Patent ID: 12211377

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.FIG.1shows the configuration of an information control system related to the first embodiment.

As shown inFIG.1, an information control system100includes a plurality of signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, . . . ,2_nmounted in a plurality of signals (traffic signals)1_1,1_2, . . . ,1_nand a signal information control server3. The plurality of signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, . . . ,2_nand the signal information control server3are communicably connected to each other through a network NW.

In addition, the plurality of signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, . . . ,2_nand the signal information control server3can communicate with a plurality of mobile communication devices5_1, . . . ,5_m, which is mounted in a plurality of vehicles4_1, . . . ,4_m, through the network NW. In addition, although a communication device with a car navigation function and the like mounted in a vehicle is described as an example of the mobile communication devices5_1, . . . ,5_mherein, the present invention is not limited to this, and each of the mobile communication devices5_1, . . . ,5_mmay be a personal computer or the like of a user in a vehicle.

Next, the configuration of the plurality of signals1_1,1_2, . . . ,1_n, the plurality of signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, . . . ,2_n, and the mobile communication devices5_1, . . . ,5_mwill be described with reference toFIG.2.FIG.2is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration.

Moreover, for convenience of explanation, the following explanation will be given in a state where an example of a signal applicable to the plurality of signals1_1,1_2, . . . ,1_nis set as a signal (traffic signal)1, an example of a signal information control apparatus applicable to the plurality of signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, . . . ,2_nis set as a signal information control apparatus2, and an example of a mobile communication device applicable to the plurality of mobile communication devices5_1, . . . ,5_mis set as a the mobile communication device5.

As shown inFIG.2, the signal information control apparatus2and an imaging apparatus6are fixed to the signal1. The signal1and the signal information control apparatus2are connected to each other through an I/F (interface)71. The signal information control apparatus2and the imaging apparatus6are connected to each other through an I/F72.

This signal1includes a signal display unit11and a control device12. The signal display unit11includes light emitting sections which emit light of green (or blue), red, yellow, and the like and is controlled by the control device12so that the light emitting section of each color emits light at a predetermined timing. The control device12controls the light emitting section of each color of the signal display unit11so that predetermined signal display can be performed. This control device12may control the light emitting section of each color to emit light according to a timing determined in advance, or may control the light emitting section of each color to emit light according to a control signal input from the signal information control apparatus2.

The imaging apparatus6includes an imaging unit61which is a camera capable of capturing a moving image or an image, for example. This imaging unit61captures an image or a video image near an intersection where the signal1is fixed, and outputs the captured image, which is obtained by imaging, to the signal information control apparatus2through the I/F72. In addition, when an object to be analyzed is a vehicle, a high-resolution camera capable of detecting the specific features indicating the license plate number, vehicle type, and the like by image processing is used as the imaging apparatus6. In addition, it is preferable for the imaging apparatus6to have high sensitivity to detect the specific features of an object to be analyzed even in the case of imaging at night and to have high sensitivity to detect the specific features even in the case of a vehicle traveling at the high speed.

The imaging unit61acquires and outputs the captured image data at intervals of 1/60 second, for example.

The signal information control apparatus2includes an image processing unit21, a determination unit22, a signal surrounding information generating unit23, a storage unit24, a control unit25, a communication unit26, a temperature sensor27, a timepiece unit28, and a microphone29. A signal ID (identification) which is a unique identification number is given to the signal information control apparatus2. This signal ID is information for identifying each signal information control apparatus2and is also information matched with the position where the signal information control apparatus2is placed.

In the temperature sensor27, a sensor section which detects the temperature is mounted in the signal1in a state exposed to the outside of the signal1, and the temperature sensor27detects a temperature near the signal1and outputs the temperature information indicating this temperature to the signal surrounding information generating unit23.

The timepiece unit28measures date and time and outputs the information indicating the measured date and time to the signal surrounding information generating unit23.

The microphone29is mounted in the signal1in a state exposed to the outside of the signal1, and the microphone29detects a sound near the signal1and outputs the sound information indicating this sound to the signal surrounding information generating unit23.

The captured image data acquired by the imaging apparatus6is input to the image processing unit21through the I/F72, and the image processing unit21detects an object to be analyzed which is present within an image of the captured image data. For example, the image processing unit21detects an object which moves (moving object), such as a vehicle or a person, as an object to be analyzed.

In addition, the image processing unit21calculates a motion vector of the captured image data which continues in time series, and detects an image region corresponding to the moving object on the basis of the motion vector and also detects the moving speed of the moving object which is an object to be analyzed.

The image processing unit21assigns a unique image ID to each item of the input captured image data and also outputs the captured image data, the image ID, and the information indicating the detected moving speed to the signal surrounding information generating unit23in a state matched with each other. In addition, the information which is output from the image processing unit21and which is obtained by matching the captured image data, the image ID, and the information indicating the moving speed with each other is called image processing result information hereinafter.

The data of an image region corresponding to the object to be analyzed (here, a moving object) is input from the image processing unit21to the determination unit22. The determination unit22determines the information regarding the moving object included in the image region by performing pattern recognition on the data of the image region and outputs the determination result information indicating this determination result.

For example, the determination unit22determines the number of moving objects, type (a vehicle or a person) of a moving object, and the attribute of a moving object on the basis of the data of the image region corresponding to the object to be analyzed (moving object) detected by the image processing unit21and outputs the determination result information indicating the number, types, and attributes of moving objects.

That is, when the type of an object to be analyzed is a vehicle, the determination unit22acquires the attributes of the vehicle, such as the type (a bicycle, a large motorbike, a motor scooter, a sedan type automobile, a minivan type automobile, a light truck, or a heavy truck), a vehicle body color, the license plate number, the number of occupants, driver's sex, driver's age, and the like by pattern recognition, for example. When the type of an object to be analyzed is a person, the determination unit22acquires the attributes of the person, such as, for example, sex, age, height, clothing, moving method (on foot, a bicycle, or a motorbike), belongings (kinds of belongings, such as a baby carriage or a stick), and the like by pattern recognition.

In addition, the determination unit22determines the weather at the time of imaging by analyzing the captured image data input from the image processing unit21. For example, the determination unit22determines the weather at the time of imaging among sunny, cloudy, rain, and snow on the basis of the brightness, color of the sky, and the existence of rain or snow, or the like of captured image data.

The signal surrounding information generating unit23writes the input information in, for example, a table of signal surrounding information shown inFIG.3, a table of vehicle attribution information shown inFIG.4, and a table of person attribution information shown inFIG.5all of which are stored in the storage unit24in advance.

The image processing result information acquired by the image processing unit21and the determination result information acquired by the determination unit22are input to the signal surrounding information generating unit23, and the signal surrounding information generating unit23writes the image processing result information and the determination result information in each corresponding table of the signal surrounding information, the vehicle attribution information, and the person attribution information.

In addition, the signal surrounding information generating unit23writes each item of the captured image data in each corresponding table of the signal surrounding information table, the vehicle attribution information table, and the person attribution information table together with the temperature information indicating the temperature near the signal1detected by the temperature sensor27, the time information indicating a time measured by the timepiece unit28, and the sound information indicating the sound near the signal1acquired by the microphone29, respectively.

Here, the table of signal surrounding information will be described with reference toFIG.3. In addition, an example of the information based on the captured image data acquired at intervals of 5 minutes among the captured image data continuously acquired at intervals of 1/60 second by the imaging apparatus6is shown herein. The present invention is not limited to the above-described configuration, and image processing result information and determination result information based on all items of the captured image data may be made to match the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, and the table of person attribution information. In addition, the information based on the captured image data acquired at certain fixed intervals may be made to match each table, or only the information acquired on the basis of the captured image data acquired when a moving object is detected by the image processing unit21may be made to match each table.

As shown inFIG.3, the table of signal surrounding information is a table in which an image ID, date and time, the number of vehicles, the number of persons, vehicle attribution information, person attribution information, the weather, temperature, a noise level, and a signal lighting color are matched with each other.

The date and time is information indicating the date and time at which the captured image data of a corresponding image ID is acquired by the imaging apparatus6. Moreover, regarding the date and time, date and time at which the captured image data is input from the imaging apparatus6to the signal information control apparatus2through the I/F72may be set as an imaging timing. The date and time is date and time measured by the timepiece unit28.

The number of vehicles is the number of vehicles included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID.

The number of persons is the number of persons included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID.

The vehicle attribution information includes a vehicle ID of each vehicle included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID. This vehicle ID is unique information assigned to each vehicle within an image, and is an identifier for matching each vehicle with its attribution information with reference to the table of vehicle attribution information shown inFIG.4.

The person attribution information includes a person ID of each person included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID. This person ID is unique information assigned to each person within an image, and is an identifier for matching each person with its attribution information with reference to the table of person attribution information shown inFIG.5.

The weather is information indicating the weather determined by the determination unit22. In addition, when the information indicating the weather of an area where the signal1is placed is received from an external server, which is connected thereto through the network NW, by the communication unit26, the weather information may be the information obtained by the communication unit26.

The temperature is information indicating a temperature detected by the temperature sensor27when the captured image data is imaged by the imaging apparatus6.

The noise level is information indicating the sound volume of sound information determined by the signal information control apparatus2on the basis of the sound information acquired by the microphone29.

The signal lighting color indicates a color (green, red, yellow) lit by the signal display unit11of the signal1when the captured image data of the corresponding image ID is imaged. The information indicating the signal lighting color is included in a control signal output from the control unit25to the signal1, is output from the control unit25to the determination unit22, and is input from the determination unit22to the signal surrounding information generating unit23together with determination result information.

