JP2003075170A - Level crossing information providing device, information storage medium, level crossing information distribution device, and level crossing information providing system - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] To provide a user with information about a railroad crossing in advance before the mobile body reaches a railroad crossing existing on a road ahead, thereby ensuring safe operation of the mobile body. Is obtained. SOLUTION: A position detecting means 12 for detecting a current position and a traveling direction of the moving body, a map information acquiring means 11 for acquiring map information, and a forward position of the moving body based on the current position and the traveling direction of the moving body and the map information. A railroad crossing information obtaining unit 13 for specifying a railroad crossing existing on a road and obtaining railroad crossing information related to the railroad crossing, and an output unit 2 for outputting the obtained railroad crossing information
1 and 22.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention belongs to the field of railroad crossing information providing apparatus for providing railroad crossing information regarding railroad crossings existing on the road in front of a moving body, and particularly to a navigation system mounted on a vehicle or carried by a user. The present invention relates to a railroad crossing information providing apparatus which is applied to a mobile terminal and which provides railroad crossing information by display or voice to promote safe operation of a mobile body.
The present invention also relates to an information storage medium, a railroad crossing information distribution device, and a railroad crossing information providing system accompanying this.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a navigation system mounted on a vehicle, various traveling information is provided to a user by displaying it on a display screen or by voice guidance. These various types of travel information are stored in a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Me) according to the current position of the vehicle.
mory) and DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk-
It is provided based on map information read from an information storage medium such as Read Only Memory), and the user can travel comfortably by utilizing these various types of travel information.

The above-mentioned traveling information is effective information for the user to safely and smoothly travel to the destination, for example, route guidance information to reach the destination, intersection guidance information, road information. Information such as congestion / congestion, distance to the destination, estimated time of arrival, and facility guidance information around the route are generally provided.

[0004]

However, in such a conventional vehicle navigation system, there is a railroad crossing on the route to the destination, and when crossing the railroad crossing, as means for knowing the information that the train passes through. The only way to do this is by visualizing and listening to the alarm blinking display of the crossing alarm and the sound of the alarm. Before the warning is issued, information such as "train passing / not passing" and train passing time information for each railroad crossing can be obtained in advance. Since there was no means to obtain the railroad crossing information, there was a problem that it was not possible to drive with sufficient margin when crossing the railroad crossing.

In addition, when the vehicle stops on the railroad crossing due to a trouble such as stalling and it is impossible to escape from the railroad crossing by itself, the vehicle driver is currently equipped with a railroad crossing barrier. There is a problem that it is necessary to report the occurrence of trouble to the nearest station or the approaching train by pressing an alarm button or burning a smoke tube, and it is not possible to automatically make an emergency call.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and provides the user with crossing information regarding the crossing before the moving body approaches the crossing existing on the road ahead. By doing so, it is an object of the present invention to obtain a railroad crossing information providing device that ensures safe operation of a moving body.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to promptly notify the outside when an emergency occurs such that a moving body stops on the railroad track of the railroad crossing, and prevent an accident from occurring at the railroad crossing. The purpose is to obtain a level crossing information providing device.

[0008]

In a railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, a position detecting means for detecting a current position and a traveling direction of a moving body, a map information obtaining means for obtaining map information, and a moving body A crossing information acquisition unit that specifies a crossing existing on the road in front of the moving body from the current position and the traveling direction and the map information, and acquires crossing information about the crossing, and an output unit that outputs the acquired crossing information. It was done like this.

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means outputs the railroad crossing information by display or voice.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, there is provided switching means for switching whether or not to output the railroad crossing information.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information is one of the following or any combination thereof. (1) Railroad crossing position (2) Railroad crossing name / number (3) Railroad crossing railroad name (4) Railroad crossing road width (5) Railroad crossing railroad width (6) Railroad crossing gate presence (7) Railroad crossing nearest station name (8) Railroad crossing Nearest station phone number (9) Direction / distance to the nearest railway station (10) Latest train timetable information (11) Railway crossing train operation delay information (12) Railway crossing waiting time information (13) Railway crossing history information

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means outputs a message prompting a temporary stop and safety confirmation at the railroad crossing.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, there is provided time information acquisition means for acquiring the current date and time information, and the output means is the current date and time information and the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing. Based on the above, the passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing is output.

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means outputs the waiting time of the moving body at the railroad crossing based on the train passage information.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means notifies the approach of the train by discoloring or deforming or blinking the mark indicating the railroad crossing on the map.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means notifies the approach of the train by moving the mark indicating the train approaching the railroad crossing on the map.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means is configured to notify the approach of the train by displaying characters.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means is configured to notify the approach of the train by sounding a voice.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, if there is no passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, the output means notifies that or nothing. It is the one.

Further, the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention is provided with an emergency call means for making an emergency call to the outside when an emergency occurs in which a moving body stops on the railroad track of the railroad crossing. .

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the emergency call means is adapted to make an emergency call to the outside by radio or telephone.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the emergency notification means is an emergency call to the nearest station of the railroad crossing, the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, or the nearest police station or fire station. It is something that is done.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, there is provided a railroad crossing judging means for judging whether or not the moving body has stopped on the railroad track of the railroad crossing for a predetermined time or longer. .

Further, the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention is provided with an input means for instructing an emergency call.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires railroad crossing information regarding a railroad crossing existing within a predetermined straight line distance or a predetermined route distance from the current position of the moving body. It is a thing.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing for which the time required to reach from the current position of the moving body is within a predetermined time. is there.

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information from an information storage medium that stores the railroad crossing information.

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the outside.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the nearest station of the railroad crossing or the train currently approaching the railroad crossing. It was done like this.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, a storage means for storing the railroad crossing information acquired by wireless communication with the outside is provided.

