Abstract: The present invention provides a computer implemented method and apparatus for providing a directional arrow to intermediate locations to aid a user of a vehicle navigation system. According to one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle navigation system is provided and includes a processor configured to determiner the vehicle location from location data generated by a plurality of sensors. Where the location data does not correspond to map data in a map database, a directional indicator is generated on the display to indicate a first location corresponding to the map data. In one embodiment, the first location corresponds to a road segment in the map database nearest the vehicle location. In another embodiment, the processor is configured to identify an intermediate location on the route and generate a directional indicator on the display which indicates the direction to the intermediate location.

Abstract: The present invention provides a computer implemented method and apparatus for providing a directional arrow to intermediate locations to aid a user of a vehicle navigation system. According to one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle navigation system is provided and includes a processor configured to determiner the vehicle location from location data generated by a plurality of sensors. Where the location data does not correspond to map data in a map database, a directional indicator is generated on the display to indicate a first location corresponding to the map data. In one embodiment, the first location corresponds to a road segment in the map database nearest the vehicle location. In another embodiment, the processor is configured to identify an intermediate location on the route and generate a directional indicator on the display which indicates the direction to the intermediate location.

Abstract: A method for calculating a route in a navigation system is disclosed. A route from a source location to a destination is calculated. The route comprises two or more route segments including at least one route segment crossing a water channel. A notification is generated to indicate existence of the route segment that crosses the water channel. When a route confirmation is received, the calculated route is used. When a route rejection is received, an alternate route is calculated.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provide access to an interactive product to a passenger of a vehicle while limiting access to the interactive product to the driver of the vehicle. At least one control device is provided for allowing user interaction with the interactive product. Interaction with the interactive product via the at least one control device is inhibited while the vehicle is moving. An access device is provided which must be employed in conjunction with the at least one control device to enable user interaction with the interactive product while the vehicle is moving.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for generating a route from a source location to a destination in a vehicle navigation system. Initially, the system generates a first partial route from the source location to the end of the first partial route. The system then determines whether a second maneuver is within a first distance from a first maneuver at the end of the first partial route. Where the second maneuver is within the first distance, the system increases the cost associated with the second maneuver. The system then generates a second partial route from the end of the first partial route to the destination, generation of the second partial route being based at least in part on the cost associated with the second maneuver.