Next, the table of vehicle attribution information will be described with reference toFIG.4.

As shown inFIG.4, the table of vehicle attribution information is a table in which a vehicle ID, a license plate number, a vehicle type, a vehicle body color, the number of occupants, driver's sex, driver's age, and traveling speed are matched with each other.

The vehicle ID is information which specifies each vehicle included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID.

The license plate number, the vehicle type, the vehicle body color, the number of occupants, the driver's sex, the driver's age, and the traveling speed are information indicating the attributes of a vehicle indicated by the vehicle ID.

Next, the table of person attribution information will be described with reference toFIG.5.

As shown inFIG.5, the person attribution information table is a table in which a person ID, sex, age, height, clothing, moving method (on foot, a bicycle, or a motorbike), belongings (kinds of belongings, such as a baby carriage or a stick), and the walking speed are matched with each other.

The person ID is information which specifies each person included in the captured image data of the corresponding image ID.

The age, sex, height, clothing, moving method, belongings, and walking speed are information indicating the attributes of a person indicated by the person ID.

Referring back toFIG.2, the storage unit24stores a table of signal surrounding information, a table of vehicle attribution information, a table of person attribution information, and the captured image data matched therewith. In addition, the storage unit24stores a signal ID assigned in advance to each signal information control apparatus2.

The control unit25generates a control signal for controlling the lighting timing of a light emitting section of each color of the signal display unit11so that predetermined signal display of the signal1is performed, and outputs the control signal to the signal1through the I/F71.

The communication unit26is communicably connected to the signal information control server3through the network NW. The communication unit26transmits the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data, which are stored in the storage unit24, to the signal information control server3periodically or in response to the request from the signal information control server3. The communication unit26transmits the transmission information so as to match the signal ID.

A power supply unit73supplies stored electric power to the signal1, the signal information control apparatus2, and the imaging apparatus6.

The signal information control server3includes a communication unit31, a data analyzing unit32, an output unit33, and a storage unit34.

The communication unit31is communicably connected to the signal information control apparatus2through the network NW. The communication unit31outputs to the data analyzing unit32the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data received from the signal information control apparatus2.

The data analyzing unit32stores the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data, which have been received from the signal information control apparatus2through the communication unit31, in the storage unit34. The data analyzing unit32performs various kinds of data analyses, which will be described later, on the basis of the information stored in the storage unit34and generates the analysis result information, which is based on the attributes of the object to be analyzed, on the basis of the determination result information and the like.

For example, the output unit33is a display device, such as a liquid crystal display, or a data communication unit that transmits the information, image data, or the like to an external device or the mobile communication device5and outputs the analysis result information generated by the data analyzing unit32. For example, when the analysis result information corresponding to a certain vehicle is generated by the data analyzing unit32, the output unit33transmits the analysis result information to the vehicle. In addition, the output unit33transmits the captured image data corresponding to the certain vehicle to this vehicle on the basis of the analysis result information.

The storage unit34stores the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data received from the signal information control apparatus2. This storage unit34includes a table in which each signal ID and the position, at which the signal1indicated by the signal ID is placed, are matched with each other.

The mobile communication device5includes a communication unit51, a control unit52, and an output unit53.

The communication unit51is communicably connected to the signal information control apparatus2and the signal information control server3through the network NW. The communication unit51outputs to the control unit52the captured image data received from the signal information control apparatus2or the analysis result information received from the signal information control server3.

The control unit52performs control to output the captured image data and the analysis result information, which have been received through the communication unit51, to the output unit53.

The output unit53is a data output unit that outputs the data to a display device or an external display device, for example, and is controlled by the control unit52and outputs the captured image data and the analysis result information.

Next, processing of the signal information control apparatus2will be described with reference toFIG.6.FIG.6is a flow chart for explaining an example of the processing flow of the signal information control apparatus2.

As shown inFIG.6, the imaging unit61of the imaging apparatus6images an image near the intersection. Then, the captured image data of the captured image is input to the image processing unit21of the signal information control apparatus2through the I/F72(step ST1). The image processing unit21assigns a unique image ID to the input captured image data. For example, the following explanation will be given using the case where the image processing unit21assigns an image ID “0002” to the input captured image data as an example.

The image processing unit21calculates a motion vector of the captured image data (image ID “0002”) and the captured image data (for example, an image with an image ID “0001”) acquired in the past which continues in time series. The image processing unit21detects an image region corresponding to the moving object on the basis of the calculated motion vector and also calculates the moving speed of the moving object. For example, the image processing unit21detects20image regions corresponding to the moving object and calculates the moving speed of each image region.

That is, the image processing unit21acquires the image processing result information including the captured image data, the image ID “0002”, data indicating the image region corresponding to the moving object (for example, information which specifies corresponding pixels and the pixel value), and information indicating the moving speed of each image region (step ST2).

Then, the image processing unit21matches the captured image data, the image ID “0002”, and the data indicating the image region corresponding to the moving object with each other and outputs them to the determination unit22. In addition, the image processing unit21matches the captured image data, the image ID “0002”, and the information indicating the moving speed of each image region with each other and outputs them to the signal surrounding information generating unit23.

Then, the determination unit22determines the information regarding the moving object included in the image region by performing pattern recognition on the data of the image region corresponding to the moving object input from the image processing unit21and outputs the determination result information indicating the determination result (step ST3).

For example, the determination unit22determines that the data of each of the plurality of image regions corresponding to the moving object is data of an image region indicating the data of an image region, which indicates15vehicles, and five persons by performing pattern recognition for determining the type and the number of moving objects.

In addition, the determination unit22determines the attributes indicated by the data of the plurality of image regions corresponding to the vehicle, such as the vehicle type of the vehicle, a vehicle body color, the license plate number, the number of occupants, driver's sex, and driver's age, by performing pattern recognition for determining these attributes of the moving object (vehicle) determined in advance. In addition, the determination unit22determines the attributes indicated by the data of the plurality of image regions corresponding to a person, such as the age of the person, by performing pattern recognition for determining these attributes of the moving object (person) determined in advance. In addition, the determination unit22determines the weather at the time of imaging by analyzing the captured data input from the image processing unit21.

Then, the signal surrounding information generating unit23generates the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, and the table of person attribution information on the basis of the image processing result information acquired by the image processing unit21, the determination result information acquired by the determination unit22, the temperature information indicating the temperature near the signal1detected by the temperature sensor27, the time information indicating a time measured by the timepiece unit28, and the sound information indicating the sound near the signal1acquired by the microphone29. That is, the signal surrounding information generating unit23stores the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, and the table of person attribution information in the storage unit24so as to match the input information (step ST4).

Then, the communication unit26gives a signal ID to the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data, which are stored in the storage unit24, and transmits them to the signal information control server3(step ST5).

Then, the communication unit26determines whether or not the analysis result information, which is a result of data analysis of the signal information control server3, has been received (step ST6). When the analysis result information has been received (step ST6—YES), the communication unit26transmits the analysis result information to the mobile communication device5by radio communication (step ST7).

Then, when the new captured image data is input from the imaging apparatus6(step ST8—YES), the signal information control apparatus2returns to step ST2again to repeat processing.

Next, processing of the signal information control server3will be described with reference toFIG.7.FIG.7is a flow chart for explaining an example of the processing flow of the signal information control server3.

As shown inFIG.7, the communication unit31of the signal information control server3transmits a signal which requests transmission of the acquired information, for example, to the signal information control apparatus2and receives the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data received from the signal information control apparatus2(step ST21). The communication unit31outputs the received information to the data analyzing unit32.

The data analyzing unit32stores the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data, which have been received from the signal information control apparatus2through the communication unit31, in the storage unit34and performs desired data analysis, which will be described later, on the basis of the information stored in the storage unit34(step ST22).

When transmitting the analysis result information acquired by data analysis to the mobile communication device5(step ST23—YES), the data analyzing unit32transmits the analysis result information to the signal information control apparatus2, which is indicated by the signal ID and from which the data has been transmitted in step ST21, through the communication unit31(step ST24).

In addition, when transmitting the analysis result information acquired by data analysis to the output unit33(step ST25—YES), the data analyzing unit32displays an image indicating the analysis result on a display screen of the output unit33, for example (step ST26). In addition, as described above, the output unit33may transmit the analysis result information to the corresponding mobile communication device5according to the analysis result information, or may transmit the captured image data to the corresponding mobile communication device5. In this case, the output unit33may transmit the analysis result information or the captured image data to the corresponding mobile communication device5directly through the network NW, or may transmit the analysis result information or the captured image data to the corresponding mobile communication device5indirectly through the signal information control apparatus2.

Here, when data analysis is not ended, the process returns to step ST22to repeat processing (step ST27—NO).

Next, processing of the mobile communication device5will be described with reference toFIG.8.FIG.8is a flow chart for explaining an example of the processing flow of the mobile communication device5.

The communication unit51of the mobile communication device5performs radio communication with the communication unit26of the signal information control apparatus2. When the transmission information is received in the area of communication with the signal information control apparatus2(step ST41—YES), the communication unit51of the mobile communication device5outputs the information to the control unit52.

For example, when the communication unit51receives from the signal information control apparatus2the analysis result information which is transmitted from the signal information control server3to the signal information control apparatus2, the control unit52displays an image indicating the analysis result on a display screen of the output unit53, for example (step ST42).

Moreover, as described above, the mobile communication device5may receive the information or data, which is directly transmitted from the output unit33of the signal information control server3, without being limited to the above method.

Here, data analysis by the data analyzing unit32of the signal information control server3will be described. The data analyzing unit32can execute at least one of the data analyses described below.