In addition, the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention is provided with an updating means for updating the railroad crossing information stored in the storage means.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means outputs the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing when the linear distance or the route distance between the current position of the moving body and the railroad crossing becomes a predetermined distance or less. Is output.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the output means outputs the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing when the time required for the moving body to reach the railroad crossing reaches a predetermined time or less. It was done.

Further, in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the moving body is a vehicle and is applied to a navigation system mounted on the vehicle.

In the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the present invention, the moving body is the user himself / herself and is applied to the portable terminal carried by the user.

In the information storage medium according to the present invention, railroad crossing information regarding railroad crossings existing on the road is stored.

Further, the railroad crossing information distribution device according to the present invention is provided with a railroad crossing information distribution means for distributing railroad crossing information regarding railroad crossings existing on the road.

Further, the railroad crossing information providing system according to the present invention is provided with a railroad crossing information distribution device having a railroad crossing information distribution means for distributing railroad crossing information regarding railroad crossings existing on the road, and the railroad crossing information is transmitted from the railroad crossing information distribution device. A crossing information providing device having a crossing information acquisition unit for acquiring and an output unit for outputting the acquired crossing information is provided.

[0039]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiment 1. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Here, the configuration when applied to a navigation system installed in a vehicle as a moving body is shown.

Reference numeral 11 denotes map information acquisition means for acquiring map information such as road information and facility information, for example, CD-RO.
The map information is acquired by reading the map information stored in the information storage medium such as M or DVD-ROM.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a distance such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver for detecting an absolute position or a moving direction of a vehicle, a direction sensor such as a gyro for detecting a direction, a vehicle speed sensor for detecting a moving distance, or the like. A position detecting means for calculating an approximate current position of the vehicle by using a sensor and performing map matching using the map information obtained from the map information acquisition means 11 for accurate vehicle current position and heading. is there.

Reference numeral 13 is a railroad crossing information acquisition means for acquiring detailed railroad crossing information regarding each railroad crossing existing on the road. For example, the railroad crossing information is acquired by reading the railroad crossing information stored in an information storage medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM.

Reference numeral 14 is a time information acquisition means for acquiring the current time information. For example, if the GPS receiver is GPS
The current time and date information is acquired based on the time information received from the satellite.

Reference numeral 15 is an input means through which the user inputs various instructions to the apparatus. For example, various instructions are input by using a key switch or the like.

Reference numeral 16 is a system control means for controlling the operation of the entire system on the basis of the above map information, current position / advancing direction information of the vehicle, railroad crossing information, time information, and instruction input information.

Reference numeral 17 is a level crossing information control unit for processing and controlling the level crossing information acquired via the system control unit 16. Reference numeral 18 is a railroad crossing information switching means as a switching means for switching the presence / absence of output of railroad crossing information, and 19 is a train drawing means for drawing the state of a train passing through the railroad crossing on a map.

Numeral 20 is a train passage judging means for judging the presence / absence of a train trying to pass through the railroad crossing. Before the vehicle crosses the railroad crossing, "a train will pass soon /
Notify train passing information such as "No".

Reference numeral 21 is a voice output means for outputting the crossing information by voice, and 22 is a display means for displaying and outputting the crossing information.
The voice output means 21 outputs in detail voice, such as detailed railroad crossing information, train passage information, a message prompting a temporary stop before the railroad crossing and safety confirmation. Further, the display means 22 displays the level crossing symbol, which is a mark indicating the level crossing, detailed level crossing information, the state of the level crossing train, etc. on the map screen based on the map information and the level crossing information, and the train passing determination means 20. Based on the train passage information from, the telop will be displayed on the map screen indicating that the train is about to cross the railroad crossing. These voice output means 21 and display means 22 constitute output means.

Reference numeral 23 is a level crossing judging means for judging whether or not the vehicle is stopped on the level crossing for a predetermined time or longer. Reference numeral 24 is an emergency call means, which is a level crossing determination means 23.
If it is determined that the vehicle has stopped on the railroad crossing for a predetermined time or longer due to a trouble such as stalling, even though the train has departed from the station closest to the railroad crossing, or the user inputs it to the input means 15. When the built-in emergency call button is pressed manually, an emergency call will be automatically sent to the nearest station on the railroad crossing of the railroad crossing by telephone or wireless.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a device configuration of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the first embodiment, and shows a specific device configuration for realizing the functional configuration of FIG.

Reference numeral 31 is a drive for reading out map information and railroad crossing information from an information storage medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM, which corresponds to the map information acquisition means 11 and railroad crossing information acquisition means 13 in FIG.

Reference numeral 32 is a GPS receiver for detecting the absolute position and moving direction of the vehicle, and 33 is a vehicle speed sensor for generating a vehicle speed pulse for each predetermined traveling distance of the vehicle to detect the speed and traveling distance of the vehicle. Reference numeral 34 is a direction sensor such as a gyro that detects the direction of the vehicle, and these correspond to the position detecting means 12 of FIG. The GPS receiver 32 also corresponds to the time information acquisition means 14 of FIG.

Reference numeral 35 denotes an operation switch used by the user to activate the power supply of the apparatus, switch the display scale and display range of the map, and input various other instructions, which corresponds to the input means 15 of FIG. is doing.

Reference numeral 36 is a communication device such as a telephone or a wireless device for transmitting and receiving emergency call information and the like due to the occurrence of a trouble on a railroad crossing, and corresponds to the emergency call means 24 of FIG.

Further, it is possible to obtain the latest map information, railroad crossing information, time information and the like from the outside by using the communication device 36. In this case, the map information obtaining means 1 of FIG.
1. It also corresponds to the level crossing information acquisition unit 13 and the time information acquisition unit 14.

Reference numeral 37 is a display for displaying map information and railroad crossing information on the screen, and corresponds to the display means 22 in FIG. Reference numeral 38 is a speaker for outputting the level crossing information, route guidance information and the like by voice, and corresponds to the voice output means 21 of FIG.

