WO2008147009A1

WO2008147009A1 - Method and system for providing path data

Info

Publication number: WO2008147009A1
Application number: PCT/KR2007/006618
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jung Min Kang
Original assignee: Thinkware Systems Corporation
Priority date: 2007-05-28
Filing date: 2007-12-18
Publication date: 2008-12-04
Also published as: KR100835540B1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a route data providing method and system which, when a request for an update of previously provided route data is generated from a lead vehicle, provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, and thereby may batch change route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING PATH DATA

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a route data providing method and system which, when a request for an update of previously provided route data is generated from a lead vehicle, provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and a trailing vehicle, and thereby may batch change route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

Background Art When a number of groups such as families, relatives, colleagues, and friends go to a school excursion, workshop, trips, and the like by vehicle, a plurality of vehicles may be used to go to a destination together.

That is, when a start point and destination are the same for a group of people, each vehicle may receive identical route data through a navigation system, mobile terminal, and the like. Accordingly, when each vehicle moves based on received route data, the plurality of vehicles may drive together and arrive at the same destination despite minor differences.

However, in reality, since a vehicle may not travel based on the same route data due to a traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, a driver's mistake, and the like, the plurality of vehicles may not drive together and may not arrive at a destination around a similar time.

To overcome such a disadvantage, in Korean Patent Registration No. 0600678,

'Method of informing the route of a vehicle to a group-vehicle', mobile communication terminals of users in vehicles traveling to the same destination from the same start point are grouped, and a route guidance service is provided to a specific vehicle, preferably, a mobile communication terminal of a user in a lead vehicle. Also, a route of the lead vehicle is provided to a mobile communication terminal of a user in a trailing vehicle by referring to terminal location information received from the mobile communication terminal of the user in the lead vehicle. However, in Korean Patent Registration No. 0600678, location information of a specific vehicle driving based on route guidance information received from a route guidance server, that is, a lead vehicle leading trailing vehicles, is provided to each of the trailing vehicles and displayed on a map of a terminal of each of the trailing vehicles. Accordingly, the trailing vehicles are required to check the displayed location information provided from the lead vehicle constantly, which may prevent safe driving.

Thus, according to the present invention, a route data providing technology which may enable a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle to drive together and arrive at a destination without constantly checking location information of the lead vehicle is provided.

Disclosure of Invention Technical Goals

The present invention provides a route data providing method and system which, when a request for an update of previously provided route data is generated from a lead vehicle, provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, and thereby may batch change route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. The present invention also provides a route data providing method and system which provides route data that may be recognized more easily to enable a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle to drive together and arrive at a destination without constantly checking location information of the lead vehicle.

The present invention also provides a route data providing method and system which, when a destination is changed while vehicles are driving to a predetermined destination, provides updated route data to the vehicles.

The present invention also provides a route data providing method and system which, when a lead vehicle deviates from a previously provided route data beyond an allowable range, automatically provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicles.

The present invention also provides a route data providing method and system which displays a current location coordinate of each vehicle on an entire route from a start point to a destination, and thereby may enable a location of each vehicle to be ascertained more easily. The present invention also provides a route data providing method and system which enables vehicles driving to a same destination to drive safely. Technical solutions

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a route data providing method, including: providing a lead vehicle with route data generated according to a request from the lead vehicle; receiving a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle; providing the route data to a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; and providing, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, the updated route data being generated in response to the first update request.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a route data providing method, including: providing a lead vehicle with route data generated based on a destination inputted from the lead vehicle; receiving a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle; retrieving a start point of a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; generating route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the retrieved start point and inputted destination; providing the generated route data to the trailing vehicle; retrieving, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request; and generating updated route data based on the retrieved current location and inputted destination and providing the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a route data providing system, including: a trailing vehicle list receiving unit receiving a trailing vehicle list from a lead vehicle; a route data providing unit providing the lead vehicle with route data generated according to a request from the lead vehicle, and providing the route data to a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; and a updated route data providing unit providing, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, the updated route data being generated in response to the first update request.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a route data providing system, including: a trailing vehicle list receiving unit receiving a trailing vehicle list from a lead vehicle; a route data providing unit providing a lead vehicle with route data generated based on a destination inputted from the lead vehicle, retrieving a start point of a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list, generating route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the retrieved start point and inputted destination, and providing the generated route data to the trailing vehicle; and a updated route data providing unit retrieving, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request, generating updated route data based on the retrieved current location and inputted destination, and providing the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

