Patent Publication Number: US-2010114482-A1

Title: Information processing apparatus, information processing method, information processing program, and computer-readablerecording medium

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention is related to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a computer-readable recording medium. However, the application of the invention is not limited to the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the information processing program, and the computer-readable recording medium. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     A conventional car navigation apparatus that navigates a car to a destination retrieves an optimal route to the destination and guides a driver along the retrieved route by means of map display or audio guidance in order for the car to reach the destination. 
     Such a car navigation apparatus needs to have the latest map data in order to conduct a path search correctly. Map data needs to be updated because of new roads and buildings, changes in the names of places caused by a municipal merger, changes of traffic regulations, and so on. 
     One example of proposed method involves an information providing center informing a navigation unit of update data so that the update data can be downloaded or installed immediately when navigation information is updated at the information providing center (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). 
     Another method proposes that when the ratio of a total number of road information items not used for database updating to a total number of road information items used for database updating exceeds a given value, a road information learning system determines that a road map had changed. When it is determined that the road map has changed, the old database is discarded and a new database is created based on new road information (see, for example, Patent Document 2 below). 
     Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application Publication No. 2004-012319 
     Patent Document 2: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application Publication No. 2005-91071 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     Problem to be Solved by the Invention 
     However, according to Patent Document 1, when the update data is added at the information providing center, the information providing center informs a user of the update data to enable the user to download or install the update data, urging the user to update the navigation information. Consequently, the user is urged to update the navigation information even if the changes are minor and the navigation unit works well without the update; hence, the user spends unnecessary time and money for update processing. 
     Further, even if changes are so important that lack of updating is detrimental to the navigation service, the user is informed in the same way as for minor changes. Consequently, when the user handles other operations before the update processing of the navigation information, the user may be annoyed by incorrect navigation. 
     According to Patent Document 2, the database is updated when it is determined that the road map has changed. Consequently, when it is determined that the road map has not changed, even if the changes are important for the user, the database is not updated; hence, the user is forced to refer to the old database. 
     On the other hand, even when it is determined that the road map has changed but the changes are not important for the user, the user spends unnecessary time and money to update the database to reflect the changes. 
     Means for Solving Problem 
     An information processing apparatus according to the invention of claim  1  includes an input unit configured to receive update information on updating of map information; a calculating unit configured to calculate a ratio of information to be updated in the map information based on the update information; a generating unit configured to generate update ratio information indicating the ratio calculated by the calculating unit; an output unit configured to output the update ratio information generated by the generating unit to a device that uses the map information. 
     An information processing method according to the invention of claim  10  includes a receiving step of receiving update information on updating of map information; a calculating step of calculating a ratio of information to be updated in the map information based on the update information receiving at the receiving step; a generating step of generating update ratio information indicating the ratio calculated at the calculating step; an outputting step of outputting the update ratio information generated at the generating step to a device that uses the map information. 
     An information processing program according to the invention of claim  11  causes a computer to perform the information processing method according to claim  10 . 
     A computer-readable recording medium according to the invention of claim  12  stores therein the information processing program according to claim  11 . 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram depicting one example of a functional structure of an information processing apparatus according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a flowchart of processing of the information processing apparatus; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram depicting one example of a hardware structure of a map data server according to Example 1; 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram depicting one example of display data representing an update ratio in the map data server according to Example 1; 
         FIG. 5  is a flowchart depicting processing of the map data server; 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram of one example of display data depicting the update ratio of the map data server according to Example 1; 
         FIG. 7  is a diagram depicting one example of guide data for the updating of map data, according to Example 2; 
         FIG. 8  is a flowchart of processing of the map data server according to Example 2; 
         FIG. 9  is a diagram of another example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 2; 
         FIG. 10  is a diagram of another example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 2; 
         FIG. 11  is a diagram of one example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 3; 
         FIG. 12  is a diagram of one example of guide data, according to Example 3; and 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart of processing of the map data server according to Example 3. 
     
    
    
     EXPLANATIONS OF LETTERS OR NUMERALS 
     
         
         
           
               100  information processing apparatus 
               101  update input unit 
               102  calculating unit 
               103  generating unit 
               104  output unit 
               105  device information input unit 
           
         
       
    
     BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
     With reference to the drawings, preferred embodiments for an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a computer-readable recording medium will be explained. 
     EMBODIMENTS 
     Functional Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , a functional configuration of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment will be explained.  FIG. 1  is a block diagram depicting one example of a functional structure of the information processing apparatus according to one embodiment. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 1 , an information processing apparatus  100  includes an update input unit  101 , a calculating unit  102 , a generating unit  103 , an output unit  104 , and a device information input unit  105 . 