Reference numeral 39 is a control unit for performing various calculations and control of the entire apparatus. The system control means 16, the level crossing information control means 17, and the level crossing information switching means 1 shown in FIG.
8, processing for realizing the functions of the train drawing means 19, the train passage determination means 20, and the level crossing determination means 23 is performed.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a data configuration example of map information and railroad crossing information of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus in the first embodiment. It is an example of a data structure of the map information 301 and the level crossing information 302, and shows an example in the case where the level crossing information 302 is stored as a part of the map information 301.

The crossing information can be provided with extremely detailed information about the crossing by being configured of information of any one or combination of the following. (1) Railroad crossing position (2) Railroad crossing name / number (3) Railroad crossing railroad name (4) Railroad crossing road width (5) Railroad crossing railroad width (6) Railroad crossing gate presence (7) Railroad crossing nearest station name (8) Railroad crossing Nearest station phone number (9) Direction / distance to the nearest railway station (10) Latest train timetable information (11) Railway crossing train operation delay information (12) Railway crossing waiting time information (13) Railway crossing history information

Next, the operation of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a schematic operation of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus in the first embodiment, and mainly shows the operation of the railroad crossing information control means 17 in FIG.

In step 401, the position detecting means 1
2, the current position and traveling direction of the vehicle, the map information obtained from the map information acquisition means 11, and the railroad crossing information acquisition means 1
Based on the level crossing information on the level crossing existing in front of the vehicle obtained from 3, the level crossing symbol is displayed at the position where the level crossing exists on the map screen of the display means 22, and the routine proceeds to step 402.

At step 402, it is determined whether or not the railroad crossing symbol displayed on the map screen of the display means 22 is selected by the operation of the input means 15.

As an example of a method of selecting a level crossing symbol,
There is a method of blinking the level crossing symbol by operating a scroll key or the like arranged on the input means 15 to align a cross cursor on the screen of the display means 22 with the level crossing symbol.

In step 402, when the blinking level crossing symbol on the map screen of the display means 22 is selected by the operation of the execution key or the like arranged in the input means 15, the process proceeds to step 403.

In step 403, for the crossing symbol selected on the map screen of the display means 22, the train passing time for the crossing, the track width of the crossing, the content of the accident that occurred in the past, the presence or absence of a crossing gate, the crossing waiting time, etc. The detailed crossing information of is displayed as a balloon, and the process proceeds to the end.

If the railroad crossing symbol is not selected in step 402, detailed railroad crossing information is not displayed and the process proceeds to the end.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen by the display means 22 of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus in the first embodiment.

Reference numeral 501 is a level crossing symbol. When the level crossing symbol 501 is selected, detailed level crossing information 502 such as the train passage time for the level crossing, the width of the level crossing, the presence or absence of the level crossing gate, and the telephone number of the nearest station are displayed. A balloon is displayed.

The train passing time here is the level crossing symbol 5
When 01 is selected, the crossing times of the trains that are closest to the crossing are preferentially displayed in a list.

Here, the selected crossing symbol 50
Although detailed railroad crossing information 502 is displayed for No. 1, detailed railroad crossing information 502 is automatically displayed for all railroad crossings existing on the display screen of the display unit 22 or the traveling route of the vehicle. You may do it.

The detailed railroad crossing information 502 may be read out by the voice output means 21 only by voice and output, or the display means 22 and the voice output means 21 may output both display and voice.

According to the first embodiment, the position detecting means 12 for detecting the current position and the traveling direction of the vehicle, the map information obtaining means 11 for obtaining the map information, and the current position and the traveling direction of the vehicle and the map information are used. Since the railroad crossing existing on the road in front of the vehicle is specified and the railroad crossing information acquisition unit 13 for acquiring the railroad crossing information about the railroad crossing and the output unit for outputting the acquired railroad crossing information are provided, the vehicle is in front of the road. A railroad crossing information providing apparatus that ensures safer running of the vehicle can be obtained by providing the user with railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing before approaching the existing railroad crossing.

Further, according to the first embodiment, since the output means outputs the crossing information by display or voice, it is possible to reliably provide the user with the crossing information.

Further, according to the first embodiment, since the level crossing information is information of any one or a combination of the following, extremely detailed level crossing information regarding the level crossing can be provided. (1) Railroad crossing position (2) Railroad crossing name / number (3) Railroad crossing railroad name (4) Railroad crossing road width (5) Railroad crossing railroad width (6) Railroad crossing gate presence (7) Railroad crossing nearest station name (8) Railroad crossing Nearest station phone number (9) Direction / distance to the nearest railway station (10) Latest train timetable information (11) Railway crossing train operation delay information (12) Railway crossing waiting time information (13) Railway crossing history information

Further, according to the first embodiment, the railroad crossing information acquisition means 13 acquires the railroad crossing information from the information storage medium that stores the railroad crossing information. Therefore, the railroad crossing information can be easily acquired. it can.

Further, according to the first embodiment, since the level crossing information is stored in the information storage medium, the level crossing information can be easily distributed.

Further, according to the first embodiment, since the present invention is applied to the navigation system mounted on the vehicle, before the vehicle approaches the level crossing existing on the road ahead of the vehicle, the user is previously informed of the level crossing. By providing the railroad crossing information regarding the vehicle, a navigation system for the vehicle can be obtained that further ensures safe driving of the vehicle.

Embodiment 2. Next, in the first embodiment,
Although the railroad crossing symbol 501 is always displayed, as the second embodiment, the user may be allowed to select display / non-display of the railroad crossing symbol 501 by using the railroad crossing information switching unit 18 of FIG.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory view showing a setting operation of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus in the second embodiment, and a menu transition in the case of setting display / non-display of the railroad crossing symbol 501 by the railroad crossing information switching means 18 of FIG. The example of a figure is shown.