Brief Description of Drawings FIG 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a route data providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen where a request from a lead vehicle is received according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen where a trailing vehicle list is received from a lead vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying route data provided through a map display unit in a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying route data provided through a map display unit in a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to the other embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a route data providing method according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a route data providing method according to another embodiment of the present invention. Best Mode for Carryinfi Out the Invention

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail by referring to the figures.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a route data providing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The route data providing system 100 may include a route data providing unit 110, trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120, updated route data providing unit 130, and location coordinate measurement unit 140.

The route data providing unit 110 provides a lead vehicle with route data generated according to a request from the lead vehicle.

For example, the route data providing unit 110 may receive a destination from the lead vehicle through a user interface (UI) of a mobile terminal, and receive a request for route data with respect to the destination from the lead vehicle. The mobile terminal such as a navigation system or mobile communication terminal provides a route guidance service. Also, the route data providing unit 110 may transmit to the lead vehicle the route data generated according to the request from the lead vehicle, and thereby may enable the route data to be visualized through a map display unit 150 of the mobile terminal. Information about a start point (or current location) of the lead vehicle may be directly received from a driver of the lead vehicle through the UI, or obtained through a location search with respect to the lead vehicle. The information is required when the route data is generated.

The trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120 receives a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle. The route data providing unit 110 provides the route data to a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list. For example, when a request for the route data is received from the lead vehicle, and the destination and a driving mode such as 'plurality, party or group' are selected, the route data providing unit 110 may recognize that the lead vehicle and other vehicles are to be provided with the route data. The other vehicles are inputted by the lead vehicle. Accordingly, the route data providing unit 110 may receive the trailing vehicle list through the trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120 and provide the route data to the trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list. The trailing vehicle list includes vehicles that may be identified based on a license number, car registration number, phone number of a mobile communication terminal, and the like. The license number, car registration number, phone number of the mobile communication terminal, and the like are inputted from the lead vehicle.

For example, when 'GS tower' is inputted as the destination and 'group' is inputted as the driving mode from the lead vehicle, and when route data to the destination is requested, the route data providing unit 110 may sequentially generate route data from a start point 'GB gangnam tower' to the destination 'GS tower' based on a block, for example, ' 1. Go straight to [gangnam station] from [GB gangnam tower] for 0.17 km', '2. Turn left at the intersection in [gangnam station], and go 1 km', and '3. Turn left at an intersection where a 'KB bank' is located, go straight to an intersection in 'Yeoksam station' for 0.8 km, and look to the right side'. Also, the route data providing unit 110 may transmit the route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. The map display unit 150 of mobile terminal in the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may map and visualize the transmitted route data. According to the present invention, the lead vehicle may be any one of a plurality of vehicles driving to a same set destination. However, as a guide is generally the one who knows a route very well, the lead vehicle may be a vehicle that may drive at the head of the plurality of vehicles and provide the route data to the trailing vehicle.

In this instance, the lead vehicle may select the trailing vehicle from a plurality of prepared vehicles through the UI. That is, the lead vehicle may select the trailing vehicle from the plurality of vehicles driving to the same destination by inputting the license number, car registration number, phone number of the mobile communication terminal, and the like, through the UI.

According to the present invention, the trailing vehicle may be at least one vehicle of the trailing vehicle list received from the lead vehicle through the trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120. In general, the trailing vehicle may be a vehicle that drives behind the lead vehicle.