     The update input unit  101  receives update information concerning map information. The update information is, for example, the latest map information for updating the map information or information designating an object to be updated in the map information. 
     The calculating unit  102  calculates a ratio of the update information to the map information based on the update information received by the update input unit  101 . For instance, the ratio is a ratio of an amount of to-be-updated information which is calculated by comparison between not-yet-updated map information stored in a storing unit (not depicted) and the to-be-updated map information. 
     Specifically, the calculating unit  102  may calculate the ratio of the to-be-updated information for each area in the map information. The areas may be separated by boundaries of municipalities or frequencies of movement based on a history of the user&#39;s movements. 
     Further, the calculating unit  102  may calculate the ratio of the to-be-updated information for each type of data in the map information. A type of data is, for example, detailed data indicating a point on a map, data concerning roads, data concerning backgrounds. 
     Furthermore, the calculating unit  102  may calculate the ratio of the to-be-updated information based on a date of update included in device information received by the device information input unit  105  explained later. 
     The generating unit  103  generates update ratio information that indicates the ratio of the to-be-updated information calculated by the calculating unit  102 . Specifically, the generating unit  103  may generate update ratio information that indicates a history of changes of the ratio, based on the ratio of the to-be-updated information calculated for each of the areas in the map information or for each type of data in the map information. 
     Further, the generating unit  103  may generate update ratio information that urges the user to update the map information. Specifically, the generating unit  103  may generate update ratio information that informs the user of the update together with the ratio of the to-be-updated information. 
     The output unit  104  outputs the update ratio information generated by the generating unit  103  to a device that can process the map information. The output unit  104  may output information to a device or output information by audio or graphically. 
     Further, the output unit  104  may output the update ratio information based on device information received by the device information input unit  105  explained later. Specifically, the output unit  104  may output the update ratio information according to the date of updating, information concerning a current location of a device or apparatus, information concerning a destination, or information concerning a route in the device information received by the device information input unit  105 . 
     The device information input unit  105  receives device information including a date of updating of the map information. The device information is, for example, information concerning the current location of the device, information concerning the destination of a mobile object on which the device is equipped, or information concerning a route along which the mobile object having the device moves. 
     (Processing of Information Processing Apparatus) 
     Processing of the information processing apparatus  100  according to an embodiment will be explained.  FIG. 2  is a flowchart of processing of the information processing apparatus. As depicted in  FIG. 2 , the update input unit  101  determines whether the update information concerning the updating of the map information has been received (step S 201 ). 
     At step S 201 , once the update information has been received (step S 201 : YES), the calculating unit  102  calculates the ratio of the to be-updated information over the map information, based on the update information received at step S 201  (step S 202 ). 
     The generating unit  103  generates the update ratio information indicating the ratio calculated at step S 202  (step S 203 ). Specifically, the generating unit  103  may generate information that indicates a history of changes of a ratio, based on a ratio for each area on a map or for each type of data in the map. 
     The output unit  104  outputs the update ratio information generated at step S 203  to a device that can use the map information (step S 204 ) and the entire process ends. 
     Although explanation was omitted with respect to the flowchart depicted in  FIG. 2 , when the device information input unit  105  receives the device information, the output unit  104  may output the update ratio information according to the device information at step S 204 . 
     It has been explained above that functions of the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the information processing program and the computer-readable recording medium are implemented by the information processing apparatus  100  depicted in  FIG. 1 . However, not only the information processing apparatus  100  but multiple apparatuses including the units depicted in  FIG. 1  may implement the functions. When multiple apparatuses are used, the apparatuses may be connected through a wire or wirelessly, or may be connected with a Bluetooth (registered trade mark) technique. 
     As explained above, according to the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the information processing program and the computer-readable recording medium, appropriate update ratio information for the map information is output enabling optimal update of the map information. 
     Example 1 
     Example 1 of the embodiments will be explained. In Example 1, the information processing apparatus is implemented by a map data server that sends the map information to a navigation apparatus equipped on a mobile object such as a vehicle (including four-wheel vehicles, two-wheel vehicles). 