Reference numeral 601 denotes a main menu screen displayed on the display means 22. In the main menu, a route (route) from the current position of the vehicle to an arbitrary destination is set.
"Set / edit route" for editing, "Registered location setting" for registering an arbitrary point on the map screen, "Search for neighboring facilities" for searching peripheral facilities, "Voice for volume setting of voice guidance, etc." There are various functions such as "guidance" and "system setting" for performing various settings related to the system such as display conditions.

When "SYSTEM SETTING" is selected on the main menu screen 601, the system setting menu screen 602 is displayed.
Is displayed. As an example of the system setting menu,
North-up / heading-up setting to select map display direction (north reference / vehicle traveling direction reference), 2D / 3D mode setting to select map display dimension (2D / 3D), map display color ( There is a "Detailed map display setting" function that allows you to make detailed settings related to map display, such as map color settings that select automatic / daytime / night color.

When this “map display detailed setting” is selected on the system setting menu screen 602, a map display detailed setting menu screen 603 is displayed, and either the “display / not display” of the railroad crossing symbol 501 is displayed. Crossing symbol 5 by selecting the
“Display / non-display” of 01 can be set.

In the above, the case where "display / non-display" of the level crossing symbol 501 can be set has been described.
Similarly, the display information and voice information related to other railroad crossings may be configured to be switched by the railroad crossing information switching means 18 with or without output.

According to the second embodiment, since the level crossing information switching means 18 for switching whether to output the level crossing information is provided, it is possible to switch whether to output the level crossing information according to the preference of the user.

Third Embodiment Next, as a third embodiment, an example in which the train passage information at the railroad crossing is output in the configuration of FIG. 1 will be described. Here, in the configuration of FIG. 1, the time information acquisition means 14 and the train passage determination means 20 are provided.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the schematic operation of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus in the third embodiment, and mainly shows the operation of the train passage determination means 20 in FIG.

In step 701, the position detecting means 1
Based on the current position and traveling direction of the vehicle obtained from 2 and the map information obtained from the map information acquisition means 11, it is determined whether or not there is a railroad crossing in front of the vehicle (for example, 250 m ahead), and the railroad crossing exists. If yes, the process proceeds to step 702, and if there is no railroad crossing, the process proceeds to end.

In step 702, the display means 22 or the voice output means 21 provides a guide for prompting the user to temporarily stop the crossing and confirm the safety when crossing the crossing.

Next, proceeding to step 703, the train passage determination means 20 causes the train passing train included in the current date and time information obtained from the time information acquisition means 14 and the railroad crossing information obtained from the railroad crossing information acquisition means 13. Based on the latest timetable information and information such as train operation delay information for level crossing trains, it is determined whether or not the train will soon pass at the level crossing that is about to cross.

At step 703, the train passage judging means 20
If it is determined that the train will pass at the railroad crossing, the process proceeds to step 704, and as the passage information of the train, a telop indicating the passage of the train is displayed by the display unit 22 or the train is voiced by the voice output unit 21. After telling you that you are going through, proceed to the end.

At step 703, the train passage judging means 20.
When it is determined that there is no train passing by at the railroad crossing, the process proceeds to step 705, and before the vehicle crosses the railroad crossing (for example, 25 m before), the display means 22 or the voice output means 21 again stops the vehicle and confirms the safety. To guide you to the end.

In step 705, the display means 22 or the voice output means 21 may be used to inform that there is no passing train, or no guidance is required.

Further, the waiting time at the railroad crossing of the vehicle may be output by the display means 22 or the voice output means 21 based on the train passage information.

Further, the approach of the train may be notified by the discoloration, deformation or blinking display of the level crossing symbol 501 on the map screen of the display means 22.

Further, the train drawing means 19 displays the display means 2
Alternatively, a train symbol may be moved and displayed as a mark indicating a passing train on the track of the railroad crossing on the map screen of No. 2, and the state of approaching the railroad crossing may be displayed.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the third embodiment. A telop 801 is displayed on the map screen of the display means 22 to prompt a temporary stop and safety confirmation at the railroad crossing. In addition, an example of a display screen when the train symbol 802 is displayed on the railroad track of the railroad crossing is shown.

According to the third embodiment, the output means outputs the message prompting a temporary stop and safety confirmation at the railroad crossing, so that safe traveling at the railroad crossing can be further promoted.

Further, according to the third embodiment, the time information acquisition means 14 for acquiring the current date information is provided, and the output means outputs the current date information and the level crossing information regarding the relevant level crossing. Based on this, since the passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing is output, it is possible to notify the user of the approach of the train in advance, and it is possible to further ensure safe driving. .

Further, according to the third embodiment, the output means outputs the waiting time at the relevant railroad crossing of the vehicle based on the train passage information. It is possible to notify the waiting time, and it is possible to encourage the driver to travel with plenty of time.

According to the third embodiment, the output means notifies the approach of the train by discoloring or deforming or blinking the crossing symbol 501 on the map, so that the user can clearly approach the train. Can be notified.

Further, according to the third embodiment, the output means notifies the approach of the train by the moving display of the train symbol 802 indicating the train approaching the railroad crossing on the map. Can be informed of approaching trains.

Further, according to the third embodiment, the output means notifies the approach of the train by the character display such as the telop 801, so that the user can be more clearly notified of the approach of the train. .

Further, according to the third embodiment, the output means notifies the approach of the train by sounding the voice, so that the user can be surely notified of the approach of the train.

Further, according to the third embodiment, if there is no passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, the output means notifies that fact, or does not notify anything. It is possible to let the user recognize that there is no train approaching the railroad crossing, and it is possible to encourage travel with plenty of room.