In this instance, the trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120 may receive the trailing vehicle list generated in interoperation with the selection on the trailing vehicle in real time. Accordingly, the lead vehicle may add or delete the trailing vehicle more easily through the UI. The selected trailing vehicle may be reflected to the trailing vehicle list in real time, and thus driving to the destination may be more convenient. When a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, the updated route data providing unit 130 provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. The updated route data is generated in response to the first update request. For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle deviates from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, the lead vehicle may inpui the first update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle using a well-known Global Positioning System (GPS) function in response to the first update request, generates route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmits, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. The updated route data is generated by correcting the previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point where the lead vehicle deviates. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Accordingly, when the route data of the lead vehicle changes, the updated route data, generated according to the first update request, is provided to the lead vehicle as well as the trailing vehicle. Thus, the trailing vehicle may drive based on the transmitted route data and arrive at the destination without checking location information of the lead vehicle.

Also, when the destination is changed, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate a second update request for the provided route data, and provide updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the generated second update request. The updated route data is generated based on the changed destination.

That is, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided by the route data providing unit 110, when the destination is changed by the lead vehicle through the UI, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate the second update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 may retrieve a current location of the lead vehicle using a well-known GPS function in response to the second update request, generate route data from the retrieved current location to the changed destination, and transmit, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. The updated route data is generated by correcting the previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point where the destination is changed. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Accordingly, when the driver is confused since the destination is changed while driving based on the route data to the previously set destination, the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may easily drive together and arrive at the changed destination using the updated route data changed based on the destination change.

Also, when the lead vehicle deviates from previously transmitted route data beyond an allowable range, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate a third update request for the provided route data, retrieve a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the third update request, generate updated route data based on the retrieved current location and destination, and provide the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle deviates from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, without recognizing that the lead vehicle is on the other route, the lead vehicle may not input the first update request with respect to the route data. For this, the updated route data providing unit 130 may retrieve a current location of the lead vehicle at predetermined time intervals or in real time through a well-known GPS function, and determine whether the retrieved current location deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, for example, beyond 10 m radius. When it is determined that the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate the third update request for the provided route data, retrieve the current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the third update request using the well-known GPS function, generate updated route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmit the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Thus, according to an embodiment of the present invention, it may be automatically recognized that the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range. Also, the updated route data is provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, and thus the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may easily arrive at the destination.

The location coordinate measurement unit 140 measures a location coordinate of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. The lead vehicle and trailing vehicle receiving the measured location coordinate map and visualize a corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through the map display unit 150.

As described above, a measured location coordinate of each vehicle is displayed on an entire route from the start point to the destination, and thus each of the vehicles may ascertain each other's location more easily.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the route data providing unit 1 10 provides the lead vehicle with the route data generated based on the destination inputted from the lead vehicle. Also, when start points of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are differently inputted, the route data providing unit 110 retrieves the start point of the trailing vehicle of the trailing vehicle list, generates the route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the retrieved start point and the inputted destination, and provides the generated route data to the trailing vehicle.

Through this, when a same destination and a driving mode 'group' are inputted and route data is requested even though the start point of each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle is differently inputted, the route data providing system 100 may generate route data to the same destination from each of the start points and provide the route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Also, a location coordinate of each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle is displayed on the entire route including each of the start point and destination through the map display unit 150, and thus the route data providing system 100 may enable the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle to determine where the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving on the entire route.

In this instance, when the start point of the trailing vehicle and the start point of the lead vehicle are located within in a predetermined range, for example, within a 50 m radius, the route data providing unit 110 may generate the route data using the start point of the lead vehicle instead of the retrieved start point.

That is, when the start point of the trailing vehicle and the start point of the lead vehicle are set relatively close to each other, the route data providing unit 110 may generate and provide, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, the route data to the set destination from the start point of the lead vehicle without retrieving each start point.