     (Hardware Structure of Map Data Server) 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , a hardware configuration of the map data server according to Example 1 is explained.  FIG. 3  is a block diagram depicting one example of a hardware structure of the map data server according to Example 1. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 3 , a map data server  300  includes a CPU  301 , a ROM  302 , a RAM  303 , a magnetic disk driver  304 , a magnetic disk  305 , an optical disc drive  306 , an optical disc  307 , an audio I/F (interface)  308 , a speaker  309 , an input device  310 , a video I/F  311 , a display  312 , and a communication I/F  313 . The constituent units  301 - 313  are connected through a bus  320 . 
     The CPU  301  governs overall control of the map data server  300 . The ROM  302  stores therein various programs such as a boot program, an update program, an update ratio calculating program, and a data generating program. The RAM  303  is also used as a working area of the CPU  301 . 
     The update program may cause the map data server to update map data stored in the magnetic disk  305  or the optical disc  307  which is described later, based on update map data that is input through the input device  310  or the communication I/F  313 . Specifically, the update program updates old map data with data concerning, for example, new roads, revised traffic regulations, or new buildings. 
     The update ratio calculating program causes the information processing apparatus, for example, to calculate the ratio of map data to be updated by the update program. Detailed processing will be explained with reference to  FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 8 , and  FIG. 13 . The update ratio calculating program causes the information processing apparatus to calculate the ratio of the map data that is updated from old map data. 
     When a version of the map data, data concerning a current location of a vehicle, or data concerning a route of the vehicle is obtained from a navigation apparatus equipped on the mobile object such as a vehicle via the communication I/F  313 , the update ratio calculating program may cause the information processing apparatus to calculate the ratio of update based on the data concerning the current location or route. 
     For example, the update ratio may be calculated when it is determined, based on the version of the present map data and the data concerning the current location, that map data around the current location stored in the magnetic disk  305  or the optical disc  307  is a new version in comparison with the present map data. 
     More specifically, the update ratio may be calculated according to equation 1 below where R(%) is the update ratio, A is a total number of links included in a given area of the new map data (a new version of map data), and B is the number of links having IDs (Identifier) that also appear in the old version of map data when each of links (roads) in map data is given an ID: 
         R =100×( A−B )/ A   (1) 
     In a similar manner as equation 1, a POI (Point Of Interest) in map data may be used instead of the ID of a link. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 3 , the update ratio calculating program causes the information processing apparatus to calculate the ratio of the map data updated by the update program. However, the ratio may be calculated based on an amount of or a type of data to be updated as long as the amount of or the type of data to be updated is input through the input device  310  or the communication I/F  313  even if the updating is not caused by the update program. 
     The data generating program causes the information processing apparatus, for example, to generate various kinds of data using the update ratio calculated by the update ratio calculating program. Detailed processing will be described later with reference to  FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 8 , and  FIG. 13 . The various kinds of data are, for example, display data that can be displayed by the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. The various kinds of data are data that are output by the navigation apparatus and inform the user of the necessity of updating together with the update ratio. 
     The magnetic disk drive  304  controls the reading and writing of data with respect to the magnetic disk  305  under the control of the CPU  301 . The magnetic disk  305  stores thereon the data written under the control of the magnetic disk drive  304 . The magnetic disk  305  may be an HD (hard disk) or a FD (flexible disc). 
     One example of information stored in the magnetic disk  305  is map data. The map data includes background data representing features such as buildings, rivers, and ground surfaces, and road configuration data representing the configuration of roads. The map data is drawn on the display  312  two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally. 
     In Example 1, the map data is stored in the magnetic disk  305  but the map data may be stored in the optical disc  307 . A storage area for the map data is not limited to those disposed integrally with the hardware of the map data server  300 . A storage area for the map data may be set external of the map data server  300 , where the map data server  300  obtains the map data, for example, through the communication I/F  313  via a network. The obtained map data is stored, for example, in the RAM  303 . 
     The optical disc  306  controls the reading and writing of the data with respect to the optical disc  307  under the control of the CPU  301 . The optical disc  307  is a removal recording medium from which data is read under the control of the optical disc drive  306 . The optical disc  307  may be a writable recording medium. The removal recording medium may be a medium other than the optical disc  307 , such as an MO and a memory card. 
     The audio I/F  308  is connected to the speaker  309  for audio output and the speaker  309  outputs sounds. 
     The input device  310  includes a remote controller, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc. that are equipped with keys for entering characters, numeric values and various instructions. 
     The video I/F  311  is connected to the display  312 . The video I/F  311  is made up of, for example, a graphic controller that controls the display  312 , a buffer memory such as VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores immediately displayable image information, and a control IC that controls the display  312  based on image data output from the graphic controller. 