Fourth Embodiment Next, as a fourth embodiment, an example in which an emergency call is made to the nearest station or the like when a trouble occurs at the railroad crossing in the configuration of FIG. 1 will be described. Here, in the configuration of FIG.
3 and the emergency call means 24 are provided.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a schematic operation of the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, and shows operations of the railroad crossing judging means 23 and the emergency notification means 24 in FIG.

In step 901, when the vehicle is stopped on the railroad crossing due to engine trouble or the like and cannot escape, and the user presses the emergency call button provided in the input means 15, the process proceeds to step 903. Through the communication device 36 such as a telephone or a wireless device that constitutes the emergency notification means 24, an emergency notification is issued to the nearest station or the like indicating that a trouble has occurred at the front railroad crossing.

If the emergency call button is not pressed in step 901, the process proceeds to step 902, and it is determined by the crossing determination means 23 that the vehicle is stopped on the railroad crossing for a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) due to an engine trouble or the like. Make a decision.

If it is determined in step 902 that the vehicle has been stopped for a predetermined period of time or more, the process proceeds to step 904, and similarly to step 903, a trouble has occurred at the nearest railroad crossing through the communication device 36. Make an emergency call to that effect. On the other hand, if it is determined in step 902 that the vehicle has not stopped for the predetermined time or more, the process proceeds to END.

In the above, an example of making an emergency call to the nearest station of the railroad crossing was described, but an emergency call should be made to the train currently approaching the railroad crossing or to the nearest police station or fire station. Good.

According to the fourth embodiment, the emergency notification means 24 for providing an emergency notification to the outside when an emergency occurs such that the vehicle stops on the railroad track of the railroad crossing is provided.
It is possible to promptly report the occurrence of an emergency at the railroad crossing and prevent the occurrence of an accident at the railroad crossing.

Further, according to the fourth embodiment, since the emergency call means 24 is adapted to make an emergency call to the outside by means of the communication device 36 such as a telephone or a wireless device, the occurrence of an emergency situation at the railroad crossing can be further speeded up. You can report.

Further, according to the fourth embodiment, the emergency call means 24 makes an emergency call to the nearest station of the railroad crossing, the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, or the nearest police station or fire station. Therefore, it is possible to promptly respond to the occurrence of an emergency at the railroad crossing.

Further, according to the fourth embodiment, since the railroad crossing judging means 23 for judging whether or not the moving body is stopped for a predetermined time or longer is provided on the railroad track of the railroad crossing, the railroad crossing at the railroad crossing is provided. It is possible to automatically detect the occurrence of an emergency situation.

Further, according to the fourth embodiment, since the emergency call button for instructing an emergency call is provided, the user can directly give an emergency call when an emergency occurs at the railroad crossing.

Embodiment 5. Next, in the first embodiment,
Although the level crossing information is acquired from the information storage medium by the drive 31 in FIG. 2, as the fifth embodiment, a communication device 36 such as a telephone or a wireless device separately provided in FIG. 2 is provided.
The crossing information may be acquired from outside by using.

[0117] For example, an external information server or the like equipped with a railroad crossing information distribution device (not shown) having railroad crossing information distribution means (not shown) for distributing railroad crossing information, and a vehicle side, connect a mobile phone or the like. It is configured to enable data communication by using the Internet etc. to acquire crossing information from the outside, send the current position and traveling direction of the vehicle to the outside, and externally display it on the road in front of the vehicle. Alternatively, the existing level crossing may be specified, the level crossing information regarding the level crossing may be acquired, and this may be received and used by the vehicle side. Further, the map information and the time information may be acquired from the outside in the same manner.

According to this, the latest railroad crossing information, map information, and time information can be easily distributed from the outside, and the latest railroad crossing information can be easily obtained by receiving these latest information on the vehicle side. Can be provided. Further, the device on the vehicle side can be simplified.

Further, the railroad crossing information may be acquired by wireless communication with the nearest station of the railroad crossing or a train currently approaching the railroad crossing.

According to this, it is possible to acquire the latest and more reliable crossing information. In particular, even if the train operation timetable is disturbed due to bad weather or an accident, fluctuations in train operation passing through the relevant level crossing
The latest information such as delays and interruptions can be acquired in real time.

A storage means (not shown) such as a non-volatile memory for storing the railroad crossing information obtained by wireless communication with the outside may be provided.

According to this, the latest acquired railroad crossing information can be reused.

Further, updating means (not shown) for rewriting and updating the railroad crossing information stored in the storage means to the latest information may be provided.

According to this, the latest crossing information can always be used.

Sixth Embodiment Next, in the first embodiment,
Although the level crossing information acquisition unit 13 is configured to acquire the level crossing information regarding the level crossing existing in front of the vehicle, as the sixth embodiment, the level crossing related to the level crossing existing within the predetermined straight line distance or the predetermined route distance from the current position of the vehicle. You may make it acquire only information.

According to this, it is possible to acquire only the minimum level crossing information necessary for running the vehicle, and it is not necessary to acquire unnecessary level crossing information.

Further, the level crossing information acquisition means 13 may acquire only level crossing information regarding a level crossing for which the required arrival time from the current position of the vehicle is within a predetermined time.

According to this, only the minimum level crossing information necessary for traveling the vehicle can be acquired, and it becomes unnecessary to acquire unnecessary level crossing information.

Seventh Embodiment Next, in the first embodiment,
The output means is, for example, the level crossing symbol 50 selected in FIG.
1, or detailed railroad crossing information 502 is displayed for all railroad crossings existing on the display screen or on the traveling route of the vehicle, but as the seventh embodiment, the current position of the vehicle and the railroad crossing are displayed. When the straight-line distance or the route distance between and becomes less than or equal to a predetermined distance, the level crossing information regarding the level crossing may be automatically displayed or output by voice.

