pattern recognition technique on captured digital image data perform, to determine if the image has one or more recognizable, predefined features contains and to store at least some information that is an indication of the identified feature for which the pattern recognition technique was successful, along with geographical location data, which the approximate Identify position of at least one of the following: - the place of the navigation system at the time the digital image is taken was recorded or within a predetermined time limit from this point in time; - one calculated predicted location of the navigation system at the time where the digital image was taken, the prediction on one sooner stored information about the position of the navigation system is based; and - one calculated approximation the location of the feature that identifies in the captured digital image has been. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein the recognizable, predefined features through digital information, which is stored in the memory of the navigation system shown and the pattern recognition technique makes a comparison between the captured digital image information and at least one Part of the digital information executing that is representative of a feature is. Computer program product according to one of the preceding Claims, the information provided by the navigation system after a successful pattern recognition is stored, message data are those that identify the detected object, along with the corresponding one Location information for that is relevant. Computer program product according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the acquisition of the digital image data is substantially continuous, making a stream of digital data more like a digital video feed is received by the navigation system, the pattern recognition technique essentially continuously in this digital data stream. Computer program product according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the navigation system stores one or more graphical icons, the for One or more features of this pattern recognition technique can be identified representative are, with the navigation system includes a routine by the card information displayed on the screen through the display of these graphic icons, those features represent, at the appropriate position is supplemented, this routine Uses information in one or more map correction files, that of the navigation system during a Download is received. Computer program product according to one of the preceding Claims, the computer program code means further for comparing the detected Feature with underlying map data and identifying a discrepancy between these are established. The computer program product of claim 6, wherein the subsequent storage of information an indication of the detected Feature, belonging to it Location data and other information includes an error in the indicates underlying map data. Computer program according to claim 7, stored on or in a computer readable medium. Navigation system that has at least one integrated Digital camera, wherein at least processing means, a memory and GPS signal receiving means wherein the navigation system using digital image data the digital camera can record, characterized in that the Navigation system is adapted to a pattern recognition technique on the captured digital image data to determine if the Image contains one or more recognizable predefined features, and the navigation system is set up, if such in the recorded digital image data exist, at least some information too store an indication of the identified feature together with geographical location data that includes the approximate location identified by at least one of the following: - the place of the navigation system at the time the digital image is taken was recorded or within a predetermined time limit from this point in time; - one calculated predicted location of the navigation system at the time where the digital image was taken, the prediction on an earlier stored information about the position of the navigation system is based; and - a calculated approximation the location of the feature identified in the captured digital image. Navigation system according to claim 9, comprising Computer program product according to one of claims 1 to 8. Navigation system that is linked to a digital camera, from which the navigation system receives digital image data and thus with at least processing agents, has a memory and GPS signal receiving means, characterized in that the navigation system is set up is a pattern recognition technique in the recorded digital Execute image data to determine if the image has one or more recognizable predefined ones Contains features, and the navigation system is set up, if such in the recorded digital image data exist, at least some information too store an indication of the identified feature together with geographical location data that includes the approximate location identified by at least one of the following: - the place of the navigation system at the time the digital image is taken was recorded or within a predetermined time limit from this point in time; - one calculated predicted location of the navigation system at the time where the digital image was taken, the prediction on an earlier stored information about the position of the navigation system is based; and - a calculated approximation the location of the feature identified in the captured digital image. Navigation system according to claim 11, provided with Software that detects the connection with a digital camera and process the digital image data received from it can. Map data updating system containing a navigation system according to one the claims 9 to 12 and includes a data validation server, wherein the navigation system means for the uploading of recognized object and corresponding position data to this data validation server that is set up Data from a variety of appropriately equipped devices or systems to receive and receive a statistical processing of the received Execute data, to determine the probable correctness of this, the Data Validation Server is set up, below one or to generate several map correction files that at least recognized Object data and corresponding location data for special objects that are in the received data for which the statistical processing is the probable existence of the recognized feature on a particular Location has determined, contains set up the navigation system and this data validation server are then to establish a connection through which the one or the other the multiple map correction files are returned to the navigation system become. A map data updating system according to claim 13, the one or more map correction files generated by the Validation servers are generated, graphic image representations contain the identified features, the navigation system is set up, this in a superimposed way along with the base map data on a screen of the navigation system display. The map data updating system according to claim 13, wherein the memory of the navigation system is arranged to store graphic character images of potential features that can be identified in the map update files received from the data validation server, the map update files including at least one indicator information together with the corresponding location information is identifiable by the navigation system, wherein the map data updating system is arranged, the appropriate locally stored graphical image for display on a screen of Retrieve map data updating system when displaying map data for an area including the location information in the map correction.