     The display  312  displays icons, cursors, menus, windows, or various data such as text and images. A CRT, a TFT liquid crystal display, a plasma display, etc. may be employed as the display  312 . 
     The communication I/F  313  wirelessly communicates with a network and serves as an interface between the map information server  300  and the CPU  301 . Further, the communication I/F  313  communicates with a system of networks such as the Internet and also servers as an interface between the system of networks and the CPU  301 . 
     The system of networks includes a LAN, a WAN, a public line network, a mobile telephone network and so on. Specifically, the communication I/F  313  is made up of, for example, a tuner that can receive terrestrial digital broadcasting program, analog TV broadcasting program, or FM radio program. 
     In Example 1, the map data server  300  transmits and receives various data to/from the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. However, the map data server  300  may communicate with a mobile phone or PC (personal computer) of the user. Further, in Example 1, the map data is taken as an example but any data that can be upgraded may be used instead of the map data. For instance, an application distributing server instead of the map data server  300  may distribute an application that can be run by the PC; whereby calculation of an update ratio or output of update ratio information for a version upgrade of the application is performed. 
     The update information input unit  101 , the calculating unit  102 , the generating unit  103 , the output unit  104 , and the device information input unit  105  of the information processing unit  100  depicted in  FIG. 1  may be implemented by the CPU  301  executing a given program using programs and data stored in the ROM  302 , the RAM  303 , the magnetic disk  305 , or the optical disc  307  of the map data server  300  depicted in  FIG. 3  and by the CPU  301  controlling each unit of the map data server  300 . 
     In other words, the map data server  300  according to Example 1 executes various programs stored in the ROM  302  and performs the functions of the information processing apparatus  100  depicted in  FIG. 1  according to the procedure depicted in  FIG. 2 . 
     (Overview of Data Representing Update Ratio) 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , an outline of the data representing an update ratio in the map data server  300  according to Example 1 will be explained.  FIG. 4  is a diagram depicting one example of display data representing an update ratio in the map data server according to Example 1. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 4 , display data  400  is data that can be displayed by the display  312  and is assumed to be in a displayed state. The display data  400  is made up of an area  401  in which an update ratio is at least 0% but less than 10%, an area  402  in which an update ratio is at least 10% but less than 20%, an area  403  in which an update ratio is at least 20% but less than 30%, and an area  404  in which an update ratio is at least 30%. 
     Each update ratio in the display data  400  has been updated between from years 2006 to 2007. The user compares the display data  400  with an area mainly used by the user and determines whether the updating of the map data is useful for the user. 
     In particular, when the display data  400  is output to the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle and the user confirms the display data  400 , map data used for the navigation apparatus can be properly updated. The updating of map data may be done by the user operating the navigation apparatus to send an update request to the map data server  300  (this case is not depicted in the drawings). 
     (Process at Map Data Server  300 ) 
     With reference to  FIG. 5 , processing of the map data server  300  according to Example 1 will be explained.  FIG. 5  is a flowchart depicting processing of the map data server. As depicted in the flowchart of  FIG. 5 , it is determined whether new map data has been obtained from a server distributing new map data (not depicted) via the communication I/F  313  (step S 501 ). The new map data may be data that causes the map data server  300  to update map data. The new map data may be received by the input device  310  instead of being obtained via the communication I/F  313 . 
     At step S 501 , waiting occurs until the new map data is obtained. When the new map data is obtained (step S 510 : YES), the CPU  301  calculates an update ratio for each area in the map data (step S 502 ). The update ratio is calculated, for example, based on the map data stored on the magnetic disk  305  and the optical disc  307  and based on the new map data obtained at step S 501 . 
     The CPU  301  generates display data representing the update ratio based on the update ratio calculated at step S 502  (step S 503 ). The display data may be the display data  400  depicted in  FIG. 4  and be displayed on the display  312 . 
     The display data is output to the display  312  via the video I/F  311  (step S 504 ), and the processing ends. 
     In the flowchart of  FIG. 5 , the display  312  displays the display data. However, the display data may be output to the navigation apparatus via the communication I/F  313 . In this way, the user of the navigation apparatus can confirm the display data and determine whether the updating of the map data of the navigation apparatus is needed. 
     (Another Example of Display Data) 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , another example of display data depicting the update ratio of the map data server  300  is explained.  FIG. 6  is a diagram of one example of display data depicting the update ratio of the map data server according to Example 1. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 6 , display data  600  is data that may be displayed on a display of a navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. In  FIG. 6 , the display data  600  is in a displayed state. The display data  600  is a graph illustrating changes of an update ratio from fiscal years 2003 to 2007 for a Kinki region  601 , a Chubu region  602 , a Kanto region  603 , a Tohoku region  604 , and a Hokkaido region  605 . 