<Data Analysis for Monitoring the Driving Conditions of a Traveling Vehicle>

The data analyzing unit32of the signal information control server3determines a dangerous area where a traffic accident tends to occur by data analysis, for example.

For example, the data analyzing unit32calculates the incidence rate of sudden braking by a vehicle, which is an object to be analyzed, on the basis of the determination result information by statistical processing and acquires it as analysis result information. In addition, the data analyzing unit32calculates the incidence rate of sudden braking on the basis of the position corresponding to the signal ID by statistical processing for each area and acquires it as analysis result information.

Specifically, the data analyzing unit32counts the number of vehicles, on which the sudden braking are hit, by the change in the traveling speed of each vehicle on the basis of the traveling speed of the table of vehicle attribution information. The data analyzing unit32performs statistical processing of the rate of vehicles, on which the sudden braking are hit, for each intersection.

The analysis result information indicating the rate of vehicles on which the sudden braking are hit for each area, which has been acquired as described above, is useful information in that it is predicted that there is a possibility of a traffic accident at the intersection with a high rate of vehicles on which the sudden braking are hit and warning display or the like indicating the danger at the intersection can be performed.

In addition, the signal information control server3may make the signal information control apparatus2, which is mounted in the signal1at the intersection with a high rate of vehicles on which the sudden braking are hit, transmit the information for displaying a warning message to the mobile communication device5of a vehicle, which is passing through the intersection, on the basis of the analysis result of the data analyzing unit32.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may detect the traveling speed of the vehicle on the basis of the information of tables of vehicle attribution information transmitted from the signal information control apparatus2of the plurality of adjacent signals1and may specify a vehicle on which the sudden braking is hit.

For example, the data analyzing unit32determines a vehicle indicating the same license plate number, vehicle type, vehicle body color, and the like to be the same vehicle on the basis of the information of tables of vehicle attribution information received from the signal information control apparatus2_1,2_2, and2_3mounted in the signals1_1,1_2, and1_3which are disposed continuously in the traveling direction of the lane. The data analyzing unit32can determine whether or not the vehicle decelerates rapidly by comparing the traveling speed when the vehicle travels between the signals1_1and1_2, the traveling speed when the vehicle travels between the signals1_2and1_3, and the traveling speed immediately before the signal1_3, and the like.

In addition, without being limited to the vehicles on which the sudden braking are hit, the data analyzing unit32may detect a vehicle traveling in a state deviating from the middle lane, a vehicle traveling while passing other vehicles, a bicycle or a person crossing the roadway, and the like by analyzing the captured image data and the detection rate thereof statistically. Such information is useful information in that a location, at which dangerous driving and the like occur, can be discovered.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may determine a possibility of collision by calculating the traveling speeds of vehicles entering the intersection from the opposite directions. For example, the data analyzing unit32detects at least two vehicles, each of which is the object to be analyzed and enter the intersection from different directions, on the basis of the determination result information, calculates a possibility of collision of the vehicles at the intersection on the basis of the moving speeds of the vehicles, and acquire it as analysis result information.

Specifically, it is assumed that signal information control apparatus2_11,2_12, and2_13, which are mounted in signal1_11,1_12, and1_13disposed continuously in the traveling direction of a first lane, and signal information control apparatus2_14,2_15, and2_16, which are mounted in signal1_14,1_15, and1_16disposed continuously in a second lane crossing the first lane at the intersection U. In this case, the signals1_13and1_16are set at the same intersection U and control the flow of traffic in the first and second lanes, respectively.

The data analyzing unit32determines a vehicle indicating the same license plate number, vehicle type, vehicle body color, and the like to be the same vehicle on the basis of the information of the table of vehicle attribution information and detects a vehicle A entering the intersection U from the first lane and a vehicle B entering the intersection U from the second lane. The data analyzing unit32calculates the traveling speeds of the vehicles A and B and determines whether or not the timing at which the vehicles A and B enter the intersection U is the same when the vehicles A and B enter the intersection U at the traveling speeds. When the entrance timing is the same, the data analyzing unit32determines that the possibility of collision is high and transmits the analysis result information, which indicates transmission of a message prompting slowing down because of the risk of collision, to the signal information control apparatus2of the signal1in the lane in which the vehicles A and B are traveling. The signal information control apparatus2which receives this analysis result information transmits a message, which prompts slowing down because of the risk of collision, to the vehicle A or B traveling in the communications area.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may calculate the existence of traffic congestion and the length of traffic congestion on the basis of the number of vehicles and the traveling speed of the table of signal surrounding information.

For example, the data analyzing unit32generates the information regarding road congestion caused by vehicles on the basis of the determination result information and acquires it as analysis result information.

When a plurality of vehicles whose traveling speeds are equal to or lower than a fixed speed are detected, the data analyzing unit32calculates the length of these vehicles in the traveling direction of the lane. In addition, the data analyzing unit32reads the road information stored in the storage unit34in advance, specifies the road where the traffic congestion is occurring, and generates the congestion information indicating the road where traffic congestion is occurring. The data analyzing unit32transmits the congestion information to the mobile communication device5through the network NW.

The mobile communication device5is a device with a car navigation function, for example. The mobile communication device5receives the congestion information and outputs the information indicating that traffic congestion is occurring on the basis of this congestion information. In addition, the mobile communication device5notifies a user of a path change when it is determined that traffic congestion is occurring at the current position at the time of traveling or in a path to the destination on the basis of the congestion information. The table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, and the table of person attribution information are useful information in that the traffic congestion can be reduced when the user changes a path according to the above.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may detect an illegally parked vehicle on the basis of the traveling speed and the vehicle attribution information of the table of signal surrounding information.

For example, the data analyzing unit32acquires the information regarding a vehicle in violation of traffic rules, among vehicles which are objects to be analyzed, as analysis result information on the basis of the determination result information.

In the determination result of the determination unit22, the data analyzing unit32detects a parked vehicle on the basis of the traveling speed in a plurality of items of the captured image data. When it is determined that the parked vehicle is a vehicle which has been parked exceeding a period of time in a no parking area, the data analyzing unit32reads the information including the license plate number, the vehicle type, and the like, which indicates the attributes included in the vehicle attribution information, from the table of vehicle attribution information and acquires it as traffic violation information.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32can acquire useful information by data analysis in order to crack down on traffic violations, such as speeding, signal violation, and other driving violations, as well as parking violations.

For example, when it is determined that a specific vehicle is traveling in a speed equal to or higher than the regulation speed on the basis of the information transmitted from the plurality of signal information control apparatus2, the data analyzing unit32reads the information specifying the vehicle from the table of vehicle attribution information and acquires it as traffic violation information by speeding.

In addition, when it is determined that a vehicle passing through the intersection is passing therethrough in a red state on the basis of a signal lighting color of the table of signal surrounding information transmitted from the signal information control apparatus2, the data analyzing unit32reads the information specifying the vehicle from the table of vehicle attribution information and acquires it as traffic violation information by ignoring the signal.

In addition, when the data analyzing unit32observes the traveling path and the traveling speed of each vehicle and detects a vehicle turning right at the intersection where right turn is prohibited or a vehicle entering the intersection without a halt on the basis of the information transmitted from the plurality of signal information control apparatus2, the data analyzing unit32reads the information specifying the vehicle from the table of vehicle attribution information and acquires it as traffic violation information.

In addition, driving of each vehicle may be controlled on the basis of the analysis result information acquired by the data analyzing unit32as described above. In this case, the mobile communication device5is connected to a driving unit of the vehicle and controls a traveling direction, a traveling speed, and the like of the vehicle according to the analysis result information received from the signal information control server3. For example, when it is determined that the possibility of collision is high by the analysis result information of the data analyzing unit32, the mobile communication device5of the corresponding vehicle controls the driving unit of the vehicle to reduce the speed.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may transmit the captured image data to the mobile communication device5together with the analysis result information. Then, the mobile communication device5mounted in the vehicle can receive, for example, the congestion information and the captured image data, which is an image of the road under traffic congestion, from the signal information control server3.

In addition, even if there is no traffic congestion, the data analyzing unit32receives the information indicating the traveling path of the vehicle froth the mobile communication device5and acquires the captured image data transmitted from the signal information control apparatus2of the signal1, which corresponds to the road along which the vehicle travels from now in this traveling path, by search. Then, the data analyzing unit32transmits the captured image data to the mobile communication device5. As a result, the user can check the situation of the traveling path by an image.

<Data Analysis for Acquiring Available Data in a Store Open Plan>

The data analyzing unit32of the signal information control server3may acquire the information for analyzing a new store open plan by data analysis and output it to a computer which displays the information regarding the new store open plan, for example.

This computer displays on a display screen, for example, the trade area information, the property information, and the information indicating the traffic conditions around stores or the information indicating features of passers-by.

For example, this computer displays a map designated by the user on the display screen, reads the information relevant to this map from a database, and displays it. The information relevant to this map is information indicating the volume of people passing by or the volume of traffic in this area or the attributes or features regarding this area.

The data analyzing unit32of the signal information control server3acquires the information indicating the features of the area by analysis by associating it with this map.

For example, the data analyzing unit32acquires the information, which can be used in marketing analysis of the area where the signal is placed, as analysis result information on the basis of the number or attributes of objects to be analyzed based on the determination result information.