When the first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, the updated route data providing unit 130 retrieves the current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request, generates the updated route data based on the retrieved current location and inputted destination, and provides the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle deviates from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, the lead vehicle may input the first update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 retrieves the current location of the lead vehicle using the well- known GPS function in response to the first update request, generates the route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmits, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. The updated route data is generated by correcting previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point corresponding to the current location. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Accordingly, when the route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle changes, the updated route data, generated according to the update request, is provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Thus, the trailing vehicle may drive based on the provided route data and arrive at the destination without checking location information of the lead vehicle.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen where a request from a lead vehicle is received according to an embodiment of the present invention. A route data providing system receives a destination 220 'GS tower' and a driving mode 210 'group' from the lead vehicle through a UI of a navigation terminal, and may receive a request for route data to the inputted destination 220 from a driver of the lead vehicle. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

When a start point 'GB gangnam tower', a destination 'GS tower', and a driving mode 'group' are inputted from the lead vehicle and route data to the destination is requested, a route data providing system may sequentially generate route data from the start point 'GB gangnam tower' to the destination 'GS tower' based on a block, for example, ' 1. Go straight to [gangnam station] from [GB gangnam tower] for 0.78 km' 310, '2. Turn left at the intersection in [gangnam station], and go 1 km' 320, and '3. Turn left at the intersection in 'Yeoksam station', and look to the right side' 330. Also, the route data providing system may transmit the route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. A map display unit of a mobile terminal in the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may map and visualize the transmitted route data.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen where a trailing vehicle list 430 is received from a lead vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. When a destination is inputted and a request for route data is received from the lead vehicle, and when a driving mode such as 'plurality, party or group' is selected as a driving mode, a route data providing system may be ready to receive a license number 410 of trailing vehicle from the lead vehicle. The route data providing system may select a trailing vehicle corresponding to the received license number 410 from a plurality of prepared vehicles 420, and generate the trailing vehicle list 430 in interoperation with the selection on the trailing vehicle in real time.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying route data 540 provided through a map display unit in a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, when a vehicle A is inputted as the lead vehicle and a vehicle B and vehicle C are inputted as the trailing vehicle from among the vehicle A, vehicle B, and vehicle C, the screen displaying the route data 540 from a start point 'GB gangnam tower' 510 to a destination 'GS tower' 520 is illustrated as an example.

A route data providing system may generate, transmit to the lead vehicle A and trailing vehicles B and C, and visualize the route data 540 as illustrated in FIG. 5. The route data 540 indicates that a driver is to go straight from the start point 'GB gangnam tower' 510 to a 'Gangnam station' for 0.17 km, turn left at an intersection in 'Gangnam station', go about 1 km, turn left at an intersection in 'Yeoksam station', and look to the right side to arrive at the destination 'GS tower' 520.

In this instance, the route data providing system may provide the route data 540 and a summary map 530 to the lead vehicle A, trailing vehicles B and C. A location coordinate of each of the lead vehicle A, trailing vehicles B and C is measured on an entire route (route data or updated route data) from the start point 'GB gangnam tower' 510 to the destination 'GS tower' 520, and the measured location coordinates are mapped and visualized in the summary map 530. Accordingly, the route data providing system may enable the lead vehicle A, trailing vehicles B and C to ascertain each other's location more easily.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to another embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, updated route data 610, 620, and 630, generated according to a update request for route data from the lead vehicle when a driver of the lead vehicle does not turn left at an intersection in 'Gangnam station' and goes straight to an intersection in 'Yeoksam street' due to a mistake of the driver while driving based on the route data illustrated in FIG. 3, is illustrated as an example. In this instance, 'GB gangnam tower', 'GS tower', and 'group' are set as a start point, destination, and driving mode, respectively. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying route data provided through a map display unit in a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to another embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 7, updated route data 610, 620, and 630 illustrated in FIG. 6 is visualized as route data 740 in the screen. The updated route data 610, 620, and 630 is generated according to a update request for route data from the lead vehicle when a driver of the lead vehicle does not turn left at an intersection in 'Gangnam station' and goes straight to an intersection in 'Yeoksam street' due to a mistake of the driver while driving based on the route data illustrated in FIG. 3. In this instance, 'GB gangnam tower' 710, 'GS tower' 720, and 'group' are set as a start point, destination, and driving mode, respectively.