According to this, it is possible to output the railroad crossing information relating to the railroad crossing at an appropriate timing for running the vehicle, and it is possible to suppress the output of the railroad crossing information at an unnecessary timing.

Further, the output means may automatically output or voice the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing when the time required for the vehicle to reach the railroad crossing becomes a predetermined time or less.

According to this, it is possible to output the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing at a more appropriate timing when the vehicle is running, and it is possible to suppress the output of the railroad crossing information at an unnecessary timing.

Eighth Embodiment Next, in each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which it is applied to a navigation system installed in a vehicle as a moving body has been shown. However, assuming the user himself / herself as a moving body, when the user is walking, or It may be applied to a portable information terminal device (portable terminal) such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a mobile phone, or a PHS (Personal Handyphone System) that is carried when riding on a motorcycle, wheelchair or other moving body. .

According to this, before the user carrying the portable terminal approaches the crossing existing on the road ahead, the user is provided with the crossing information concerning the crossing in advance by the display or voice, so that the user can It is possible to obtain a mobile terminal that ensures safe movement of the mobile terminal.

Further, by adopting the same configuration as that of the fourth embodiment on the portable terminal, it is possible to promptly make an emergency call to the nearest station etc. when the user who is moving within the railroad crossing has some trouble. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an accident from occurring at the railroad crossing.

In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the position detecting means 12 includes the azimuth sensor 34, the vehicle speed sensor 33,
An example of using the GPS receiver 32, map matching, etc. is shown, but other sensors such as an optical fiber gyro, a vibration gyro, an acceleration sensor, and D-GPS.
(Differential GPS) or a wireless network such as a location information service for PHS or mobile phones may be used.

In the embodiment, the map information acquisition means 11 and the level crossing information acquisition means 13 are, for example, CD-RO.
An example of using a drive 31 for reading information stored in an information storage medium such as M or a DVD-ROM and using a non-volatile memory as storage means for storing crossing information acquired from the outside has been shown. The present invention is not limited to these, and other memory ICs (Integrated Circuit) such as a flash memory (Flash Memory) and CD-R (R
ecordable), DVD-R, CD-RW (Rewritable
), DVD-RW, DVD-RAM (Random Access
Memory), other optical disks such as MD (Mini Disk), magnetic disks such as flexible disks and hard disks, IC memory cards, magnetic memory cards,
A memory card such as an optical memory card, a magnetic tape such as a cassette tape, or another readable / writable nonvolatile information storage medium may be used.

Further, the drive 31 and the storage means may share any one of these information storage media, whereby the apparatus can be simplified.

Further, in the embodiment, the example in which the operation switch 35 is used as the input means 15 is shown, but other inputs such as a remote controller, a touch panel, a touch pen, a mouse, a trackball, an operation pad, a voice recognition device and the like. Equipment may be used.

Further, in the embodiment, the example in which the display means 22 such as the display 37 and the voice output means 21 such as the speaker 38 are used as the output means has been described.
athode Ray Tube, cathode ray tube display, LCD
(Liquid Crystal Display, Liquid Crystal Display) Display, Plasma Display, EL (Electro Lumines
cence, electroluminescence display, LED (Light Emi)
tting diode, light emitting diode) display, VFD
(Vacuum Fluorescent Display, fluorescent display tube) Display, projection display, head-up display, head-mounted display, various other displays such as mobile display terminals, and other audio output devices such as headphones, earphones, and voice synthesizers. Other output devices such as a printer and the like may be used.

Further, in the embodiment, an example in which the invention is mainly applied to a navigation system mounted on a vehicle or a portable terminal carried by a user is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention may be applied to a navigation system mounted on another moving body such as a train, a ship, or an airplane, or other various moving body information systems, and similar effects can be obtained in such a case.

Further, in the present invention, the railroad crossing information providing device for providing railroad crossing information on railroad crossings existing on the road has been described, but the present invention is not limited to railroad crossings, and it is not limited to railroad crossings and on roads around the sea or rivers. "Hanebashi" that often exists in Japan
Even if the system is configured to provide each moving body with information about "revolving bridges", canals used for ship operation, airports used for aircraft operation, and singular points in traffic where the moving objects intersect in a similar manner. Of course, even in this case, the same effect can be obtained.

[0143]

Since the present invention is constructed as described above, it has the following effects.

According to the crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the position detecting means for detecting the current position and the traveling direction of the moving body, the map information obtaining means for obtaining the map information, the current position and the traveling direction of the moving body. Since the railroad crossing existing on the road in front of the moving body is identified from the map information and the railroad crossing information acquisition means for acquiring the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing, and the output means for outputting the acquired railroad crossing information,
A railroad crossing information providing device that ensures safer operation of the mobile body can be obtained by providing the user with railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing before the mobile body approaches a railroad crossing existing on the road ahead. There is an effect.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the output means outputs the railroad crossing information by display or voice, the railroad crossing information can be reliably provided to the user. effective.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the switching means for switching the output or non-output of the railroad crossing information is provided, it is possible to switch the output or non-output of the railroad crossing information according to the preference of the user. There is.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the railroad crossing information is information of any one or a combination of the following, extremely detailed railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing is provided. There is an effect that can be. (1) Railroad crossing position (2) Railroad crossing name / number (3) Railroad crossing railroad name (4) Railroad crossing road width (5) Railroad crossing railroad width (6) Railroad crossing gate presence (7) Railroad crossing nearest station name (8) Railroad crossing Nearest station phone number (9) Direction / distance to the nearest railway station (10) Latest train timetable information (11) Railway crossing train operation delay information (12) Railway crossing waiting time information (13) Railway crossing history information