On the basis of the information indicating the date and time of the table of signal surrounding information and the information indicating the number of vehicles and the number of people, the data analyzing unit32calculates a volume of people passing by or the volume of traffic in the area where the signal1is placed, during in each period of time of a day such as morning, daytime, evening, and nighttime and acquires it as an analysis result. For example, if the volume of traffic of vehicles is large in the morning and evening, it can be estimated that those who commute in vehicles passes through the area with the signal1. Therefore, this is useful information in that the features of the trade area can be analyzed.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32acquires the information indicating the features of persons passing through this area in vehicles, as an analysis result, on the basis of the vehicle type, driver's sex, or driver's age of the table of vehicle attribution information. For example, if the vehicle type is a one-box car, the driver's age is in the twenties or thirties, and the sex is female, it can be estimated that a possibility of a housewife of a large family is high. Therefore, this is useful information in that the features of the trade area can be analyzed.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32acquires the information indicating the features of persons passing through this area, as an analysis result, on the basis of the sex, age, moving method, and belongings of the table of person attribution information. For example, if the sex is female, the age is “twenties to thirties”, and moving method is “pushing a baby carriage”, it can be estimated that a possibility of a housewife with an infant is high. Therefore, this is useful information in that the features of the trade area can be analyzed.

In addition, the signal1is provided at the place where people or vehicles come and go in many cases. Accordingly, by using the analysis result by data analysis, marketing trends according to the characteristics of the area where the signal1is placed can be analyzed from the overall perspective.

As a result, in franchise business, such as a convenience store or a pharmacy, it is possible to make a plan for a new store opening at a favorable location. For example, a franchise business company performs evaluation and settlement at the time of new store open planning using the store location map information, surrounding information, trade area information, population, trade area, expected sales, a layout pattern, and the like in materials of paper media when performing new store opening. In addition, a franchise candidate also examines the profitability or growth potential in store opening using the same data.

As described above, by acquiring the information indicating the characteristics of the area from the captured image data by each signal information control apparatus2, various kinds of information regarding a new store open plan for supporting a new store open plan can be acquired.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may analyze a change in volume of people passing by according to the weather on the basis of the weather, temperature, and the number of people of the table of signal surrounding information.

In addition, the data analyzing unit32may analyze the atmosphere of the area statistically using the information indicating the noise level of the table of signal surrounding information. For example, the area with a low average noise level can be estimated to be a quiet residential area.

In addition, the storage unit34may store the information for performing pattern recognition, and the data analyzing unit32may perform pattern recognition on the captured image data transmitted from the signal information control apparatus2. For example, the information which specifies the type or brand of clothes may be prepared in advance as pattern information stored in the storage unit34, and the data analyzing unit32may determine the type or brand of clothing of a person included in the captured image data.

<Billing for Analysis Result Information Transmission>

The data analyzing unit32of the signal information control server3may bill the user of the mobile communication device5to which the analysis result information was transmitted.

For example, when the analysis result information to be transmitted to a user who joined the service for transmission of specific analysis result information in advance is acquired as a result of data analysis, the data analyzing unit32transmits the analysis result information to the mobile communication device5of the user and also stores having transmitted the analysis result information to the user in the storage unit34. Then, for example, after the elapse of a fixed period, the data analyzing unit32transmits service charges, of which payment is requested to each user, to the billing center or the like according to the number of times of transmission of the analysis result information to each user, type of the transmitted information, and the like. This billing center is a center which collects the charges of the service which transmits to a user the analysis result information described previously. A server which can communicate with the signal information control server3is provided in the billing center. This server stores the personal information (for example, a user name or an identification number of a mobile communication device) on a user who joined the service for transmission of analysis result information and the service content (for example, type of analysis result information whose transmission is requested by the user), and the information is transmitted to the signal information control server3.

Since the imaging apparatus6related to the present embodiment has high resolution and high sensitivity as described above, the signal information control apparatus2can acquire the detailed information, such as the type or attributes of an object to be analyzed, included in an image on the basis of the captured image data photographed by the imaging apparatus6. As a result, the signal information control apparatus2can generate a table of signal surrounding information, a table of vehicle attribution information, and a table of person attribution information matched with the type, attributes, and the like of an object to be analyzed. In addition, the data analyzing unit32can acquire the characteristics resulting from behavior patterns of people in the area where the signal1is placed, by analysis, using the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, and the table of person attribution information.

Therefore, the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the analysis result information acquired in this way may be used to monitor the traffic situation and to understand marketing trends according to economic trends, such as a store open plan, as described above.

According to an aspect related to the present invention, it is possible to comprehensively acquire the information regarding the area by acquiring such useful information from the signal1placed in most areas where people live.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may have the following configuration.

For example, although the configuration where the data analyzing unit32is mounted in the signal information control server3has been described as an example, the data analyzing unit32may be mounted in each signal information control apparatus2. In this case, the data analyzing unit32mounted in the signal information control apparatus2may use the table of signal surrounding information, the table of vehicle attribution information, the table of person attribution information, and the captured image data which are stored in the storage unit24by its own signal information control apparatus2. In addition, the data analyzing unit32mounted in the signal information control apparatus2may perform data analysis described above using both the information transmitted from other signal information control apparatus2and the information of its own storage unit24.

As a result, since communication with the signal information control server3can be reduced, the processing speed can be improved.

In addition, although the configuration in which the signal information control apparatus2is mounted in the signal1has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the signal information control apparatus2may be mounted in the signal information control server3. In this case, the signal information control apparatus2mounted in the signal information control server3receives the captured image data transmitted from the imaging apparatus6mounted in the signal1and performs the same processing as described above.

In addition, the signal information control apparatus2may have a configuration including a display device, such as a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescent display panel, and may display the information according to the analysis result information on data analysis received from the signal information control server3.

In addition, the signal1may be a movable signal placed in construction sites or the like. The imaging apparatus6may be a camera capable of performing imaging in a range of 360°.

In addition, although only a signal for a vehicle has been described as the signal1in the above, the signal1may also be a signal when a person crosses the road (otherwise, roadway) or a signal for a train in the railroad without being limited to only the vehicle.

The mobile communication device5is not limited to a device mounted in a vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the mobile communication device5may include a personal digital assistant, a personal computer, and other various devices with communication functions. Even if not on the vehicle, the data from the signal information control apparatus can be received through the communication device5.

In addition, although the case where the object to be analyzed (moving object) detected by the image processing unit21is a vehicle or a person has been described, the object to be analyzed (moving object) is not limited to this. For example, the object to be analyzed (moving object) may be an animal, an insect, a floating object, and the like.

Second Embodiment

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.FIG.9is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a signal system201in the second embodiment of the present invention. In the signal system201, a signal control apparatus1100provided in each of a plurality of signals and a high-order control apparatus1200are connected to each other through a communication network1300. Hereinafter, explanation will be given referring to the signal control apparatus1100as a signal1100.

Here, the explanation will be given assuming that the plurality of signals1100are placed on the road and each of them is identified by the identification information. The high-order control apparatus1200transmits a control signal, which is for controlling each signal1100, to the signal1100through the communication network1300. As a result, the high-order control apparatus1200can control each of the plurality of signals1100.

The plurality of signals1100has the same configuration. Therefore, the configuration of one signal1100will be described herein. The signal1100includes an imaging unit210, a control unit220, a signal display unit230, a power supply unit240, and a sound pickup unit250. The imaging unit210and the control unit220are connected to each other through an I/F (interface)270. The control unit220and the signal display unit230are connected to each other through an I/F271. The sound pickup unit250and the control unit220are connected to each other through an I/F (interface)272.

The signal display unit230includes a first light emitting section231, a second light emitting section232, and a third light emitting section233. The first light emitting section231lights green (or blue) and indicates that “may move” (hereinafter, referred to as “movable”) at the time of lighting. The second light emitting section232lights yellow and indicate that “stop at the stop position at the time of lighting. However, you may move when it is not possible to stop at the stop position” (hereinafter, referred to as “stop”). The third light emitting section233lights red and indicates that “should not move” (hereinafter, referred to as “not movable”) at the time of lighting.

The imaging unit210includes an imaging apparatus, such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor and outputs a captured image to the control unit220through the I/F270. The imaging unit210is fixed to the signal1100. For example, the imaging unit210is fixed to the signal1100so as to be located at the upper, lower, left, or right side of the signal display unit230. In addition, this imaging unit210may be fixed to the signal1100integrally with the signal display unit230.

As an example, the imaging unit210performs imaging in the azimuth of 360° in the horizontal direction. In this case, the imaging unit210may perform photographing in the azimuth of 360° by combining a plurality of imaging apparatuses. In addition, the imaging unit210may perform photographing in the azimuth of 360° by performing image processing of an image captured through a specular member with a shape of a triangular pyramid, a sphere, or the like.

The sound pickup unit250is a sound pickup device, such as a microphone, and outputs pickup sound to the control unit220through the I/F (interface)272. For example, the sound pickup unit250may be a sound pickup device which includes a plurality of microphones and which picks up a sound so that the direction of a sound source can be specified. The sound pickup unit250is fixed to the signal1100. For example, the sound pickup unit250is fixed to the signal1100so as to be located at the upper, lower, left, or right side of the signal display unit230. In addition, this sound pickup unit250may be fixed to the signal1100integrally with the signal display unit230.

The power supply unit240supplies electric power to the imaging unit210, the control unit220, the signal display unit230, and the sound pickup unit250which are respective components provided in the signal1100.

The power supply unit240includes a power supply section241, a battery section242, and a power switching section243. Electric power is supplied from the outside of the signal1100to the power supply section241through a power line. Electric power (electric charge) is accumulated in the battery section242, and the battery section242outputs the accumulated electric power. For example, the battery section242is charged by electric power supplied to the power supply section241in a period for which electric power is supplied to the power supply section241from the outside. The battery section242is a secondary battery, for example.