     A version year  610  is illustrated in  FIG. 6 . Data concerning a version of the map data used in the navigation apparatus is obtained from the user of the navigation apparatus. The display data  600  presents the version year  610  and the update ratio in such a manner that the user can easily recognize how old current map data is and which region should be updated; whereby the user is motivated to perform an updating process. 
     In the explanation of  FIG. 6 , the display data  600  is generated in which the update ratio in fiscal year 2003 has been set to 0 (zero). However, the update ratio at a version year  610  or the update ratio before fiscal year 2003 may be set to 0 (zero). 
     As explained above, according to the map data server of Example 1, the display data illustrating the update ratio of the map data is generated and output; whereby the user can properly judge the necessity of updating of the map data. 
     In addition, the display data enables easy recognition of the update ratio for each area and easy recognition of changes of the update ratio. Consequently, the user can correctly judge the necessity of updating; thereby optimizing the update of map data. 
     Example 2 
     Example 2 of the present embodiments will be explained. In Example 2, the map data server  300  creates and outputs guide data for the updating of map data based on a current location of a navigation apparatus of a user instead of the display data  400 ,  600 . Functional configuration of the map data server  300  according to Example 2 is identical to the configuration depicted in  FIG. 3  and thus, the explanation thereof is omitted. 
     (Overview of Guide Data for Updating) 
     With reference to  FIG. 7 , an overview of the guide data generated by the map data server  300  according to Example 2 will be explained.  FIG. 7  is a diagram depicting one example of guide data for the updating of map data, according to Example 2. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 7 , guide data  700  may be displayed on the display of the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. In  FIG. 7 , the guide data  700  is in a displayed state. The guide data  700  includes a current location  701  of the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped, and update ratio information  710  indicating the update ratio in an area including the current location  701 . 
     Specifically, the guide data  700  is generated by the map data server  300  receiving a version of the map data used in the navigation apparatus and a current location from the navigation apparatus. The guide data  700  is output to the navigation apparatus. 
     More specifically, the guide data  700  may be generated when the map data at the current location indicates an area where the update ratio is high. 
     The update ratio information  710  may give an update ratio that has been calculated for each data type such as data concerning roads or data concerning backgrounds, or the update ratio information  710  may give an update ratio for all data collectively such as data concerning roads and data concerning backgrounds. When the map is divided in a grid pattern, the update ratio of the update ratio information  710  may be calculated for each unit of the grid to facilitate processing. 
     The user of the navigation apparatus confirms the guide data  700  and judges whether it is appropriate for the user to update the current map data; whereby optimal updating is conducted. A person using the map data server  300  may confirm the guide data for each navigation apparatus on the display  312  and urge the updating instead of the judgment by the user of the navigation apparatus. 
     (Processing of Map Data Server  300 ) 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , processing of the map data server  300  according to Example 2 will be explained.  FIG. 8  is a flowchart of processing of the map data server according to Example 2. As depicted in the flowchart of  FIG. 8 , it is determined whether the current location data and the version of the current map data have been obtained via the communication I/F  313  (step S 801 ). 
     The current location data and the version of the current map data may be transmitted when the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped begins to move or when the vehicle enters a given area. The current location data and the version of the map data may be received from a navigation apparatus responding to a request which has been distributed by the map data server  300 . 
     At step S 801 , waiting occurs until the current location data and the version of the map data are obtained. When the current location data and the version of the map data are obtained (step S 801 : YES), the CPU  301  determines whether link data of the current location has changed (step S 802 ). Specifically, the CPU  301  refers to the version of the map data obtained at step S 801  and determines whether the link data of the current location in the latest map data has changed. 
     The link data is, for example, data representing multiple nodes and roads connecting the nodes in the road configuration data. A node denotes an intersection such as a junction of three roads such as a T-shaped intersection, a crossroad, a junction of five roads and so on where multiple roads meet. A road is expressed by a link. Some links includes a shape interpolation point, with which a curved road can be expressed. 
     At step S 802 , if it is determined that the link data has changed (step S 802 : YES), the CPU  301  calculates the update ratio (step S 803 ). Specifically, with reference to the version of the map data obtained at step S 801 , the update ratio of a case where the map data is updated to the latest version is calculated. 