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means outputs the message prompting a temporary stop and safety confirmation at the railroad crossing, thereby further promoting safe operation at the railroad crossing. There is an effect that can be done.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, it is provided with time information acquisition means for acquiring the current date and time information, and the output means has the current date and time information and the railroad crossing related to the railroad crossing. Based on the information, the passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing is output.
There is an effect that the user can be notified in advance of the approach of the train and the safe operation can be made more reliable.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means outputs the waiting time at the railroad crossing of the moving body based on the train passage information.
There is an effect that the user can be notified in advance of the waiting time at the railroad crossing, and the operation with a margin can be promoted.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means notifies the approach of the train by the color change or deformation or blinking display of the mark indicating the railroad crossing on the map. There is an effect that the approach of the train can be clearly notified.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means notifies the approach of the train by the moving display of the mark indicating the train approaching the railroad crossing on the map. This has the effect of clearly notifying the approach of a train.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the output means notifies the approach of the train by displaying characters, it is possible to notify the user of the approach of the train more clearly. There is an effect.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the output means notifies the approach of the train by sounding the voice, the user can be surely notified of the approach of the train. There is an effect.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, if there is no passing information of the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, the output means notifies that or nothing. As a result, there is an effect that the user can be made aware that there is no approach of the train to the railroad crossing, and that the operation with a margin can be promoted.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the emergency notification means is provided for making an emergency call to the outside when an emergency occurs such that the moving body stops on the railroad track of the railroad crossing. There is an effect that an emergency situation at the railroad crossing can be promptly notified, and an accident at the railroad crossing can be prevented in advance.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the emergency call means makes an emergency call to the outside by radio or telephone, it is possible to notify the occurrence of an emergency at the railroad crossing more quickly. There is an effect that can be.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the emergency notification means is the nearest station of the railroad crossing, the train currently approaching the railroad crossing, or the nearest police station.
Since an emergency call is made to the fire department, there is an effect that prompt response to an emergency situation at the railroad crossing can be promoted.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the railroad crossing determination means for determining whether or not the moving body has stopped on the railroad track of the railroad crossing for a predetermined time or more is provided. There is an effect that it is possible to automatically detect the occurrence of an emergency at the railroad crossing.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the input means for instructing an emergency call is provided, the user can directly give an emergency call when an emergency occurs at the railroad crossing. The effect is that you can do it.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing existing within the predetermined straight line distance or the predetermined route distance from the current position of the moving body. As a result, it is possible to acquire only the level crossing information about the minimum level crossing required for moving the vehicle,
This has the effect of eliminating the need to acquire unnecessary railroad crossing information.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing whose arrival time from the current position of the moving body is within the predetermined time. Further, there is an effect that only the level crossing information regarding the minimum level crossing necessary for operating the mobile body can be acquired, and it becomes unnecessary to acquire unnecessary level crossing information.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information from the information storage medium storing the railroad crossing information.
There is an effect that the railroad crossing information can be easily acquired.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the outside, the latest railroad crossing information can be acquired. The effect is that you can do it.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the nearest station of the railroad crossing or the train currently approaching the railroad crossing. Since this is done, there is an effect that it is possible to acquire the latest and more reliable crossing information.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the storage means for storing the railroad crossing information acquired by wireless communication with the outside is provided, the latest railroad crossing information acquired is reused. There is an effect that can be done.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the updating means for updating the railroad crossing information stored in the storage means is provided, it is possible to always use the latest railroad crossing information. effective.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means is configured such that the railroad crossing regarding the railroad crossing at the time when the linear distance or the route distance between the current position of the moving body and the railroad crossing becomes a predetermined distance or less. Since the information is output, it is possible to output the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing at an appropriate timing for operating the moving body, and it is possible to suppress the output of the railroad crossing information at an unnecessary timing.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the output means outputs the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing when the time required for the moving body to reach the railroad crossing reaches a predetermined time or less. Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to output the level crossing information regarding the level crossing at a timing more appropriate for traveling of the mobile body, and to suppress the output of the level crossing information at an unnecessary timing.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, since the moving body is a vehicle and is adapted to be applied to a navigation system mounted on this vehicle, the vehicle exists on the road ahead. By providing the user with the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing before approaching the railroad crossing, there is an effect that a navigation system for the vehicle can be obtained that ensures safer driving of the vehicle.

According to the railroad crossing information providing apparatus of the present invention, the moving body is the user himself / herself and is adapted to be applied to the portable terminal carried by the user. By providing the user with railroad crossing information related to the railroad crossing before approaching the railroad crossing existing on the road ahead, there is an effect that a mobile terminal that secures the safe movement of the user can be obtained. .

Further, according to the information storage medium of the present invention, since the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossings existing on the road is stored, the railroad crossing information can be easily distributed.

According to the railroad crossing information distribution device of the present invention, since the railroad crossing information distribution means for distributing the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossings existing on the road is provided, the railroad crossing information can be easily distributed. There is an effect.

Further, according to the railroad crossing information providing system of the present invention, the railroad crossing information distribution device is provided with the railroad crossing information distribution means for distributing the railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossings existing on the road, and the railroad crossing information distribution device outputs the railroad crossing information. Since the level crossing information providing device having the level crossing information acquisition unit that acquires the level crossing information and the output unit that outputs the acquired level crossing information is provided, it is possible to easily provide the level crossing information.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a railroad crossing information providing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a device configuration of a railroad crossing information providing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a data configuration example of map information and railroad crossing information in the railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of the railroad crossing information providing device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the railroad crossing information providing device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a setting operation of the railroad crossing information providing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of a railroad crossing information providing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a railroad crossing information providing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of a railroad crossing information providing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