For example, the power switching section243supplies electric power selected from either the power supply section241or the battery section242to each component provided in the signal1100. The power switching section243detects a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241and switches the power supply section241, which supplies electric power to each component provided in the signal1100, to either the power supply section241or the battery section242on the basis of this detected voltage or current.

Here, mode switching by the power switching section243will be described usingFIG.10. In addition, the following explanation will be given assuming that the case where electric power is supplied from the power supply section241to each component provided in the signal1100by the power switching section243is called a “first mode” and the case where electric power is supplied from the battery section242to each component provided in the signal1100by the power switching section243is called a “second mode”.

First, when the signal1100starts (inFIG.10, in the case of a state “startup”), the power switching section243changes the state to the first mode if first startup conditions are satisfied and changes the state to the second mode if second startup conditions are satisfied.

The first startup conditions may be conditions in which a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241is larger than the threshold value set in advance, for example. In addition, the second startup conditions may be conditions in which a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241is equal to or lower the threshold value set in advance, for example. That is, the first startup conditions are conditions in which electric power from the outside is supplied to the signal1100, and the second startup conditions are conditions in which electric power from the outside is not supplied to the signal1100.

Then, for example, the power switching section243detects a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241when electric power is supplied from the power supply section241to each component provided in the signal1100(when the state is the first mode). Then, when the detected voltage or current becomes equal to or lower than a threshold value set in advance (when the second condition is satisfied), the power switching section243changes the power supply to the battery section242(changes the state to the second mode).

For example, the second condition corresponds to a case where a power line through which electric power is supplied to the signal1100is cut or a case where the facility which supplies electric power to the signal1100fails in a disaster or the like.

In addition, the power switching section243detects a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241when electric power is supplied from the battery section242to each component provided in the signal1100(when the state is the second mode). Then, when the detected voltage or current becomes equal to or higher than a threshold value set in advance (when the first condition is satisfied), the power switching section243changes the power supply to the power supply section241(changes the state to the first mode).

For example, the first condition corresponds to a case where the cut power line through which electric power is supplied to the signal1100is connected or a case where the failure of the facility which supplies electric power to the signal1100ends by restoration work after a disaster.

After that, the power switching section243changes the state between the first and second modes. In addition, the power switching section243outputs to the control unit220the information indicating that the state is changed from the first mode to the second mode and the information indicating that the state is changed from the second mode to the first mode. Alternatively, the power switching section243outputs to the control unit220the information indicating that the current state is the first mode or the second mode. Using this information, the control unit220can determine whether the current mode is the first mode or the second mode.

Returning to the explanation ofFIG.9, the control unit220includes a detection section221, a display control section222, and a communication section223. The communication section223receives a control signal for changing the display state of the signal display unit230from the high-order control apparatus1200through the communication network1300. This control signal is control information indicating “movable”, “stop”, or “not movable”, for example. That is, this control signal is control information indicating that the first light emitting section231, the second light emitting section232, or the third light emitting section233is made to emit light.

In the first mode, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230through the I/F271on the basis of the control signal received from the high-order control apparatus1200by the communication section223. For example, in the first mode, when the control information indicating that the first light emitting section231is made to light is received from the high-order control apparatus1200through the communication section223, the display control section222makes the first light emitting section231provided in the signal display unit230light and extinguishes the second and third light emitting sections232and233.

The detection section221detects the volume of traffic on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210. In the second mode, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the volume of traffic detected by the detection section221.

For example, the detection section221detects the volume of traffic in each of a plurality of lanes on the basis of an image of the plurality of lanes captured by the imaging unit210. In this case, for the image of the plurality of lanes captured by the imaging unit210, the detection section221detects a vehicle one by one in each different lane by image processing or pattern matching technique, as an example. In addition, the detection section221detects the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes by detecting the number of vehicles per unit time which travel in each lane.

The display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of a result of comparison of the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221. In this case, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the result of comparison of the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic.

In this way, in the first mode, the control unit220changes the display state of the signal display unit230, which is fixed to the signal1100, on the basis of the control signal received from the high-order control apparatus1200by the communication section223. In addition, in the second mode, the control unit220changes the display state of the signal display unit230, which is fixed to the signal1100, on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210.

Next, an example where the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the volume of traffic detected by the detection section221in the second mode will be described usingFIGS.11to13.

Here, as shown inFIG.11, a case of two lanes which are one-way streets will be described. The lane A which is one lane of the two lanes is a lane which is a one-way street from right to left on the plane ofFIG.11. The lane B which is one lane of the two lanes is a lane which is a one-way street from top to bottom on the plane ofFIG.11. The lanes A and B cross each other at the crossroads CRS.

In addition, inFIG.11, a signal1100-1is placed before the crossroads CRS in the lane A. In addition, a signal1100-2is placed before the crossroads CRS in the lane B. The signals1100-1and1100-2have the same configuration as the signal1100described above usingFIG.9.

Moreover, inFIG.11, there is a stop line L1before the signal1100-1and a stop line L2before the signal1100-2at the crossroads CRS. Therefore, at the crossroads CRS, a vehicle stops before the stop line L1and a vehicle stops before the stop line L2according to the signal display units230of the signals1100-1and1100-2.

Next, the volume of traffic detected by the signal1100will be described usingFIG.12. Here, a case where the signal display unit230of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2includes the first light emitting section231, which lights green (or blue) indicating “movable”, and the third light emitting section233, which lights red indicating “not movable”.

In addition, explanation herein will be given assuming that the control unit220of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2executes the extinguishing of the first light emitting section231and the lighting of the third light emitting section233almost simultaneously for the signal display unit230provided in each signal. Moreover, on the contrary, explanation will be given assuming that the control unit220of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2executes the lighting of the first light emitting section231and the extinguishing of the third light emitting section233almost simultaneously for the signal display unit230provided in each signal.

In addition, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2performs imaging in the azimuth of 360° in the horizontal direction, as described above. Therefore, the signals1100-1and1100-2can detect the volumes of traffic in the lanes A and B, respectively.

Here, as shown inFIG.12, the signals1100-1and1100-2repeat display states of “movable” and “not movable” alternately through each signal display unit230, for example. Explanation herein will be given assuming that periods of the display states of “movable” and “not movable” are the same in length of time.

For example, in a period T1, the signal1100-1indicates “movable” through its own signal display unit230, and the signal1100-2indicates “not movable” through its own signal display unit230. Then, in a period T2, the signal1100-1indicates “not movable” through its own signal display unit230, and the signal1100-2indicates “movable” through its own signal display unit230. Subsequently, the signals1100-1and1100-2repeat the same operation in periods T3, T4, . . . . In addition, the periods T1, T2, T4, . . . are assumed to be the same in length of time.

Here, the detection section221of the signal1100-1detects the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes on the basis of an image of the plurality of lanes captured by the imaging unit210of the signal1100-1. In addition, the detection section221of the signal1100-2detects the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes on the basis of an image of the plurality of lanes captured by the imaging unit210of the signal1100-2.

For example, as shown inFIG.12, the detection section221of the signal1100-1and the detection section221of the signal1100-2detect that five vehicles have passed through the lane A and no vehicle has passed through the lane B in the period T1, respectively. In addition, the detection section221of the signal1100-1and the detection section221of the signal1100-2detect that no vehicle has passed through the lane A and one vehicle has passed through the lane B in the period T2, respectively. Similarly, also in the periods T3, T4, . . . , the detection section221of the signal1100-1and the detection section221of the signal1100-2detect the volumes of traffic in the lanes A and B, respectively.

Then, the display control section222of the signal1100-1compares the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221of the signal1100-1, and determines that the volume of traffic in the lane A is larger than that in the lane B in this case. For example, the display control section222of the signal1100-1may compare the volume of traffic in each lane on the basis of the sum or the average number of vehicles traveling in each lane in a period set in advance, such as the period T1to the period T4.

Then, the display control section222of the signal1100-1changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of this result so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic. That is, in this case, since the volume of traffic in the lane A is larger than that in the lane B, the display control section222of the signal1100-1changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that vehicles traveling in the lane A can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane B.

On the other hand, the display control section222of the signal1100-2compares the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221of the signal1100-2, and determines that the volume of traffic in the lane A is larger than that in the lane B in this case in the same manner as the display control section222of the signal1100-1does. Then, the display control section222of the signal1100-2changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of this result so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic. That is, in this case, since the volume of traffic in the lane A is larger than that in the lane B, the display control section222of the signal1100-2changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that vehicles traveling in the lane A can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane B in the same manner as the display control section222of the signal1100-1does.

Here, physical quantities called the volumes of traffic in a plurality of lanes are the same value as long as a measurement period is the same even if a measurement apparatus is different like the signals1100-1or the signal1100-2. Therefore, values of the volumes of traffic in a plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221of the signal1100-1and the detection section221of the signal1100-2are the same value. Accordingly, on the basis of the volume of traffic detected for each of the plurality of lanes, each of the display control section222of the signal1100-1and the display control section222of the signal1100-2can change the display state of the signal display unit230so that vehicles traveling in the lane A can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane B. Thus, even when the signals1100-1and1100-2operate independently of each other and even when the signals1100-1and1100-2do not receive control signals from the high-order control apparatus, it is possible to change the display state of the signal display unit230appropriately on the basis of the volume of traffic detected for each of the plurality of lanes.

In addition, the display control section222of the signal1100-1and the display control section222of the signal1100-2perform the following operations, as an example, when changing the display state of the signal display unit230so that vehicles traveling in the lane A can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane B.

For example, the display control section222of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2changes the display state of the signal display unit230, on the basis of the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221of the corresponding signal1100, so that a period for which a vehicle can move in the lane with the high volume of traffic becomes longer than that in the lane with the low volume of traffic as the ratio or difference of the volumes of traffic in the lanes increases.