     At step S 802 , if it is determined that the link data has not changed (step S 802 : NO), the CPU  301  determines whether link data connecting to the link of the current location has changed (step S 804 ). 
     At step S 804 , if it is determined that the link data has not changed (step S 804 : NO), the processing ends. In other words, the map data currently used in the navigation apparatus does not need updating. The navigation apparatus may be informed that the updating is not necessary. 
     At step S 804 , if it is determined that the link data has changed (step S 804 : YES), the processing goes to step S 803  and the CPU  301  calculates the update ratio (step S 803 ). 
     The CPU  301  generates guide data for updating using the update ratio calculated at step S 803  (step S 805 ). The guide data is, for example, the guide data  700  depicted in  FIG. 7  which can be displayed on the display  312  or the display of the navigation apparatus. 
     The guide data generated at step S 805  is transmitted to the navigation apparatus via the communication I/F  313  (step S 806 ) and the processing ends. Specifically, the guide data is transmitted to the navigation apparatus which provided the current location data and the version of the map data at step S 801 . 
     In the explanation of the flowchart of  FIG. 8 , the guide data is generated at step S 805  using the calculated update ratio. However, the guide data may be generated only when the update ratio is large. In other words, when the current map data does not need updating, the processing may end without generating the guide data. 
     In this way, when updating is clearly unnecessary, communication with the navigation apparatus may be omitted; whereby communication load can be reduced. Further, a decision that the guide data is not generated can be made only based on comparison of the update ratio with a given threshold, enabling work load on the map data server  300  to be reduced. 
     In the flowchart of  FIG. 8 , the guide data is transmitted at step S 806 . However, it suffices to transmit the update ratio information. In other words, at step S 805 , the update ratio information  710  may be generated based on the update ratio and at step S 806 , the update ratio information  710  may be transmitted. In this way, the data generating process at step S 805  is simplified and the amount of data dealt with at each step is reduced. 
     In the flowchart of  FIG. 8 , the link data is used; however, background data or POI may be used. In this way, versatility of the update ratio increases and the update ratio can be checked from various viewpoints. 
     (Another Example of Guide Data for Updating) 
     With reference to  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10 , another example of guide data for updating of map data generated at the map data server  300  will be explained.  FIG. 9  is a diagram of another example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 2. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 9 , guide data  900  is data that can be displayed on a display of, for example, the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. In the explanation of  FIG. 9 , the guide data is in a displayed state. The guide data  900  includes a current location  901  of a vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped, and update guide information  910  indicating the updating of an area including the current location  901 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 9 , instead of calculating the update ratio, the map data server  300  determines whether administrative boundaries have changed based on the current location data and the version of the map data obtained from the navigation apparatus. When the administrative boundaries have changed, the map data server  300  generates and outputs the guide data  900 , displaying the update guide information  901  for the user of the navigation apparatus to update the map data. 
       FIG. 10  is a diagram of another example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 2. 
     Guide data  1000  is data that may be displayed on a display of the navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. The guide data  1000  is in a displayed state. The guide data  1000  includes a current location  1001  of the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped and update guide information  1010  informing the user of changes of an area including the current location  1001 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 10 , instead of calculating the update ratio, the map data server  300  determines whether a new road has been built, based on the current location data and the version of the map data obtained from the navigation apparatus. If the map data server  300  determines that a new road has been built, the map data server  300  generates and outputs the guide data  1000 , displaying the update guide information  1010  that urges the user of the navigation apparatus to update the map data. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10 , generating the guide data  900 ,  1000  based on changes of administrative boundaries or newly built roads instead of calculating the update ratio can reduce loads of calculating the update ratio. In other words, when updating is clearly necessary, for example, when administrative boundaries have changed or new roads have been built, the guide data  900 ,  1000  is generated and output without calculating the update ratio enabling the need for updating to be efficiently conveyed. 
     According to Example 2, the map data server  300  transmits and receives various data with respect to the navigation apparatus equipped on the vehicle. However, the map data server  300  may communicate with a mobile terminal or a PC (personal computer) of the user. Further, although Example 2 explains the map data, any data that can be updated may be used instead of the map data. For example, an application that can be run on the PC may be distributed instead of map data on the map data server  300 . In this case, calculation of an update ratio or output of update ratio information may be performed for upgrading the application. 
     As explained, according to the navigation apparatus of Example 2, the guide data for updating is generated and output based on the current location of the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped, enabling the user to correctly judge the necessity of updating the map information of the current location. 
     Namely, the necessity of updating the map data is judged in real time and thus optimal map data is used by the navigation apparatus. 