A route data providing system may generate, transmit to the lead vehicle A and trailing vehicles B and C, and visualize the route data 740 as illustrated in FIG. 7. The route data 740 indicates that the driver is to go straight from a start point 'GB gangnam tower' 710 to an intersection in 'Yeoksam street' towards 'Gangnam station' for 1.45 km, turn left at the intersection in 'Yeoksam street', go about 1 km, turn left at an intersection where 'KB bank' is located, go straight to an intersection in 'Yeoksam station' for 0.8 km, and look to the right side to arrive at the destination 'GS tower' 720.

In this instance, the route data providing system may update and provide the route data 740 and summary map 730 to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicles. A location coordinate of each of the lead vehicle A, trailing vehicles B and C is measured on an entire route (route data or updated route data) from the start point 'GB gangnam tower' 710 to the destination 'GS tower' 720, and the measured location coordinates are mapped and visualized in the summary map 730. Accordingly, the route data providing system may enable the lead vehicle A, trailing vehicles B and C to ascertain each other's location more easily.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of route data provided to a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle according to the other embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, updated route data 810 and 820 is illustrated as an example. In this instance, 'GB gangnam tower', 'GS tower', and 'group' are set as a start point, destination, and driving mode, respectively. The updated route data 810 and 820 is generated according to a update request for route data when a destination is changed to 'Sunleung station' while driving based on the route data illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a route data providing method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The route data providing method may be embodied by a route data providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Also, the route data providing method is described with reference to FIG. 9 as well as FIG. 1.

In operation S905, the route data providing system waits for a route data request from a lead vehicle. In operation S910, when the request for the route data is generated from the lead vehicle, the route data providing system provides the lead vehicle with the generated route data.

For example, a route data providing unit 110 may receive a destination from the lead vehicle through a UI of a mobile terminal, and receive a request for the route data with respect to the destination from a driver of the lead vehicle. The mobile terminal such as a navigation system or mobile communication terminal provides a route guidance service. Also, the route data providing unit 110 may transmit to the lead vehicle the route data generated according to the request from the lead vehicle, and thereby may enable the route data to be visualized through a map display unit 150 of the mobile terminal.

In operation S915, the route data providing system receives a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle.

According to the present invention, the lead vehicle may be any one of a plurality of vehicles driving to a same set destination. However, as a guide is generally the one who knows a route very well, the lead vehicle may be a vehicle that may drive at the head of the plurality of vehicles and provide the route data to the trailing vehicle.

According to the present invention, the trailing vehicle may be at least one vehicle of the trailing vehicle list received from the lead vehicle through a trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120. In general, the trailing vehicle may be a vehicle that drives behind the lead vehicle.

In this instance, the trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120 may receive the trailing vehicle list generated in interoperation with the selection on the trailing vehicle in real time. Accordingly, the lead vehicle may add or delete the trailing vehicle more easily through the UI. The selected trailing vehicle may be reflected to the trailing vehicle list in real time, and thus driving to the destination may be more convenient.

In operation S920, the route data providing system provides the route data to the trailing vehicle of the trailing vehicle list.

For example, when a request for the route data is received from the lead vehicle, and the destination and a driving mode such as 'plurality, party or group' are selected, the route data providing unit 110 may recognize that the lead vehicle and other vehicles are to be provided with the route data. The other vehicles are inputted by the lead vehicle. Accordingly, the route data providing unit 110 may receive the trailing vehicle list through the trailing vehicle list receiving unit 120 and provide the route data to the trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list. The trailing vehicle list includes vehicles that may be identified based on a license number, car registration number, phone number of a mobile communication terminal, and the like. The license number, car registration number, phone number of the mobile communication terminal, and the like are inputted from the lead vehicle.