In addition, on the contrary, the display control section222of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2changes the display state of the signal display unit230, on the basis of the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221of the corresponding signal1100, so that a period for which a vehicle cannot move in the lane with the low volume of traffic becomes longer than that in the lane with the high volume of traffic as the ratio or difference of the volumes of traffic in the lanes increases.

In the case ofFIG.12described above, the display control section222of each of the signals1100-1and1100-2changes a period of the display state by the signal display unit230as shown inFIG.13, as an example. For example, each display control section222changes a period of the display state by the signal display unit230so that the time lengths of periods T11and T13, in which the signal display unit230(lane A) of the signal1100-1indicates “movable” and the signal display unit230(lane B) of the signal1100-2indicates “not movable” become longer than those of the periods T1to T4shown inFIG.12.

On the contrary, each display control section222changes a period of the display state by the signal display unit230so that the time lengths of periods T12and T14, in which the signal display unit230(lane A) of the signal1100-1indicates “not movable” and the signal display unit230(lane B) of the signal1100-2indicates “movable” become shorter than those of the periods T1to T4shown inFIG.12. Subsequently, each display control section222repeats changing the display state of each signal display unit230in the same manner as in the case of the periods T11to T14until the volume of traffic changes.

Thus, the display control section222of the signal1100can change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic.

<Operation of the Signal1100when Changing to the Second Mode>

Next, an operation of the signal1100in the second mode will be described usingFIG.14. In addition, the operation of the signal1100inFIG.14is an operation of the signal1100when changing from the first mode to the second mode, for example, as described usingFIG.10.

First, the imaging unit210captures an image and outputs the captured image to the control unit220through the I/F270(step S10). Then, the detection section221of the control unit220detects the volume of traffic on the basis of the image captured by the imaging unit210(step S20). Then, the display control section222of the control unit220compares the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221(step S30).

Then, the display control section222of the control unit220performs signal control by changing the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the comparison result in step S30(step S40). In step S40, for example, the display control section222of the control unit220changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the result of comparison of the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes detected by the detection section221so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic. In addition, in this step S40, the display control section222of the control unit220changes the display state of the signal display unit230through the I/F271.

Subsequently, the signal1100repeats the processing from step S10until it changes to the first mode.

In this way, in the second mode, the signal1100changes the display state of the signal display unit230fixed to the signal1100on the basis of the image captured by the imaging unit210. Therefore, the signal1100according to the present embodiment can appropriately perform control to change the display state of the signal display unit230even when the signal1100cannot communicate with the high-order control apparatus and even when the signal1100cannot receive a control signal from the high-order control apparatus.

In addition, as shown inFIG.12or13, the control unit220provided in each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230so that the display state of the signal1100-1is different from the display state of the signal1100-2.

Meanwhile, in the case ofFIG.11, the signals1100-1and1100-2need to control the signal display unit230of each signal1100using the control unit220of the corresponding signal1100so that a vehicle traveling in the lane A and a vehicle traveling in the lane B do not collide with each other at the crossroads CRS. For example, the control unit220of each signal1100needs to control the signal display unit230of the signal1100using the control unit220of the corresponding signal1100so that a vehicle traveling in the lane A and a vehicle traveling in the lane B do not move toward the crossroads CRS at the same timing.

That is, it is not allowed that both the display state of the signal1100-1and the display state of the signal1100-2indicate “movable” at the same timing. In addition, both the display state of the signal1100-1and the display state of the signal1100-2may indicate “not movable”.

Therefore, the control unit220provided in each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230such that the display state of the signal1100-1is different from the display state of the signal1100-2and both the display states do not indicate “movable” at the same timing.

As a result, a vehicle traveling in the lane A and a vehicle traveling in the lane B can alternately enter the crossroads CRS without the collision between the vehicle traveling in the lane A and the vehicle traveling in the lane B at the crossroads CRS.

Meanwhile, as described above usingFIG.12, it is necessary to make each device measure the value of the physical quantity, which is called the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes, as the same value even if apparatus which measure the volume of traffic are different like the signal1100-1or the signal1100-2. In order to do so, a start time, such as the period T1for which the number of vehicles is measured, and an end time need to synchronize with each other in the signals1100-1and1100-2.

For this synchronization, the signals1100-1and1100-2may be made to be able to detect a reference time by time measurement using a radio-controlled timepiece or by time measurement using a GPS (Global Positioning System). Then, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2measures an elapsed time from the detected reference time using a timepiece section present thereinside. Then, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2measures a start time, such as the period T1for which the number of vehicles is measured, and an end time on the basis of the elapsed time measured by each timepiece section. In this way, the signals1100-1and1100-2may make the start time and the end time of the period T1synchronized which the number of vehicles is measured between the signals1100-1and1100-2.

Thus, even if devices which the volume of traffic are different, the signals1100-1and1100-2can measure the value of the physical quantity, which is called the volume of traffic in each of the plurality of lanes, as the same value. Accordingly, the signals1100-1and1100-2can change the display state of the signal display unit230appropriately.

In addition, in the explanation ofFIG.12, the signals1100-1and1100-2compared the volumes of traffic in a plurality of lanes when periods from the period T1to the period T4elapsed and changed the display state of the signal display unit230the on the basis of the comparison result. However, the timing at which the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes are compared is not limited to this. For example, the signals1100-1and1100-2may compare the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes every period set in advance.

This “period set in advance” may be an arbitrary period set in advance. In addition, this “period set in advance” may be set on the basis of a period, for which the display state of the signal display unit230is changed, by the control unit220of each signal1100, as in the periods T1to T4.

In addition, this “period set in advance” may be each of the periods T1to T4. For example, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2may compares the number of traveling vehicles in the lane A with the number of stopped vehicles in the lane B in the period T1and change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of this comparison result.

In addition, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2compares the number of traveling vehicles in the lane A with the number of stopped vehicles in the lane B in each of the periods T2, T3, T4, . . . as in the case of the period T1. Then, each of the signals1100-1and1100-2may change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the comparison result so that vehicles traveling in the lane with the high volume of traffic can move with priority over vehicles traveling in the lane with the low volume of traffic.

In addition, when the sum of the number of vehicles traveling in a plurality of lanes becomes equal to or larger than the number set in advance, the signals1100-1and1100-2may compare the volumes of traffic in the plurality of lanes.

In addition, although the number of vehicles traveling in the lane or the number of vehicles traveling for a unit time has been described herein, the volume of traffic is not limited to these. For example, the detection section221may detect the number of vehicles, which is the number of vehicles stopped before the crossroads CRS and is the number of vehicles stopped in each lane, as the volume of traffic. In this case, the display control section222may change the display state of the signal display unit230so as to reduce the number of stopped vehicles according to stopped vehicles.

<Case of a Plurality of Lanes>

In addition, although the case of two lanes which are one-way streets has been described in the above explanation usingFIG.11, the signal1100according to the present embodiment is not limited to such a case of two lanes which are one-way streets, and may cope with the arbitrary number of lanes which are not one-way streets.

Here, an example of the arbitrary number of lanes which are not one-way streets will be described usingFIG.15. InFIG.15, the same reference numerals are given to sections corresponding to each section inFIG.9or11, and the explanation will be omitted.

InFIG.15, lanes A1and A2which are opposite lanes and lanes B1and B2which are opposite lanes cross each other at the crossroads CRS. In addition, signals1100-1and1100-3and signals1100-2and1100-4are placed before the crossroads CRS in the lanes A1and A2and the lanes B1and B2. The signals1100-1,1100-2,1100-3, and1100-4have the same configuration as the signal1100described usingFIG.9, as in the case ofFIG.11.

Moreover, inFIG.15, there is a stop line L1before the signal1100-1and a stop line L3before the signal1100-3at the crossroads CRS. In addition, there is a stop line L2before the signal1100-2and a stop line L4before the signal1100-4at the crossroads CRS. For this reason, a vehicle in each lane stops before the stop lines L1to L4according to the lighting of the third light emitting section of the signal display unit230of each of the signals1100-1to1100-4.

Meanwhile, also in the case ofFIG.15, the signals1100-1,1100-2,1100-3, and1100-4need to control the signal display unit230of each signal1100by the control unit220of the corresponding signal1100so that a vehicle traveling in the lane called the lane A1or the lane A2and a vehicle traveling in the lane called the lane B1or the lane B2do not collide with each other at the crossroads CRS, as in the case ofFIG.11.

For example, the control unit220of each signal1100needs to control the signal display unit230of the signal1100using the control unit220of the corresponding signal1100so that a vehicle traveling in the lane called the lane A1or the lane A2and a vehicle traveling in the lane called the lane B1or the lane B2do not move toward the crossroads CRS at the same timing.

Therefore, as an example, the control unit220of each of the signals1100-1and1100-3changes the display state of the signal display unit230to the same display state at the same timing. In addition, the control unit220of each of the signals1100-2and1100-4changes the display state of the signal display unit230to the same display state at the same timing. In addition, the control unit220provided in each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230so that the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3are different from the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4.

Moreover, as described above, it is not allowed that both the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3and the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4indicate “movable” at the same timing. This is because vehicles traveling in different lanes may collide with each other at the crossroads CRS if both the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3and the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4indicate “movable” at the same timing. In addition, both the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3and the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4may indicate “not movable”.

Therefore, the control unit220provided in each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230such that the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3are different from the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4and the display states of the signals1100-1and1100-3and the display states of the signals1100-2and1100-4do not indicate “movable” at the same timing.