     Further, even without the update ratio, the guide data is generated and output based on changes of administrative boundaries or newly built roads, and thus processing loads at the map data server can be reduced and the processing is sped up. 
     Example 3 
     Example 3 of the present embodiments will be explained. In Example 3, the map data server  300  of Example 1 and Example 2 generates and outputs guide data for updating map data, based on a route up to a destination of a vehicle instead of the current location of the vehicle on which a navigation apparatus is equipped. Functional configuration of a map data server  300  according to Example 3 is identical to the configuration depicted in  FIG. 3  and thus the explanation thereof is omitted. 
     (Overview of Guide Data for Updating) 
     With reference to  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 , an overview of the guide data generated by the map data server  300  according to Example 3 will be explained.  FIG. 11  is a diagram of one example of guide data for updating map data, according to Example 3. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 11 , guide data  1100  is data that may be displayed on a display of the navigation apparatus equipped on the vehicle. In  FIG. 11 , the guide data  1100  is in a displayed state. The guide data  1100  includes a destination  1101  of the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped and update ratio information  1110  indicating an update ratio for an area including the destination  1101 . 
     Specifically, the map data server  300  generates the guide data  1100  based on route data including the destination and a version of the map data used in the navigation apparatus, the route data and the version of the map data being received by the map data server from the navigation apparatus. The guide data  1100  is output to the navigation apparatus. 
     More specifically, the guide data  1100  may be generated when the map data at the destination is within an area in which the update ratio is high. 
       FIG. 12  is a diagram of one example of guide data, according to Example 3. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 12 , guide data  1200  is data that mat be displayed on a display of a navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle. In  FIG. 12 , the guide data  1200  is in a displayed state. The guide data  1200  includes a current location  1201  of the vehicle, a destination  1202  of the vehicle, and update guide information  1210  informing a user of changes of an area including a route from the current location  1201  to the destination  1202 . 
     Specifically, the map data server  300  generates the guide data  1200  based on the route data including the destination and a version of the map data used in the navigation apparatus, the route data and the version of the map data being received by the map data server from the navigation apparatus. The guide data  1200  is output to the navigation apparatus. The route data includes, for example, a shape of route or a road to be crossed. 
     More specifically, the guide data  1200  may be generated when the map data for a passing area that includes the route along which the vehicle will travel and where the update ratio is high. 
     In the explanation of  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 , the map data server  300  obtains the route data from the navigation apparatus. However, instead of the route data, the map data server  300  may obtain data of a start point (current location) and a destination to search for a route and calculate an update ratio of an area including the route. In this way, processing of the navigation apparatus is simplified and the guide data based on the latest version of the map data can be provided. 
     As explained, the user of the navigation apparatus confirms the guide data  1100 ,  1200  depicted in  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12  and judges whether updating the map data is appropriate for the user; thereby the updating is optimized. Instead of judgment by the user of the navigation apparatus, a person using the map data server  300  may confirm the guide data for each navigation apparatus on the display  312  and urge the updating. 
     (Processing of the Map Data Server  300 ) 
     With reference to  FIG. 13 , processing of the map data server  300  according to Example 3 will be explained. In Example 3, the map data server  300  acquires route data from the navigation apparatus.  FIG. 13  is a flowchart of processing of the map data server according to Example 3. According to the flowchart of  FIG. 13 , it is determined whether route data and a version of map data currently used by the navigation apparatus have been obtained from the navigation apparatus (not depicted) via the communication I/F  313  (step S 1301 ). 
     The route data and the version of the map data may be transmitted by the navigation apparatus when the navigation apparatus begins to move or when the navigation apparatus sets a destination. The map data server  300  may distribute a request for data to navigation apparatuses and receive the route data and the version of the map data from a navigation apparatus that responds to the request. 
     At step S 1301 , waiting occurs until the route data and the version of the map data have been obtained. When the route data and the version of the map data have been obtained (step S 1301 : YES), the CPU calculates an update ratio of a passing area (step S 1302 ). The update ratio is a ratio of data to be updated when data of the passing area which the vehicle passes is updated to the latest map data with reference to the route data and the version of the map data obtained at step S 1301 . 
     The CPU  301  generates guide data for updating using the update ratio calculated at step S 1302  (step S 1303 ). The guide data for updating is, for example, the guide data  1100 ,  1200  depicted in  FIG. 11  or  FIG. 12 , and is data that can be displayed by the display  312  or a display of the navigation apparatus. 