For example, when 'GS tower' is inputted as the destination and 'group' is inputted as the driving mode from the lead vehicle, and when route data to the destination is requested, the route data providing unit 110 may sequentially generate route data from a start point 'GB gangnam tower' to the destination 'GS tower' based on a block, for example, ' 1. Go straight to [gangnam station] from [GB gangnam tower] for 0.17 km', '2. Turn left at the intersection in [gangnam station], and go 1 km', and '3.

Turn left at an intersection where a 'KB bank' is located, go straight to an intersection in 'Yeoksam station' for 0.8 km, and look to the right side'. Also, the route data providing unit 110 may transmit the route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

The map display unit 150 of mobile terminal in the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may map and visualize the transmitted route data.

In operation S925, the route data providing system measures a location coordinate of lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. In operation S930, the route data providing system maps and visualizes a corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through the map display unit 150.

A location coordinate measurement unit 140 may measure the location coordinate of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. The lead vehicle and trailing vehicle receiving the measured location coordinate may map and visualize the corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through the map display unit 150. As described above, a measured location coordinate of each vehicle is displayed on an entire route from the start point to the destination, and thus each of the vehicles may ascertain each other's location more easily.

In operation S935, the route data providing system determines whether a first update request is inputted from the lead vehicle.

When it is determined that the first update request is inputted from the lead vehicle, the route data providing system provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in operation S940. The updated route data is generated in response to the first update request. For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle devisites from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, the lead vehicle may input the first update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle using a well-known GPS function in response to the first update request, generates the route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmits, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. T he updated route data is generated by correcting previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point where the lead vehicle deviates. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Accordingly, when the route data of the lead vehicle changes, the updated route data, generated according to the update request, is provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Thus, the trailing vehicle may drive based on the provided route data and arrive at the destination without checking location information of the lead vehicle.

In operation S945, the route data providing system determines whether the destination is changed.

When the destination is changed, the route data providing system generates a second update request with respect to the previously transmitted route data in operation S950. Also, the route data providing system provides the updated route data based on the destination to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in operation S955. For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided by the route data providing unit 110, when the destination is changed by the lead vehicle through the UI, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate the second update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 may retrieve a current location of the lead vehicle using a well-known GPS function in response to the second update request, generate route data from the retrieved current location to the changed destination, and transmit, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. The updated route data is generated by correcting the previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point where the destination is changed. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

As described above, when the driver is confused since the destination is changed while driving based on the route data to the previously set destination, the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may easily drive together and arrive at the changed destination using the updated route data changed based on the destination change.

In operation S960, the route data providing system determines whether the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond an allowable range.

When the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, in operation S965, the route data providing system generates a third update request with respect to the previously transmitted route data. In operation S970, the route data providing system retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. In operation S975, the route data providing system generates updated route data based on the retrieved current location and set destination, and provides the updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle deviates from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, without recognizing that the lead vehicle is on the other route, the lead vehicle may not input the first update request with respect to the route data. For this, the updated route data providing unit 130 may retrieve a current location of the lead vehicle at predetermined time intervals or in real time through the well-known GPS function, and determine whether the retrieved current location deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, for example, beyond 10 m radius. When it is determined that the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, the updated route data providing unit 130 may generate the third update request for the provided route data, retrieve the current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the third update request using the well-known GPS function, generate updated route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmit the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

In operation S980, the route data providing system determines whether the lead vehicle arrives at the destination. When the lead vehicle does not arrive at the destination, the route data providing system returns to operation S935.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a route data providing method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The route data providing method may be embodied by a route data providing system. Also, the route data providing method is described in detail with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG. 1.

In operation S 1005, the route data providing system waits for a route data request from a lead vehicle.

In operation SlOlO, when the request for the route data is generated from the lead vehicle, the route data providing system provides the lead vehicle with the generated route data.

In operation S 1015, the route data providing system receives a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle.