Accordingly, also in this case, the control unit220of each of the signals1100-1and1100-3changes the display state of the signal display unit230as in the case of the lane A described usingFIG.12and the control unit220of each of the signals1100-2and1100-4changes the display state of the signal display unit230as in the case of the lane B described usingFIG.12. Therefore, also in the case ofFIG.15, the signals1100-1to1100-4can appropriately perform control to change the display state of the signal display unit even when the signals1100-1to1100-4cannot communicate with the high-order control apparatus and even when the signals1100-1to1100-4cannot receive a control signal from the high-order control apparatus, as in the case ofFIG.12.

In addition, as indicated by the reference numeral P inFIG.15, there may be a vehicle which turns right at the crossroads CRS from the lane A1to travel in the lane B2. That is, a vehicle which turns right at the crossroads CRS may also be present.

Therefore, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that priority is given to right turn (right turn signal). Then, for example, it is possible to reduce an increase in the number of vehicles which cannot turn right since vehicles traveling in the lane A1cannot turn right at the crossroads CRS and stop near the stop line L1. Accordingly, the display control section222can reduce (alleviate) the traffic congestion caused by turning right at the crossroads CRS.

In addition, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that a right turn signal time is adjusted. As a result, a vehicle easily turns right at the crossroads CRS. In addition, it is possible to reduce an increase in the number of vehicles which cannot turn right since vehicles cannot turn right at the crossroads CRS and stop near the stop line L1. Accordingly, the display control section222can reduce the traffic congestion caused by turning right at the crossroads CRS.

In addition, when the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230as described above so that priority is given to right turn or the right turn signal time is adjusted, the detection section221detects a vehicle turning right on the basis of a captured image.

For example, the detection section221detects a vehicle, which is stopped within the crossroads CRS or before the crossroads CRS and which is located at the right end of the lane, as a vehicle turning right on the basis of a captured image. In addition, it is assumed that a direction indictor, which indicates a direction when a vehicle changes course by blinking and which is provided in a vehicle, is imaged by the imaging unit210. In this case, the detection section221may detect a vehicle turning right by determining whether or not a vehicle turns right on the basis of an image of the direction indictor provided in the vehicle, the image being captured by the imaging unit210. In addition, the detection section221may detect a vehicle turning right by arbitrarily combining such a method of detecting a vehicle turning right.

In addition, as described above, when a vehicle turning right is detected by the detection section221, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that priority is given to right turn or the right turn signal time is adjusted.

In addition, the “display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that priority is given to right turn (right turn signal)” is that the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that a vehicle turning right can move with priority over a vehicle which does not turn right or over the case where there is no vehicle turning right at the crossroads CRS. The “vehicle which does not turn right” referred to herein is a vehicle going straight in the lane without changing the course or a vehicle turning left, for example.

As an example, it is assumed that the signal display unit230includes a light emitting section corresponding to right turn. In this case, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that priority is given to a vehicle turning right by controlling the display state of the light emitting section corresponding to right turn.

In addition, the “display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that the right turn signal time is adjusted” is that, for example, the display control section222adjusts a time for changing the display state of the signal display unit230, so that the period of time for the vehicle turning right becomes longer compared to a case there are no vehicle turning right or the vehicle do not turn right at the crossroads CRS.

As an example, it is assumed that the signal display unit230includes a light emitting section corresponding to right turn. In this case, the “display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that the right turn signal time is adjusted” is that, for example, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230by controlling the display state of a light emitting section corresponding to right turn, so that a period of time for the vehicle turning right becomes longer compared to a case there are no vehicle turning right or the vehicle do not turn right at the crossroads CRS.

<Emergency Vehicle Priority>

In addition, the detection section221may detect the type of a vehicle on the basis of a captured image. For example, an emergency vehicle has a red light. Therefore, the detection section221may determine whether or not a vehicle has a red light on the basis of a captured image and detect the type of the vehicle as an emergency vehicle when the vehicle has a red light. This emergency vehicle is an automobile for firefighting, an automobile for emergencies, or a police car, for example.

In addition, the emergency vehicle may have a predetermined color, such as red or white. Therefore, the detection section221may determine whether or not the vehicle type is an emergency vehicle by combining the color of a vehicle with the criteria for determining whether or not the vehicle has a red light. For example, the detection section221determines whether the color of a vehicle is red or white on the basis of a captured image. In addition, when the color of a vehicle is red or white and the vehicle has a red light, the detection section221may detect the type of the vehicle as an emergency vehicle.

Moreover, in the second mode, when the detected type of the vehicle is an emergency vehicle, the display control section222may change the display state of the signal display unit230so that the emergency vehicle can move with priority over vehicles whose vehicle types are not emergency vehicles. As a result, the emergency vehicle can move in the lane with priority over vehicles whose vehicle types are not emergency vehicles. Thus, it is preferable in a disaster or the like that an emergency vehicle can travel in the lane preferentially.

In addition, when detecting the type of a vehicle on the basis of a captured image, the detection section221may detect the type of a vehicle on the basis of a captured image and a sound picked up by the sound pickup unit250. For example, when the type of a vehicle is an emergency vehicle, this vehicle may sound the siren. Therefore, the detection section221may determine whether or not a siren sound is included in the sound picked up by the sound pickup unit250and determine whether or not the type of a vehicle is an emergency vehicle by combining this determination result and a determination ermined result based on the captured image described above.

In addition, when the sound pickup unit250is a sound pickup device which picks up the sound so that the direction of a sound source can be specified, the detection section221can detect the direction of an emergency vehicle including a sound source which sounds the siren. In this case, the detection section221can detect an emergency vehicle more accurately on the basis of the detected direction of the emergency vehicle and the direction of the emergency vehicle detected on the basis of the image.

Since it is possible to detect an emergency vehicle more accurately as described above, the display control section222can change the display state of the signal display unit230more accurately so that the emergency vehicle can move preferentially in the second mode. In addition, since the direction of an emergency vehicle can be seen more accurately through the detection section221, the display control section222can also estimate the lane, in which the emergency vehicle travels from now, more accurately. Accordingly, in the second mode, the display control section222can change the display state of the signal display unit230so that the emergency vehicle can move preferentially. In this manner, the emergency vehicle can travel in the lane preferentially. Thus, it is preferable in a disaster or the like that an emergency vehicle can travel in the lane preferentially.

<Measures Against Afternoon Sun or Morning Sun>

In the signal display unit230that is described above by usingFIG.9, each light emitting section corresponding to one signal may include a plurality of light emitting elements. This light emitting section corresponding to one signal is the first light emitting section231, the second light emitting section232, or the third light emitting section233described above. In addition, as an example, the plurality of light emitting elements is a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). That is, an emission method of the signal display unit230of the signal1100described above may be a method using an LED.

Moreover, in this case, when making the light emitting section of the signal display unit230light, the display control section222of the control unit220makes some of the plurality of light emitting elements provided in the light emitting section emit light or extinguished while making the plurality of light emitting elements emit light such that the position of the place of emission or extinguishing in the light emitting section changes. That is, the display control section222of the control unit220makes the plurality of light emitting elements emit light by moving only some lighting regions (or extinguished regions) instead of lighting all regions of respective colors of a signal which can light.

For example, when the afternoon sun, the morning sun, or the like shines into the signal1100, it becomes difficult for a user who observes the signal1100to see which of the plurality of light emitting sections provided in the signal display unit230emits light. On the other hand, when the display control section222of the control unit220makes the light emitting section of the signal display unit230lights as described above, the emission place of the light emitting section that lights moves instead of simply lighting. Therefore, even if the afternoon sun, the morning sun, or the like shines into the signal1100, it becomes easy for a user who observes the signal1100to see which of the plurality of light emitting sections provided in the signal display unit230emits light.

Moreover, when making the light emitting section of the signal display unit230light, the display control section222of the control unit220makes some of the plurality of light emitting elements provided in the light emitting section emit light or extinguished while making the plurality of light emitting elements emit light such that the place of emission or extinguishing rotates, moves, enlarges, or is reduced in the light emitting section. In this case, it becomes easier for a user who observes the signal1100to see which of the plurality of light emitting sections provided in the signal display unit230emits light even if the afternoon sun, the morning sun, or the like shines into the signal1100.

In addition, when making the light emitting section of the signal display unit230light, the display control section222of the control unit220makes the light emitting section emit light such that the brightness of an extinguished light emitting element, which is a light emitting element provided in the light emitting section that lights, changes. For example, when making the light emitting section of the signal display unit230light, the display control section222of the control unit220may make some light emitting elements emit light or extinguished as described above while changing the brightness of the extinguished light emitting element sequentially from the low brightness to the high brightness instead of simply maintaining the extinguished state. In addition, the display control section222of the control unit220may repeat this brightness change by changing the brightness of the light emitting element sequentially from the low brightness to the high brightness and then changing the brightness of the light emitting element sequentially from the high brightness to the low brightness.

As a result, it becomes easier for a user who observes the signal1100to see which of the plurality of light emitting sections provided in the signal display unit230emits light even if the afternoon sun, the morning sun, or the like shines into the signal1100.

In addition, although the respective signals1100operate independently of each other in the above explanation, the respective signals1100may communicate with each other. For example, the respective signals1100may communicate with each other through the communication network1300described usingFIG.9. In addition, communication through the communication network1300may be impossible in a disaster. Therefore, the signals1100may also communicate with each other through a communication network different from the communication network1300. The communication network in this case may be a radio communication network.

In addition, in the case ofFIG.11, it is preferable that at least the signals1100-1and1100-2related to the crossroads CRS can communicate with each other through such a communication network. In addition, in the case ofFIG.15, it is preferable that at least the signals1100-1to1100-4related to the crossroads CRS can communicate with each other.