11 map information acquisition means, 12 position detection means, 13
Level crossing information acquisition means, 14 time information acquisition means, 15 input means, 16 system control means, 17 level crossing information control means, 18 level crossing information switching means, 19 train drawing means, 2
0 train passage determination means, 21 voice output means, 22 display means, 23 level crossing determination means, 24 emergency notification means,
31 drive, 32 GPS receiver, 33 vehicle speed sensor, 34 direction sensor, 35 operation switch, 36
Communication device, 37 display, 38 speakers,
39 control unit, 301 map information, 30
2 Railroad crossing information, 501 Railroad crossing symbol, 502 Detailed railroad crossing information, 601 Main menu screen, 602 System setting menu screen, 603 Map display detailed setting menu screen, 801 Telop, 802 Train symbol.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) G08B 25/10 G08B 25/10 D G08G 1/09 G08G 1/09 R 1/0969 1/0969 1/16 1/16 D // B61L 29/28 B61L 29/28 CF terms (reference) 2F029 AA02 AB01 AB07 AB12 AC02 AC06 AC09 AC13 AC18 AC19 5C087 AA03 AA09 AA24 AA25 AA40 AA44 BB20 BB21 BB46 BB65 BB75 DD01 DD02 DD15 DD15 DD15 DD01 DD15 DD01 DD15 DD15 DD15 DD01 DD15 DD01 FF04 FF05 FF16 FF19 FF23 5H161 AA01 MM01 NN20 PP06 PP07 PP15 5H180 AA01 BB04 BB05 BB13 EE08 FF04 FF05 FF22 FF25 FF27 FF35 FF40 LL04 LL07 LL08 LL18

Claims (31)

[Claims] 1. A position detecting means for detecting a current position and a traveling direction of a moving body, a map information acquiring means for obtaining map information, a current position and a traveling direction of the moving body, and a map information of the moving body from the map information. A railroad crossing information providing device comprising: a railroad crossing information acquisition unit that identifies a railroad crossing existing on a road ahead and acquires railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing; and an output unit that outputs the acquired railroad crossing information. 2. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output means outputs the railroad crossing information by display or voice. 3. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising switching means for switching whether or not to output the railroad crossing information. 4. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the railroad crossing information is information of any one or a combination of the following. (1) Railroad crossing position (2) Railroad crossing name / number (3) Railroad crossing railroad name (4) Railroad crossing road width (5) Railroad crossing railroad width (6) Railroad crossing gate presence (7) Railroad crossing nearest station name (8) Railroad crossing Nearest station phone number (9) Direction / distance to the nearest railway station (10) Latest train timetable information (11) Railway crossing train operation delay information (12) Railway crossing waiting time information (13) Railway crossing history information 5. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output means outputs a message prompting a temporary stop and safety confirmation at the railroad crossing. 6. A time information acquisition unit for acquiring current date information, and the output unit is currently approaching the relevant railroad crossing based on the current date information and the railroad crossing information regarding the relevant railroad crossing. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the passing information of the running train is output. 7. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the output means outputs a waiting time at the railroad crossing of the moving body based on train passage information. 8. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the output means notifies the approaching of the train by a color change, deformation, or blinking display of a mark indicating the railroad crossing on the map. 9. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the output means notifies the approach of the train by a moving display of a mark indicating a train approaching the railroad crossing on the map. 10. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the output means notifies the approach of the train by displaying characters. 11. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the output means notifies the approach of the train by sounding a voice. 12. The railroad crossing information according to claim 6, wherein the output means, if there is no passing information of a train currently approaching the railroad crossing, notifies that effect or does not notify anything. Providing device. 13. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an emergency call means for making an external emergency call when an emergency occurs such that a moving body stops on the railroad track of the railroad crossing. 14. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the emergency call means makes an emergency call to the outside by radio or telephone. 15. The emergency call means is the nearest station of the railroad crossing,
14. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein an emergency call is made to a train currently approaching the railroad crossing or to a nearest police station or fire station. 16. The railroad crossing information providing device according to claim 13, further comprising railroad crossing determination means for determining whether or not the moving body has stopped on the railroad track of the railroad crossing for a predetermined time or longer. 17. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising input means for instructing an emergency call. 18. The railroad crossing information providing device according to claim 1, wherein the railroad crossing information acquisition unit acquires railroad crossing information regarding a railroad crossing existing within a predetermined straight line distance or a predetermined route distance from the current position of the moving body. . 19. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the railroad crossing information acquisition means acquires railroad crossing information regarding a railroad crossing whose arrival time from the current position of the moving body is within a predetermined time. 20. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the railroad crossing information acquisition unit acquires the railroad crossing information from an information storage medium that stores the railroad crossing information. 21. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the railroad crossing information acquisition unit acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the outside. 22. The railroad crossing information acquisition unit acquires the railroad crossing information by wireless communication with the nearest station of the railroad crossing or a train currently approaching the railroad crossing. Information providing device. 23. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising storage means for storing the railroad crossing information acquired by wireless communication with the outside. 24. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising update means for updating the railroad crossing information stored in the storage means. 25. The railroad crossing information relating to the railroad crossing is output when the straight line distance or the route distance between the current position of the moving body and the railroad crossing becomes a predetermined distance or less. Level crossing information providing device. 26. The railroad crossing information regarding the railroad crossing is output when the time required for the moving body to reach the railroad crossing reaches a predetermined time or less.
Level crossing information providing device. 27. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving body is a vehicle and is applied to a navigation system mounted on the vehicle. 28. The railroad crossing information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving body is a user himself / herself and is applied to a portable terminal carried by the user. 29. An information storage medium storing railroad crossing information on railroad crossings existing on a road. 30. A railroad crossing information distribution device, comprising: railroad crossing information distribution means for distributing railroad crossing information regarding a railroad crossing existing on a road. 31. A crossing information distribution device having crossing information distribution means for distributing crossing information on a crossing existing on a road, and crossing information acquisition means for acquiring the crossing information from the crossing information distribution device; A railroad crossing information providing system, comprising: a railroad crossing information providing device having an output unit configured to output the railroad crossing information.