In operation S 1020, the route data providing system retrieves a start point of a trailing vehicle of the trailing vehicle list. In operation S 1025, the route data providing system generates and provides route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the start point and destination.

Through this, when a same destination and a driving mode 'group' are inputted and route data is requested even though the start point of each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle is differently inputted, the route data providing system 100 may generate route data to the same destination from each of the start points and provide the route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

In operation S 1030, the route data providing system measures a location coordinate of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. In operation S 1035, the route data providing system maps and visualizes a corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through the map display unit 150. That is, the location coordinate of each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle is displayed on an entire route including each start point and destination through the map display unit 150, and the route data providing system may determine whether each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle is driving.

In operation S 1040, the route data providing system determines whether a first update request is inputted from the lead vehicle.

When it is determined that the first update request is inputted from the lead vehicle, the route data providing system retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request in operation S 1045. In operation S 1050, the route data providing system generates updated route data based on the retrieved current location and destination, and provides the updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

For example, while the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle are driving based on the route data provided from the route data providing unit 110, when the lead vehicle deviates from the route data and drives another route due to a variety of causes such as a mistake of the lead vehicle's driver, traffic accident, road construction, a delay due to waiting for a traffic signal, passing another vehicle, and the like, the lead vehicle may input the first update request with respect to the route data. The updated route data providing unit 130 retrieves the current location of each of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle using a well-known GPS function in response to the first update request, generates route data from the retrieved current location to the destination, and transmits, to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, updated route data. The updated route data is generated by correcting the previously provided route data using the generated route data from a point corresponding to the retrieved current location. Accordingly, the route data provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle may be changed.

Accordingly, when the route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle changes, the updated route data, generated according to the first update request, is provided to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Thus, the trailing vehicle may drive based on the transmitted route data and arrive at the destination without checking location information of the lead vehicle.

In operation S 1055, the route data providing system determines whether the destination is changed. When the destination is changed, the route data providing system generates a second update request with respect to the previously transmitted route data in operation S 1060. Also, the route data providing system provides the updated route data based on the destination to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in operation S 1065.

In operation S 1070, the route data providing system determines whether the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond an allowable range.

When the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond the allowable range, in operation S 1075, the route data providing system generates a third update request with respect to the previously transmitted route data. In operation S 1080, the route data providing system retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. In operation S 1085, the route data providing system generates updated route data based on the retrieved current location and set destination, and provides the updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

In operation S 1090, the route data providing system determines whether the lead vehicle arrives at the destination. When the lead vehicle does not arrive at the destination, the route data providing system returns to operation S 1040. The above-described embodiment of the present invention may be recorded in computer-readable media including program instructions to implement various operations embodied by a computer. The media may also include, alone or in combination with the program instructions, data files, data structures, and the like. The media and program instructions may be those specially designed and constructed for the purposes of the present invention, or they may be of the kind well-known and available to those having skill in the computer software arts. Examples of computer-readable media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tape; optical media such as CD ROM disks and DVD; magneto-optical media such as floptical disks; and hardware devices that are specially configured to store and perform program instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, and the like. Examples of program instructions include both machine code, such as produced by a compiler, and files containing higher level code that may be executed by the computer using an interpreter. The described hardware devices may be configured to act as one or more software modules in order to perform the operations of the above-described embodiments of the present invention.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system, when a request for an update of previously provided route data is generated from a lead vehicle, provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, and thereby may batch change route data of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system provides route data that may be recognized more easily to enable a lead vehicle and trailing vehicle to drive together and arrive at a destination without constantly checking location information of the lead vehicle. Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system, when a destination is changed while vehicles are driving to a predetermined destination, provides updated route data to the vehicles. Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system, when a lead vehicle deviates from a previously provided route data beyond an allowable range, automatically provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle. Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system displays a current location coordinate of each vehicle on an entire route from a start point to a destination, and thereby may enable a location of each vehicle to be ascertained more easily.

Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a route data providing method and system enables vehicles driving to a same destination to drive safely.

Although a few embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments. Instead, it would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A route data providing method, comprising: providing a lead vehicle with route data generated according to a request from the lead vehicle; receiving a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle; providing the route data to a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; and providing, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, the updated route data being generated in response to the first update request.

2. A route data providing method, comprising: providing a lead vehicle with route data generated based on a destination inputted from the lead vehicle; receiving a trailing vehicle list from the lead vehicle; retrieving a start point of a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; generating route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the retrieved start point and inputted destination; providing the generated route data to the trailing vehicle; retrieving, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request; and generating updated route data based on the retrieved current location and inputted destination and providing the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

3. The route data providing method of claim 2, wherein, when the start point of the trailing vehicle and a start point of the lead vehicle are located within in a predetermined range, the generating of the route data comprises: generating the route data using the start point of the lead vehicle instead of the retrieved start point.

4. The route data providing method of any one of either claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: measuring a location coordinate of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, wherein the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle receiving the measured location coordinate map and visualize a corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through a map display unit.

5. The route data providing method of any one of either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the lead vehicle selects the trailing vehicle from a plurality of prepared vehicles through a user interface (UI), and the receiving of the trailing vehicle list comprises: receiving the trailing vehicle list generated in interoperation with the selection on the trailing vehicle in real time.

6. The route data providing method of any one of either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, when the destination is changed, further comprises: generating a second update request for the provided route data; and providing updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the generated second update request, the updated route data being generated based on the changed destination.

7. The route data providing method of any one of either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, when the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond an allowable range, further comprises: generating a third update request for the provided route data; retrieving a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the third update request; and generating updated route data based on the retrieved current location and providing the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

8. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for implementing the method according to any one of claims 1 through 3.

9. A route data providing system, comprising: a trailing vehicle list receiving unit receiving a trailing vehicle list from a lead vehicle; a route data providing unit providing the lead vehicle with route data generated according to a request from the lead vehicle, and providing the route data to a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list; and a updated route data providing unit providing, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, the updated route data being generated in response to the first update request.

10. A route data providing system, comprising: a trailing vehicle list receiving unit receiving a trailing vehicle list from a lead vehicle; a route data providing unit providing a lead vehicle with route data generated based on a destination inputted from the lead vehicle, retrieving a start point of a trailing vehicle of the received trailing vehicle list, generating route data with respect to the trailing vehicle based on the retrieved start point and inputted destination, and providing the generated route data to the trailing vehicle; and a updated route data providing unit retrieving, when a first update request for the provided route data is inputted from the lead vehicle, a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the first update request, generating updated route data based on the retrieved current location and inputted destination, and providing the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.

11. The route data providing system of claim 10, wherein, when the start point of the trailing vehicle and a start point of the lead vehicle are located within in a predetermined range, the route data providing unit generates the route data using the start point of the lead vehicle instead of the retrieved start point.

12. The route data providing system of any one of either claim 9 or claim 10, further comprising: a location coordinate measurement unit measuring a location coordinate of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle, wherein the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle receiving the measured location coordinate map and visualize a corresponding vehicle of the measured location coordinate on the route data or updated route data through a map display unit.

13. The route data providing system of any one of either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the lead vehicle selects a trailing vehicle from a plurality of prepared vehicles through a UI, and the trailing vehicle list receiving unit receives the trailing vehicle list generated in interoperation with the selection on the trailing vehicle in real time.

14. The route data providing system of any one of either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein, when the destination is changed, the updated route data providing unit generates a second update request for the provided route data, and provides updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the generated second update request, the updated route data being generated based on the changed destination.

15. The route data providing system of any one of either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein, when the lead vehicle deviates from the previously transmitted route data beyond an allowable range, the updated route data providing unit generates a third update request for the provided route data, retrieves a current location of the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle in response to the third update request, generates updated route data based on the retrieved current location, and provides the generated updated route data to the lead vehicle and trailing vehicle.