Moreover, also in this case, each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230so that vehicles traveling in different lanes do not collide with each other at the crossroads CRS, as described usingFIG.11or15. For example, the control unit220provided in each signal1100changes the display state of each signal display unit230so that the display states of the signals1100corresponding to the lanes, which are not opposite lanes, are different and the display states do not indicate “movable” at the same timing.

Thus, as long as the signals1100related to the crossroads can communicate with each other, the information called the volume of traffic detected may be transmitted or received therebetween. In this case, in each signal1100, the imaging unit210may be fixed to the signal1100so as to image at least the lane in which traffic is controlled by the display state of the signal display unit230. That is, the signal1100detects the volume of traffic only in the lane in which traffic is controlled by the signal1100. Then, the detected volume of traffic is transmitted to another signal1100. In this way, all of the signals1100related to the crossroads may detect the volume of traffic of all the lanes related to the crossroads.

Also in this case, each signal1100can detect the volume of traffic in each lane on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210of each signal. Therefore, as described usingFIG.11or15, the signal1100can appropriately perform control to change the display state of the signal display unit even when the signal1100cannot communicate with the high-order control apparatus and even when the signal1100cannot receive a control signal from the high-order control apparatus.

In addition, although the case where the signals1100related to the crossroads communicate with each other has been described herein, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the signals1100placed in a line one by one in the same lane may communicate with each other. Accordingly, each of the signals1100placed in a line one by one may control its own signal display unit230so that vehicles, which travel in the same lane and pass through the signals1100placed in a line one by one, can move without making the vehicle “not movable” by any of the signals1100.

In addition, when the signals1100placed in a line one by one communicate with each other, a radio communication unit provided in each signal1100may perform relay transmission. Thus, not only the signals1100placed adjacent to each other can communicate with each other, but also the signals1100located far from each other can communicate with each other.

In addition, in the explanation ofFIG.10, the power switching section243changed the state between the first and second modes on the basis of a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241. However, the power switching section243may change the state between the first and second modes on the basis of a control signal for mode change without being limited to this. This control signal for mode change may be received through radio communication, for example. In addition, this control signal for mode change may be broadcast in a disaster or the like. Therefore, each signal1100can change the mode reliably without depending on a voltage or current of electric power supplied to the power supply section241in a disaster.

In addition, the signal1100may be a temporary signal for construction. In this case, the signal1100may operate by supply of electric power only from the battery section242. Also in this case, the signal1100changes the display state of the signal display unit230fixed to the signal1100on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210. Therefore, just by installing in the lane the signal1100which is such a temporary signal for construction, the user can appropriately perform control to change the display state of the signal display unit230even when there is no communication between the high-order control apparatus1200and the signal1100and it is not possible to receive a control signal from the high-order control apparatus1200. Accordingly, the signal1100can control traffic appropriately. For this reason, such a signal1100is suitable for construction.

In addition, when the signal1100is a temporary signal for construction, the power supply unit240of the signal1100may supply electric power only from the battery section242to each component provided in the signal1100. In this case, in the mode described usingFIG.10, the power switching section243may change the state to the second mode after electric power is supplied and may also continue changing the state to the second mode thereafter.

For example, when the signal1100is a temporary signal for construction, electric power may not be supplied from the outside. As described above, since the power supply unit240of the signal1100supplies electric power only from the battery section242to each component provided in the signal1100, the display control section222can change the display state of the signal display unit230even if thus electric power is not supplied from the outside.

Moreover, as described usingFIGS.9and10, in the first mode, the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230through the I/F271on the basis of a control signal received from the high-order control apparatus1200by the communication section223. However, the method used when the display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230in the first mode is not limited to this.

For example, in the first mode, the display control section222may change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the volume of traffic detected by the detection section221. That is, also in the first mode, the display control section222may change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of the volume of traffic detected by the detection section221, in the same manner as in the case of the second mode.

In addition, in the first mode, the display control section222may change the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of a predetermined timing set in advance.

In addition, although the case where vehicles pass through the left side of the lane has been described above, the signal1100according to the present embodiment may also be applied to the case where vehicles pass through the right side of the lane in the same manner as in the case where vehicles pass through the left side of the lane. In the case of right-hand traffic, right turn in the case of left-hand traffic described above is left turn. The right turn in the case of left-hand traffic or left turn in the case of right-hand traffic described above is that a vehicle changes course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now.

In this case, the “display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that priority is given to right turn” described above means that “when a vehicle changes course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now, the control unit220(or the display control section222) changes the display state of the signal display unit230on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210so that priority is given to the vehicle which changes course.

In addition, the “display control section222changes the display state of the signal display unit230so that the right turn signal time is adjusted” described above means that “when a vehicle changes course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now, the control unit220(or the display control section222) changes the display state of the signal display unit230, so that the period of “movable” time for the vehicle which changes course is adjusted in a case when a vehicle changes course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210.

In this way, when a vehicle changes course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now, the signal1100according to the present embodiment can make the vehicle easily change the course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicle has traveled until now in both the cases of left-hand traffic and right-hand traffic. As a result, in both the cases of left-hand traffic and right-hand traffic, the signal1100according to the present embodiment can reduce (alleviate) traffic congestion caused when vehicles change course so as to cross the opposite lane to the lane in which the vehicles have traveled until now.

In addition, when the signal1100according to the present embodiment corresponds to both left-hand traffic and right-hand traffic, it is possible to set to which of the left-hand traffic and the right-hand traffic the signal1100corresponds, through a setting unit provided in the signal1100, when electric power is supplied to the signal1100or when the signal1100is shipped. In addition, the control unit220may determine to which of the left-hand traffic and the right-hand traffic the signal1100corresponds on the basis of the setting.

In addition, the signal1100may determine whether the lane in which traffic is controlled by the signal1100is left-hand traffic or right-hand traffic on the basis of an image captured by the imaging unit210. In addition, on the basis of this determination result, the signal1100may set to which of left-hand traffic and right-hand traffic the signal1100corresponds, through its own setting unit.

In addition, although only a signal for a vehicle has been described as the signal1100in the above, the signal1100may also be a signal when a person crosses the road (otherwise, roadway) or a signal for a train on the railroad without being limited to only the vehicle.

In addition, each component provided in the signal control apparatus1100inFIG.9, such as the detection section221, the display control section222, the communication section223, and the power switching section243, may be realized by dedicated hardware. In addition, each component may be configured by a memory and a CPU (central processing unit) and the function may be realized by loading a program for realizing the function of each component into the memory and executing it.

In addition, processing by each component may be executed by recording a program for realizing the embodiment of the present invention in a computer-readable recording medium, reading the program recorded in the recording medium into a computer system, and executing the read program. In addition, the “computer system” referred to herein may include hardware, such as an OS (Operating System) or a surrounding device.

In addition, the “computer system” may also include a homepage presenting environment (or display environment) if a WWW system is used. In addition, the “computer-readable recording medium” refers to writable nonvolatile memories such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disc, a ROM, and a flash memory, portable media such as a CD-ROM, and a recording device such as a hard disk built in a computer system. In addition, the ‘computer-readable recording medium’ may include a recording medium that stores a program dynamically for a short period of time like a network, such as the Internet, or a communication line when a program is transmitted through a communication line such as a telephone line, and include a recording medium that stores a program for a predetermined period of time like a volatile memory (for example, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) in a computer system serving as a server or a client in this case. In addition, the program may be transmitted from a computer system, which has a storage device or the like that stores the program, to another computer system through a transmission medium or a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the ‘transmission medium’ that transmits a program refers to a medium with a function of transmitting information like a network (communication network), such as the Internet, or a communication line, such as a telephone line. In addition, the above program may be a program for realizing some of the functions described above or may be a so-called difference file (difference program) capable of realizing the above functions by combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

While the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and design and the like which do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included.

The television camera apparatus for traffic monitoring disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-261990 displays a photographed image on a monitor, and a person needs to view and confirm the photographed image in order to acquire the information regarding a vehicle within the photographed image, for example. When a person extracts the information regarding a vehicle and the like within the photographed image on the basis of an image photographed in a traffic signal, there has been a problem in that a large amount of time and effort are required.

Moreover, in the traffic signal disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 10-97696, there is a problem in that the display state of the signal display unit cannot be appropriately changed when a control signal cannot be received from the high-order control apparatus at the time of disaster, for example.

The aspect related to the present invention has been made in view of the above point, and it is an object of the aspect related to the present invention to provide an information control apparatus capable of acquiring the information regarding a vehicle and the like within an image photographed near a traffic signal, data analyzing apparatus, signal, server, information control system, and program.

It is another object of the aspect related to the present invention to provide signal control apparatus, traffic signal, and program that are capable of appropriately changing a display state of a signal display unit even if a control signal for changing the display state of the signal display unit cannot be received.

An aspect of the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems and is characterized in that a determination unit which determines at least an attribute of objects to be analyzed based on the captured image data acquired by an imaging apparatus fixed to a signal, and an output unit which outputs the determination result information of the determination unit to a data analyzing unit that generates an analyzing result information which is at least based on the attributes of the object to be analyzed, are provided.

In addition, another aspect of the present invention is characterized in that a control unit which changes a display state of a signal display unit fixed to a signal based on an image captured by an imaging unit, and a battery unit which supplies electric power to each component of the own apparatus, are provided.

According to an aspect of the present invention, it is possible to acquire the information regarding a vehicle and the like within an image photographed near a signal.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, it is possible to appropriately change a display state of a signal display unit even if a control signal for changing the display state of the signal display unit cannot be received.