     The guide data generated at step S 1303  is transmitted to the navigation apparatus via the communication I/F  313  (step S 1304 ) and the processing ends. Specifically, the guide data is transmitted to the navigation apparatus from which the route data and the version of the map data have been obtained at step S 1301 . 
     According to the flowchart of  FIG. 13 , the guide data is generated at step S 1303  with the update ratio calculated at step S 1302 . However, the guide data may be generated when the update ratio is large, i.e., when the updating of the map data for the navigation apparatus is not necessary, the process may end without generating the guide data. 
     Thus, when the updating is not needed, the communication need not be established with the navigation apparatus, thereby the communication load can be reduced. In addition, the generation of the guide data is determined based on the comparison of the update ratio with a given threshold, thereby the processing load of the map data server  300  can be reduced. 
     In Example 2, although the map data server  300  transmits and receives various data with respect to a navigation apparatus equipped on a vehicle, transmission and reception of various data may be respect to a mobile terminal or PC (person computer). 
     As explained, according to the navigation apparatus according to Example 3, the navigation data is generated and output based on the route data of the vehicle on which the navigation apparatus is equipped. Consequently, the user can properly determine whether update of the map data of the passing area is necessary. 
     In other words, the user can evaluate the need for and prioritize the updating of the map data along the route up to the destination. 
     According to the present invention, adequate update ratio information concerning map information is output and thus the updating is optimized. 
     Further, according to the present invention, the display data for illustrating the update ratio of the map data is generated and output, enabling the user to properly judge the necessity of the updating of the map data. 
     The user can easily recognize the update ratio for each area or the history of changes of the update ratio and correctly judge whether the updating of data is necessary, thereby the updating of the map data is optimized. 
     According to the present invention, the guide data for updating is generated based on the current location of the vehicle having the navigation apparatus and is output; whereby the user can properly judge the necessity of the updating of the map data. 
     The necessity of the updating of the map data is judged in real time and thus, the map data used in the navigation apparatus is optimized. 
     Even without the update ratio, the guide data is generated based on the changes of the administrative boundaries or newly built roads, whereby the processing load of the map data server is reduced and the processing is sped up. 
     Although Examples 1, 2, and 3 explain the communication with the navigation apparatus equipped on the vehicle, communication may be established with a mobile terminal of the user or the PC (personal computer); whereby the versatility of the present invention expands. 
     Although Examples 1, 2, and 3 explain the updating of the map data, any data that can be updated may be used. For instance, a server for distributing applications instead of the map data server may distribute applications that can be run by a PC, and for version upgrade, calculation of an update ratio or output of update ratio information may be performed. 
     Instead of the map data server depicted in Examples 1 to 3, a navigation apparatus may calculate an update ratio or output update ratio information concerning map data of another navigation apparatus. Specifically, when among plural navigation apparatuses, at least one possesses the functions described in Examples 1 to 3, the navigation apparatus may calculate an update ratio or output update ratio information of the map data which another navigation apparatus is using. In this case, if another navigation apparatus uses a new version of map data compared to the navigation apparatus of Examples 1 to 3, the necessity of version upgrade is recognized at the navigation apparatus of Examples 1 to 3. If another navigation apparatus uses an old version of map data, the necessity of version upgrade is recognized at that navigation apparatus. Usually, a navigation apparatus does not have much memory or processing capacity compared to a server. Therefore, part of the map data may be transferred to one navigation apparatus to calculate an update ratio. The map data server may store a latest map and a navigation apparatus may calculate an update ratio or output update ratio information for the map data the navigation apparatus possesses and the map data the map data server possesses. Specifically, for example, the map data server may transmit at least part of the map data to a navigation apparatus, which calculates an update ratio or outputs update ratio information. In this case, the entire area of a map that the map data server stores may be transmitted but transmission of part of the data reduces loads on the navigation apparatus. 
     The present invention may have functions depicted in at least one of Examples 1 to 3. Specifically, for example, when a navigation apparatus is powered on at a vehicle, a user may be urged to update data by functions depicted in Example 1. As the vehicle moves and a current location changes, the user may be urged to update data by functions depicted in Example 2. When a destination is set, the user may be urged by functions depicted in Example 3. In this way, as circumstances concerning the navigation apparatus change, the user may be informed of updating of data; whereby updating of map data is optimized. 
     The information processing method explained in the present embodiments can be implemented by a computer, such as a personal computer and a workstation, executing a program that is prepared in advance. The program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read out from the recording medium by a computer. The program can be distributed through a network such as the Internet.