Evolution of In-Car Navigation Systems

In-car navigation systems do not consist of only navigation functions that are combinations of GPS and Map. Present in-car navigation systems are an integrated system that mainly consists of navigation function, Audio and Video function, and communication function. This chapter provides the introduction of in-car navigation system that has various functions and connects different devices, and also shows future in-car navigation systems. Firstly, this chapter provides the basic knowledge of in-car navigation system by tracing back through the history of in-car navigation system and the system architecture. These explanations give insight into the main hardware and software components of in-car navigation systems. Further, explaining the architecture of Portable Navigation Device (PND), it shows the characteristic of PND. Secondly, this chapter briefly describes, showing trends for the future, the main software components of in-car navigation systems, i.e., navigation function, audio and video function, and communication function. Enhancement of navigation functions seems to be slowing down, but there is still considerable room for growth by linking to network. Voice recognition and speech synthesis, also covered in this chapter, would become more attractive function by linking to network. In-car navigation systems are designed to connect various devices, e.g., smart phone, portable audio device, camera, rear monitor, and ITS devices. This chapter also describes about two more devices: camera device to be connected to in-car navigation system and display device that takes center stage of front. Lastly, we look “green technology” application of navigation functions, and the in-car navigation system for electric vehicles, which functions would be different from previous in-car navigation system to provide the useful applications.